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 is an extant Shaka of the Rigveda Samhita?
[A] Saunaka
[B] Ashvalayan
[C] Shakala
[D] Sankhayana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [ Shakala ]
Notes:
Rigveda is the oldest Veda .In it,only two shakas of the Rig-Veda, Shakala sakha and Baskala shaka, remain alive out of the 21 which existed at one time.
2. What was the other name of Bimbisara?
[A] Shrenika
[B] Ekarat
[C] Sarvakshatrantaka
[D] Shalimal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Shrenika ]
Notes:
As per the Jain literature, Bimbisara (who was the real founder of Haryanka dynasty) was also known as Shrenika.
3. The Bhamala Stupa, a ruined Buddhist Stupa, is located in which one of the following countries?
[A] Nepal
[B] Bhutan
[C] Pakistan
[D] China
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [ Pakistan ]
Notes:
Bhamala Stupa is an ancient Gandhara stupa located in Pakistan near Haripur and is a part of so called Bhamala Buddhist Complex. It is a national heritage site of Pakistan and dates back to 4th century AD. This stupa is different from other Gandhara stupas as it looks cross shaped like an Aztec Pyramid.
4. In the Mauryan empire, the post Devatadhyaksha is related to –
[A] Store House
[B] Crown Lands
[C] Customs
[D] Religious Institutions
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ Religious Institutions ]
Notes:
Devatadhyaksha was appointed to perform the duties related to religious institutions.
5. Which Saka ruler was responsible for important irrigation works in Saurashtra?
[A] Rudraraman
[B] Moga
[C] Azes
[D] Nahapana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Rudraraman ]
Notes:
The Saka ruler, Rudradraman was responsible for important irrigation works in Saurashtra. His military achievements, his territories and his many personal qualities are highlighted in the famous Junagadh inscription, written in 150 AD. It is the first major inscription to be written in sanskrit.
6. Who was the court poet of Samudragupta?
[A] Harisena
[B] Asanga
[C] Veerasena Saba
[D] Vasubandhu
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Harisena]
Notes:
Harisena, a highly esteemed poet, served as a court poet of Samudragupta, a notable ruler of the Gupta Empire in India. He is renowned for his Prayag Prashasti inscription that glorified the numerous achievements of Samudragupta. This inscription is an eloquent tribute to Samudragupta’s military prowess,benevolence, and cultural patronage. Harisena’s eloquence and literary brilliance made him an integral part of Samudragupta’s court.
7. Sarnath is associated with which aspect of Buddha’s life?
[A] Birth
[B] Residence
[C] First sermon
[D] Death
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [First sermon]
Notes:
Buddha gave his first sermon at the Sarnath which is known as “Dhammachakra Parivartan”.
8. Who has written the biography of Harshavardhana?
[A] Banbhatta
[B] Harsha Himself
[C] Kalhana
[D] Kalidasa
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Banbhatta]
Notes:
Harsha (c. 590–647 CE), also known as Harshavardhana, was an Indian emperor who ruled North India. His biography Harshacharita (“Deeds of Harsha”) written by Sanskrit poet Banabhatta describes his association with Thanesar, besides mentioning the defence wall, a moat and the palace with a two-storied Dhavalagriha.
9. Which among the following is not Correctly matched?
[A] Milinda Panho – Buddhism
[B] Tatwarthadhigam – Vaishnavism
[C] Mahapurana – Jainism
[D] All are correct
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Tatwarthadhigam – Vaishnavism]
Notes:
Tatwarthadhigam is of Jainism composed by Uma Swami
10. The 13th Rock edict of Asoka which is longest among all the rock edicts describes which of the following?
[A] Policy of Dhamma
[B] Kalinga war
[C] Toleration among sects
[D] Purpose of rock edicts
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Kalinga war]
Notes:
The 13th rock edict talks about the conquest of Kalinga at the eastern coast of India by Ashoka (268-233) in the year 261 BC. It was an event of greatest historical importance for India and world history.
