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. Who is the author of Devichandraguptam?
[A] Vishakhadatta
[B] Dandin
[C] Bharavi
[D] Kalidas
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Vishakhadatta]
Notes:
Devi-Chandraguptam is the Sanskrit play of Vishakhadeva (Vishakhadatta). Its the story of Gupta King Ramagupta who decides to surrender his queen Dhruvadevi to a Shaka invader but his younger brother Chandragupta enters the enemy camp disguised as queen and kills the enemy. In the climax of the play, Chandragupta dethrones Ramagupta and marries Dhruvadevi. Kindly note that an 11th century Persian text Majmal-ut-Tawarikh includes some parts of the plot of this play.
12. Which among the following is the most important work of Tamil Literature of Sangam Period (sometimes also referred as Bible of the Tamil land)?
[A] Thirukkural
[B] Purananuru
[C] Malaipatukatam
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Thirukkural]
Notes:
Thiruvalluvar was the author of the book ‘Tirukkural (also known as the Kural). It is a classic Tamil sangam literature consisting of 1330 couplets or Kurals. The book is also called as the fifth Veda or ‘Bible of the Tamil Land’.
13. Which among the following Brahman provides details of cultivation process?
[A] Aitarey
[B] Kaushitaki
[C] Satpatha
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Satpatha]
Notes:
The Shatapatha / Satapatha Brahmana is a commentary on the Śukla Yajurveda. It is described as the most complete, systematic, and important of the Brahmanas. It contains details of cultivation process along with detailed explanations of Vedic sacrificial rituals, symbolism, and mythology.
14. Mehrgarh in the Indus valley civilization is known for which of the following?
[A] Red sandstone
[B] Terracotta Cart
[C] Copper Rhinoceros
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Terracotta Cart]
Notes:
Mehrgarh is an archaeological site located in the Kachi plain of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is one of the oldest known settlements in the region, with evidence of human habitation dating back to 7000 BCE. The site is significant because it provides insight into the early history and development of the Indus Valley Civilization. Mehrgarh was a hub of trade and commerce, and it is believed to have been a major center of pottery production. The site was first excavated in the 1970s and continues to be studied by archaeologists today.
15. Which among the following is NOT correct ?
[A] The picture of Yogi is found in many Muhar in Harppa which who has three heads and sits in crossed legs indicating Shiva Worship
[B] The people of Harappa didn’t believe in Witchcraft
[C] The dogs and cats were the favorite domesticated animals of Harppan people
[D] All are correct
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [The people of Harappa didn’t believe in Witchcraft]
Notes:
A lot of talismans made of bronze and copper have been found which indicate that People of Harappa believe in witchcrafts and dead souls
16. 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.
17. The ancient Indian text Panchasiddhantika deals with the 5 principles of which among the following?
[A] Vedic Rituals
[B] Philosophy
[C] Astronomy
[D] Medicine
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Astronomy]
Notes:
The Panchasiddhantika is an ancient Indian text written by Varahamihira which outlines five main principles of Astronomy. The text presents three vital branches of astronomy that were being studied during its time, including astronomy and mathematics, as well as astrology. These studies were crucial in paving the way for future astronomical discoveries and understanding the celestial mechanics.
18. According to the archaeologists, which among the following sites of Indus Valley Civilization was probably abandoned because of an earthquake?
[A] Rakhigarhi
[B] Dholavira
[C] Kalibangan
[D] Banawali
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Kalibangan]
Notes:
Kalibangan was abandoned, perhaps due to an earthquake, but in the Mature Harappan period a new settlement was constructed.
19. Who among the following wrote ‘Nyaya Sutra’?
[A] Vyasa
[B] Kapila
[C] Gautama
[D] Charaka
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Gautama]
Notes:
The Nyaya Sutras is an ancient Indian Sanskrit text composed by Aksapada Gautam and the foundational text of the Nyaya school of Hindu philosophy.. The Nyaya-sutras is attributed to Gautama, who was the principal author.
20. Which one of the following animals was NOT represented on the seals and terracotta art of the Harappan culture? (UPSC Prelims 2001)
[A] Cow
[B] Elephant
[C] Rhinoceros
[D] Tiger
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Cow]
Notes:
Cow, camel, horse and lion were not depicted on seals. Unicorn (bull) was the animal most commonly represented on the seals.
