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. What symbol represents nirvana of Gautama Buddha?
[A] Lotus
[B] Wheel
[C] Horse
[D] Bodhi Tree
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ Bodhi Tree ]
Notes:
Bodhi Tree is the symbol of nirvana of Gautama Buddha. On the other hand, Stupa represents the symbol of death of Gautama Buddha. Further, The symbol ‘Horse’ signifies the renunciation of Buddha’s life.
2. The Vallabhi University was set up by which ruler?
[A] Kumargupta I
[B] Bhattarka
[C] Dharmapala
[D] Gopala
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Correct Answer: B [ Bhattarka ]
Notes:
The Maitrak King, Bhattarka established the Vallabhi University in Gujarat.
3. Who was the first Tirthankara in Jainism?
[A] Rishabhanatha
[B] Parsavanath
[C] Mahavira
[D] Munisuvrata
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Correct Answer: A [Rishabhanatha]
Notes:
According to Jain belief, the first Tirthankara was Lord Rishabhanatha who lived millions of years ago in the ancient city of Ayodhya. As per legend, he was born to King Nabhi Raja and Queen Marudevi. At age 30, he renounced his princely comforts to become a monk. Eventually he attained Kevala Jnana and became the first sage to preach Jain values of non-violence, truth etc. Jains consider him to be a founder of their faith and ethical order.
4. At which place Mahavira attained Niravana?
[A] Pavapuri
[B] Kundagram
[C] Vaishali
[D] Rajgriha
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Correct Answer: A [ Pavapuri ]
Notes:
At the age of 72 in 468 BC, Tirthankar Mahavira passed away at Pavapuri, Bihar.
5. Under whose leadership Shvetambara sect formed?
[A] Bhadrabahu
[B] Sthalabahu
[C] Chandragupta Maurya
[D] Ashoka
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Sthalabahu ]
Notes:
Jain religion is divided into two major sects: the Digambara and the Shvetambara. The Digambara sect, also known as the “sky-clad” sect, believes that monks should not wear any clothes as a symbol of their detachment from worldly possessions. The Shvetambara sect, also known as the “white-clad” sect, believes that monks should wear white robes as a symbol of their purity and simplicity.
The Shvetambara sect was formed under the leadership of Sthalabahu, while the Digambara sect was formed under the leadership of Bhadrabahu. These two sects have different beliefs, practices, and monastic traditions, but they both follow the basic principles of Jainism, which include non-violence, non-possession, and spiritual development. Both sects have their own set of scriptures and texts that are considered authoritative for their followers.
6. The script of Indus Valley people was __?
[A] Desi Script
[B] Pictographic Script
[C] Brahmi Script
[D] Kharosti Script
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ Pictographic Script ]
Notes:
The pictographic script was used by the Indus Valley people.
7. In context of Mauryan administration, who was regarded as the ‘Chief treasury officer’?
[A] Samaharta
[B] Paura
[C] Sannidhata
[D] Karmantika
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Correct Answer: C [ Sannidhata ]
Notes:
As per the Arthashastra of Chankya, there were two important officers in the Central Administration. These are Sannidhata (the Chief treasury officer) and Samaharta (the Chief Collector General of Revenue).
8. The Pattini cult was established by which Sangam ruler?
[A] Nedunjeral Adan, the Chera ruler
[B] Senguttuvan, the Chera ruler
[C] Karikala, the Chola ruler
[D] Nedujeliyan, the Pandyan ruler
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Senguttuvan, the Chera ruler ]
Notes:
Pattini cult was established by Cheran Senguttuvan, a famous ruler during the 2nd century AD. The Pattini cult involved the worship of Kannagi as the ideal wife. Kannagi was the wife of Kovalan, and their story was the subject of the Tamil epic Silappadigalam. The Chera dynasty was one of the four principal Tamil dynasties of Tamilakam, which is present-day Southern India. The Chera dynasty is credited with creating the land of Kerala.
9. Heliodorus’ a Greek ambassador of the Indo-Greek king was sent to the court of which ruler?
[A] Bhagbhadra
[B] Devabhut
[C] Pushyamitra
[D] Ghosha
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Correct Answer: A [ Bhagbhadra ]
Notes:
Heliodorus was the Greek ambassador sent to the court of Sunga King, Bhagbhadra by the Greek King of Taxila, Antialkidas. Heliodorus erected famous votive Heliodorus pillar around 110 BC near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh.
10. Who was the court physician during the reign of Kanishka-I?
[A] Charak
[B] Vasumitra
[C] Nagarjuna
[D] Asvaghosa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Charak ]
Notes:
Charak was the court physician of Kanishka I. He was one of the principal contributors to the ancient art and science of Ayurveda, a system of medicine and lifestyle developed in Ancient India. He is sometimes referred to as the Father of Indian Medicine.