Ancient Indian History MCQs
Multiple Choice Quiz Questions (MCQs) on Ancient Indian History for General Studies and GK preparation of SSC, NDA, CDS, UPSC, UPPSC and State PSC Examinations.
1. With which among the following places, the twenty third Jain Tirthankara was associated?
[A] Vaishali
[B] Kausambi
[C] Varanasi
[D] Sravasti
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [ Varanasi ]
Notes:
The 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Lord Parshvanath was closely associated with Varanasi. He was born there to the ruling king and queen. After becoming an ascetic, he travelled widely but eventually returned to Varanasi for meditation and penance. He attained enlightenment under a tree on Sammet Shikhar near Varanasi. A famous Parshvanath temple stands at that site even today, which remains an important place of pilgrimage for Jains worldwide.
2. Who was the author of the book ‘Silappadikarma’?
[A] Ilango Adigal
[B] Seethalai Saathanaar
[C] Perudevanar
[D] Tiruttakrdeva
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Ilango Adigal ]
Notes:
The author of an epic Silappadikarma is Ilango Adigal. The epic deals with the love story of Kovalan (Son of a wealthy merchant in Puhar )and Madhavi (a beautiful courtesan dancer) of Kaveripattinam. It is also called Illiyad of Tamil Poetry.
3. Which of the following Upanishads gives clear reference of four Ashrams of individual’s life?
[A] Jabala Upanishad
[B] Katha Upanishad
[C] Virhadranyaka Upanishad
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Jabala Upanishad ]
Notes:
In Jabala Upanishad, there is a clear reference of four Ashrams i.e. Brahmachari, Grihastha, Vanaprastha and Sanyasi.
4. The achievements of Samudragupta are mentioned in which inscription?
[A] Hathigumpha inscription
[B] Allahabad Pillar inscription
[C] Bairut inscription
[D] Junagarh Pillar inscription
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ Allahabad Pillar inscription ]
Notes:
The achievements of Samudragupta are composed by his court-poet Harisena in Allahabad Pillar inscription ( or Prayag-Prasasti inscription).
5. The famous book Sutrakritanga provides detailed information about the life of:
[A] Mahavira
[B] Gautama Buddha
[C] Kapila
[D] Basavanna
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Mahavira ]
Notes:
Sutrakritanga is the second agama of the 12 main Angas of the Jain canons. It provides detailed information about the life of Mahavira. It is also known as the Golden Book of Jainism.
6. At which among the following places, Chandragupta Maurya spent his last days?
[A] Nalanda
[B] Ujjain
[C] Shravana Belgola
[D] Kashi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Shravana Belgola]
Notes:
Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya Empire. During his last days Chandragupta Maurya accepted Jainism and spent his last days at Sravanabelagola with Bhadrabahu.
7. Shatapatha Brahmana belongs to which of the following Vedas?
[A] Krishna Yajurveda
[B] Shukla Yajurveda
[C] Rigveda
[D] Samaveda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Shukla Yajurveda]
Notes:
Shatapatha Brahmana is a commentary on the Sukla Yajurveda.It is described as the most complete, systematic, and important of the Brahmanas. It contains detailed explanations of Vedic sacrificial rituals, symbolism, and mythology.
8. At which of the following archaeological sites was a sculpture of a “Nude Male Torso” discovered?
[A] Mehrgarh
[B] Mohenjodaro
[C] Harappa
[D] Lothal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Harappa]
Notes:
The “Nude Male Torso” is a significant artifact unearthed at Harappa, an ancient urban settlement of the Indus Valley Civilization. The sculpture, made from red sandstone, demonstrates advanced carving skills and a high level of artistry prevalent at that time. The absence of head and lower parts suggests the unique tradition of making torsos, prevalent in Harappan art.
9. Which among the following sites of Indus Valley Civilization is located on the banks of River Indus in Larkana District of Pakistan?
[A] Harappa
[B] Mohen Jo Dero
[C] Mehrgarh
[D] Suktagendor
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Mohen Jo Dero]
Notes:
The archaeological site of Mohenjo-Daro is located on the banks of the River Indus in the Larkana District of Pakistan. Mohenjo-Daro is one of the most prominent and well-preserved sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, which thrived around 2600-1900 BCE. This ancient city is known for its sophisticated urban planning, advanced drainage system, and evidence of a highly organized society. It is a crucial site for understanding the history and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization.
10. Which deity did the Alwars get associated with in ancient Indian mythological text?
[A] Shiva
[B] Vishnu
[C] Parvati
[D] Ganesha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Vishnu]
Notes:
The term “Alwars” comes from ancient Indian mythology, specifying a specific group of 12 Vaishnava saints known for their poetic expressions of devotion for Lord Vishnu in Tamil Nadu. The prominent group includes Poigai Alvar, Bhoothathalvar, Peyalvar, and others. Their spiritual work is often considered the early precursor to the Bhakti movement that promoted devotion towards a particular deity overcoming the barriers of caste and gender.
