Ancient History MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Ancient History - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is - Padmatankas

Key Points

• Padmatankas
  • The Yadavas of Devgiri were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region of India during the medieval period.
  • They issued a special series of gold coins known as Padmatankas, which were highly valued for their purity and intricate designs.
  • The term "Padmatankas" is derived from the word Padma, meaning lotus, a symbol often associated with prosperity and divinity in Indian culture.
  • These coins were used for both trade and ceremonial purposes, showcasing the wealth and economic stability of the Yadava dynasty.

Additional Information

• Yadavas of Devgiri
  • The Yadava dynasty ruled the Deccan region of India between the 12th and 14th centuries, with their capital at Devgiri (modern-day Daulatabad).
  • They were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and the promotion of regional languages such as Marathi.
  • The dynasty played a significant role in the economic development of the Deccan, including the issuance of innovative coinage.
• Medieval Indian Coinage
  • During the medieval period, many Indian dynasties, such as the Cholas, Yadavas, and Vijayanagar rulers, issued their own distinct coins.
  • These coins often featured symbols such as animals, plants, or religious motifs, reflecting the cultural and spiritual ethos of the time.
  • The use of gold, silver, and copper coins facilitated trade and commerce across regions.
• Other Coin Types
  • Dinar: A common term for gold coins in ancient and medieval India, particularly during the Gupta Empire.
  • Karshapana: An ancient Indian coin made of silver or copper, widely used during the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan periods.
  • Gadhiya: A term used for certain types of medieval coins, often issued by regional kingdoms.

The correct answer is - (D), (B), (C), (A)

Key Points

• Dynastic succession of the Vijayanagara Empire
  • The Sangama Dynasty was the founding dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire, established in 1336 CE by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I.
  • The Saluva Dynasty came next, founded by Saluva Narasimha in the late 15th century.
  • It was followed by the Tuluva Dynasty, whose most notable ruler was Krishna Deva Raya (early 16th century).
  • The Aravidu Dynasty was the last ruling dynasty, established after the Battle of Talikota in 1565 CE.

Additional Information

• Sangama Dynasty
  • Ruled from 1336 to 1485 CE.
  • Founded by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, with Hampi as the capital.
• Saluva Dynasty
  • Short-lived dynasty ruling from 1485 to 1505 CE.
  • Marked a period of transition and internal consolidation.
• Tuluva Dynasty
  • Ruled from 1505 to 1570 CE.
  • Krishna Deva Raya’s reign (1509–1529) was considered the golden age of Vijayanagara.
• Aravidu Dynasty
  • Ruled from 1570 to 1650s CE, after the fall of Vijayanagara at Talikota.
  • Empire was significantly weakened but continued from Penukonda and later Chandragiri.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• Muziris ↔ Chera Kingdom ↔  Vanji
  • Muziris was an ancient port in Kerala, associated with the Chera Kingdom, and its capital city was Vanji. Hence, Row 1 is correct.
• Sopara ↔  Satavahana Kingdom ↔  Pratishthana
  • Correct: Sopara was an ancient port in Maharashtra, associated with the Satavahana Kingdom, and its capital city was Pratishthana. Hence, Row 2 is correct.
• Tamralipti ↔ Mauryan & Gupta Kingdoms ↔ Pataliputra
  • Correct: Tamralipti was an ancient port in West Bengal, associated with the Mauryan and Gupta Kingdoms, and its capital city was Pataliputra. Hence, Row 3 is correct.
• Arikamedu ↔ Chola Kingdom ↔  Uraiyur
  • Correct: Arikamedu was an ancient port in Tamil Nadu, associated with the Chola Kingdom, and its capital city was Uraiyur. Hence, Row 4 is correct.

The correct answer is - B, A, D, C, E

Key Points

• Udiyanjeral
  • He was one of the earliest Chera kings known for his reign and contributions to the Chera dynasty.
  • His period marked the beginning of significant developments in the Chera kingdom.
• Senguttavan
  • He succeeded Udiyanjeral and is well-known for his contributions to the Chera dynasty.
  • Senguttavan is famous for his establishment of the Pattini cult and the construction of a temple dedicated to Kannagi.
• Karikāla
  • He was a prominent ruler of the Chola dynasty and is known for his military prowess and administrative skills.
  • Karikāla is credited with the construction of the Grand Anicut, one of the oldest dams in the world.
• Nedunjelion
  • He was a significant ruler of the Pandya dynasty known for his valor and administrative reforms.
  • Nedunjelion played a crucial role in expanding the Pandya kingdom's influence.
• Senganon
  • He was a later ruler of the Chera dynasty and continued the legacy of his predecessors.
  • Senganon is known for his patronage of arts and literature during his reign.

Additional Information

• Chera Dynasty
  • The Chera dynasty was one of the prominent ruling dynasties in South India, known for its significant contributions to culture and trade.
  • The dynasty had notable rulers like Udiyanjeral and Senguttavan who played key roles in its history.
• Chola Dynasty
  • The Chola dynasty is renowned for its extensive empire and contributions to architecture, literature, and administration.
  • Karikāla Chola was one of the early and most famous kings of this dynasty.
• Pandya Dynasty
  • The Pandya dynasty was another significant South Indian dynasty known for its rich cultural heritage and powerful rulers.
  • Rulers like Nedunjelion were instrumental in the expansion and consolidation of the Pandya kingdom.

The correct answer is: A-IV, B-I, C-III, D-II

Key Points

• Bagor - Mesolithic (IV)
  • Bagor, located in Rajasthan, is one of the largest Mesolithic sites in India.
  • It provides evidence of early human settlement, with findings of microlithic tools, animal bones, and evidence of domestication.
  • The site reflects a transition from hunting-gathering to food production.
• Bairat - Buddhist remains (I)
  • Bairat, also in Rajasthan, is known for the remains of a Buddhist stupa and monastery.
  • Ashokan inscriptions found here suggest the presence of Buddhist influence during the Mauryan period.
  • It highlights the spread of Buddhism in western India.
• Ahar - Chalcolithic (III)
  • Ahar, near Udaipur in Rajasthan, is a significant Chalcolithic site.
  • It shows evidence of a copper-using culture, with pottery known as Black and Red Ware.
  • The site indicates advanced agriculture, metallurgy, and trade practices during the Chalcolithic period.
• Kalibangan - Mature Harappan (II)
  • Kalibangan, located in Rajasthan, is an important site of the Indus Valley Civilization.
  • It provides evidence of both Pre-Harappan and Mature Harappan phases.
  • Significant findings include fire altars, ploughed fields, and urban planning, reflecting Harappan culture's complexity.

Incorrect Matches

• The other combinations do not align with the archaeological significance and period-specific evidence found at these sites.

Hence, the correct matching is A-IV, B-I, C-III, D-II.

Additional Information

• Significance of These Sites in Indian Archaeology:
  • Bagor: Shows early human adaptation to the environment and subsistence patterns.
  • Bairat: Demonstrates the spread of Buddhism and Ashoka's role in promoting Buddhist architecture.
  • Ahar: Represents the early use of metal (copper) and its integration with agricultural practices.
  • Kalibangan: Highlights urban planning and religious practices in the Harappan civilization.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• Muziris ↔ Chera Kingdom ↔  Vanji
  • Muziris was an ancient port in Kerala, associated with the Chera Kingdom, and its capital city was Vanji. Hence, Row 1 is correct.
• Sopara ↔  Satavahana Kingdom ↔  Pratishthana
  • Correct: Sopara was an ancient port in Maharashtra, associated with the Satavahana Kingdom, and its capital city was Pratishthana. Hence, Row 2 is correct.
• Tamralipti ↔ Mauryan & Gupta Kingdoms ↔ Pataliputra
  • Correct: Tamralipti was an ancient port in West Bengal, associated with the Mauryan and Gupta Kingdoms, and its capital city was Pataliputra. Hence, Row 3 is correct.
• Arikamedu ↔ Chola Kingdom ↔  Uraiyur
  • Correct: Arikamedu was an ancient port in Tamil Nadu, associated with the Chola Kingdom, and its capital city was Uraiyur. Hence, Row 4 is correct.

The correct answer is - Padmatankas

Key Points

• Padmatankas
  • The Yadavas of Devgiri were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region of India during the medieval period.
  • They issued a special series of gold coins known as Padmatankas, which were highly valued for their purity and intricate designs.
  • The term "Padmatankas" is derived from the word Padma, meaning lotus, a symbol often associated with prosperity and divinity in Indian culture.
  • These coins were used for both trade and ceremonial purposes, showcasing the wealth and economic stability of the Yadava dynasty.

Additional Information

• Yadavas of Devgiri
  • The Yadava dynasty ruled the Deccan region of India between the 12th and 14th centuries, with their capital at Devgiri (modern-day Daulatabad).
  • They were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and the promotion of regional languages such as Marathi.
  • The dynasty played a significant role in the economic development of the Deccan, including the issuance of innovative coinage.
• Medieval Indian Coinage
  • During the medieval period, many Indian dynasties, such as the Cholas, Yadavas, and Vijayanagar rulers, issued their own distinct coins.
  • These coins often featured symbols such as animals, plants, or religious motifs, reflecting the cultural and spiritual ethos of the time.
  • The use of gold, silver, and copper coins facilitated trade and commerce across regions.
• Other Coin Types
  • Dinar: A common term for gold coins in ancient and medieval India, particularly during the Gupta Empire.
  • Karshapana: An ancient Indian coin made of silver or copper, widely used during the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan periods.
  • Gadhiya: A term used for certain types of medieval coins, often issued by regional kingdoms.

The correct answer is option 2

Key Points

• Ikṣvākus - Krishna-Godavari region
  • The Ikṣvākus were an ancient dynasty that ruled over the Krishna-Godavari region in modern-day Andhra Pradesh.
  • They are known for their contributions to Buddhist architecture and culture.
• Kadambas - Western Deccan
  • The Kadamba dynasty ruled over the Western Deccan region, primarily in present-day Karnataka.
  • They are considered one of the earliest kingdoms to use Kannada as an administrative language.
• Vākātakas - Northern Deccan
  • The Vākātakas ruled over parts of the Northern Deccan, including areas of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
  • They were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and contributed to the spread of Vedic culture.
• Śarabhapurīyas - Chhattisgarh region
  • The Śarabhapurīyas ruled over the Chhattisgarh region in central India.
  • They are known for their inscriptions and contributions to regional culture and politics.

Additional Information

• Additional Details on Dynasties
  • The Ikṣvākus are also known for their patronage of the Amaravati stupa, a significant Buddhist site.
  • The Kadambas established the capital city of Banavasi, which is one of the oldest cities in Karnataka.
  • The Vākātakas played a crucial role in the history of the Deccan plateau and had matrimonial alliances with the Guptas.
  • The Śarabhapurīyas were known for their coins and inscriptions, which provide valuable historical information.

The correct answer is: 'C) Tamil poetry and literature'.

Key Points

• Tamil poetry and literature were a hallmark of the Sangam Age.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Sangam Age, primarily associated with South India, is celebrated for its remarkable contributions to Tamil poetry and literature.
  • This era produced classic Tamil literary works, compiled by Tamil scholars and poets in the Sangam assemblies or “Sangams.”
  • The Sangam literature covers a wide range of topics, including love, war, governance, and everyday life, providing insights into the socio-cultural and political landscape of ancient South India.

Incorrect Statements

• Architectural achievements
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • The Sangam Age was not characterized by significant architectural achievements. Instead, it was an era primarily known for its literary and poetic developments.
  • South Indian architecture flourished in later periods, particularly during the rule of the Pallavas and Cholas, but not during the Sangam Age.
• Written accounts of dynasties
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • While some references to dynasties like the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas exist in Sangam literature, the period is not primarily noted for detailed historical or written accounts of dynasties.
  • The focus of Sangam texts was largely poetic rather than historical documentation, and they mostly depicted the social, cultural, and political life rather than providing structured records of dynasties.
• Influence of Mughal culture
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • The Sangam Age predated the Mughal period by many centuries, and there was no influence of Mughal culture during this time.
  • The Mughal Empire came into existence in the 16th century, much later than the Sangam period, which is typically dated between 300 BCE and 300 CE.

Hence, Statement C (Tamil poetry and literature) is correct, while Statements A, B, and D are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Sangam Literature:
  • Sangam literature is classified into two main categories: the Akam (dealing with themes of love and emotions) and Puram (focusing on war, society, and heroism).
  • Important works from the Sangam period include the *Tolkappiyam*, *Ettuthokai* (Eight Anthologies), and *Pattuppattu* (Ten Idylls).
  • This literature is invaluable in providing historical, social, and cultural insights into ancient Tamil society.
• Three Sangams:
  • According to Tamil tradition, three Sangams (literary academies) were held in ancient South India, sponsored by Tamil kings.
  • The first two Sangams are largely considered mythical, but the third Sangam is believed to have taken place in Madurai, producing much of the known Sangam literature.

The correct answer is - Ashvins

Key Points

• Ashvins
  • The Ashvins, also known as Nasatyas, are twin Vedic deities associated with medicine, health, and the dawn.
  • They are revered in the Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism.
  • The Ashvins are known to be the divine physicians who restore health and vitality.
  • They are often depicted as horsemen, symbolizing swiftness and agility.
  • They play a significant role in various Vedic rituals and hymns, invoking their blessings for healing and protection.

Additional Information

• Asuras
  • In Vedic literature, Asuras are a group of power-seeking deities often depicted in opposition to the Devas (gods).
  • They are not associated with the Nasatyas or Ashvins.
• Mithras
  • Mithra is a deity from the Vedic tradition, associated with covenants and oaths, and later became prominent in Zoroastrianism.
  • Mithra is distinct from the Ashvins and is not identified with the Nasatyas.
• Panis
  • The Panis are a class of demons or adversaries in the Rigveda, often depicted as hoarders of wealth and cattle.
  • They are not connected with the Ashvins or the Nasatyas.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• Muziris ↔ Chera Kingdom ↔  Vanji
  • Muziris was an ancient port in Kerala, associated with the Chera Kingdom, and its capital city was Vanji. Hence, Row 1 is correct.
• Sopara ↔  Satavahana Kingdom ↔  Pratishthana
  • Correct: Sopara was an ancient port in Maharashtra, associated with the Satavahana Kingdom, and its capital city was Pratishthana. Hence, Row 2 is correct.
• Tamralipti ↔ Mauryan & Gupta Kingdoms ↔ Pataliputra
  • Correct: Tamralipti was an ancient port in West Bengal, associated with the Mauryan and Gupta Kingdoms, and its capital city was Pataliputra. Hence, Row 3 is correct.
• Arikamedu ↔ Chola Kingdom ↔  Uraiyur
  • Correct: Arikamedu was an ancient port in Tamil Nadu, associated with the Chola Kingdom, and its capital city was Uraiyur. Hence, Row 4 is correct.

The correct answer is - B, A, D, C, E

Key Points

• Udiyanjeral
  • He was one of the earliest Chera kings known for his reign and contributions to the Chera dynasty.
  • His period marked the beginning of significant developments in the Chera kingdom.
• Senguttavan
  • He succeeded Udiyanjeral and is well-known for his contributions to the Chera dynasty.
  • Senguttavan is famous for his establishment of the Pattini cult and the construction of a temple dedicated to Kannagi.
• Karikāla
  • He was a prominent ruler of the Chola dynasty and is known for his military prowess and administrative skills.
  • Karikāla is credited with the construction of the Grand Anicut, one of the oldest dams in the world.
• Nedunjelion
  • He was a significant ruler of the Pandya dynasty known for his valor and administrative reforms.
  • Nedunjelion played a crucial role in expanding the Pandya kingdom's influence.
• Senganon
  • He was a later ruler of the Chera dynasty and continued the legacy of his predecessors.
  • Senganon is known for his patronage of arts and literature during his reign.

Additional Information

• Chera Dynasty
  • The Chera dynasty was one of the prominent ruling dynasties in South India, known for its significant contributions to culture and trade.
  • The dynasty had notable rulers like Udiyanjeral and Senguttavan who played key roles in its history.
• Chola Dynasty
  • The Chola dynasty is renowned for its extensive empire and contributions to architecture, literature, and administration.
  • Karikāla Chola was one of the early and most famous kings of this dynasty.
• Pandya Dynasty
  • The Pandya dynasty was another significant South Indian dynasty known for its rich cultural heritage and powerful rulers.
  • Rulers like Nedunjelion were instrumental in the expansion and consolidation of the Pandya kingdom.

The correct answer is: 'B) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4'.

Key Points

• Rashtrakutas - Expansion of Vaisnavism, establishment of temple architecture.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Rashtrakutas were influential in the expansion of Vaisnavism, as they were strong patrons of Vishnu worship.
  • They are also credited with the development of temple architecture, including the famous rock-cut Kailasa temple at Ellora, which reflects their architectural prowess and religious devotion.
• Kakatiyas - Patronage of Shaivism and consolidation of the Deccan.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Kakatiyas, ruling over parts of the Deccan, were known for their support of Shaivism.
  • They played a key role in consolidating the political landscape of the Deccan region, particularly through their military conquests and strengthening of regional authority.
• Gurjara-Pratiharas - Integration of Buddhist and Jain elements into local religious traditions.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Gurjara-Pratiharas were known for incorporating elements of Buddhism and Jainism into local religious practices, promoting religious tolerance and fostering a blend of different religious traditions. This helped to enrich the religious diversity in their territory.
• Pallavas - Prominent role in Bhakti movement, development of Tamil literature.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Pallavas played a significant role in promoting the Bhakti movement through their support of the Alvars and Nayanars, who were key figures in Tamil devotional poetry.
  • Additionally, the Pallavas contributed to the development of Tamil literature, particularly through the encouragement of religious and philosophical texts in the Tamil language.

Hence, the correct option is: B) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4.

Additional Information

• Rashtrakutas:
  • They were strong patrons of Vaisnavism, particularly under rulers like Dhruva and Amoghavarsha.
  • The Kailasa temple at Ellora, a monumental rock-cut structure, is one of their most famous contributions to architecture.
• Kakatiyas:
  • Known for their support of Shaivism, the Kakatiyas helped spread the cult of Shiva in the Deccan.
  • They also contributed to the consolidation of the region through military campaigns and the development of regional administration.
• Gurjara-Pratiharas:
  • Although predominantly associated with Hinduism, the Gurjara-Pratiharas were tolerant of other religions, incorporating Buddhist and Jain elements into their practices.
  • Their rule was a key period for the integration of multiple religious ideas in the region.
• Pallavas:
  • During the Pallava dynasty, Bhakti came to prominence, especially through the Alvars (devotees of Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Shiva).
  • Their devotional poetry contributed significantly to Tamil religious literature and culture.

The correct answer is: 'Only B and D are true'.

Key Points

• A) Early societies were primarily matriarchal with women holding significant power in decision-making.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • While there were instances of matrilineal societies, most early societies in India were patriarchal, with men typically holding dominant roles in decision-making and public life.
• B) The economy of early societies was largely based on agriculture, supplemented by hunting and gathering.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Early Indian societies transitioned from a primarily hunting-gathering lifestyle to agriculture, which became the mainstay of their economy, supplemented by hunting, fishing, and gathering of wild plants.
• C) Social stratification was absent in early societies, allowing for complete egalitarianism.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • Early societies exhibited varying degrees of social stratification. Even in agrarian societies, there were distinctions based on occupation, wealth, and power, leading to hierarchies rather than complete egalitarianism.
• D) The transition to settled agricultural communities marked the beginning of complex societal structures.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The shift to settled agriculture led to the formation of permanent settlements, which fostered the development of more complex societal structures, including governance, trade, and social hierarchies.

Hence, Statements B and D are correct, while Statements A and C are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Characteristics of Early Indian Societies:
  • Agricultural Foundations: The advent of agriculture allowed for surplus production, which supported larger populations and led to the establishment of villages and towns.
  • Social Structures: As societies grew more complex, social stratification became evident, with the emergence of distinct social roles, leading to divisions based on occupation and wealth.
  • Cultural Developments: The transition to settled life also facilitated cultural developments, including advancements in technology, arts, and trade, and the formation of early political structures.

The correct answer is: 'B) Only 1 and 2'.

Key Points

• The Sangam literature primarily consists of Tamil poems that focus on themes of love and heroism.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Sangam literature, dating from around 300 BCE to 300 CE, is a collection of Tamil poetry that centers on two major themes: *akam* (love and personal life) and *puram* (heroism, war, and public life).
  • This literature reflects the cultural, social, and political life of ancient Tamil society and is one of the oldest bodies of secular literature in India.
• The Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni is regarded as the oldest treatise on performing arts.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Composed by Bharata Muni, the *Natya Shastra* is the foundational text on Indian classical dance, drama, and music, dating between 200 BCE and 200 CE.
  • It is considered the oldest comprehensive guide on performing arts, detailing various aspects such as stage design, music, dance, and the role of emotions (rasa).

Incorrect Statements

• Sanskrit drama flourished under the Maurya dynasty, with plays like Abhijnanashakuntalam emerging.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • While Sanskrit literature did develop during the Maurya period, the flourishing of classical Sanskrit drama, including *Abhijnanashakuntalam* by Kalidasa, occurred during the Gupta dynasty, not the Maurya dynasty.
  • The Gupta period is considered the golden age of classical Sanskrit literature, with significant contributions from poets and playwrights like Kalidasa.
• Ancient Indian literature was restricted to religious texts without secular contributions.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • In addition to religious texts, ancient Indian literature includes a substantial body of secular works covering topics like politics (e.g., *Arthashastra* by Kautilya), poetry, drama, grammar, and science.
  • Sangam literature, courtly epics, and treatises on various sciences illustrate that Indian literature was diverse and extended beyond purely religious themes.

Hence, Statements 1 and 2 are accurate, while Statements 3 and 4 are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Key Aspects of Ancient Indian Literature:
  • Religious Texts: The Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas form the foundation of Hindu religious literature.
  • Secular Texts: Works like the *Arthashastra*, *Natya Shastra*, and Sangam literature showcase India's secular literary traditions.
  • Classical Sanskrit Literature: Flourished during the Gupta period, with major contributions from Kalidasa and other poets.