Sangam Period MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Sangam Period - Download Free PDF

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 - Tamil

Key Points

• Sangam Literature
  • Sangam literature refers to the ancient Tamil literature created during the Sangam era, roughly between 300 BCE and 300 CE.
  • The term 'Sangam' refers to an academy of Tamil poets that existed in ancient southern India.
  • These works are considered some of the oldest and most significant texts in Tamil literature and include poetry, prose, and other literary forms.
  • The literature is divided into three Sangam periods: the First, Second, and Third Sangam, each representing different phases of literary development.

Additional Information

• Telugu
  • Telugu is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • It has a rich literary tradition with works such as the Andhra Mahabharatam by Nannayya, Tikkana, and Errana.
• Malayalam
  • Malayalam is the principal language of the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry (Mahé).
  • The earliest Malayalam literature includes the works of the Sangam period, but it evolved independently later.
• Kannada
  • Kannada is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the Indian state of Karnataka.
  • The earliest existing records of Kannada literature date back to around the 9th century, with works such as Kavirajamarga by King Nripatunga.

The correct answer is - Poet Sattan of Madurai

Key Points

• Poet Sattan of Madurai
  • Poet Sattan of Madurai is the author of the Tamil epic "Manimegalai".
  • Manimegalai is one of the five great Tamil epics, known as the Aimperumkappiyam.
  • The work is a sequel to the epic "Silappatikaram" and focuses on the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, Manimegalai.
  • The epic highlights the principles of Buddhism and the life of Manimegalai as she seeks enlightenment and becomes a Buddhist nun.

Additional Information

• Poet Kamban
  • Kamban is renowned for his Tamil rendition of the Ramayana, known as "Kamba Ramayanam".
  • He is celebrated as one of the greatest Tamil poets.
• Poet Ilangovadigal
  • Ilangovadigal is the author of "Silappatikaram", another of the five great Tamil epics.
  • "Silappatikaram" tells the story of Kannagi and her husband Kovalan.
• Poet Avvaiyar
  • Avvaiyar is the name of more than one Tamil poet, who is known for her wisdom and contributions to Tamil literature.
  • She composed many didactic and moral poems.

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: '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 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) 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.

The correct answer: a) Periyapuranam

Key Points

• Periyapuranam
  • Periyapuranam, also known as Tiruttondar Puranam, is a Tamil poetic work written by Sekkizhar.
  • It was commissioned by Chola king Kulothunga Chola II in the 12th century.
  • The work is an account of the lives of the 63 Nayanar saints, who were devoted followers of Lord Shiva.
  • It is recognized as one of the most important and revered works in Tamil literature, adding significantly to the Bhakti movement, a major religious development in South India.
  • The Periyapuranam is part of the twelfth book of the Saiva canon and played a crucial role in the propagation of Shaivism during the Chola period.

Additional Information

• Silappadikaram
  • Silappadikaram is an ancient Tamil epic poem written by the poet Ilango Adigal.
  • This epic dates back to the Sangam period (1st to 3rd century CE), long before the Chola period.
  • It recounts the story of Kannagi and Kovalan and is renowned for its narrative on love, tragedy, and morality.
• Tolkappiyam
  • Tolkappiyam is the oldest extant Tamil grammar text and literature, attributed to the ancient Sangam age.
  • This monumental work focuses primarily on Tamil grammar, phonetics, morphology, syntax, and poetics.
  • Though it holds immense literary and historical significance, it predates the Chola era.
• Manimekalai
  • Manimekalai is another Tamil epic, following the narrative of Silappadikaram, written by the poet Sattanar.
  • It belongs to the post-Sangam period, approximately around the 5th century CE.
  • The story continues the tale of Silappadikaram, detailing the life of Manimekalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi.

The correct answer is: c) 2 and 3 only

Key Points

• The Sangam works are categorized into Aham (inner, love poems) and Puram (outer, war and ethics poems).
  • Sangam literature is well-known for its distinct categorization where 'Aham' refers to poems that deal with personal and intimate subjects, primarily love.
  • 'Puram' pertains to poems focusing on public themes such as war, valor, and ethics, reflecting the societal concerns of that era.
• Sangam literature provides insights into Tamil society's division into Tinais based on geographic and economic factors.
  • The concept of 'Tinais' in Sangam literature represents various landscapes, each associated with certain human activities and emotions.
  • These landscapes include Kurinji (mountainous region), Mullai (forest), Marutham (agricultural land), Neithal (coastal region), and Palai (desert).
  • This classification helped in understanding the socioeconomic division and lifestyle of the Tamil society during the Sangam period.

Additional Information

• Scope and Themes in Sangam Literature:
  • Sangam literature not only focuses on the lives of kings and warriors but also provides rich narratives about the lives of common people, their emotions, and day-to-day activities.
  • While narrative poems often highlight heroic deeds, other poems, particularly in Aham, delve deeply into individual emotions and personal experiences.
• Morality and Dharma in Sangam Literature:
  • Though Sangam literature is unique in its themes and treatment, it does incorporate discussions on morality and ethics, especially in Puram poems.
  • The themes of valor, honor, and ethical behavior in warfare and governance are reflective of the underlying moral considerations akin to Dharma in other Indian literatures.

The correct answer is - A, B, C and E only

Key Points

• Trade activity led to the emergence of a few urban enclaves (A)
  • During the Sangam age, trade, both internal and external, flourished, contributing to the growth of urban centers.
  • Ports such as Puhar (Kaveripattinam) became prominent due to their trade links with other regions including Rome.
• The Tamil - Brahmi inscriptions offer brief glimpses into aspects of village life in Tamilakam (B)
  • Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions found on pottery, cave shelters, and other objects provide valuable insights into the daily life, social structures, and economic activities of that period.
• Rulers depended on tribute and plunder for their sustenance (C)
  • Tribute from subordinate chieftains and plunder from wars were significant sources of income for the rulers during the Sangam age.
• Sangam age was an age of tribal chiefdoms (E)
  • The political structure of the Sangam age was primarily based on tribal chiefdoms, with several clans and chieftains ruling over small territories.
  • Prominent among them were the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas, who later evolved into more centralized kingdoms.

Additional Information

• The rulers had full control over the agrarian plains (D)
  • This statement is not entirely accurate as the control over agrarian plains varied greatly and was often contested among different chieftains.
  • The decentralized nature of the political system meant that complete control over agrarian regions was rare.

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 - Tamil

Key Points

• Sangam Literature
  • Sangam literature refers to the ancient Tamil literature created during the Sangam era, roughly between 300 BCE and 300 CE.
  • The term 'Sangam' refers to an academy of Tamil poets that existed in ancient southern India.
  • These works are considered some of the oldest and most significant texts in Tamil literature and include poetry, prose, and other literary forms.
  • The literature is divided into three Sangam periods: the First, Second, and Third Sangam, each representing different phases of literary development.

Additional Information

• Telugu
  • Telugu is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • It has a rich literary tradition with works such as the Andhra Mahabharatam by Nannayya, Tikkana, and Errana.
• Malayalam
  • Malayalam is the principal language of the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry (Mahé).
  • The earliest Malayalam literature includes the works of the Sangam period, but it evolved independently later.
• Kannada
  • Kannada is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the Indian state of Karnataka.
  • The earliest existing records of Kannada literature date back to around the 9th century, with works such as Kavirajamarga by King Nripatunga.