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.
31. The largest number of Vakataka inscriptions belongs to which of the following kings?
[A] Prabhavatigupta
[B] Pravarasena II
[C] Divakarasena
[D] Vindhyasena
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Pravarasena II]
Notes:
Pravarasena II is represented by the largest surviving group of Vakataka royal grants. His numerous copper plates are major sources for the history and administration of Vidarbha.
32. Which of the following is associated with the rule of Harsha Vardhana?
[A] c. 580-590 CE
[B] c. 595-606 CE
[C] c. 606-647 CE
[D] c. 647-665 CE
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [c. 606-647 CE]
Notes:
Harsha Vardhana ruled from c. 606 to 647 CE. Hsuan Tsang visited India during his time in the 7th century AD and stayed for about fifteen years. Harsha’s authority was limited to north India excluding Kashmir.
33. Which of the following are believed to be written by Harsha?
1. Priyadarshika
2. Ratnavali
3. Nagananda
Select the correct option form the codes given below:
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 2 & 3
[C] Only 3
[D] 1, 2 & 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 & 3]
Notes:
Harsha was a great supporter of the arts and learning. It is believed that he wrote three dramas- Priyadarshika and Ratnavali which are both romantic comedies, and Nagananda which is based on Bodhisattva Jimutavahana.
34. Which of the following could obstruct internal trade in parts of early medieval India?
1. Political instability disrupting routes
2. Plunder or harassment of merchants on highways
3. Multiple local tolls and dues
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 1 & 3
[C] Only 3
[D] 1, 2 & 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 & 3]
Notes:
All three could obstruct trade. Their impact varied across regions and periods, and early medieval India also saw active markets, merchant networks and phases of commercial expansion.
35. Which of the following kings Succeeded King Krishna I?
[A] Dantidurga
[B] Govinda II
[C] Amoghavarsha I
[D] Govind III
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Govinda II]
Notes:
Krishna I was succeeded by his son Govinda II. Dhruva subsequently displaced his elder brother Govinda II and became the Rashtrakuta ruler.
36. Which of the following is described as “Night of destruction”?
[A] Jayasimha
[B] Ranaraga
[C] Pulkeshin I
[D] Kirtivarman I
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Kirtivarman I]
Notes:
Kirtivarman I is also described as the “Night of destruction” to the Nalas, Mauryas and Kadambas. He is also believed to have broken up a confederacy of the Kadamba kings.
37. Which of the following Chola King killed his Pallava overlord Aparajita and brought Tondaimandalam (northern Tamil country) under his control?
[A] Aditya I
[B] Parantaka I
[C] Parantaka II
[D] Uttama Chola
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Aditya I ]
Notes:
The Chola King Aditya I killed his Pallava overlord Aparajita and brought Tondaimandalam (northern Tamil country) under his control in c.893 CE. He conquered Kongudesha from the Pandyas by alling with the Cheras.
38. The exclusive assembly of Brahmans/gatherings of the adult male members in the agraharas in the Chola empire was referred to as?
[A] Ur
[B] Sabha
[C] Samiti
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Sabha]
Notes:
Sabha or Mahasabha during the Chola empie referred to the exclusive assembly of Brahmans/gatherings of the adult male members in the agraharas, that is, the rent free brahmadeya villages. These assemblies enjoyed a large measure of autonomy.
39. Which among the following is a common method of cultivation in the first agricultural revolution?
[A] Crop rotation
[B] Shifting cultivation
[C] Subsistance agriculture
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Shifting cultivation]
Notes:
Shifting cultivation is a common method of cultivation in the first agricultural revolution. The specific kind of shifting cultivation used is slash-and-burn agriculture.
40. The Kasars (braziers) of which city of Karnataka are mentioned in many records as being the most notable in the 8th century?
[A] Gadag
[B] Nargund
[C] Yadgir
[D] Laksmeshwar
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Laksmeshwar]
Notes:
The Kasars (braziers) produced various kinds of bronze ware which included musical instruments like bells and trumpets, vessels, lamps of various kinds, images of various deities and mirrors. They have been mentioned in many records and the ones at Laksmeshwar of the 8th century is notable among them.
