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. The ancient places of Badami, Dwarasamudra and Warangal are related to which of the following dynasties?
[A] Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Kaktiyas
[B] Cholas, Hoysalas, Kaktiyas
[C] Pallavas, Hoysalas, Kaktiyas
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Kaktiyas]
Notes:
Badami belonged to Chalukyas, Dwarasamudra belonged to Hoyasala and Warangal was ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty rulers.
12. The people from which of the following ancient places were called as Vrishnis?
[A] Mathura
[B] Dwarka
[C] Ayodhya
[D] Gandhar
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Dwarka]
Notes:
The Vrishnis were an ancient group associated with the city of Dwarka, which is linked to Lord Krishna in Hindu mythology. Dwarka was a important city in the Mahabharata and is often described as a prosperous and advanced civilization. The Vrishnis were known for their valor and were considered a clan of the Yadavas, the descendants of Yadu, and played a crucial role in the epic narratives surrounding Krishna.
13. Who among the following was not among the 9 gems (Navratna) of the Vikramaditya’s court?
[A] Vetalbhatt
[B] Amar Simha
[C] Kaalidasa
[D] Aryabhatta
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Aryabhatta]
Notes:
Nine gems of Vikramaditya are Dhanwantari, Kshapanaka, Amarasimha, Shankhu, Khatakarpara, Kalidasa, Vetal Bhatt, Vararuchi, and Varahamihira.
14. Who among the following started the practice of military governships in India , by leaving the military governors called “Strategos” in India?
[A] Greeks
[B] Shakas
[C] kushans
[D] Parthians
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Greeks]
Notes:
The Greeks introduced the practice of military governorship in India. They appointed governors called “strategos”. Alexander is said to have left these military governors in the areas he won and ruled.
The term “strategos” is Greek for military general. In the Hellenistic world and the Eastern Roman Empire, it was also used to describe a military governor. In the modern Hellenic Army, it is the highest officer rank.
15. In which year, Kalinga War was fought?
[A] 263 B.C
[B] 260 B.C
[C] 261 B.C
[D] 262 B.C
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [261 B.C]
Notes:
The Kalinga War was fought in 261 BC. The war was fought between Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor, and the ruler of the State of Kalinga. The war was completed in the eighth year of Ashoka’s reign.
The Kalinga War was one of the most famous and bloodiest battles in world history. The war resulted in the deaths of 1,000,000 people, 150,000 captured, and an additional 1,000,000 died as a result of the conflict. The war was a turning point in Ashoka’s life. He vowed never to make war again and decided to devote the rest of his life to the spread of Dharma.
16. Which of the following was not known to Indus Valley people? (UPSC Prelims 1985)
[A] Silver
[B] Copper
[C] Iron
[D] Bronze
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Iron]
Notes:
Variety of metals such as copper, gold, silver was extensively used by the Harappan metal workers. Minor metals like tin, arsenic, lead, antimony etc. were used for alloying but there was no mention of iron.
17. Which Harappan site has shown the evidence of a violent death met by some people?
[A] Mohenjodaro
[B] Lothal
[C] Harappa
[D] Kalibangan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Mohenjodaro]
Notes:
Skeletons found at Mohenjo-daro provide evidence of a violent end met by some of its inhabitants. A number of human skeletons were uncovered from various parts of the site showing signs of an abrupt death. Many bodies were found lying in the streets, some holding hands and some with physical injuries. All evidence indicates they died suddenly in what appears to be an armed attack that overwhelmed the city defenses leading to its decline around 1500 BCE, likely due to flooding or invasion.
18. Who among the following discovered ruins of Kot Diji?
[A] M G Majumder
[B] R D Banerjee
[C] Ghurey
[D] Daya Ram Sahni
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Ghurey]
Notes:
The site of Kot Diji in Sindh, Pakistan was discovered in 1935 by renowned archaeologist Ghurey. Located on the left bank of the Indus, it has remains dating from 3300 BCE to 2600 BCE, making it a precursor to and smaller version of later Harappan cities. Kot Diji introduced key Harappan town planning and technological features like fortifications, use of burnt bricks and standard weights.
19. Ayas referred to which of the following during the Rig Vedic period?
[A] Either copper or bronze
[B] Either iron or steel
[C] Either tin or iron
[D] Either gold or silver
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Either copper or bronze]
Notes:
The beginning of the use of iron is attributed to the Later Vedic period. According to Krishna Ayas/Shyama Ayas iron was introduced around 1000 BCE. The Rig Vedic people knew of a metal, known as ayas, which was either copper or bronze.
20. Which event of Gautam Buddha’s life is depicted by the wheel and deer in Indian art?
[A] Great departure
[B] Enlightenment
[C] First preaching
[D] Nirvana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [First preaching]
Notes:
The first preaching event of Gautam buddha’s life is represented by the wheel and deer in Indian art. Mahatama Buddha gave the first preaching or sermon at Mrigadava Sarnath.
