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. Nābhivarṣa is the historical name of which of the following countries?
[A] India
[B] Myanmar
[C] China
[D] Egypt
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [India ]
Notes:
According to some historical sources, the term Nābhivarṣa was used for India prior to its name Bharatvarsa. The name is derived from King Nabhi, who was father of Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara in Jainism.
2. The beneficiaries of Asoka’s donations in the region of Barabar Hill were__?
[A] Buddhists
[B] Ajivikas
[C] Svetambar Jains
[D] Digambar Jains
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ Ajivikas ]
Notes:
The Edicts of Asoka are a collection of 33 inscriptions on the Pillars of Asoka. The one of the Edict of Asoka is “Barbara cave Inscription : giving away the Barbara cave to Ajivika sect. Dasharataha is known to have gifted the Nagarjuni hills to Ajivikas.
3. Which sect of Buddhism does not believe in idol-worship?
[A] Hinayana
[B] Mahayana
[C] Vajrayana
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Hinayana ]
Notes:
Those who followed strictly the doctrine of Buddha and denied the existence of God were known as the followers of Lesser vehicle or Hinayana. The Hinayana sect does not believe in idol worship, nor do its followers believe that Buddha was God.
4. Which rock edict gives information about Asoka’s conversion to Buddhism?
[A] Bhabru rock edict
[B] Kalinga rock edict
[C] Tarai rock edict
[D] Barabar cave rock edict
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Bhabru rock edict ]
Notes:
The Bhabru rock edict gives information about Asoka’s conversion to Buddhism. The rock edict stated that he has full faith in Buddha, Sangha and Dhamma.
5. In Sangam age, the book ‘Bharatam’ was written by__?
[A] Perudevanar
[B] Manimekalai
[C] Seethalai Saathanaar
[D] Tiruttakrdeva
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Perudevanar ]
Notes:
The book, ‘ Bharatam’ was written by Perudevanar. The author had also composed the invocatory versus for the Sangam classics Ahnanuru, Puranamuru, Kuruntogai, Narrinai and Aingurunuru.
6. Which of the following is the equivalent term used for Raja in early vedic era?
[A] Gopati
[B] Gomat
[C] Gopa
[D] Gomitra
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Gopati ]
Notes:
In the Early Vedic age, ‘Raja’ was known as Gopati.
7. Who was the chairman of Third Tamil Sangam?
[A] Nakkirar
[B] Agastaya
[C] Tiruttakkadevar
[D] Chintamani
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Nakkirar ]
Notes:
Nakkirar was the chairman of 3rd Tamil Sangam held at North Madurai.
8. Pushyamitra, the founder ruler of Sunga Dynasty performed how many Ashvamedha sacrifices?
[A] None
[B] 1
[C] 2
[D] 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ 1 ]
Notes:
The founder of Sunga dynasty, Pushyamitra Sunga is recorded to have performed two Ashvamedhas to promote orthodox brahamical faith during his rule.
9. Which of the following dynasties has been mainly identified based on the study of coins?
[A] Gupta
[B] Kushana
[C] Rastrakuta
[D] Chalukya
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Kushana]
Notes:
The Kushana Dynasty, established by Kujula Kadphises in the 1st century AD, has been primarily identified through numismatic (coin) evidence. Historians and archaeologists deciphered the inscriptions and images on coins, enabling the understanding of their reign, relationship with other regions, and the extent of their empire. The numismatic study also helped to discern the religious influences and the transition of power within the dynasty.
10. What was the profession of Karmara in Vedic age?
[A] Blacksmith
[B] Potter
[C] Ratha (Chariot ) Makers
[D] Goldsmith
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Blacksmith]
Notes:Some of the ancient professions and their names are as follows:
- Karmara – Blacksmith
- Takshan – Carpenter
- Vapta – Barber
- Charmana – Tanner
- Hiranayakara – Goldsmith
- Tantuvaya – weaver
