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. Which among the following define the similarities between Buddhism and Jainism?
[A] Both opposed Brahmanical domination and caste system
[B] Both accepted the theories of rebirth
[C] Both preached truth and non-violence
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ All of the above ]
Notes:
The similarities between Buddhism and Jainism are a) Both opposed Brahmanical domination and caste system. B) Both have accepted the theories of Karma and rebirth and Moksha. C) Both preached truth, non-violence, celibacy and detachment from material comforts.. D) Both Uphold the essence of Vedas.
2. What was the other name of Harshavardhana?
[A] Siladitya
[B] Harshaditya
[C] Bhaskarvarman
[D] Vishnuvardhan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Siladitya ]
Notes:
Bharshavardhan (606-647 AD) was also known as Siladitya. His kingdom extends from Punjab, West Bengal, Orissa and from Himalayas to the entire Indo-Gangetic plain north of the Narmada river. He gave equal respect to all religions and became the follower of Buddhism in his later life.
3. Which among the following was the capital of Chera Kingdom?
[A] Tondi
[B] Musiri
[C] Vanji
[D] Uraiyaur
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [ Vanji ]
Notes:
The capital of Chera Kingdom was Vanji. Tondi and Musiri were the important sea ports of Cheras.
4. 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.
5. Who among the following is compiled the work “Ravanavadham”?
[A] Bhatti
[B] Kalidasa
[C] Bhasa
[D] Banabhatta
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Bhatti]
Notes:
Bhatti compiled the work “Ravanavadham”. It is the most influential version of Ramayanam.
6. Which Jain Tirthankara is regarded as female by the Shwetambar sect of Jainism?
[A] 16th
[B] 18th
[C] 19th
[D] 20th
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [19th]
Notes:
Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, is divided into two main sects – the Shwetambars and the Digambars. In a unique aspect, the Shwetambars believe the 19th Tirthankara, Mallinath, to have been a woman. However, this belief is not shared by the Digambar sect. This diversity in perspectives showcases the complexities and variations that exist even within single religious communities.
7. Who among the following built the Parthasarathy Temple ?
[A] Narasimhavarman I
[B] Mahendravarman II
[C] Mahendravarman I
[D] Simhavishnu
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Narasimhavarman I ]
Notes:
Narasimhavarman I Parthasarathy Temple was build by Pallava King Narasimhavarman I in 8th century. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
8. In 1837, James Princep deciphered an Inscription in Brahmi script referring to a king called ‘Devanampiya Piyadassi’. The celebrated monarch known by this epithet was :
[A] Ashoka
[B] Akbar
[C] Kanishka
[D] Chandragupta Vikramaditya
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ashoka]
Notes:
James Princep had deciphered an inscription in 1837 written in Brahmi, which referred a King called Devanampiya Piyadassi. However, immediately, it could not be confirmed that it was Asoka. It was later only when Buddhist Chronicles of Ceylon and other inscriptions confirmed the name of King Asoka.
9. The Jorwe culture of ancient India has been named after a site of the same name in which of the following states?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Gujarat
[C] Karnataka
[D] Maharashtra
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra]
Notes:
Jorwe is an important archaeological site in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. The Jorwe culture is a Deccan Chalcolithic culture, known for its distinctive pottery and rural settlement pattern in the Deccan region. Since the culture takes its name from the site of Jorwe, Maharashtra is the correct answer. The question remains a standard location-based GK item and is factually accurate with this wording.
10. During the early Vedic period, which of the following priests served as presiding priest during ritual sacrifices?
[A] Hotr
[B] adhvaryu
[C] Udgatr
[D] Brahmin
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Hotr]
Notes:
hotr was the presiding priest, with perhaps only the adhvaryu as his assistant in the earliest time.
