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 chief of Rig Vedic tribal society was known as?
[A] Mahisi
[B] Gopati
[C] Kulapa
[D] None of the
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Gopati]
Notes:
The chief of Aryan society (rajan) was known as the Gopati or Gopa which means the protector of cows whereas the chief queen was called the Mahisi. The society was somewhat monarchical in form.
32. Which of the following is a collection of magic spells and charms to ward off the evil spirits and diseases?
[A] Rig Veda
[B] Sama Veda
[C] Yajur Veda
[D] Atharva Veda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Atharva Veda]
Notes:
The Atharva Veda, which is the fourth Veda, is known as a collection of magic spells, charms, and incantations. It is distinct from the other three Vedas (Rig Veda, Sama Veda, and Yajur Veda) which are more focused on liturgy, ritual, and philosophical speculation. The Atharva Veda contains a mix of hymns, incantations, and magical charms. These include spells for healing, protection, curses, and blessings, among others. It also includes discussions on a wide range of topics such as medicine, alchemy, and black magic.
33. Who was ‘rathakara’?
[A] Chariot makers
[B] Weaver
[C] Handicrafts men
[D] Smelters
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Chariot makers]
Notes:
Rathakara were the chariot makers during the Later Vedic times. They enjoyed a very high status and were entitled to the sacred thread ceremony during the Later Vedic period.
34. With which of the following wandering ascetics Buddha practiced austerities?
1. Kondanna
2. Bhaddiya
3. Vappa
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 2
[C] Only 3
[D] 1, 2 & 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 & 3]
Notes:
Buddha practiced austerities with five wandering ascetics – Kondanna, Bhaddiya, Vappa, Mahanama, and Assaji. He practiced severe austerities until his body was almost emaciated however he abandoned them when he realised that austerities could not lead to realisation.
35. Which of the following statements are correct with respect to Ajivikas?
1. They were rigid fatalists.
2. They were determinists
3. They held that the affairs of the entire universe were ordered by a cosmic force called niyati.
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 2 & 3
[C] Only 3
[D] 1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 and 3]
Notes:
The following statements are correct with respect to Ajivikas:
1. They were rigid fatalists.
2. They were determinists
3. They held that the affairs of the entire universe were ordered by a cosmic force called niyati.
36. Which of the following founded the new Magadh capital at Patliputra?
[A] Bimbisara
[B] Ajatashatru
[C] Udayin
[D] Shishunaga
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Udayin]
Notes:
Udayabhadra or Udayin who ruled around 460 BCE – 444 BCE founded the new capital at Pataliputra, that is, the modern Patna. It is situated at the confluence of Ganga and Son rivers.
37. Which of the following Indian rulers gave 500 elephants to Seleucus Nicator?
[A] Samudragupta
[B] Chandragupta Maurya
[C] Ashoka
[D] Alexander
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Chandragupta Maurya]
Notes:
Seleucus Nicator served as the Infantry general of Alexander. After his death he succeeded in gaining control over the territory which Alexander had conquered in Asia. Chandragupta defeated him around 301 BCE and was compelled to yield Arachosia, Gedrosia, and Parapomisadai to him in return for 500 elephants.
38. What does the use of ‘Bull’ as a motif in the Ashokan pillar symbolizes?
[A] Purity and Fecundity
[B] Symbol of fertility
[C] Dharmachakra
[D] Departure of Siddhartha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Symbol of fertility]
Notes:
The Ashokan pillars are the most celebrated example of Mauryan art. The use of bull as a motif shows the inclination of Ashoka towards Buddhism. The bull represents fertility. The event of the birth of Buddha is also represented by Lotus and Bull.
39. Which of the following was the head of the board of infantry in Mauryan administration?
[A] Padadhyaksha
[B] Rathadhyaksha
[C] Asvadhyaksha
[D] Hastyadhyaksha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Padadhyaksha]
Notes:
The war office which carried out the administration of different branches of the army consisted of 6 boards which were: The board of Admiralty, Infantry, Cavalry, War Chariots, War Elephants, and Transport and Supervision of Equipment. The Board of Infantry was headed by Padadhyaksha.
40. Which of the following types of coins were minted during the post-Mauryan period?
1) Gold
2) Silver
3) Copper
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1
[B] only 2 & 3
[C] Only 1 & 3
[D] 1, 2 & 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 & 3]
Notes:
During the post-Mauryan period coin minting was an important craft and the period is noted for numerous types of coins made of Gold, Silver, Copper, Brass, Lead, and Potin.
