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.
1. Which among the following places have given the earliest evidence of agriculture in Indian subcontinent?
[A] Pratapgarh
[B] Mehrgarh
[C] Quetta
[D] Kalat
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ Mehrgarh ]
Notes:
The earliest evidence of Agriculture in Indian subcontinent is found at Mehrgarh, which is located in Baluchistan state of Pakistan.
2. Who does ‘Kanthaka’ refer to, in the context of Gautam Buddha?
[A] His disciple
[B] His chief advisor
[C] His royal horse
[D] His spiritual teacher
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [His royal horse]
Notes:
In the context of Gautam Buddha, ‘Kanthaka’ was his royal horse. Kanthaka played a significant role in several instances of the Buddha’s life, most notably when it carried him to the river where he would relinquish his worldly possessions and begin his quest for enlightenment.
3. Who among the following was the author of Kiratarjuniya?
[A] Bharavi
[B] Dandin
[C] Varahmihira
[D] Kalidasa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Bharavi]
Notes:
Bharavi, a distinguished Sanskrit poet from the 6th century, is acknowledged as the author of “Kiratarjuniya”. The title can be translated as “Arjuna and the Mountain Man”. The epic literature centers on the theme of morality and dharma, articulating a Didactic episode from the Mahabharata. It highlights the human values and virtues, establishing itself as a significant part of ancient Indian literature.
4. In which rock edict Ashoka mentioned “Every Human is my child…”?
[A] Major Rock Edict V
[B] Major Rock Edict IV
[C] Major Rock Edict VI
[D] Major Rock Edict VII
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Major Rock Edict V ]
Notes:
In the major Rock Edict V, Ashoka mentioned “Every Human is my child”. He had concerns about the policy towards slaves. This rock edict also referes to the appointment of Dhamma-mahamatta for the first time in the twelfth year of his reign.
5. At which of the following Harappan sites, terracotta female figures were discovered?
[A] Mohenjo-daro
[B] Kot Bala
[C] Kot Diji
[D] Khirasara
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Mohenjo-daro]
Notes:
Mohenjo-daro is an archaeological site in the province of Sindh, Pakistan. Built around 2500 BCE, it was one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Various discoveries at Mohenjo-daro include- Great Bath (the biggest bath ghat), Great granary, Bronze dancing girl, Bearded man, terracotta toys, Bull seal, Pashupati seal, three cylindrical seals of the Mesopotamian type, a piece of woven cloth.
6. Which among the following have been proved to be the best source of info regarding ancient India?
[A] Religious literature
[B] inscriptions
[C] coins
[D] monumnets
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [inscriptions]
Notes:
The correct answer is inscriptions. Inscriptions, often found on stone or metal, provide direct evidence of historical events, rulers, and societal norms in ancient India. They date back to the Mauryan period (3rd century BCE) and include important examples like the Edicts of Ashoka, which offer insights into governance, religion, and culture. Unlike religious literature, which can be biased, inscriptions are primary sources that reflect contemporary realities. Coins also provide valuable information but are less comprehensive than inscriptions.
7. What is the meaning of kalibangan in Rajasthan which shows the prehistoric and pre-Mauryan character of Indus Valley Civilization ?
[A] Black River
[B] Black Bangles
[C] Black forest
[D] Black land
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Black Bangles]
Notes:
- Kali = Black
- Bangan = Bangles
8. Vasucharita is a work of which of the following ?
[A] Ram raja
[B] Krishndev rai
[C] Vitthalantha
[D] Kalidasa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ram raja]
Notes:
Ramraja or Ramarajabhushanudu who was a Telugu poet and a notable musician was one of the Astadiggajas (a collective title for Telugu poets in the court of Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara Empire).
9. In which of the following marriages in Vedic era, a girl was given by her father to a sage?
[A] Brahma marriage
[B] Daiva Marriage
[C] Gandharva Marriage
[D] Arsha Marriage
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Arsha Marriage]
Notes:
In Arsha marriage, the girl is given in marriage to a sage. One example of Arsh Marriage is that of Agastya with Lopamudra.
10. Saka Year is how many years behind the Christian Era?
[A] 50
[B] 75
[C] 78
[D] 100
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [78]
Notes:
The Shaka era is a historical calendar era, the epoch of which corresponds to Julian year 78. Kanishka the Great, was the emperor of the Kushan dynasty in the second century founded the Shaka era.