IAS Prelims : History(3)
IAS Prelims : Ancient History(03)
1. In Sanskrit dramas, written during the Gupta period, women and Sudras spoke
a. Sanskrit
b. Prakrit
c. Pali
d. Sauraseni
Ans: b
Explanation: In Sanskrit plays, written during the Gupta period, women and Sudras spoke Prakrit whereas the males of upper three Varnas spoke Sanskrit language.
2. Consider the following statements
1. Vikram Era started in 78 AD.
2. Saka Era started in 58 BC.
Which of the above statements are correct?
a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. Both
d. None
Ans: d
Explanation: Vikram Era started in 58 BC whereas Saka Era started in 78 AD.
3. The name by which Ashoka is generally referred to in his inscriptions is
a. Chakravarti
b. Dharmadeva
c. Dharmakirti
d. Priyadasi
Ans: d
Explanation: Ashoka is generally referred to as Priyadasi and Devanampriya in his inscriptions.
4. The concept of Anuvrata was advocated by
a. Mahayana Buddhism
b. Hinayana Buddhism
c. Jainism
d. Lokayukta School
Ans: c
Explanation: The five cardinal principles of Jainism, if followed by a monk, is called Mahavrata and if observed by a lay follower, then it is called Anuvrata.
5. Consider the following statements
1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
2. Indifference to the authorities of the Vedas
3. Denial of efficacy of rituals
4. Non-injury to animal life
Which of the above were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?
a. 1, 2, 3 and 4
b. 2, 3 and 4
c. 1, 3 and 4
d. 1 and 2
Ans: b
Explanation: Buddhism advocated middle path that is avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. On the other hand Jainism advocated extreme penance and asceticism.
6. Which of the following statement regarding Ashokan stone pillars is incorrect?
a. These are highly polished
b. These are monolithic
c. The shaft of pillars is tapering in shape
d. These are part of architectural structures
Ans: d
Explanation: Ashokan stone pillars are stand-alone structures. They are not part of any architectural structures. They were built to spread message of Ashoka to the people.
7. In ancient India the name of Varahamihira was associated with
a. Mathematics
b. Astronomy
c. Drama
d. Medicine
Ans: b
Explanation: Varahamihira was a famous astronomer.
8. Chalukyas had their capital at
a. Badami
b. Panamalai
c. Khajuraho
d. Deogarh
Ans: a
Explanation: The Chalukya dynasty ruled large parts of southern and central India between the 6th and the 12th centuries. Their capital was Badami.
9. The famous dialogue between Nachiketa and Yama is mentioned in the
a. Chhandogyopanishad
b. Mundakopanished
c. Kathopanished
d. Kenopanishad
Ans: c
Explanation: The famous dialogue between Nachiketa and Yama is mentioned in the Kathopanishad.
10. Which of the following dynasties was ruling over North India at the time of Alexander’s invasion?
a. Nanda
b. Maurya
c. Sunga
d. Kanva
Ans: a
Explanation: North India was ruled by Nanda dynasty when Alexander invaded India.
