Pallava MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Pallava - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Simhavishnu.

Key Points

• Simhavishnu was the founder of the Pallava Dynasty. 
• Pallava Dynasty: 
  • Kalabhara rule for 250 years after Sangam Age in Tamil country.
  • The Pallava dynasty situated in Tondaimandalam and capital at Kanchipuram.
  • Source of Pallava was disputed while many consider them to natives.
  • They Issued earlier inscriptions in Sanskrit & Prakrit & patronized Brahmanism.
  • Samundragupta defeated to Vishnugopa in his Southern expedition.
• The following tables show the List of Pallava rulers with respective contributions. 

The correct answer is Sanskrit.

Key Points

• The Pallavas were a South Indian dynasty that ruled from the 3rd century to the 9th century CE.
• Sanskrit was the official language used for inscriptions and administrative purposes by the Pallavas.
• Many Pallava rulers were great patrons of Sanskrit literature and promoted the usage of Sanskrit in their courts.
• Several inscriptions and literary works from the Pallava period are found in Sanskrit, highlighting its importance during their rule.

Additional Information

• Pallava Dynasty:
  • The Pallavas were known for their architectural contributions, including the rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram.
  • They played a significant role in the cultural and political history of South India.
  • The dynasty's rule extended over present-day Tamil Nadu, parts of Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
• Sanskrit Literature:
  • Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world and has a vast body of literature, including Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas.
  • It is considered the classical language of Indian culture and is the liturgical language of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• Inscriptions:
  • Inscriptions were a primary method of recording royal decrees, donations, and historical events in ancient India.
  • The Pallava inscriptions are found in various temples and monuments and provide valuable historical information.
• Architectural Contributions:
  • The Pallavas are credited with pioneering rock-cut architecture in South India.
  • Some of the most famous examples of Pallava architecture include the Shore Temple and the Pancha Rathas in Mahabalipuram.

The correct answer is Aparajitavarman.

Key Points

• Aparajitavarman was the last known ruler of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled parts of South India from the 4th to 9th century CE.
• He ruled during the late 9th century CE and was defeated by Aditya Chola I, marking the end of Pallava dominance.
• The Pallava dynasty was renowned for its contributions to art, architecture, and culture, including the famous rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram.
• Under Aparajitavarman, the Pallava dynasty faced decline due to the growing power of the Cholas and other regional kingdoms.
• His defeat by the Cholas symbolized the shift in regional power dynamics in South India during the medieval period.

Additional Information

• Pallava Dynasty: The Pallavas were a South Indian dynasty famous for their patronage of art and architecture, especially during the reign of Narasimhavarman I and Mahendravarman I.
• Mahabalipuram: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram showcases Pallava architectural achievements, including rock-cut caves, monolithic temples, and structural temples.
• Decline of Pallavas: The Pallavas faced challenges from the Chalukyas and eventually succumbed to the rising power of the Chola dynasty.
• Chola Expansion: The Cholas, under leaders like Aditya Chola I, expanded their empire by defeating neighboring kingdoms, including the Pallavas.
• Historical Sources: Information about Aparajitavarman and the Pallava dynasty comes from inscriptions, temple architecture, and literary sources like Tamil texts and Sanskrit records.

The correct answer is Narasimhavarman II.

Key Points

• Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, was a Pallava king who ruled from 700 to 728 CE.
• He was known for his architectural contributions, notably the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).
• Rajasimha was a patron of art and architecture, leading to the flourishing of Dravidian architecture during his reign.
• He succeeded his father, Paramesvaravarman I, and continued the tradition of temple-building that the Pallava dynasty was renowned for.
• Narasimhavarman II's reign marked a period of cultural and artistic development in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu.

Additional Information

• Pallava Dynasty:
  • The Pallavas were a significant South Indian dynasty that ruled from the 3rd to 9th centuries CE.
  • They played a crucial role in the development of South Indian architecture and culture.
  • Their capital was Kanchipuram, which became an important center for learning and culture.
• Shore Temple:
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site located in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).
  • Built during the reign of Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), it is one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India.
  • The temple complex is known for its intricate carvings and architectural grandeur.
• Dravidian Architecture:
  • A style of architecture that emerged in South India during the Pallava period.
  • Characterized by pyramid-shaped towers (Vimanas), pillared halls, and intricate sculptures.
  • The Pallavas were pioneers in this architectural style, influencing later South Indian dynasties.
• Mahabalipuram:
  • A historic town in Tamil Nadu known for its ancient temples and monuments.
  • Developed as a major port city during the Pallava dynasty.
  • Famous for the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Key Points

• Sivaskandavarman (A - II): Under his rule, Kanchi came under the Pallavas.
• Vishnugopa (B - I): He was defeated by Samudragupta during his southern expedition.
• Narasimhavarman-I (C - IV): He defeated Pulakesin II and destroyed the city of Vatapi.
• Nandivarman-II (D - III): He was defeated by Vikramaditya II, leading to the capture of Kanchi.

Additional Information

• Sivaskandavarman:
  • He was a notable Pallava ruler who contributed to the consolidation of the Pallava kingdom.
  • Under his reign, the Pallavas expanded their territory significantly.
• Vishnugopa:
  • He was one of the Pallava rulers mentioned in the Allahabad Pillar Inscription of Samudragupta.
  • His defeat by Samudragupta marked a significant event in the history of the Pallava dynasty.
• Narasimhavarman-I:
  • Also known as Mamalla, he was one of the most prominent Pallava rulers.
  • He is celebrated for his military exploits, including the defeat of Pulakesin II and the subsequent destruction of Vatapi (modern-day Badami).
• Nandivarman-II:
  • He was a significant Pallava king known for his conflicts with the Chalukyas.
  • His reign saw the capture of Kanchi by Vikramaditya II, a critical event in the Pallava-Chalukya rivalry.

The correct answer is Kanchipuram.

Key Points

• The ca pital city of the Pallavas was Kanchipuram.

• The Pallavas emerged as a formidable power in the South around the 4th century AD and were at the height of their power in the seventh century AD.
• They were able to sustain their rule for about 500 years.
• They buil t great cities, centres of learning, temples, and sculptures and influenced a large part of Southeast Asia in culture. ​

Important Points

• Simha Vishnu is considered the founder of the Pallavas.
  • He put an end to the political disturbances created by Kalabhras.
  • The Land up to Kaveri was acquired by him. 
• Mahendravarman I is considered to be the greatest ruler of the Pallavas.
  • His reign was marked by many architectural and literary achievements which would lay the foundations of the future Art and Culture of South India.
• Narasimhavarman II built the Shore Temple and the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple at Mahabalipuram.
• These temples are based on the Rajsingh style.
• Hiuen Tsang visited Kanchipuram, the capital of Pallavas, during the reign of Narasimha Varman I.​

Additional Information

The correct answer is Pallava. Key Points

• The Pallava dynasty was an early 4th-century to late 9th-century CE line of rulers in southern India.
• Pallava was able to sustain their rule for about 500 years.
• Mahendravarman I is considered to be the greatest ruler of the Pallavas.
• Kanchipuram was the capital of the Pallavas.
• Their territories at the height of their powers extended from the northern part of Andhra Pradesh to River Kaveri in the South.
• Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram and the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple at Kanchipuram are famous temples constructed during the reign of Pallavas.
• The Pallavas were great patrons of learning.
• The symbol of the Pallavas was the Lion (Simha) and the Bull (Nandi), It was interchangeable depending on the preference of the ruler. 

Additional Information

• Pandya.
  • Pandya dynasty started near about 6th century BC and ended around the 15th century AD.​
  • The capital of Pandyas was Madurai.
  • The symbol of the Pandya Dynasty was the fish.
• ​Chera.
  • ​The Chera Dynasty is also called the Keralaputra dynasty.
  • Their capital was Muziri also known as Vanchi.
  • Uthiyan Cheralathan, and is widely considered the founder of the Chera Dynasty.
  • Rama Varma Kulakshekhra was the last king of the Chera Dynasty.
  • The bow was the royal emblem of the Chera Kingdom.
• ​Chola.
  • Vijayalaya was the founder of the Imperial Chola dynasty.​
  • Thanjavur (Tanjore) was the capital of Cholas.
  • Jumping Tiger was the royal emblem of the Cholas.
  • Rajendra Chola III Was the last king of this dynasty​

Key Points

• This group of sanctuaries, founded by the Pallava kings, was carved out of rock along the Coromandel coast in the 7th and 8th centuries.
• It is known especially for its rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries).
• The city of Mahabalipuram was founded by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I.
• It has 40 ancient monuments and Hindu temples, including one of the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world: the Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna's Penance.

Additional Information

• Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur was built during the reign of the Chola emperor Rajaraja and designed by the famous architect Sama Varma between 1003 and 1010 AD.
• Tiruvalisvaram Temple at Brahmadesam, Uttarakailash temple at Tiruvadi, Rajarajeshwar temple at Tanjore, Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were built by Chola emperor Rajaraja II and the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Some famous temple and monuments built during the period of Chalukyas:
  • Badami cave Temples, Karnataka.
  • Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal.
  • Ravana Phadi Cave, Aihole.
  • Sangameshvara Temple, Pattadakal.

The correct answer is Narasimhavarman I.

Key Points

Narasimhavarman I:

• Narasimhavarman I, also known as Mamalla Narasimhavarman, ruled from around 630 to 668 CE.
• He was the son and successor of Mahendravarman I.
• Narasimhavarman I was a powerful ruler who conducted successful military campaigns, including against the Chalukyas. 
• It was during his reign that Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler, visited the Pallava capital of Kanchi.
• Hiuen Tsang's accounts provide valuable insights into the political, social, and cultural conditions of the time.

Additional Information

• Mahendravarman I:
  • Mahendravarman I was a prominent ruler of the Pallava dynasty who ruled from around 600 to 630 CE.
  • He was known for his patronage of art, literature, and architecture.
  • During his reign, the foundation of the rock-cut temples of Mamallapuram (also known as Mahabalipuram) was laid. 
• Mahendravarman II:
  • Mahendravarman II, also known as Mahendravarman Pallava, ruled from around 668 to 672 CE.
  • He was the son and successor of Narasimhavarman I.
  • Mahendravarman II is known for his patronage of art and architecture, particularly the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram. 

• Narasimhavarman II:
  • Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha Pallava, ruled from around 700 to 728 CE.
  • He was a prominent ruler of the Pallava dynasty and is remembered for his military conquests and architectural achievements. 

The correct answer is Simhavishnu.

Key Points

• Simhavishnu was the founder of the Pallava Dynasty. 
• Pallava Dynasty: 
  • Kalabhara rule for 250 years after Sangam Age in Tamil country.
  • The Pallava dynasty situated in Tondaimandalam and capital at Kanchipuram.
  • Source of Pallava was disputed while many consider them to natives.
  • They Issued earlier inscriptions in Sanskrit & Prakrit & patronized Brahmanism.
  • Samundragupta defeated to Vishnugopa in his Southern expedition.
• The following tables show the List of Pallava rulers with respective contributions. 

The correct answer is option 2, i.e Mahabalipuram.

• The Pallava kings constructed a number of stone temples in the seventh and eighth centuries for housing these Gods.
• The most famous of them are the Seven Ratha Temples found at Mahabalipuram, at a distance of 65 km from Chennai.
• These were built in the seventh century by Narasimhavarman, who founded the port city of Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram.
• This, city is also famous for the Shore Temple, which was a structural construction, put up independently and not hewn out of any rock.
•  In addition to this, the Pallavas constructed several such — structural temples at their capital Kanchi. A very good example was the Kailashanath temple built in the eighth century.
• The Chalukyas of Badami erected numerous temples at Aihole from about A.D. 610. Aihole contains as many as 70 temples.
• The work was continued in the adjacent towns of Badami and Pattadakal.
• Pattadakal has ten temples, built in the seventh and eighth centuries. The most celebrated of these are Papanatha Temple and Virupaksha Temple. 

The correct answer is Pallava.Key Points

• Pallava king Mahendravarman I was defeated by Pulakesin II.
• The Battle of Pullalur was a battle fought between the Chalukya king Pulakesin II and the Pallava king Mahendravarman I in the town of Pullalur or Pollilur in about 618–19.

Additional Information 

• Mahendravarman I
  • Mahendravarman I was a Pallava king who ruled the southern part of the present-day Andhra region and the northern regions of present-day Tamil Nadu in India in the early 7th century.
• Pulakesin II
  • Pulakeshin II was the most famous ruler of the Chalukya dynasty of Vatapi. During his reign, the Chalukya Empire expanded into most of the Deccan region of peninsular India.

The correct answer is Vishnugopa.

Key Points

• Shiva Skanda Varma was the first ruler of the Pallava dynasty.
• It ruled Kanchi as its capital.
• Vishnugopa was a contemporary of the Gupta emperor Samudragupta.
• The Prayag prashasti inscription shows that Samudragupta defeated him.
• The era of greatness and pride of the Pallava dynasty started from the time of Singh Vishnu.
• He assumed the title of Avanisingh. Mahakavi Bharavi used to live in his court.
• The reign of Mahendravarman I was politically and culturally significant.
• He was defeated by the Chalukya ruler, Pulakeshin II.
• He wrote a book called 'Mattavilas Prahasana'.

Dravidian style of architecture is a south Indian style of temple architecture.

Important Points

• The Pallavas started their rule in the 4th century A.D.
• Mahendravarman I (AD 571-630) was the first king of the Pallavas.
• The Pallavas laid the foundation of Dravidian architecture.
• One important feature of the Dravidian style is a high pyramidal tower built over the innermost chamber of the temple.
• They constructed the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram built by Rajasimha in the eighth century.
• Another example of this style is the rathas built at Mamallapuram and Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchipuram.
• The Pallavas brought a new design of rock-cut architecture and monoliths.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e Kanchipuram.

The capital of Pallavas was Kanchipuram.

• Kanchipuram:
  • Kanchipuram was the capital of Pallavas.
  • Kanchipuram is well known for its huge production of silks and rock-cut temples.
  • Simhavishnu was the founder of Pallava dynasty.
  • Period of Pallava dynasty was from 275 CE-897 CE.
• Pataliputra:
  • Pataliputra was the capital of the Mauryan empire.
  • Pataliputra was well known for its trading and exporting of goods.
  • Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Mauryan empire.
  • The period of the Mauryan empire was from 322 BCE-187 BCE.
• Rajgir:
  • Rajgir was the first capital of the Magadha kingdom.
  • Rajgir was well known for its rock-cut caves, temples and forts.
  • King Bimbisara was the founder of Magadha Kingdom.
  • Rajgir was the capital of Magadha from 544 BC - 413 BC.
• Taxila:
  • Taxila was the capital of the Gandhara kingdom.
  • It was well known for its Buddhist religious monuments.
  • Druhyu Prince Gandhara was the founder of the Gandhara kingdom.
  • The period of Gandhara kingdom was from 1500 BC - 535 BC.