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 among the following kings was a contemporary of both Mahavira and Buddha ?
[A] Ajatshatru
[B] Nandivardhana
[C] Bimbisara
[D] Ashoka
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Bimbisara]
Notes:
Bimbisara was contemporary of both Mahavira and Buddha. The Jain texts mention that he was a disciple of Lord Mahavira. The Buddhist texts mention that he met Buddha before enlightment. Buddha promised him to visit his capital after he gets enlightment. He was a patron of Buddha and as a mark of goodwill; he presented the Bamboo Grove (karanda venu vana) to the Sangha.
12. Milinda-Panho is a pali text which record discussion between Milinda and Nagsena. Milinda was a ________?
[A] Satvahan King
[B] Shunga King
[C] Indo Greek Ruler
[D] Nanda king
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Indo Greek Ruler]
Notes:
The Milinda Panho is a Buddhist text which dates from sometime between 100 BC and 200 CE. It records a dialogue between the Buddhist sage Nāgasena, and the Indo-Greek king Menander.
13. Who has written the biography of Harshavardhana?
[A] Banbhatta
[B] Harsha Himself
[C] Kalhana
[D] Kalidasa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Banbhatta]
Notes:
Harsha (c. 590–647 CE), also known as Harshavardhana, was an Indian emperor who ruled North India. His biography Harshacharita (“Deeds of Harsha”) written by Sanskrit poet Banabhatta describes his association with Thanesar, besides mentioning the defence wall, a moat and the palace with a two-storied Dhavalagriha.
14. Who are the mother, wife, and daughter of Emperor Asoka respectively?
[A] Mahadevi, Subhadrangi, Sanghmitra
[B] Subhadrangi, Mahadevi, Sanghmitra
[C] Mahadevi, Sanghamitra, Subhadrangi
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Subhadrangi, Mahadevi, Sanghmitra]
Notes:
Emperor Asoka, who ruled most of India after the Maurya Dynasty, was born to his mother, Subhadrangi. He was married to Mahadevi and they had a daughter named Sanghmitra. Asoka is known for his significant contributions to Buddhism.
15. 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.
16. Who among the following was an Indian sage and Guru, reputed to disseminate Tantric Buddhism in Bhutan and Tibet during the 8th century?
[A] Asanga
[B] Nagarjuna
[C] Padmasambhava
[D] Mahavir
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Padmasambhava]
Notes:
Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, was an 8th-century Buddhist master from the Indian subcontinent. It is said he brought Vajrayana tantric Buddhism to Tibet and Bhutan and is recognized as the second Buddha in these regions. His name means “Lotus-Born”, as per the legend, by his birth he was miraculously appeared seated lotus. Subsequently, he played a crucial role in the development of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
17. 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.
18. What is the vedic name of river Satluj?
[A] Satudri
[B] Askini
[C] Arjikya
[D] Vipasha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Satudri ]
Notes:
River Satluj was called as ‘Satudri’ in Vedic period. Its sanskrit name is ‘Shatadru’
19. Based on the model of Nalanda Mahavihara, which Pala emperor founded the Odantapura Mahavihara ?
[A] Gopala
[B] Devpala
[C] Dharmapala
[D] Mahipala
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Gopala]
Notes:
Odantapura Mahavihara, a Buddhist monastery, was founded by Pala Emperor Gopala in Magadha.
20. Which of the following events happened in AD Era?
[A] Coronation of Bidusara
[B] First Buddhist Council
[C] Beginning of Saka Era
[D] Second Buddhist Council
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Beginning of Saka Era]
Notes:
The Saka Era was founded by Kanishka, the emperor of Kushana empire from the year 78 A.D. The Shaka era is a historical calendar era, corresponding to Julian year 78. It is commonly known in Indian languages as Shalivahana Śaka.
