Ancient India 187
1. The worship of idols started in India in
(a) Pre-Aryan period
(b) Gupta period
(c) Mauryan period
(d) Kushan period
Ans b
2. The sculpture with the three faces of Brahma, Vishnu
and Mahesh known as "Trimurti" appears in
(a) Ajanta caves
(b) Ellora caves
(c) Karva caves
(d) Elephanta caves
Ans d
3 Which of the following throws light on Harappan Culture
(a)Archaeological excavations
(b) The script on copper sheets
(c) Rock edicts
(d) All of the above
Ans .A
Qts.4 Who is regarded as the greatest law giver of ancient India?
(a) Megasthanese
(b) Panini
(c) Manu
(d) Kautilya
Ans c
Qts. 5 which place Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon?
(a) Sarnath
(b) Lumbini
(c) Bodh Gaya
(d) Vaishali
Ans a
Qts.6 Neolithic period of age is not characterized by
(a) Agriculture
(b) Use of copper
(c) Domestication of animals
(d) Fishing
Ans b
Qts. 7 Name the God who lost his importance in the beginning of Christian era?
(a) Indra
( b) Brahma veda
(c) Vishnu
(d) Mahesh
Ans a
Qts 8 We can know about early Vedic period from
(a) Archaeological excavations
(b) Contemporary cultures
(c) Rigveda
(d) Jataka Katha
Ans c
Qts9. Upanishads are
(a) Religious books of Hindus
(b) books dealing with ancient hindu laws
(c) books on social behavior of man
(d) prayers to god
Ans a
Qts 10. Who among the following was not sent to Lanka for the propagation of Buddhism?
(a) Rashtriya
(b) Bhadrasaro
(c) Uttriya
(d) Sona
Ans.d
Qts 11. The Lingayat movement owes its origin to
(a) Vidyaranya
(b) Purandharadasa
(c) Appar
(d) Basava
Ans.d
Qts 12. The earliest evidence of a in India is provided by Jewish community settling a charter of a
(a) Chola king
(b) Pandya king
(c) Chera king
(d) Vianagara king
Ans. d
Qts 13 . Match the columns:
List-I List -ll
A. Rig Veda 1. Musical hymns
B. Yajur Veda. 2. Hymns and rituals
C. Sama Veda. 3. Charms and spells
D. Atharva Veda. 4. Hymns and prayers
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. B. C. D
(a) 4. 2. 1. 3
(b) 3. 2. 4. 1
(c) 4. 1 2. 3
(d) 2. 3. 1. 4
Ans.a
Qts 14. Match the columns:
List-l. List-II
(capital) (kingdom)
A. Amaravati. 1. Hoysalas
B. Aihole. 2. Cholas
C. Thanjavur. 3. Satavahanas
D. Halebid. 4. Chalukyas
5. Pandyas
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. B. C. D
(a). 2 4. 5. 1
(b). 3. 1. 4. 2
(c) 3. 4. 2. 1
(d). 4 5. 2. 3
Ans.c
Qts 15. Assertion (A) In the ancient period of Indian history, urbanisation was followed by pastoral life.
Reason (R): The Harappan Culture was an urban one.
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true but R is NOT a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true
Ans.a
Qts 16. The original name of Mahabharata was
(a) Brihit Katha
(b) Shatasahastra Samhita
(c) Jaya Samhita
(d) Rajatarangini
Ans.c
Qts 17. The ancient Indian coins were introduced during the
(a) 3rd century AD
(b) Kanishka's period
(c) 3rd century BC
(d) Ashoka's reign
Ans b
Qts 18. Arrange the following Buddhist councils in a chronological order
1. Vaishali
2. Rajagraha
3. Patliputra
4. Sreenagar
The correct order is
(a) 1, 4, 3, 2
(b) 3, 2, 1, 4
(c) 4, 1, 2, 3
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4
Ans.d
Qts 19. Metals known to Indus Valley Civilisation were
(a) Gold, copper, silver but not iron
(b) Silver, iron, bronze but not gold
(c) Iron, copper, gold but not silver
(d) Zinc, silver, iron but not gold
Ans a
Qts 20.Man passed from the food gathering stage to the food producing stage in the
(a) Neolithic Age
(b) Mesolithic Age
(c) Chalcolithic Age
(d) Palaeolithic Age
Ans a
Qts 21. The oldest hindu epic is
(a) Mahabhashya
(b) Ramayana
(c) Ashtadhyayi
(d) Mahabharata
Ans b
Qts 22. Near the banks of which one of the following rivers, the excavation has brought to light that Indus Valley Civilization percolated to far south?
(a) Mahanadi
(b) Cauvery
(c) Krishna
(d) Godavari
Ans c
Qts 23. Sculptures of the Mathura School of Art, which flourished in the early centuries of the Christian Era, are made out of
(a) Marble
(b) Slate stone
(c) Granite
(d) Red sandstone
Ans d
Qts 24. Ajanta paintings depict
(a) Ramayana
(b) Mahabharata
(c) Jatakas
(d) Panchatantra
Ans c
Qts 25. Which of the following most significant features of Indus Valley civilisation
(a) Buildings with perfect arches
(b)Use of burnt mud bricks
(c) Use of sun dried mud bricks
(d) None of these
Ans b
Qts 26. What was the main feature of Maurya dynasty in India?
(a) Education was widespread
(b) Terrorists were driven out of Sind and Punjab
(c) Removal of land tax for the first time
(d)Decentralisation of administration
Ans.d
Qts 27. Indus Valley Civilisation was spread over
(a) Baluchistan, Sind, Punjab and Rajasthan
(b) Sind, Punjab and Kashmir
(c) Afghanistan, Sind, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarath and Kashmir
(d) None of these
Ans a
Qts 28. Main preachings of Buddha were in regard to
(a) Right faith and conduct
(b) Love of God
(c) Practice of rituals
(d) Idol worship
ans a
Qts 29. Gautam Buddha attained Nirvana at
(a) Bodh Gaya
(b) Kushi Nagar
(c) Sarnath
(d) Lumbini
Ans a
Qts 30. Which of the following can be regarded as the chief contribution of Buddhism to India?
(a) Art and literature
(b) Architecture
(c) Ahimsa and self-purification
(d) Rituals
Ans c
Qts 31. Which of the following statements is incorrect?
(a) Chandragupta II defeated Saka
(b) Samudragupta is known as Indian Napoleon
(c) Skandagupta defeated Huns
(d) Kumaragupta restored the embankment of Sudarsana Lake
Ans d
Qts 32The Indus Valley people had contacts with
(a) Egyptians
(b) Chinese
(c) Sumerians
(d) Mesopotamia
Ans d
Qts 33. In which way Sarnath is associated with Lord Buddha?
(a) He resided there
(b) He was born there
(c) He ruled there
(d) He preached his first Sermon there
Ans d
Qts 34. Lothal is connected as excavation site of the civilisation of
a) Indus Valley Civilisation
(b)Sumerians
(c)Mesopotamians
(d) Vedic Aryan
Ans a
Qts 35. Which of the following is not related to the Gandhara School of Art?
(a) Ellora
(b) Ajanta
(c) Khajuraho
(d) Elephanta
Ans c
Qts 36. Which of the following is the most important cause for the decline of Buddhism after Ashoka?
(a) Non-patronage by the kings
(b) Condemnation of animal sacrifices
(c) Growth of licentious practices in Buddhist centres
(d) Allegiance to the middle path
Ans a
Qts 37. Saka era commenced from
(a)78 AD
(b) 1000 AD
(c) 120 AD
(d) 1953 AD
Ans a
Qts 38. Which of the following was the most important characteristic of Kanishka's rule?
(a) Expansion of Buddhism outside India
(b) Re-emergence of Jainism
(c) Fourth Buddhist Council at Srinagar
(d) Gandhara School of Art
Ans c
Qts 39. Megasthenes visited the court of
(a) Ashoka
(b)Chandragupta Maurya
(c) Harsha
(d) Vikramaditya
Ans b
Qts 40. Earliest Indian coins belonged to which period?
(a) 5th century B.C.
(b)1st century A.D.
(c) Ashoka's reign
(d) 3rd century A.D.
Ans a
Qts41. Out of the following the oldest dynasty is
(a) Mauryas
b) Nandas
(c) Pallavas
(d) Guptas
Ans b
Qts42. Lothal is
(a) A closed water system
(b) A poisonous gas
(c)A place in Gujarat where excavations have established a link with the Indus Valley civilisation
(d) Legal action taken against defectors
Ans c
Qts43. The script of Indus Valley civilisation was
(a) Persian
(b) Dravidian
(c) Sanskrit
(d) Undecipher
Ans d
Qts44. Saka era was introduced by
(a) Ashoka
(b) Kanishka
(c) Chandragupta Maurya
(d) Harsha Vardhana
Ans b
Qts45. The philosophical systems of the Hindus were propounded and properly codified in the
(a) Vedic age
(b) Maurya age
(c) Kanishka age
(d) Gupta age
Ans a
Qts46. Which of the following statements is not correct about Nalanda University?
(a) it was an ancient Buddhist learning centre
(b) A Chinese Hiuen Tsang studied here
(c)We came to know about it only through the writings of Chinese pilgrims
(d) It was mainly responsible for spreading Buddhism to China, Japan and South East Asia
Ans c
Qts47. Ancient Indian art and architecture reached its zenith during the period of
(a) Rajput's
(b) Maurya's
(c) Guptas
(d) none
Ans c
Qts 48. The following were famous scholars in ancient India
1. Ashvaghosh
2. Nagarjuna
3. Vasumitra
4.Buddhaghosa
Which of them was/were contemporary of Kanishka?
(a) 1,2,3 and 4
(b) 1,3 and 4
(c) 1,2 only
(d)1,2 and 3
Ans d
Qts49 . Rigveda, the oldest of the Vedas, chiefly contains
(a) Collection of hymns to gods
(b) Methods of Vedic yagnas
(c) Early Aryan culture
(d) Origin and works of Hindu gods
Ans a
Qts50. Major difference between 'Varna' and 'Jati', is that
(a) Jatis are limited whereas Varnas are unlimited
(b) Jatis are only four whereas Varnas are many
(c) Varnas are only four whereas Jatis are many
(d) Jati is decided by birth but not Varna
Ans c
Qts51. Lineage is
(a) A straight line joining any two points on the globe
(b) The line of descendants of a particular ancestor
(c) The Paleolithic age
(d) The linking of genes
Ans b
Qts52. Which of the following was the principal article of food of the Indus Valley people?
(a) Fish
(b) Palm-date
(c) Eggs
(d) Wheat
Ans d
Qts53. Which of the following is a characteristic not feature of the Indus Valley Civilisation?
(a) Their chief deities were Mother Goddess and Pashupati Shiva
(b) They worshipped cow
(c) They had all amenities of a developed city life
(d) They did not know of iron
Ans b
Qts54. Gandhara School of Art was developed during the reign of
(a) Ashoka
(b) Kanishka
(c) Chandragupta
(d) Bindusara
Ans b
Qts55.Which of the following was the main reason of the downfall of Mauryan empire?
(a) Weak successors of Ashoka who could not control the empire properly
(b) Religious policy of Ashoka
(c) Ashoka maintained friendly relations with his neighbours
(d) None of the above
Ans a
Qts56. Arrange the following in proper sequence :
1. Vinayapitaka
2. Gita Govinda
3. Raghuvamsha
4. Atharvaveda
The correct sequence is
(a) 3 2 1 4
(b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 4 1 3 2
(d) 2 4 3 1
Ans c
Qts57. Which of the following is not a feature of Gandhara School of Art?
(a) It was patronised by Sakas and Kushanas
(b) It has Indian and Greek influence
(c) It resulted in the origination of Hinayanism
(d) It portrayed human figures exactly
Ans c
Qts58. The Prakrit text "Gathasaptasati" is attributed to the Satavahana
(a) Vasishtiputra Pulumavi
(b) Hala
(c) Gautamiputra Satkarni
(d) Amaru
Ans b
Qts59. "Mitakshara" is associated with
(a) Yajnawalkya
(b) Poetics
(c) Drama
(d) Grammar
Ans a
Qts60. 'Mattavilasa'is written by
(a) Harsha
(b) Rajashekhara
(c) Somadeva
(d) Mahendravarman I
Ans d
Qts61. Assertion (A): The form of government in Rig vedic period was monarchy
Reason (R): Priest enjoyed both social and political status and influenced administration
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true
Ans b
Qts62. Which one of the following was the contemporary Bengal king during the time of Harsha of Kannauj?
(a) Bhaskaravarman
(b) Divakaramitra
(c) Devagupta
(d) Sasanka
Ans d
Qts63. It is said that of the five doctrines taught by Jainism four were taken over by Mahavira from previous teachings and only one was added by him. Which one of the following was the doctrine added by him?
(a) Do not commit violence
(b) Observe continence
(c) Do not acquire property
(d) Do not speak a lie
Ans b
Qts64. Indus valley civilisation is also known as the Harappan culture because
(a) The site of Harappa is six times larger than Mohenjodaro site
(b) The Indus valley civilisation is considered the elementary/initial stage of the Vedic culture and Harappa is believed to be the same as Harappa mentioned in the Vedas
(c)Harappa was the first site to be excavated in the Indus valley
(d) The most important/significant evidence of the achievements of this civilisation have been
excavated from Harappa
Ans c
Qts65. Which one of the following does not indicate the difference between Mahayanism and Hinayanism?
(a) Belief in the Bodhisattvas
(b)Worship of the image of Buddha
(c)Use of the Sanskrit language
(d) Admission of women into the monasteries
Ans d
Qts66. Which one of the following archaeologists initially discovered the Mohenjo Daro site of the Indus valley civilisation?
(a) Sujohu Marshall
(b) Daya Ram Sahni
(c) Rakhal Das Banerji
(d) Sir Mortimer Wheeler
Ans c
Qts67.The Upanishads are collectively known as
(a) Vedangas
(b) Vedanta
(c) Sruthi
(d) Smriti
Ans b
Qts68 The Buddhist sect Mahayana formally came into existence during the reign of
(b) Ashoka
(d) bimbisara
(c) darmapala
(d) kanishka
Ans d
Qts.69 In jainism' perfect knowledge' is referred to as
(a) Jina
(b) ratna
(c) kaivalya
(d) nirvana
Ans c
Qts 70. Chanakya, was also known as
(a) Bhattasvamin
(b) Rajasekhara
(c) Vishnugupta
(d) Visakhadatta
Ans c
Qts 71. A lot of details, regarding the village administration under the Cholas is provided by the Inscriptions at
(a) Thanjavur
(b) Uraiyur
(c) Kanchipuram
(d) Uttaramerur
Ans d
Qts72. Ashokan inscriptions were first deciphered by
(a) Buhler
(b) Robert Sewell
(c) James Prinsep
(d) Codpington
Ans c
Qts73. Among the four works mentioned below which one is encyclopedic in nature?
(a) Amarakosa
(b) Siddhanta Siromani
(c) Brihat Samhita
(d) Ashtanga Hridaya
Ans c
Qts74. Who among the following is NOT associated with medicine in India?
(a) Dhanvantri
(b) Bhaskaracharya
(c) Charaka
(d) Susruta
Ans b
Qts75. The earliest evidence of silver in India is found in the
(a) Harappan culture
(b) Chalcolithic cultures of Western India
(c) Vedic texts
(d) Silver punch-marked coins
Ans a
Qts76. Which one of the following is the most fundamental difference between Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism?
(a) Emphasis on ahimsa
(b) Casteless society
(c) Worship of gods and goddesses
(d) Worship of stupa
Ans c
Qts77. Which one of the following usages was a post-Vedic development?
(a) Dharma-Artha-Kama-Moksha
(b)Brahmana-Kshatriya-Vaishya-Shudra
(c) Brahmacharya-Grihastashrama-Vanaprastha-Sanyasa
(d) Indra-Surva-Rudra-Marut
Ans c
Qts78. In ancient Indian historical geography the name 'Ratnakara' denoted
(a) the Arabian Sea
(b) the Bay of Bengal
(c) the Indian Ocean
(d) the confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati at Prayaga
Ans c
Qts79. Who among the following was a writer of legal texts?
(a) Yajnavalkya
(b) Manu
(c) Narada
(d) Bharavi
Ans b
Qts 80. The Harappans did not know the use of
(a) Bronze
(b) Gold
(c) Iron
(d) Silver
Ans c
Qts 81. The First Buddhist Council met at
(a) Rajagriha
(b) Kashmir
(c) Jalandhara
(d) Pataliputra
Ans a
Qts 82. In which one of the following inscriptions is Ashoka mentioned by name?
(a) Major Rock edict at Girnar
(b) Minor Rock inscription at Maski
(c) Bairat inscription
(d) Lamghan inscription
Ans b
Qts83. The Stone Age people had the first domestic
(a) Asses
(b) Horses
(c) Dogs
(d) Sheep
Ans d
Qts 84. Which one of the following can be classified as a "Pratiloma Marriage"?
(a) A Brahmin girl marrying a Sudra boy
(b) A Sudra girl marrying a Brahmin boy
(c) A Brahmin girl marrying a Brahmin boy
(d) None of these
Ans a
Qts 85. Consider the following statements regarding Kautilya's Arthshastra :
1. It places morality higher than political expediency.
2. It argues the case for a fully-centralised government for the empire
3. It deals with problems of administration as well as laws of property and crime.
4. It includes section on government of the State and diplomatic relations with other States.
Of these statements
(a) 1, 2 and 3 are correct
(b) 2 and 3 are correct
(c) 3 and 4 are correct
(d) 1,2 and 4 are correct
Ans b
Qts 86. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called chaityas while the others viharas. What is the difference between the two?
(a) Chaityas is a place of worship while vihara is the dwelling place of the monks
(b) Chaityas is the stupa at the far end of the cave while vihara is the hall axial to it
(c) There is no material difference between the two
(d) Vihara is a place of worship while chaityas is the dwelling place of the monks
Ans a
Qts 87. Which one of the following does not constitute part of the Veda?
(a) Nirukta
(b) Upanishad
(c) Brahmana
(d) Samhita
Ans a
Qts 88. In ancient India the territorial name Tosali referred to
(a) The region between the rivers Jhelum and Chenab
(b) The basin of the river Son
(c) The delta of the river Cauvery
(d) The area of the river Mahanadi
Ans: d
Qts 89. Which one of the following was worshipped as a heavenly God by ancient Indians?
(a) Surya
(b) Angaraka (Mangala)
(c) Sukra
(d) Sani
Ans a
Qts 90. In which one of the following the Gandhara sculptures of the Buddha are typically Indian and not Greek or Roman?
(a) In the treatment of the robe
(b) In the rendering of the physiognomy
(c) In the iconography
(d) In the style
Ans c
Qts 91. Fresco paintings in the Ajanta Caves were done, while which of the following dynasties was flourishing?
(a) Guptas
(b) Sungas
(c) Kanvas
(d) Mauryas
Ans a
Qts 92. Which one of the following is a Vedanga?
(a) Sruti
(b) Smriti
(c) Nirukta
(d) Samhita
Ans c
Qts93. Burma was known to ancient Indians as
(a) Suvarnabhumi
(b) Suvarnadvipa
c) Yavadvipa
(d) Malayamandala
Ans a
Qts 94. The last in the succession of Jaina Tirthankaras was
(a) Parsvanatha
(b) Rishabha
(c) Mahavira
(d) Mani Subrata
Ans c
Qts 95. The term nishka, which meant an ornament in the Vedic period, was used in later times to denote a/an
(a) weapon
(b) agricultural implement
(c) script
(d) coin
Ans d
Qts 96. In the Gandhara sculptures the preaching Mudra associated with the Buddha's First Sermon at Sarnat is
(a) abhaya
(b) dhyana
(c) dharmachakra
(d) bhumisparsa
Ans c
Qts 97. The name of the poet Kalidasa is mentioned in the
(a) Allahabad pillar inscription
(b) Aihole inscription
(c) Alapadu grant
(d) Hanumakonda inscription
Ans b
Qts 98. Which one of the following important trade centres of ancient India was on the trade route connecting Kalyana with Vengi?
(a) Tagara
(c) Tripuri
(b) Sripura
(d) Tamralipti
Ans a
Qts 99. Toramana belonged to the ethnic horde of the
(a) Scythians
(b) Hunas
(c) Yue-chis
(d) Sakas
Ans b
Qts100. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below them:
List I (Works) List II (Authors)
A. Dayabhaga 1. Harsha
B. Mitakshara 2. Jimutavahana
C. Nagananda 3. Krittivasa
D. Ramayana 4. Vijnanesvara
Select the correct answer from the codes given below :
A B C D
a. 2 3 1 4
b. 2 4 1 3
c. 4 2 3 1
d. 4 1 2 3
Ans b
Qts 101. The concept of Anuvrata was advocated by
(a) Mahayana Buddhism
(b) Hinayana Buddhism
(c) Jainism
(d) the Lokayata school
Ans c
Qts102 . According to Mimamsa system of philosophy liberation is possible by means of
(a) Jnana
(b) Bhakti
(c) Yoga
(d) Karma
Ans d
Qts 103. The river most mentioned in early Vedic literature which is
(a) Sindhu
(b) Sutudri
(c) Sarasvati
(d) Ganga
Ans a
Qts 104. Which one of the following is not a part of early Jain literature?
a) Therigatha
(b) Acaranga Sutra
(c) Sutrakritanga
(d) Brihat Kalpasutra
Ans a
Qts 105. Which of the following were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?
1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
3. Denial of efficacy of rituals
4. Non-injury to animal life
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 2
Ans b
Qts106. Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period?
(a) Saumilla
(b) Sudraka
(c) Shaunaka
(d) Susrutha
Ans d
Qts107. In the context of ancient Indian society, which one of the following terms does not belong to the category of the other three?
(a) Kula
(b) Vamsa
(c) Kosa
(d) Gotra
Ans c
Qts 108. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists:
List I. List II
A. Visakhadatta. 1. Medicine
B. Varahamihira. 2. Drama
C. Charaka. 3. Astronomy
D. Brahmagupta. 4. Mathematics
Codes:
A. B. C. D
(a) 1. 3. 4. 2
(b) 2. 1. 3. 4
(c) 2. 3. 1. 4
(d) 3. 4. 1. 2
Ans c
Qts 109. Which one of the following was a corporation of merchants in ancient India?
(a) Chaturvedi Mangalam
(b) Parishad
(c) Ashtadiggajas
(d) Manigrama
Ans d
Qts110. Assertion (A): The Gandhara School of art bears the mark of Hellenistic influence.
Reason (R): Hinayana form was influenced by that art.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is NOT a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans c
Qts111. Assertion (A): According to Asoka's edicts social harmony among the people was more important than religious devotion.
Reason (R): He spread ideas of equity instead of promotion of religion.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is NOT a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans a
Qts112. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched?
1. Lothal. Ancient dockyard
2. Sarnath. First Sermon of Buddha
3. Rajgir. Lion capital of Asoka
4. Nalanda. Great seat of Buddhist learning
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Codes:
(a) 1, 2 , 3 and 4
(b) 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1 and 2
Ans c
Qts113. Which one of the following ancient Indian records is the earliest royal order to preserve foodgrains to be utilised during the crises in the country?
(a) Sohgaura Copper-plate
(b) Rummindei pillar-edict of Asoka
(c) Prayaga-Prasasti
(d) Mehrauli Pillar inscription of Chandra
Ans a
Qts114. Which one of the following ports handled the north Indian trade during the Gupta period?
(a) Tamralipti
(b) Broach
(c) Kalyan
(d) Cambray
Ans a
Qts115. From the third century AD when the Hun invasion ended the Roman Empire, the Indian merchants relied more and more on the
(a) African trade
(b) West-European trade
(c) South-East Asian trade
(d) Middle-Eastern trade
Ans c
Qts116. The following persons came to India at one time or another:
1. Fa-Hien
2. I-Tsing
3. Megasthenese
4. Hieun-Tsang
The correct chronological sequence of their visits is:
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4
(b) 3, 1, 4, 2
(c) 1,3, 2, 4
(d) 1, 3, 4, 2
Ans b
Qts117. Which one of the following was initially the most powerful city state of India in the 6th century B.C.?
(a) Gandhar
(b) Kamboj
(c) Kashi
(d) Magadh
Ans d
Qts118. The Indo-Greek kingdom set up in north Afghanistan in the beginning of the second century BC was
(a) Bactria
(b) Scythia
(c) Zedrasia
(d) Aria
Ans a
Qts119. Assertion (A): The Ahom and Puram poems of the Padinen Kilukanakku group formed a continuation of the Sangam composition.
Reason (R): They were included under the Post- Sangam works as against the Sangam works proper.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans a
Qts120. Assertion (A): The emphasis of Jainism on non- violence (ahimsa) prevented agriculturalists from embracing Jainism.
Reason (R): Cultivation involved killing of insects and pests.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans a
Qts121. The word 'Hindu' as reference to the people of Hind (India) was first used by
(a) the Greeks
(b) the Romans
(c) the Chinese
(d) the Arabs
Ans d
Qts122. Who among the following was a Brahmavadini who composed some hymns of the Vedas?
(a) Lopamudra
(b) Gargi
(c) Leelavati
(d) Savitri
Ans a
Qts123. In Sanskrit plays written during the Gupta Period women and sudras speak
(a) Sanskrit
(b) Prakrit
(c) Pali
(d) Sauraseni
Ans b
Qts124. The name by which Asoka is generally referred to in his inscriptions is
(a) Chakravarti
(b) Dharmadeva
(c) Dharmakirti
(d) Priyadarsi
Ans d
Qts125. The term Yavanapriya, mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts, denoted
(a) a fine variety of Indian muslin
(b) ivory
(c) damsels sent to the Greek court for dance performance
(d) pepper
Ans d
Qts126. Which one of the following was a Saiva sect in ancient India?
(a) Ajivika
(b) Mattamayura
(c) Mayamata
(d) Isana Siva Gurudeva Paddhati
Ans b
Qts127. Which one of the following texts of ancient India allows divorce to a wife deserted by her husband?
(a) Kamasutra
(b) Manava Dharma Shastra
(c) Sukra Nitisara
(d) Arthashastra
Ans d
Qts128. Which one of the following statements regarding Asokan stone pillars is incorrect?
(a) These are highly polished
(b) These are monolithic
(c) The shaft of pillars is tapering in shape
(d) These are parts of architectural structures
Ans d
Qts129. Which one of the following edicts mentions the personal name of Asoka?
(a) Kalsi
(b) Rummindei
(c) Special Kalinga Edict
(d) Maski
Ans d
Qts130. The following maps shows four of the sixteen mahajanapadas that existed in ancient India
The places marked A, B, C and D respectively are
(a) Matsya, Cedi, Kosala, Anga
(b) Surasena, Avanti, Vatsa, Magadha
(c) Matsya, Avanti, Vatsa, Anga
(d) Surasena, Cedi, Kosala, Magadha
Ans c
Qts131. In the Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was also known as
(a) Vajrapani
(b) Manjusri
(c) Padmapani
(d) Maitreya
Ans c
Qts132. The silver coins issued by the Guptas were called
(a) Rupaka
(b) Karshapana
(c) Dinara
(d) Pana
Ans a
Qts133. The concept of Eight-fold path forms the theme of
(a) Dipavamsa
(b) Divyavadana
(c) Mahaparinibbana Sutta
(d) Dharma Chakra Pravartana Sutta
Ans d
Qts134. Many of the Greeks, Kushanas and Shakas embraced Buddhism rather than Hinduism because
(a) Buddhism was in the ascendant at that time
(b) they had renounced the policy of war and violence
(c) caste-ridden Hinduism did not attract them
(d) Buddhism provided easier access to Indian society
Ans d
Qts135. The Asokan major rock edicts which tell us about the Sangam Kingdom include rock edicts
(a) I and X
(b) 1 and XI
(c) II and XIII
(d) Il and XIV
Ans c
Qts136. What is the correct chronological order in which the following appeared in India?
1. Gold coins
2. Punch-marked silver coins
3. Iron plough
4. Urban culture
Codes:
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 3, 4, 1, 2
(b) 3, 4, 2, 1
(c) 4, 3, 1, 2
(d) 4, 3, 2, 1
Ans d
Qts137. The term 'Aryan' denotes
(a) an ethnic group
(b) a nomadic people
(c) a speech group
(d) a superior race
Ans c
Qts138. Assertion (A): The origin of feudal system in ancient India can be traced to military campaigns.
Reason (R): There was considerable expansion of the feudal system during the Gupta period.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans d
Qts139. Assertion (A): Ashoka annexed Kalinga to the Mauryan Empire.
Reason (R): Kalinga controlled the land and sea routes to South India.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans a
Qts140. Which one of the following dynasties was ruling over North India at the time of Alexander's invasion?
(a) Nanda
(b) Maurya
(c) Sunga
(d) Kanva
Ans a
Qts 141. The practice of military governorship was first introduced in India by the
(a) Greeks
(b) Shakas
(c) Parthians
(d) Mughals
Ans a
Qts142. Assertion (A): Harshavardhana convened the Prayag Assembly.
Reason (R): He wanted to popularise only the Mahayana form of Buddhism.
(a) Both A and R are individually true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true, but R is NOT a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Ans b
Qts143. Which one of the following animals was NOT represented on the seals and terracotta art of the Harappan culture?
(a) Cow
(b) Elephant
(c) Rhinoceros
(d) Tiger
Ans a
Qts144. Match List I (Ancient site) with List II (Archaeological finding) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I. : List II
(Ancient site). : (Archaeological finding)
A. Lothal. : 1. Ploughed field
B. Kalibangan. : 2. Dockyard
C. Dholavira. : 3. Terracotta replica of a plough
D. Banawali. : 4. An inscription comprising ten large sized signs of the Harappan script
Codes:
A. B. C. D
(a) 1. 2. 3. 4
(b) 2. 1. 4. 3
(c) 1. 2. 4. 3
(d) 2. 1. 3. 4
Ans b
Qts145. In ancient Indian Buddhist monasteries, a ceremony called Pavarana used to be held. It was the
(a) Occasion to elect the Sanghaparinayaka and two speakers one on Dhamma and the other on Vinaya
(b) Confession by monks of their offences committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season
(c) Ceremony of initiation of new person into the Buddhist Sangha in which the head is shaved an when yellow robes are offered
(d) Gathering of Buddhist monks on the next day to the full moon day of Ashadha when they take up affixed abode for the next four months or rainy season.
Ans b
Qts146.The ancient Indian play Mudrarakshasa of Visakhadatta has its subject on
(a) a conflict between Gods and Demons of ancient Hindu lore
(b) a romantic story of an Aryan prince and a tribal woman
(c) the story of the power struggle between two Aryan tribes
(d) the court intrigues at the time of Chandragupta Maurya
Ans d
Qts147. Consider the following statements:
1. Vardhamana Mahavira's mother was the daughter of Lichchavi chief Chetaka.
2. Gautama Buddha's mother was a princess from the Koshalan dynasty.
3. Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Tirthankara, belonged to Banaras,
Which of these statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans c
Qts148. Consider the following statements:
1. The last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha was assassinated by his commander-in-chief, Pushyamitra Sunga.
2. The last Sunga king, Devabhuti was assassinated by his Brahmana minister Vasudeva Kanva who usurped the throne
3. The last ruler of the Kanva dynasty was deposed by the Andhras.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) Only 2
(c) Only 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans d
Qts149. Emperor Harsha's southward march was stopped on the Narmada river by:
(a) Pulakesin-I
(b) Pulakesin-II
(c) Vikramaditya-l
(d) Vikramaditya-II
Ans b
Qts150. Consider the following statements:
1. The Chinese pilgrim Fa-Hien attended the fourth Great Buddhist Council held by Kanishka.
2. The Chinese pilgrim Hiuen-Tsang met Harsha and found him to be antagonistic to Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans d
Qts151 . With reference to ancient Jainism, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) Jainism was spread in South India under the leadership of Sthalabahu
(b)The Jainas who remained under the leadership of Bhadrabahu were called Shvetambaras after the Council held at Pataliputra
(c)Jainism enjoyed the patronage of the Kalinga king Kharavela in the first century BC
(d) In the initial stage of Jainism, the Jainas worshipped images unlike Buddhists
Ans c
Qts152. Which one of the following four Vedas contains an account of magical charms and spells?
(a) Rig-veda
(b) Yajur-veda
(c) Atharva-veda
(d) Sama-veda
Ans c
Qts153. The "dharma" and "Rita" depict a central Idea of ancient vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements:
1. Dharma was a conception of obligations and of to the discharge of one's duties to oneself and others.
2. Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only.
(b) 2 only.
(c) Both 1 and 2.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2.
Ans c
Qts154. Lord Buddha's image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called "Bhumiparsha Mudra". It symbolizes
(a) Buddha's calling of the earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation
(b)Buddha's calling of the earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara
(c)Buddha's reminder to his followers that they all arise from the earth and finally dissolve into the earth and thus this life is transitory
(d) Both the statements a and b are correct in this context
Ans b
Qts155. The religion of early Vedic Aryans was primarily of
(a) Bhakti
(b) image worship and Yajnas
(c) worship of nature and Yajnas
(d) worship of nature and Bhakti
Ans c
Qts156. With reference to the guilds (Shreni) of ancient India that played a very important role in the country's economy, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Every guild was registered with the central authority of the state and the king was the chief admin authority on them
2. The wages, rules of work, standards and prices were fixed by the guild
3. The guild had judicial powers over its own members.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans d
Qts157. With reference to the scientific progress of ancient India which of the statements given below are correct?
1. Different kinds of specialized surgical instruments were in common use by 1 century AD
2. Transplant of internal organs in the human body had begun by the beginning of 3rd century AD.
3. The concept of sine of an angle was known in 5th century AD.
4. The concept of cyclic quadrilateral was known in 7th century AD.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2,3 and 4
Ans c
Qts158 Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?
1. Avanti
2. Gandhara
3. Kosala
4. Magadha
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4
Ans c
Qts160. Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?
(a) Swapnavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali
Ans b
Qts161. Who of the following had first deciphered the edicts of Emperor Ashoka?
(a) Georg Buhler
(b) James Prinsep
(c) Max Muller
(d) William Jones
Ans b
Qts162. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans b
Qts163. Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?
(a) The extinction of the flame of desire
(b) The complete annihilation of self
(c) A state of bliss and rest
(d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension
Ans a
Qts164. Which of the following characterizes/ characterize the people of Indus Civilization?
1. They possessed great palaces and temples.
2. They worshipped both male and female deities.
3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare.
Select the correct statement/ statements using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the statements given above is correct
Ans b
Qts165. Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine?
1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance.
2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul.
3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans d
Qts166. The Chinese traveller Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) who visited India recorded the general conditions and culture of India at that time.
In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The roads and river-routes were completely immune from robbery.
2. As regards punishment for offences, ordeals by fire, water and poison were the instruments for determining the innocence or guilt of a person.
3. The tradesmen had to pay duties at ferries and barrier stations.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans b
Qts167. In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs:
Term. Description
1. Eripatti. Land, revenue from which was set apart for the
maintenance of the village tank
2. Taniyurs. Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group
of Brahmins
3.Ghatikas Colleges generally attached to the temples
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3
Ans d
Qts168. With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories and epic tales was the profession of who of the following?
(a) Shramana
(b) Parivraajaka
(c) Agrahaarika
(d) Magadha
Ans d
Qts169. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism.
2. Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary, but existed forever in a latent form.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans b
Qts170.With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them.
2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron.
3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.
Select the correct answer, using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans b
Qts171. With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?
(a) Avalokiteshvara
(b) Lokesvara
(c) Maitreya
(d) Padmapani
Ans c
Qts172. Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?
(a) Chanhudaro
(b) Kot Diji
(c) Sohgaura
(d) Desalpur
Ans. (c)
Qts173. In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is 'Ranyo Ashokan' (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?
(a) Kanganahalli
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazgarhi
(d) Sohgaura
Ans. (a)
Qts174. Consider the following:
1. Deification of the Buddha
2. Treading the path of Bodhisattvas
3. Image worship and rituals
Which of the above is/are the feature/features of Mahayana Buddhism?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (d)
Qts175.With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people.
(b) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.
(c) The forced labourer was entitled to weekly wages.
(d) The eldest son of the labourer was sent as the forced labourer.
Ans. (a)
Qts176. Consider the following events in the history of India:
1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja
2. Establishment of Pallava power under Mahendravarman-I
3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka-I
4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala
What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time ?
(a) 2 - 1 - 4 - 3
(b) 3 - 1 - 4 - 2
(c) 2 - 4 - 1 - 3
(d) 3 - 4 - 1 - 2
Ans. c
Qts177. With reference to the history of India, the terms 'kulyavapa' and 'dronavapa' denote
(a) measurement of land
(b) coins of different monetary value
(c) classification of urban land
(d) religious rituals
Ans. a
Qts178. With reference to the period of Gupta dynasty in ancient India, the towns Ghantasala, Kadura and Chaul were well known as
(a) ports handling foreign kingdoms
(b) capitals of powerful kingdoms
(c) places of exquisite stone art and architecture
(d) important Buddhist pilgrimage centres
Ans. a
Qts179. From the decline of Guptas until the rise of Harshavardhana in the early seventh century, which of the following kingdoms were holding power in Northern India?
1. The Guptas of Magadha
2. The Paramaras of Malwa
3. The Pushyabhutis of Thanesar
4. The Maukharis of Kanauj
5. The Yadavas of Devagiri
6. The Maitrakas of Valabhi
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 5
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 6
(c) 2, 3 and 4
(d) 5 and 6
Ans. b
Qts180. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Mitakshara was the civil law for upper castes and Dayabhaga was the civil law for lower castes.
2. In the Mitakshara system, the sons can claim right to the property during the lifetime of the father, whereas in the Dayabhaga system, it is only after the death of the father that the sons can claim right to the property.
3. The Mitakshara system deals with the matters related to the property held by male members only of a family, whereas the Dayabhaga system deals with the matters related to the property held by both male and female members of a family.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
Ans.b
Qts181. Consider the following pairs:
Site of Ashoka's
major rock edicts Location in the State of
1. Dhauli. Odisha
2. Erragudi. Andhra Pradesh
3. Jaugada. Madhya Pradesh
4. Kalsi. Karnataka
How many pairs given above are correctly matched ?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four pairs
Ans b
Qts.182 Which one of the following statement about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?
(a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
(b) The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.
(c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.
(d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
Ans.b
Qts 183. With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts:
1. Nettipakarana
2. Parishishta Parvan
3. Avadanasataka
4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana
Which of the above are Jaina texts ?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4
Ans.c
Qts184. With reference to Indian history, consider the following pairs:
Historical person. Known as
1. Aryadeva. - Jaina scholar
2. Dignaga. Buddhist scholar
3. Nathamuni. Vaishnava scholar
How many pairs given above are correctly matched ?
(a) None of the pairs
(b) Only one pair
(c) Only two pairs
(d) All three pairs
Ans c
Qts185. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists:
List I List II
A. Chandragupta Maurya 1. The great council of Prayag
B. Samudragupta 2. Jainism
C. Harsha Vardhan 3. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
D. Rajendra Chola 4. Allahabad Pillar
Select the correct answer from the codes given below
A B. C. D
(a) 1. 4. 2. 3
(b) 2. 3. 4. 1
(c) 3. 2. 1. 4
(d)2. 4. 1. 3
Ans d
Qts186. Match the following:
A. Chaitya. :1. Amaravati
B. Stupa. : 2. Besnagar
C. Pillar. : 3. Karle
D. Brick Temples. :4. Bhitragaon
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. B. C. D
(a). 1. 3. 4. 2
(b) 2. 3. 4. 1
(c) 3. 1. 2. 4
(d) 3. 1. 4. 2
Ans c
Qts187. Match the following:
A. Charak. : 1. Samkhya
B. Nagarjuna. : 2. Sanskrit author
C. Kapila. :3. Ayurveda
D. Gorakhnath. :4. Rasaratnakara
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. B. C. D
(a) 1. 2. 3. 4
(b) 2. 1. 3. 4
(c). 4. 2. 1. 3
(d) 3. 4. 1. 2
Ans d