Ancient History MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Ancient History - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is - Padmatankas

Key Points

• Padmatankas
  • The Yadavas of Devgiri were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region of India during the medieval period.
  • They issued a special series of gold coins known as Padmatankas, which were highly valued for their purity and intricate designs.
  • The term "Padmatankas" is derived from the word Padma, meaning lotus, a symbol often associated with prosperity and divinity in Indian culture.
  • These coins were used for both trade and ceremonial purposes, showcasing the wealth and economic stability of the Yadava dynasty.

Additional Information

• Yadavas of Devgiri
  • The Yadava dynasty ruled the Deccan region of India between the 12th and 14th centuries, with their capital at Devgiri (modern-day Daulatabad).
  • They were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and the promotion of regional languages such as Marathi.
  • The dynasty played a significant role in the economic development of the Deccan, including the issuance of innovative coinage.
• Medieval Indian Coinage
  • During the medieval period, many Indian dynasties, such as the Cholas, Yadavas, and Vijayanagar rulers, issued their own distinct coins.
  • These coins often featured symbols such as animals, plants, or religious motifs, reflecting the cultural and spiritual ethos of the time.
  • The use of gold, silver, and copper coins facilitated trade and commerce across regions.
• Other Coin Types
  • Dinar: A common term for gold coins in ancient and medieval India, particularly during the Gupta Empire.
  • Karshapana: An ancient Indian coin made of silver or copper, widely used during the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan periods.
  • Gadhiya: A term used for certain types of medieval coins, often issued by regional kingdoms.

The correct answer is Kharosthi Script

Key Points

• Kharosthi Script:
  • The Kharosthi script was used in the northwest regions of ancient India, including present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • It was primarily used for writing the Gandhari language, a local Prakrit.
  • The Shahbazgarhi and Mansehra inscriptions of Ashoka are significant because they represent some of the few instances of Ashokan edicts written in Kharosthi.
  • These inscriptions are important as they reflect the multicultural and multilingual aspects of the Mauryan Empire, adapting inscriptions to local languages and scripts to communicate more effectively with the population.
    ​

Additional Information

• Aramaic Script:
  • Aramaic was a Semitic script and language that originated in the ancient Near East.
  • During Ashoka’s reign, Aramaic was used to communicate with populations in the northwestern parts of his empire where Aramaic influence was strong due to previous Achaemenid rule.
• Greek Script:
  • The Greek script was used in some of Ashoka’s inscriptions, particularly in regions influenced by Greek culture after the campaigns of Alexander the Great.
  • There are bilingual inscriptions (Greek alongside Aramaic) found in places like Kandahar in Afghanistan.
• Brahmi Script:
  • The Brahmi script is the ancestor of most of the modern Indian scripts and was widely used across the Indian subcontinent during Ashoka’s time.
  • Many of Ashoka’s inscriptions, especially those found in central and southern parts of his empire, are written in Brahmi. 

The correct answer is Delhi.

Key Points
 

• Delhi:
  • The Rani Pillar inscription refers to one of the pillar edicts of Emperor Ashoka, found in Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi.
  • The Delhi-Topra pillar was originally from Topra (now in Haryana) and was later moved to Delhi by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century. This inscription highlights Ashoka's efforts to spread the doctrines of Buddhism and principles of Dhamma.

• Mathura:
  • Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history and as a major center of art, culture, and religion, particularly associated with the worship of Lord Krishna.

• Bihar:
  • Bihar, particularly areas like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Patna, is heavily associated with the life and teachings of Buddha and the reign of Ashoka.
  • Ashoka's major edicts and stupas are prominent in this region, with some of his inscriptions found in locations like Lauriya-Nandangarh and Lauriya-Areraj.
     

• Allahabad (Prayagraj):
  • Allahabad is home to another famous Ashokan pillar, situated at the Allahabad Fort.
  • The Allahabad pillar contains inscriptions from not only Ashoka but later rulers like Samudragupta and Jahangir.

The correct answer is a - 1, b - 2, c - 3, d - 4

Key Points

• Rigveda - Aitreya

  • The Rigveda is one of the oldest known sacred texts and is considered one of the four canonical sacred texts (śruti) of Hinduism known as the Vedas.
  • It is a collection of hymns (sūktas) dedicated to various deities. It is a crucial text in understanding early Vedic religion and the foundations of Hindu tradition.
  • This is an ancient Sanskrit text and one of the primary Upanishads associated with the Rigveda.
  • The Aitareya Upanishad discusses philosophical subjects such as creation, the nature of the soul (Atman), and the essence of Brahman.

• Samveda - Panchvish

  • The Samaveda is the Veda of melodies and chants.
  • It consists mainly of hymns derived from the Rigveda, but arranged differently.
  • It focuses on the musical aspect of the Vedic literature and is associated with the Soma sacrifice.
  • This is a text associated with the Samaveda.
  • It is one of the Brahmanas—a genre of Vedic texts that includes explanations, commentaries, and rules concerning the rituals and ceremonies described in the Samaveda.

•  Yajurveda - Satpat

  • The Yajurveda is the Veda primarily dealing with ritual worship and contains the formulaic mantras used in Vedic rituals.
  • It is divided into two major sections: the Shukla (White) Yajurveda and the Krishna (Black) Yajurveda.
  • This is a prose text that includes a complete exposition of the Vedic rituals associated with the Yajurveda.
  • It is among the most comprehensive of the Brahmanas and provides detailed descriptions of the sacrificial rituals and their symbolism.

• Atharvaveda -Gopath

  • The Atharvaveda contains hymns, spells, and incantations and is different from the other three Vedas in its focus.
  • It deals with everyday life issues such as healing, protection, and domestic rituals rather than just religious and ceremonial practices.
  •  This is the Brahmana text associated with the Atharvaveda.
  • It provides explanations and instructions for the rituals and ceremonies specific to the Atharvaveda, similar in nature to other Brahmana texts, but unique to its Veda.

The correct answer is Mohenjodaro.

Key Points

•  Mohenjodaro:
  • Mohenjodaro is one of the major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Sindh, Pakistan.
  • The site is well-known for its advanced urban planning, complex drainage systems, and impressive architecture.
  • The bronze sculpture of the Dancing Girl is one of the most famous artifacts found at Mohenjodaro. This artifact dates back to around 2500 BCE.
  • This sculpture is significant because it shows the high level of skill achieved in metalworking and the cultural importance of dance and art in that ancient society.

Additional Information 

•  Lothal:
  • Lothal is another prominent site of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Gujarat, India.
  • It is notable for its dockyard, which is one of the earliest known dockyards in the world, suggesting it was a major trade center.
• Harappa:
  • Harappa is one of the earliest sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, situated in present-day Punjab, Pakistan.
  • Harappa, similar to Mohenjodaro, exhibits advanced urban features such as well-planned streets and housing, and an advanced drainage system.
  • Numerous significant artifacts including pottery, jewelry, seals, and tools have been discovered here.
•  Dholavira:
  • Dholavira is another major site of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Gujarat, India.
  • This site is known for its unique and sophisticated urban layout, including a well-planned water conservation system with large reservoirs.
  • Various artifacts such as terracotta figurines, pottery, and beads have been found at Dholavira.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• Muziris ↔ Chera Kingdom ↔  Vanji
  • Muziris was an ancient port in Kerala, associated with the Chera Kingdom, and its capital city was Vanji. Hence, Row 1 is correct.
• Sopara ↔  Satavahana Kingdom ↔  Pratishthana
  • Correct: Sopara was an ancient port in Maharashtra, associated with the Satavahana Kingdom, and its capital city was Pratishthana. Hence, Row 2 is correct.
• Tamralipti ↔ Mauryan & Gupta Kingdoms ↔ Pataliputra
  • Correct: Tamralipti was an ancient port in West Bengal, associated with the Mauryan and Gupta Kingdoms, and its capital city was Pataliputra. Hence, Row 3 is correct.
• Arikamedu ↔ Chola Kingdom ↔  Uraiyur
  • Correct: Arikamedu was an ancient port in Tamil Nadu, associated with the Chola Kingdom, and its capital city was Uraiyur. Hence, Row 4 is correct.

The correct answer is - Padmatankas

Key Points

• Padmatankas
  • The Yadavas of Devgiri were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region of India during the medieval period.
  • They issued a special series of gold coins known as Padmatankas, which were highly valued for their purity and intricate designs.
  • The term "Padmatankas" is derived from the word Padma, meaning lotus, a symbol often associated with prosperity and divinity in Indian culture.
  • These coins were used for both trade and ceremonial purposes, showcasing the wealth and economic stability of the Yadava dynasty.

Additional Information

• Yadavas of Devgiri
  • The Yadava dynasty ruled the Deccan region of India between the 12th and 14th centuries, with their capital at Devgiri (modern-day Daulatabad).
  • They were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and the promotion of regional languages such as Marathi.
  • The dynasty played a significant role in the economic development of the Deccan, including the issuance of innovative coinage.
• Medieval Indian Coinage
  • During the medieval period, many Indian dynasties, such as the Cholas, Yadavas, and Vijayanagar rulers, issued their own distinct coins.
  • These coins often featured symbols such as animals, plants, or religious motifs, reflecting the cultural and spiritual ethos of the time.
  • The use of gold, silver, and copper coins facilitated trade and commerce across regions.
• Other Coin Types
  • Dinar: A common term for gold coins in ancient and medieval India, particularly during the Gupta Empire.
  • Karshapana: An ancient Indian coin made of silver or copper, widely used during the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan periods.
  • Gadhiya: A term used for certain types of medieval coins, often issued by regional kingdoms.

The correct answer is Kharosthi Script

Key Points

• Kharosthi Script:
  • The Kharosthi script was used in the northwest regions of ancient India, including present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • It was primarily used for writing the Gandhari language, a local Prakrit.
  • The Shahbazgarhi and Mansehra inscriptions of Ashoka are significant because they represent some of the few instances of Ashokan edicts written in Kharosthi.
  • These inscriptions are important as they reflect the multicultural and multilingual aspects of the Mauryan Empire, adapting inscriptions to local languages and scripts to communicate more effectively with the population.
    ​

Additional Information

• Aramaic Script:
  • Aramaic was a Semitic script and language that originated in the ancient Near East.
  • During Ashoka’s reign, Aramaic was used to communicate with populations in the northwestern parts of his empire where Aramaic influence was strong due to previous Achaemenid rule.
• Greek Script:
  • The Greek script was used in some of Ashoka’s inscriptions, particularly in regions influenced by Greek culture after the campaigns of Alexander the Great.
  • There are bilingual inscriptions (Greek alongside Aramaic) found in places like Kandahar in Afghanistan.
• Brahmi Script:
  • The Brahmi script is the ancestor of most of the modern Indian scripts and was widely used across the Indian subcontinent during Ashoka’s time.
  • Many of Ashoka’s inscriptions, especially those found in central and southern parts of his empire, are written in Brahmi. 

The correct answer is Delhi.

Key Points
 

• Delhi:
  • The Rani Pillar inscription refers to one of the pillar edicts of Emperor Ashoka, found in Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi.
  • The Delhi-Topra pillar was originally from Topra (now in Haryana) and was later moved to Delhi by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century. This inscription highlights Ashoka's efforts to spread the doctrines of Buddhism and principles of Dhamma.

• Mathura:
  • Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history and as a major center of art, culture, and religion, particularly associated with the worship of Lord Krishna.

• Bihar:
  • Bihar, particularly areas like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Patna, is heavily associated with the life and teachings of Buddha and the reign of Ashoka.
  • Ashoka's major edicts and stupas are prominent in this region, with some of his inscriptions found in locations like Lauriya-Nandangarh and Lauriya-Areraj.
     

• Allahabad (Prayagraj):
  • Allahabad is home to another famous Ashokan pillar, situated at the Allahabad Fort.
  • The Allahabad pillar contains inscriptions from not only Ashoka but later rulers like Samudragupta and Jahangir.

The correct answer is a - 1, b - 2, c - 3, d - 4

Key Points

• Rigveda - Aitreya

  • The Rigveda is one of the oldest known sacred texts and is considered one of the four canonical sacred texts (śruti) of Hinduism known as the Vedas.
  • It is a collection of hymns (sūktas) dedicated to various deities. It is a crucial text in understanding early Vedic religion and the foundations of Hindu tradition.
  • This is an ancient Sanskrit text and one of the primary Upanishads associated with the Rigveda.
  • The Aitareya Upanishad discusses philosophical subjects such as creation, the nature of the soul (Atman), and the essence of Brahman.

• Samveda - Panchvish

  • The Samaveda is the Veda of melodies and chants.
  • It consists mainly of hymns derived from the Rigveda, but arranged differently.
  • It focuses on the musical aspect of the Vedic literature and is associated with the Soma sacrifice.
  • This is a text associated with the Samaveda.
  • It is one of the Brahmanas—a genre of Vedic texts that includes explanations, commentaries, and rules concerning the rituals and ceremonies described in the Samaveda.

•  Yajurveda - Satpat

  • The Yajurveda is the Veda primarily dealing with ritual worship and contains the formulaic mantras used in Vedic rituals.
  • It is divided into two major sections: the Shukla (White) Yajurveda and the Krishna (Black) Yajurveda.
  • This is a prose text that includes a complete exposition of the Vedic rituals associated with the Yajurveda.
  • It is among the most comprehensive of the Brahmanas and provides detailed descriptions of the sacrificial rituals and their symbolism.

• Atharvaveda -Gopath

  • The Atharvaveda contains hymns, spells, and incantations and is different from the other three Vedas in its focus.
  • It deals with everyday life issues such as healing, protection, and domestic rituals rather than just religious and ceremonial practices.
  •  This is the Brahmana text associated with the Atharvaveda.
  • It provides explanations and instructions for the rituals and ceremonies specific to the Atharvaveda, similar in nature to other Brahmana texts, but unique to its Veda.

The correct answer is Mohenjodaro.

Key Points

•  Mohenjodaro:
  • Mohenjodaro is one of the major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Sindh, Pakistan.
  • The site is well-known for its advanced urban planning, complex drainage systems, and impressive architecture.
  • The bronze sculpture of the Dancing Girl is one of the most famous artifacts found at Mohenjodaro. This artifact dates back to around 2500 BCE.
  • This sculpture is significant because it shows the high level of skill achieved in metalworking and the cultural importance of dance and art in that ancient society.

Additional Information 

•  Lothal:
  • Lothal is another prominent site of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Gujarat, India.
  • It is notable for its dockyard, which is one of the earliest known dockyards in the world, suggesting it was a major trade center.
• Harappa:
  • Harappa is one of the earliest sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, situated in present-day Punjab, Pakistan.
  • Harappa, similar to Mohenjodaro, exhibits advanced urban features such as well-planned streets and housing, and an advanced drainage system.
  • Numerous significant artifacts including pottery, jewelry, seals, and tools have been discovered here.
•  Dholavira:
  • Dholavira is another major site of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Gujarat, India.
  • This site is known for its unique and sophisticated urban layout, including a well-planned water conservation system with large reservoirs.
  • Various artifacts such as terracotta figurines, pottery, and beads have been found at Dholavira.

The correct answer is Anga.

Key Points 

•  Anga:
  • Anga was one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas (great kingdoms) of ancient India.
  • The capital of Anga was Champa, which was one of the prominent cities in ancient India.
  • Anga was located in the region that is now present-day Bihar and parts of Bengal.
  • The kingdom was known for its wealth and prospered due to trade and commerce.
  • Champa, as the capital, was a significant center of trade and was situated on the banks of the Ganges river, enhancing its strategic and commercial importance.
     

Additional Information

•  Kosala:
  • Kosala was another major Mahajanapada in ancient India.
  • It was located in the region that corresponds to the present-day Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The capital of Kosala was Ayodhya, not Champa.
  • Kosala was significant for being associated with the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, as Ayodhya was the birthplace of Lord Rama.
  • Kosala also played a crucial role during the time of the Buddha and Mahavira.
• Kashi:
  • Kashi was one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India, and it was another Mahajanapada.
  • The capital of Kashi was Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Benares, not Champa.
  • Varanasi has been a significant cultural and religious center in India, famous for its ghats along the Ganges and for being a major site of pilgrimage for Hindus.
  • The city is synonymous with learning, spirituality, and continuous cultural traditions dating back thousands of years.
•  Magadha:
  • Magadha was one of the most powerful and influential Mahajanapadas of ancient India.
  • Its capital was initially Rajagriha (modern Rajgir) and later Pataliputra (modern Patna), but not Champa.
  • Magadha played a central role in Indian history, being pivotal during the times of the Maurya and Gupta empires.
  • It was a key center for the development of Jainism and Buddhism, with important figures like Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) and Mahavira spending significant time there.

The correct answer is - Tamil

Key Points

• Sangam Literature
  • Sangam literature refers to the ancient Tamil literature created during the Sangam era, roughly between 300 BCE and 300 CE.
  • The term 'Sangam' refers to an academy of Tamil poets that existed in ancient southern India.
  • These works are considered some of the oldest and most significant texts in Tamil literature and include poetry, prose, and other literary forms.
  • The literature is divided into three Sangam periods: the First, Second, and Third Sangam, each representing different phases of literary development.

Additional Information

• Telugu
  • Telugu is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • It has a rich literary tradition with works such as the Andhra Mahabharatam by Nannayya, Tikkana, and Errana.
• Malayalam
  • Malayalam is the principal language of the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry (Mahé).
  • The earliest Malayalam literature includes the works of the Sangam period, but it evolved independently later.
• Kannada
  • Kannada is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the Indian state of Karnataka.
  • The earliest existing records of Kannada literature date back to around the 9th century, with works such as Kavirajamarga by King Nripatunga.

The correct answer is - Poet Sattan of Madurai

Key Points

• Poet Sattan of Madurai
  • Poet Sattan of Madurai is the author of the Tamil epic "Manimegalai".
  • Manimegalai is one of the five great Tamil epics, known as the Aimperumkappiyam.
  • The work is a sequel to the epic "Silappatikaram" and focuses on the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, Manimegalai.
  • The epic highlights the principles of Buddhism and the life of Manimegalai as she seeks enlightenment and becomes a Buddhist nun.

Additional Information

• Poet Kamban
  • Kamban is renowned for his Tamil rendition of the Ramayana, known as "Kamba Ramayanam".
  • He is celebrated as one of the greatest Tamil poets.
• Poet Ilangovadigal
  • Ilangovadigal is the author of "Silappatikaram", another of the five great Tamil epics.
  • "Silappatikaram" tells the story of Kannagi and her husband Kovalan.
• Poet Avvaiyar
  • Avvaiyar is the name of more than one Tamil poet, who is known for her wisdom and contributions to Tamil literature.
  • She composed many didactic and moral poems.

The correct answer is - Harsha Charit

Key Points

• Harsha Charit
  • Written by the renowned Sanskrit poet and scholar, Banabhatta.
  • It is a significant work in the Charit (biographical) tradition of ancient Indian history writing.
  • The text provides an extensive biography of King Harsha, who ruled North India in the 7th century CE.
  • Harsha Charit is praised for its detailed and vivid portrayal of the life and achievements of King Harsha.
  • The work is also notable for its literary style and the use of classical Sanskrit.

Additional Information

• Uttar Ram Charit
  • Written by Bhavabhuti, it is a classical Sanskrit play.
  • The play is a continuation of the Ramayana, focusing on the later life of Lord Rama.
• Buddha Charit
  • Authored by Ashvaghosha, it is an epic poem narrating the life of the Buddha.
  • The work is one of the earliest and most important biographies of the Buddha.
• Vikramankdev Charit
  • Composed by Bilhana, it is a biographical work on the life of King Vikramaditya VI of the Western Chalukya dynasty.
  • The text is known for its poetic quality and historical content.