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.
11. What was the relation of the protagonist of Kalidasa’s “Malvikagnimitra” to Pushyamitra Sunga?
[A] His son
[B] His grandson
[C] His father
[D] His brother
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [His son]
Notes:
In Kalidasa’s Malvikagnimitra, the titular character Agnimitra serves as the protagonist, who is depicted as the son of Pushyamitra Sunga. Pushyamitra Sunga was the founder of the Sunga Dynasty in ancient India. The play is a historical tale which highlights Agnimitra’s love story with the princess Malavika, which is enveloped within the rich tapestry of ancient Indian history.
12. Which among the following is considered to be the official law book of the Guptas?
[A] Manusmriti
[B] Parashara Smriti
[C] Yajnavalkya Smriti
[D] Vyasa Smriti
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Yajnavalkya Smriti]
Notes:
The Yajnavalkya Smriti is one of the Dharma-related texts of Hinduism composed in Sanskrit. It is dated to between the 3rd to 5th-century CE, and belongs to the Dharmasastras tradition. It was the official law book of the Guptas.
13. The Practice of Polyandry was common in which of the following in ancient India?
[A] Kushanas
[B] Hunas
[C] Shakas
[D] Greeks
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Hunas]
Notes:
Polyandry is a form of polygamy in which a woman takes two or more husbands at the same time. It is common in Hunas. Hunas or Huna was the name given by the ancient Indians to a group of Central Asian tribes who, via the Khyber Pass, entered India at the end of the 5th or early 6th century.
14. Which among the following was used to create sculptures in the Mathura school of art that flourished around 1st century AD?
[A] Marble
[B] State stone
[C] Granite
[D] Red sandstone
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Red sandstone]
Notes:
The Mathura school of art is developed under the Kushanas. The material used for the construction is Spotted Red Sandstone.
15. Qila Rai Pithora, built by Tomar Rajputs is located in which among the following cities?
[A] Agra
[B] New Delhi
[C] Jaipur
[D] Ajmer
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
Lal Kot or Qila Rai Pithora is the original red fort in Delhi comprising the Qutub Minar Compex and other structures in areas around it. It was built during reign of Tomar King Anangpal Tomar in 11th century.
16. When did the Lohara dynasty was founded?
[A] 1007 AD
[B] 1003 AD
[C] 998 AD
[D] 1010 AD
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [1003 AD]
Notes:
The Lohara dynasty of Kashmir was founded by Sangam Raj (Hindu ruler) in 1003 AD who received the crown of Kashmir from his aunt Queen Didda.
17. Vindhyashakti was founder of which of the following dynasties in ancient India?
[A] Vakataka
[B] Kakatiya
[C] Kalachuri
[D] Chalukyas of Badami
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Vakataka ]
Notes:
The Vakataka dynasty was founded by Vindhyashakti in the mid-3rd century CE. Established in 255 AD, the Vakatakas emerged as a significant power in the Deccan after the decline of the Satavahana dynasty. The dynasty is noted for its patronage of art, architecture, particularly the Ajanta Caves, and literature. Pravarsena I, one of its most renowned rulers, performed four Ashwamedha sacrifices. The Vakatakas also played a critical role in the political and cultural landscape of ancient southern India.
18. Which Veda is sometimes called the "Veda of magical formulas?"
[A] Atharvaveda
[B] Krishna Yajurveda
[C] Shukla Yajurveda
[D] Rig-Veda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Atharvaveda]
Notes:
The Atharvaveda has less connection with sacrifice and deals with normal procedures for everyday life. Atharvaveda is also known as “Veda of magical formulas”. The Atharvaveda includes samhitas, Brahmana text and three primary Upanisads, Mundaka Upanishad, Mandukya Upanishads and the Prashna Upanishads.
19. In which of the following periods, copper was first used?
[A] Paleolithic
[B] Mesolithic
[C] Neolithic
[D] Chalcolithic
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ Chalcolithic ]
Notes:
Chalcolithic period saw the use of the metals among which the Copper was first. Chalcolithic period is also known as Eneolithic period.
20. Which of the following is the the largest Indus site?
[A] Harappa
[B] Chanhudaro
[C] Mohenjodaro
[D] Rangpur
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Mohenjodaro]
Notes:
Extending around 300 hectares at its peak, Mohenjo-daro located near the banks of the Indus river in Larkana district, Sindh, stands out as one of the largest and most complex Harappan city demonstrating advanced town planning, architecture and infrastructure. It remained an important settlement for over 700 years as a regional capital.
