Caste System in Gupta Era

One of the most notable features of Indian society till date has been caste system. So was it during Gupta era also. There were three notable features of caste system in Gupta era as follows: Firstly, upper castes although managed ..

Science and Technology in Gupta Era

The Gupta era is known for tremendous development in the development of astronomy, astrology, mathematics and metallurgy. Aryabhatta Aryabhatta was the legendary mathematician of the Gupta Era. He wrote Aryabhattiya at the age of 23 years and later, Arya-Siddhanta. He ..

Maurya Empire Notes for UPSC

Here are some of the important observations summarized for your examinations. Tisya Tisya was the name of one of the brothers of Asoka. The Sri Lankan texts portrait Ashoka as a cruel prince, who terminated all of his 99 brothers ..

Maurya Administration and Life

The Mauryan imperial polity held sway over nearly three quarters of India’s landmass for a period little less than two centuries. As with any other great empire, the genesis of Maurya Empire was in the economic and military strength of ..

Political History of Magadha

Of all the Mahajanapadas, Magadha eventually emerged as most powerful mainly because of its peculiar geographical location. It was bordered by Ganga River in North, Son River in West, Vindhya ranges in south and Champa in East. The natural barriers ..

Indian History: Notes on Jainism for UPSC Examinations

The reasons for development of new religions were as follows: The economy increasingly changed from pastoral to agro-based and importance of trade increased. Vaishyas which had third position in the Varna system provided support to both the new faiths viz. ..

Difference between Chaityas and Viharas

Viharas were for the purpose of living, Chaityas were assemblies for the purpose of discussions. Further, Chaityas were with Stupas, Viharas did not have stupas. Both early Chaityas and Viharas were made by woods and later stone-cut Chaityas and Viharas ..

Comparison of Buddhist Philosophy and Samkhya Philosophy

There are some basic points of agreement towards which both Samkhya-Yoga and Buddhism were drawn. Their approach is positive and pragmatic.  This positivistic attitude is reflected in their rejection of sacrificial ritualism, priests, God, etc. Buddha’s antipathy towards sacrifice and ..