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. Which of the following is the most important cause for the decline of Buddhism after Ashoka?
[A] Non-patronage by the kings
[B] Condemnation of animal sacrifices
[C] Growth of licentious practices in Buddhist centres
[D] Allegiance to the middle path
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Non-patronage by the kings]
Notes:
The decline of Buddhism in the Indian subcontinent refers to a gradual process of dwindling and replacement of Buddhism in India, which ended around the 12th century. The decline of Buddhism has been attributed to various factors:
• Regionalisation of India after the end of the Gupta Empire which led to the loss of patronage and donations
• Indian dynasties turned to the services of Hindu Brahmins
• Invasions of north India by various groups such as Huns, Turco-mongols and Persians
Subsequent destruction of Buddhist institutions such as Nalanda and religious persecutions
12. In which of the following stages, humans passed from the food gathering stage to the food producing stage?
[A] Neolithic Age
[B] Mesolithic Age
[C] Chalcolithic Age
[D] Paleolithic Age
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Neolithic Age]
Notes:
Man passed from food gathering stage to the food producing stage during the Neolithic Age. Neolithic age began 12,000 years ago.
13. Who among the following was a Brahmavadini who composed some hymns of the Vedas?
[A] Lopamudra
[B] Gargi
[C] Leelavati
[D] Savitri
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Lopamudra]
Notes:
Brahmavadini or “an expounder of the Veda” are those women who composed any hymns of the Vedas. The prominent among them were Lopamudra, Vishwawara, Sikta, Ghosha and Maitreyi.
14. Which of the following Ashokan major rock edicts which tell us about the Sangam Kingdom include rock edicts?
[A] I and X
[B] I and XI
[C] II and XIII
[D] II and XIV
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [II and XIII]
Notes:
The Major Rock Edicts of Indian Emperor Ashoka refer to 14 separate major Edicts of Ashoka which are significantly detailed and represent some of the earliest dated rock inscriptions of any Indian monarch. For a full English translation of the Edicts. These edicts are preceded chronologically by the Minor Rock Edicts.
The ll and Xlll rock edicts mention the southern kingdoms of Chola. Pandya, Satyaputra, Keralaputra and Tambapanni.
15. Which one of the following sequences indicates the correct chronological order?
[A] Shankaracharya—Ramanuja—Chaitanya
[B] Ramanuja—Shankaracharya—Chaitanya
[C] Ramanuja—Chaitanya—Shankaracharya
[D] Shankaracharya—Chaitanya—Ramanuja
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Shankaracharya—Ramanuja—Chaitanya]
Notes:
The correct chronological order is Shankaracharya (9th Century CE) – Ramanuja (1017- 1137 CE) – Chaitanya (1436-1533 CE).
16. In which Harappan site Stone symbols of female sex organs have found?
[A] Harappa
[B] Lothal
[C] Chanhudaro
[D] Kalibangan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Harappa]
Notes:
Explicit carved stone representations of female reproductive organs have been discovered from the excavations at the type-site of Harappa located in Sahiwal district of Pakistan’s Punjab province. These may have served a ritual purpose as fertility symbols. Some scholars believe them as evidence for an early tradition of revering the female entity, almost goddess-like, that continued in later Indian culture.
17. Which Harappan pottery is said to be the earliest example of its kind in the world?
[A] Glazed
[B] Knobbed
[C] Perforated
[D] Polychrome
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Glazed]
Notes:
The glazed steatite pottery found from Harappan sites is considered the earliest example of glazed pottery in the world. It is thinner than most other pottery and also lacks conventional surface treatment of red slip and buff surface. Instead, a thin layer of silica was fused to the body during the firing process in the kiln, which gave the pottery a smooth, glassy and shiny surface. Their technique of firing pottery reached high levels of sophistication.
18. From which of the following country Harappans imported semiprecious stone Turquoise?
[A] Badakshan
[B] Persia
[C] Central Asia
[D] Arabia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Persia]
Notes:
Turquoise, a popular semi-precious blue-green colored gemstone, was imported by the Harappans from ancient Persia (modern Iran). Along with lapis lazuli from Badakhshan province, these stones were highly valued for ornamental purposes and seal carving. Evidence of long distance trade in precious items is indicated by finds at Bampur in Persia where carnelian beads, jars and goblets typical of the Indus Valley were found in exchange. Commercial transactions were facilitated by a standardized system of weights.
19. Which of the following is a collection of magic spells and charms to ward off the evil spirits and diseases?
[A] Rig Veda
[B] Sama Veda
[C] Yajur Veda
[D] Atharva Veda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Atharva Veda]
Notes:
The Atharva Veda, which is the fourth Veda, is known as a collection of magic spells, charms, and incantations. It is distinct from the other three Vedas (Rig Veda, Sama Veda, and Yajur Veda) which are more focused on liturgy, ritual, and philosophical speculation. The Atharva Veda contains a mix of hymns, incantations, and magical charms. These include spells for healing, protection, curses, and blessings, among others. It also includes discussions on a wide range of topics such as medicine, alchemy, and black magic.
20. Who among the following was the president of the second Buddhist council?
[A] Mahakassapa
[B] sabbakami
[C] Ajatshatru
[D] Mongaliputta tissa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [sabbakami]
Notes:
The second Buddhist council was conducted 100 years after the death of buddha by the king Kalasoka at Vaishali in 383 BCE. The president of the second council was monk Sabbakami.