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. First Buddhist Council was held during the reign of which of the following kings?
[A] Ajatsatru
[B] Ashoka
[C] Kanishka
[D] Kalasoka
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Correct Answer: A [ Ajatsatru ]
Notes:
The First Buddhist Council was held at Saptaparni cave near Rajagriha in 72 AD, during the reign of Emperor Ajatsatru. It was held under the Presidentship of Mahakassapa to compile the Dhamma Pitaka and Vinaya Pitaka.
2. Who among the following was the author of Kiratarjuniya?
[A] Bharavi
[B] Dandin
[C] Varahmihira
[D] Kalidasa
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Correct Answer: A [Bharavi]
Notes:
Bharavi, a distinguished Sanskrit poet from the 6th century, is acknowledged as the author of “Kiratarjuniya”. The title can be translated as “Arjuna and the Mountain Man”. The epic literature centers on the theme of morality and dharma, articulating a Didactic episode from the Mahabharata. It highlights the human values and virtues, establishing itself as a significant part of ancient Indian literature.
3. Which physician was sent by Bimbisara to treat Avanti King Pradyota?
[A] Jivaka
[B] Udayin
[C] Kalashoka
[D] None of them
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Correct Answer: A [ Jivaka ]
Notes:
The royal physician, Jivaka, was sent by Bimbisara to treat Avanti King Pradyota, who was ailing with Jaundice.
4. Which Ashokan pillar edict provides a list of animals and birds killing of which was prohibited?
[A] Pillar edict V
[B] Pillar edict VIII
[C] Pillar edict XII
[D] Pillar edict X
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Pillar edict V ]
Notes:
The Pillar edict-V of Ashoka provides a list of animals and birds which should not be killed on some days and another list of animals which have not to be killed at all occasions and also describes the release of 25 prisionars by Mauryan Emperor Asoka.
5. Who was the first Satvahana King?
[A] Simuka
[B] Satkarni
[C] Vashisthaputra
[D] Gautamiputra
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Correct Answer: A [ Simuka ]
Notes:
Simuka (230-207 BC) was the founder of Satvahana dynasty, who conquered the present-day Maharashtra and parts of Madhya Pradesh. He was succeeded by his brother Kanha, who further extended his state to the present day Andhra Pradesh.
6. The Sakas introduced Satrap system of government along with whom?
[A] Parthians
[B] Kushans
[C] Sungas
[D] Satavahanas
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Correct Answer: A [ Parthians ]
Notes:
The Sakas introduced Satrap system of government along with Parthians that was similar to that of the Achaemenid and Seleucid systems in Iran. Under this system, the kingdom was divided into provinces each under military governor Mahakshatrapa (great satrap). The governors of lower status were called kshatrapas (satraps). These governors had the power to issue their own inscriptions and mint their own coins.
7. Who was the founder of Gupta Dynasty?
[A] Sri Gupta
[B] Samudragupta
[C] Chandragupta I
[D] Chandragupta II
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Correct Answer: A [ Sri Gupta ]
Notes:
Sri Gupta was the founder of Gupta Dynasty and adopted the title ‘Maharaj’.
8. Which the following rulers is known as the ‘Napoleon of India’?
[A] Samudragupta
[B] Ashoka
[C] Chandragupta I
[D] Skandgupta
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Correct Answer: A [ Samudragupta ]
Notes:
Samudragupta believed in the policy of war and conquest and because of his bravery and generalship he is known as the “Napoleon of India” by historian Vincent. A. Smith.
9. Devichandraguptam, a play by Vishakhadatta, tells story about which of the following rulers?
[A] Sri Gupta
[B] Ramagupta
[C] Bhanugupta
[D] Vishnugupta
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Correct Answer: B [ Ramagupta ]
Notes:
Ramagupta was the elder son and immediate successor of Samudragupta. Earlier, he was known from the traditional narratives only, but later, three inscriptions on Jaina tirthankara images were discovered from Durjanpur near Vidisha, which mention him as the Maharajadhiraja.
10. At which of the following Harappan sites, terracotta female figures were discovered?
[A] Mohenjo-daro
[B] Kot Bala
[C] Kot Diji
[D] Khirasara
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Correct Answer: A [Mohenjo-daro]
Notes:
Mohenjo-daro is an archaeological site in the province of Sindh, Pakistan. Built around 2500 BCE, it was one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Various discoveries at Mohenjo-daro include- Great Bath (the biggest bath ghat), Great granary, Bronze dancing girl, Bearded man, terracotta toys, Bull seal, Pashupati seal, three cylindrical seals of the Mesopotamian type, a piece of woven cloth.
