Later Cholas And Pandyas 11th History Lesson 6 Questions in English
11th History Lesson 6 Questions in English
6] Later Cholas And Pandyas
1. In Which century Pandyas came into power in Tamil Country?
a) 10th century c) 12th century
b) 14th century d) 9th century
Explanation
After the eclipse of the Chola kingdom, Pandyas began their rule in the Vaigai river basin at Madurai wielded tremendous power during the 14th century.
2. Which part of Pandya region had trade contacts with Southeast Asia?
a) Tirunelveli c) Thoothukudi
b) Madurai d) Sivagangai
Explanation
Trade expansion overseas continued in the Pandya rule. Tirunelveli region, which was part of the Pandyan kingdom, exported grain, cotton, cotton cloth and bullocks to the Malabar Coast and had trade contacts with West and Southeast Asia.
3. Which of these empires was having the similar cultural and religious elements of Pandyas?
a) Rajput’s c) Guptas
b) Pallavas d) Chalukyas
Explanation
Pandya kings produced a cultural heritage by synthesizing the religious, cultural and political elements, and it differed totally with the assumed homogeneity of classical age of Guptas.
4. To whom did Cholas remain as subordinates in the Cauvery region?
a) Cheras c) Kakatiya
b) Pandyas d) Pallavas
Explanation
Records available to us after the Sangam Age show that the Cholas remained as subordinates to the Pallavas in the Kaveri region.
5. Which Chola King built the city of Thanjavur?
a) Karikalan c) Raja raja Chozhan
b) Vijayalaya d) Rajendra
Explanation
The re-emergence of Cholas began with Vijayalaya (850–871 CE) conquering the Kaveri delta from Muttaraiyar. He built the city of Thanjavur and established the Chola kingdom in 850.
6. How the Historians refer to the Later Cholas in south Indian history?
a) Imperial Cholas c) After Cholas
b) Elite Cholas d) All of the above
Explanation
Historians refer to them as the Later Cholas or Imperial Cholas. In the copper plate documents of his successors that are available the Cholas trace their ancestry to the Karikalan, the most well-known of the Cholas of the Sangam age.
7. Who tried to expand the territory of Cholas?
a) Parantaka Chola c) Kulothunga III
b) Vijayalaya Chola d) Karikala Chola
Explanation
Vijayalaya illustrious successors starting from Parantaka I (907–955) to Kulothunga III (1163–1216) brought glory and fame to the Cholas. Parantaka Chola set the tone for expansion of the territory and broadened the base of its governance.
8. Who extended Chola territory by naval operations?
a) Rajendra I c) Karikalan
b) Vijayalaya d) Rajaraja I
Explanation
Rajaraja I (985–1014), the builder of the most beautiful Brihadishvarar temple at Thanjavur, and his son Rajendra I (1012–1044),whose naval operation extended as far as Sri Vijaya, consolidated the advances made by their predecessors and went on to establish Chola hegemony in peninsular India.
9. Match
A. Quasi Historical i) Kamba Ramayanam
B. Great Epic ii) Neminatam
C. Grammar works iii) Kalingattupparani
a) iii, i, ii c) iii, ii, i
b) i, iii, ii d) ii, i, iii
Explanation
The quasi-historical literary works Kalingattupparani and Kulotungancholan Pillai Tamizh were composed during their reign. Muvarula, and Kamba Ramayanam, the great epic, belong to this period. Neminatam, Viracholiyam and Nannul are noted grammatical works. Pandikkovai and Takkayagapparani are other important literary works composed during this later Chola period.
10. What were the other names of the Chola dynasty in Tamil country?
a) Chonadu c) Cholamandalam
b) Cholanadu d) All the above
Explanation
Traditionally, the area under the Chola dynasty in the Tamizh country is known as Chonadu or Cholanadu. Their core kingdom was concentrated in the Kaveri-fed delta called Cholamandalam. This term came to be corrupted as “Coromandel” in the European languages, which often referred to the entire eastern coast of South India.
11. Which of these parts of Tamil Country were included by military conquests of Cholas?
a) Pudukottai c) Ramanathapuram
b) Kongu country d) All the above
Explanation
The Chola kingdom expanded through military conquests to include present-day Pudukottai–Ramanathapuram districts and the Kongu country of the present-day western Tamil Nadu.
12. Identify the Incorrect Match
A. Tondainadu i) North
B. Pandinadu ii) South
C. Gangaivadi iii) Southern Karnataka
D. Malaimandalam iv) East
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) iv only
Explanation
By the 11th century through invasions, Cholas extended their territory to Tondainadu or the northern portion of the Tamizh country, Pandinadu or the southern portions of the Tamizh country, Gangaivadi or portions of southern Karnataka and Malaimandalam, the Kerala territory.
13. Which of these conquer named the Chola dynasty as Mummudi Cholamandalam?
a) Kerala c) North East Sri Lanka
b) Southern Tamil Country d) Karnataka
Explanation
The Cholas ventured overseas conquering the north-eastern parts of Sri Lanka, bringing it under their control and they called it Mummudi-Cholamandalam.
14. Rajaraja I,
i) He engaged in naval expeditions and conquered the Maldives.
ii) The North eastern part of Sri Lanka was under his control.
iii) The Tamil chief appointed by him built a Siva temple in Sri Lanka.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
Rajaraja I is the most celebrated of the Chola kings. He engaged in naval expeditions and emerged victorious in the West Coast, Sri Lanka and conquered the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. The military victory of Raja Raja I over Sri Lanka led to its northern and eastern portions coming under the direct control of the Chola authority. Rajaraja I appointed a Tamil chief to govern the annexed regions and ordered a temple to be built. It is locally called Siva Devale (shrine of Siva).
15. In which of this place the Rajarajesvara temple was situated?
a) Thanjavur c) Kerala
b) Mahatitta d) Karnataka
Explanation
The Chola official appointed in Sri Lanka built a temple in a place called Mahatitta. The temple is called Rajarajesvara.
16. Assertion (A): Rajendra I and Rajaraja I jointly attacked the western Chalukyas.
Reasoning(R): Rajaraja I appointed his son Rajendra I as his heir when he was alive.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
Even as he was alive, Rajaraja I appointed his son Rajendra I as his heir apparent. For two years they jointly ruled the Chola kingdom. Rajendra I took part in the military campaigns of his father, attacking the Western Chalukyas.
17. When did Rajendra I made his expedition to Northern India?
a) 1020 c) 1029
b) 1130 d) 1023
Explanation
Rajendra I conducted the most striking military exploit after his accession in 1023 by his expedition to northern India. He led the expedition up to the Godavari River and asked his general to continue beyond that place. The Gangaikonda Chozhapuram temple was built to commemorate his victories in North India.
18. In which of this temple the Dwarapala image could be identified?
a) Big Temple, Thanjavur c) Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
b) Gangai Konda Cholapuram d) Darasuram Temple, Kumbakonam
Explanation
The Chola invasions of Western Chalukya Empire, undertaken in 1003 by Rajaraja I and 1009 by Rajendra I, were also successful. Rajendra sent his son to ransack and ravage its capital Kalayani. The Dwarapala (door keeper) image he brought from Kalayani was installed at the Darasuram temple near Kumbakonam, which can be seen even today.
19. What were the titles of Rajendra I?
a) Mudikonda Cholan c) Pandita Cholan
b) Kadaramkondan d) All the above
Explanation
Rajendra I assumed the titles such as Mudikonda Cholan (the crowned Chola), Gangaikondan (conqueror of the Ganges), Kadaramkondan (conqueror of Kadaram) and Pandita Cholan (scholarly Cholan).
20. The Chola rulers offered Brahmadeyams to which of these people?
a) Rajagurus c) Neighbor Kings
b) Senapathy d) Pesants
Explanation
Chola rulers appointed Brahmins as spiritual preceptors or raja gurus (the kingdom’s guide). Rajaraja I and Rajendra I mention the names of raja gurus and Sarva-sivas in their inscriptions. Patronizing Brahmins was seen to enhance their prestige and legitimacy. Chola kings therefore granted huge estates of land to Brahmins as brahmadeyams and caturvedimangalams.
21. How many conventional divisions of army were present in the Chola army?
a) 5 c) 2
b) 3 d) 4
Explanation
Cholas maintained a well-organized army. The army consisted of three conventional divisions: infantry, cavalry (kudirai sevagar) and the elephant corps (anaiyatkal).
22. Match the names of the Cholas army
A. Sword Bearers i) Perundanam
B. Bowmen ii) konduvar
C. Upper rank iii) Valilar
D. Spearman iv) Villaligal
a) ii, i, iv, iii c) iii, iv, i, ii
b) i, iii, iv, ii d) ii, iii, iv, i
Explanation
In Chola army there were bowmen (villaligal), sword-bearers (valilar) and spearmen (konduvar). Two types of ranks in the army are also mentioned: the upper and the lower (perundanam and cirudanam).
23. Which of these does not belong to the local functional groups of the Chola Empire?
a) Urar c) Padaividu
b) Nattar d) Sabhaiyar
Explanation
Various locality groups functioned actively in the Chola period. These were bodies such as Urar, Sabhaiyar, Nagarattar and Nattar. They were relatively autonomous organizations of the respective groups. They are considered the building blocks using which the edifice of the Chola state was built.
24. Choose the Incorrect statements regarding Urar.
i) Urar was the Landholders in the villages.
ii) They collected revenue and maintained law and order.
iii) Urar may not obey the Kings order always.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
The Urar, who were landholders in the village, acted as spokesmen in the Ur. The Urar were entrusted with the upkeep of temples, maintenance of the tanks and managing the water stored in them. They also discharged administrative functions of the state such as collection of revenue maintenance of law and order, and obeying the king’s orders.
25. Which of these places were the settlements of traders in the Chola dynasty?
a) Nagaram c) Padaividu
b) Sabhaiyar d) Urar
Explanation
Nagaram was a settlement of traders. However, skilled artisans engaged in masonry, ironsmithing, goldsmithing, weaving and pottery also occupied the settlement. It was represented by the Nagarattaar, who regulated their association with temples, which needed their financial assistance.
26. Which of these places were administered by Maanagaram in the reign of Rajaraja I?
a) Thanjavur c) Tiruchirappalli
b) Karur d) Mamallapuram
Explanation
In the reign of Rajaraja I, Mamallapuram was administrated by a body called Maanagaram. Local goods were exchanged in Nagaram.
27. Which of these Chola king revoked the collection of Toll free?
a) Parantaka Cholan c) Rajendra Cholan
b) Rajaraja Cholan d) Kulotunga Cholan
Explanation
In order to promote trade, inland and sea way, Kulotunga revoked the collection of toll fee (Sungam). Hence he was conferred the title Sungam Thavirtha Chozhan.
28. Which of these people are refereed as the pillars of the state under the Chola rule?
a) Urar c) Sabhaiyar
b) Nattar d) Nagarattar
Explanation
Nattar functioned as pillars of the state structure under the Cholas. They discharged many of the administrative, fiscal and judicial responsibilities of the state. They held hereditary land rights and were responsible for remitting the tax from the respective nadu to the state.
29. What was the title given to the possessor of Land in the Chola Dynasty?
a) Araiyan c) Asudaiyan
b) Kilavan d) Urar
Explanation
Landholders of the nadu held the honorific titles such as asudaiyan (possessor of land), araiyan (leader) and kilavan (headman).
30. Which of these inscriptions give the detail about the process of Election?
a) Uttaramerur c) Adichanallur
b) Thanjavur d) Tirunelveli
Explanation
Two inscriptions (919 and 921) from a Brahmadeya (tax-free land gifted to Brahamans) called Uttaramerur (historically called Uttaramallur Caturvedimangalam) give details of the process of electing members to various committees that administered the affairs of a Brahmin settlement.
31. What were the prescribed qualifications for becoming a ward member under the Chola rule?
i) Any person above the age of 25 will be eligible.
ii) He must have knowledge of Vedas and Bhasyas.
iii) He must own a huge amount of Cattle and agricultural land.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
The prescribed qualifications for becoming a ward member were clearly spelt out in the Brahmadeya inscriptions. A male, above 35 but below 75, having a share of property and a house of his own, with knowledge of Vedas and bhasyas was considered eligible. The names of qualified candidates from each ward were written on the palm-leaf slips and put into a pot (kudavolai).
32. What is the purpose of puravuvari-tinaikkalam in the Chola Administration?
a) Department of Land Revenue c) Department of Exports
b) Department of Army d) Department of Sea Trade
Explanation
The Chola state collected land tax out of the agrarian surplus for its revenue. There was an elaborate “department of land revenue” known as puravuvari-tinaikkalam, with its chief called puravuvari-tinaikkalanayagam.
33. What was the purpose of the tax Kudimai in the Chola Empire?
a) The Cultivating tenants pay the tax to the Government.
b) The Landlords pay the tax to the Chola Government.
c) The King collects the tax from the Local chiefs.
d) The Pesants pay the tax to the Local chiefs.
Explanation
An important category of tax was kudimai. Kudimai was paid by the cultivating tenants to the government and to the landlords, the bearers of honorific titles such as udaiyan, araiyan and kilavar. The tax rates were fixed depending on the fertility of the soil and the status of the landholder. Opati were levied and collected by the king and local chiefs.
34. Choose the correct statements regarding the Vativaykkal.
i) It is a traditional way of Agriculture.
ii) Vati runs is the drainage channel runs in the North-south direction.
iii) Vaykkal is the Supply channel runs in the South-West direction.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
Vativaykkal, a criss-cross channel, is a traditional way of harnessing rain water in the Kavery delta. Vati runs in the north–south direction while vaykkal runs in the east–west direction. Technically, Vati is a drainage channel and a vaykkal is a supply channel.
35. Assertion (A): Rajendra Chola I done the irrigation work at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Reasoning(R): Rajendra described the irrigation work as his Jalamayam Jayasthambham.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
The irrigation work done by Rajendra Chola I at Gangaikonda Chozhapuram was an embankment of solid masonry 16 miles long. Rajendra described it as his jalamayam jayasthambham, meaning “pillar of victory in water.
36. Which Chola ruler standardized the Collection of Tax?
a) Rajendra I c) Kulothunga
b) Rajaraja I d) Karikala
Explanation
Paddy as tax was collected by a unit called Kalam (28 kg). Rajaraja I standardized the collection of tax. He collected 100 Kalam from the land of one veli.
37. What was the term used for the amount of water released from a channel?
a) Nirkkiintavaru c) Talaivay
b) Kumizh d) Both b and c
Explanation
The allotment of water is described as nirkkiintavaru (share of water as allotted).The water was released through kumizh (sluice) or talaivay (head-channel). Royal orders warned the people against the violation of water rights and encroachment of water resources gifted to the Brahmadeya settlements.
38. Choose the correct statements.
i) The Eriayam tax was collected by the Chola Kings.
ii) Local leaders like araiyan owned and administered the irrigation tanks.
iii) Kulattar was in charge of the Kulam in the Chola dynasty.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
Village assemblies under the Cholas collected a tax called eriayam, which was utilized for repairing irrigation tanks. Sometimes local leaders like araiyan repaired and renovated irrigation tanks destroyed in a storm. There were instances of the water from a tank shared by villagers and the temples. A group of people who were in charge of kulam was called kulattar.
39. Assertion (A): The Agrarian society was the prime determinant of Social status during the Chola period.
Reasoning(R): The Brahmin landholders were at the top in the settlements with tax exemption.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
In the predominantly agrarian society prevailing during the Chola period landholding was the prime determinant of social status and hierarchy. The Brahmin landholders called brahmadeya-kilavars at the top Brahmadeya settlements with tax exemption were created, displacing (kudi neekki) the local peasants.
40. Which Chola King was titled as Siva Pada Sekaran?
a) Rajendra I c) Kulothunga
b) Rajaraja I d) Karikalan
Explanation
Rajaraja I is portrayed with his wives worshiping Lord Siva in Thanjavur Brihadishvarar temple. One of the titles of Rajaraja I is Siva Pada Sekaran one who clutches the foot of Lord Siva.
41. Who recovered and codified the Saiva Thirumurai in the Chola reign?
a) Nambi Andar Nambi c) Gnana sambhandar
b) Manikavasagar d) Appar
Explanation
The Saiva canon the Thirumurai was codified after it was recovered by Nambi Andar Nambi. Oduvars and Padikam Paduvars were appointed to sing in the temples to recite Thirumurai daily in the temple premises. The singers of hymns were known as vinnappamseivar.
42. Choose the Correct statements.
i) Saiva Siddhanta was founded during the Chola period.
ii) Meikandar composed the Sivagnana Bodham.
iii) The Saiva Monasteries emerged and expounded the philosophy of the Saiva Siddhanta.
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) All the above
Explanation
A highly evolved philosophical system called Saiva Siddhanta was founded during this period. The foundational text of this philosophy, Sivagnana Bodham, was composed by Meikandar. Fourteen texts, collectively called Saiva Siddhantha Sastram, form the core of this philosophy. In later times many Saiva monasteries emerged and expounded this philosophy.
43. Which of this Chola ruler influenced a theological tussle between Saivism and Vaishanvism?
a) Rajendra I c) Karikala
b) Parantaka I d) Kulothunga II
Explanation
The devotion of Chola rulers to Saivism became a strong passion in due course of time. Kulothunga II, for instance exhibited such a trait. The theological tussle was fierce between state religion Saivism, and Vaishnavism so much so that Vaishnavism was sidelined to the extent of its apostle Sri Ramanujar leaving the Chola country for Melkote in Karnataka.
44. Which of these Traditional art forms were portrayed in the Sculptures of the Chola Temples?
a) Bharatham c) Sakkaik Kuthu
b) Kuchipudi d) Devarattam
Explanation
Traditional dance items like kudak-kuthu and sakkaik-kuthu were portrayed in the form of sculptures and paintings in the temples in Kilapalivur, Tiruvorriyur. Nirutya and karna poses are shown in sculptural forms in the Thanjavur big temple.
45. Which of these idols were present in the outer walls of the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple?
a) Ardhanariswarar c) Cantesa Anugrahamurty
b) Durga d) All the above
Explanation
In commemoration of his victory in North India, Rajendra I built Gangaikonda Chozhapuram on the model of Brihadishvarar temple in Thanjavur. The sculptures of Ardhanariswarar, Durga, Vishnu, Surya, and Cantesa Anugrahamurty are the best pieces of the idols of gods placed in the niches of the outer wall of sanctum.
46. State the Height of the main Vimana of the Big Temple in Thanjavur?
a) 250 feet c) 75 feet
b) 190 feet d) 100 feet
Explanation
The Grand Temple of Thanjavur, known as Rajarajisvaram and Brihadishvarar Temple, stands as an outstanding example of Chola architecture, painting, sculpture and iconography. This temple greatly legitimized Raja raja’s polity. The sanctum with a Vimana of 190 feet is capped with a stone weighing 80 tons.
47. Which Chola King built the Darasuram Temple?
a) Rajaraja I c) Rajaraja II
b) Rajendra II d) Kulothunga I
Explanation
Darasuram Temple, built by Rajaraja II (1146–1172), is yet another important contribution of the Cholas to temple architecture. Incidents from the Periyapuranam, in the form of miniatures are depicted on the base of the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) wall of the temple.
48. Choose the correct statements
i) Anjuvannattar group consisted of the West Asians Muslim people only.
ii) Anjuvannattar was settled at the port towns of the West coast.
a) i only c) Both i and ii
b) ii only d) Neither i nor ii
Explanation
Anjuvannattar comprised West Asians, including Jews, Christians and Muslims. They were maritime traders and were settled all along the port towns of the west coast.
49. Which of these places were not the settlement places of the Manigramattar trade people?
a) Uraiyur c) Mylapore
b) Piranmalai d) Kodumbalur
Explanation
Manigramattar were busy with trade in the hinterland. They settled in interior towns like Kodumbalur Uraiyur, Kovilpatti, Piranmalai and others.
50. What was the Head quarter of the guild traders of the Chola Dynasty?
a) Uraiyur c) Kollam
b) Nagapattinam d) Ayyavole
Explanation
In due course both groups of Anjuvannnattar and Manigramattar merged and got incorporated under the banner of ainutruvar, disai-ayirattu-ainutruvar and valanciyar functioning through the head guild in Ayyavole in Karnataka.
51. Assertion (A): The Ainutruvar head group controlled the maritime trade in the Chola Dynasty.
Reasoning(R): Pudhukottai and Nagapattinam were one of the maritime centers during the Chola reign.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
The Ainutruvar guild controlled the maritime trade covering South-east Asian countries. Munai-santai (Pudukottai), Mylapore and Tiruvorriyur (Chennai), Nagapattinam, Vishakhapatnam and Krishnapattinam (south Nellore) became the centers of the maritime trade groups.
52. Who established the Vedic College at Ennayiram?
a) Rajaraja I c) Rajendra I
b) Kulothunga II d) Parantaka I
Explanation
Rajendra I established a Vedic college at Ennayiram (South Arcot district). There were 340 students in this Vaishnava center, learning the Vedas, Grammar and Vedanta under 14 teachers. This example was later followed by his successors and, as a result, two more such colleges were founded, at Tribuvani near Pondicherry in 1048 and the other at Tirumukudal, Chengalpattu district, in 1067.
53. What were the causes of the Decline of the Chola Dynasty?
a) Dominance of the Local Chiefs c) Dependent on Hoysala Kingdom
b) Frequent invasions of Pandyas d) All the Above
Explanation
The Chola dynasty was paramount in South India from the ninth to the thirteenth centuries. By the end of the twelfth century, local chiefs began to grow in prominence, which weakened the centre. With frequent invasions of Pandyas, the once mighty empire, was reduced to the status of a dependent on the far stronger Hoysalas.
54. When did Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan sack the Gangaikonda Cholapuram?
a) 1154 c) 1453
b) 1264 d) 1060
Explanation
In 1264, the Pandyan ruler Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I sacked the Chola’s capital of Gangaikonda Chozhapuram. With Kanchipuram lost earlier to the Telugu Cholas, the remaining Chola territories passed into the hands of the Pandyan king.
55. Which of these Chola King was defeated by the Maravarman Kulasekara Pandyan in 1279?
a) Kulothunga II c) Rajaraja II
b) Rajathiraja d) Rajendra Cholan III
Explanation
The year 1279 marks the end of Chola dynasty when King Maravarman Kulasekara Pandyan I defeated the last king Rajendra Chola III and established the rule by Pandyas.
56. Which of these regions were controlled by the Sambuvarayars during the Chola reign?
a) North Arcot c) Tirunelveli
b) South Arcot d) Madurai
Explanation
Sambuvarayars were chieftains in the North Arcot and Chengalpattu regions during the reign of Chola kings, Rajathiraja and Kulothunga III. Though they were feudatories, they were found fighting sometimes on the side of their overlords and occasionally against them also.
57. What was the capital of the Raja Ghambira Rajyam of Sambuvarayars?
a) Chengalpattu c) Ginjee
b) Padaividu d) Vellore
Explanation
From the late 13th century to the end of Pandya ascendency, they wielded power along the Palar river region. The kingdom was called Raja Ghambira Rajyam and the capital was in Padaividu.
58. Whose campaign influenced the vanquish of the Sultan of Madurai?
a) Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan c) Rajanarayan Sambuvarayan
b) Kumarakampana d) Rajendra I
Explanation
The latter who ruled for 20 years was overthrown by Kumarakampana of Vijayanagar. It is after this campaign that Kumarakampana went further south, as far as Madurai, where he vanquished the Sultan of Madurai in a battle.
59. Which was the early capital of the Pandyas?
a) Korkai c) Tirunelveli
b) Madurai d) Uraiyur
Explanation
Pandyas were one of the muvendars that ruled the southern part of India, though intermittently, until the pre-modern times. Korkai, a town historically associated with pearl fisheries, is believed to have been their early capital and port. They moved to Madurai later.
60. What were the other names of Madurai?
a) Kudal c) Korkai
b) Matirai d) Both a and b
Explanation
Many early Tamil inscriptions of Pandyas have been found in Madurai and its surroundings. Madurai is mentioned as Matirai in these Tamil inscriptions, whereas Tamil classics refer to the city as Kudal, which means assemblage.
61. When did the Pandyas establish their supremacy in the South Tamil Nadu?
a) 6th Century CE c) 8th Century BCE
b) 10th Century BCE d) 12th Century CE
Explanation
The Pandyas established their supremacy in South Tamil Nadu by the end of the sixth century CE. A few Copper plates form the source of our definite knowledge of the Pandyas from the seventh to the ninth century.
62. Assertion (A): The Velvikkudi grant of Nedunjadayan is the most important copper plate source of Pandyas.
Reasoning(R): The copper plate inscriptions give the details of the Royal orders and the donations and Victories of the Kings.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
The Velvikkudi grant of Nedunjadayan is the most important among them. Copper plates inform the essence of royal orders, genealogical list of the kings their victory over the enemies, endowments and donations they made to the temples and the Brahmins.
63. Which of these travellers does not belong to the Pandya reign?
a) Marco polo c) Ibn-Battuta
b) Wassaff d) Fa-Hien
Explanation
Accounts of travellers such as Marco Polo, Wassaff and Ibn-Battuta are useful to know about political and socio-cultural developments of this period. Madurai Tala Varalaru, Pandik Kovai and Madurai Tiruppanimalai provide information about the Pandyas of Madurai.
64. In which of these CE literature works the word Sangam occurs?
a) Manimakalai c) Pandikkovai
b) Iraiyanar Akapporul d) Periya Puranam
Explanation
Though pre-Pallavan literary works do not speak of Sangam as an academy, the term Sangam occurs in Iraiyanar Akapporul of late seventh or eighth century CE. The term Sangam, which means an academy, is used in late medieval literary works like Periya Puranam and Tiruvilaiyadal Puranam.
65. Identify the Incorrect Match of the Pandya territory.
A. Vaigai i) North
B. Indian Ocean ii) South
C. Western Ghats iii) West
D. Bay of Bengal iv) East
a) i only c) iii only
b) ii only d) iv only
Explanation
The territory of Pandyas is called Pandymandalam, Thenmandalam or Pandynadu, which lay in the rocky, hilly regions and mountain ranges except the areas fed by the rivers Vaigai and Tamiraparni. River Vellar running across Pudukottai region had been demarcated as the northern border of the Pandya country, while Indian Ocean was its southern border. The Western Ghats remained the border of the west while the Bay of Bengal formed the eastern border.
66. Assertion (A): Pandyas revival happened after the disappearance of Kalabhras.
Reasoning(R): The Kalabhras extended their patronage to Buddhism and Jainism.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
The revival of the Pandyas seems to have taken place after the disappearance of the Kalabhras. Once hill tribes, the Kalabhras had soon taken to a settled life, extending their patronage to Buddhists and Jains.
67. Who recovered Pandya territory from the Kalabhras?
a) Maravarman c) Narasimhavarman
b) Kadunkon d) Vanavan
Explanation
Kadunkon recovered Pandya territory from the Kalabhras according to copper plates, was succeeded by two others Sendan and Maravraman.
68. Which Pandya King expanded his territory to Coimbatore and Salem districts?
a) Rajasimhan c) Varaguna I
b) Ranadhira II d) Sundara Pandyan
Explanation
The Jatila Parantaka Nedunjadayan (Varaguna I) (756–815) was the donor of the Velvikkudi plates. He was also known as the greatest of his dynasty and successfully handled the Pallavas and the Cheras. He expanded the Pandya territory into Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Salem and Coimbatore districts. He is also credited with building several Siva and Vishnu temples.
69. Name the Pandya king who invaded Ceylon?
a) Kochadayan Ranadhira c) Rajasimhan I
b) Srimara Srivallabha d) Varaguna II
Explanation
The Pandya king Srimara Srivallabha (815–862) invaded Ceylon and maintained his authority. However, he was subsequently defeated by Pallava Nandivarman III (846–869).
70. Which Chola King defeated the last Pandya ruler Rajasimhan II?
a) Parantaka I c) Rajendra II
b) Kulothunga II d) Rajathiraja
Explanation
The successors of Varaguna II, Parantaka Viranarayana and Rajasimha II, could not stand up to the rising Chola dynasty under Parantaka I. Parantaka I defeated the Pandya king Rajasimha II who fled the country in 920CE.
71. Marco Polo was a traveller from _____ visited Kayal in the year_____&____.
a) Rome, 1200 & 1130 c) Iran, 1289 & 1378
b) Persia, 1316 & 1140 d) Venice, 1288 & 1293
Explanation
Pandya kingdom became the leading Tamil dynasty in the thirteenth century. Madurai was their capital. Kayal was their great port. Marco Polo, the famous traveller from Venice, visited Kayal twice, in 1288 and in 1293. He tells us that this port town was full of ships from Arabia and China and bustling with business activities.
72. Assertion (A): Sadaiyavarman Sundara Pandyan was the most illustrious ruler of the Later Pandyas.
Reasoning(R): He extended his authority up to Nellore in Andhra Pradesh and conquered the Chera Ruler.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False.
Explanation
The illustrious ruler of the second Pandya kingdom was Sadaiyavarman (Jatavarman) Sundara Pandyan (1251–1268), who not only brought the entire Tamil Nadu under his rule, but also exercised his authority up to Nellore in Andhra. Under his reign, the Pandya state reached its zenith, keeping the Hoysalas in check. Sundara Pandyan conquered the Chera ruler, the chief of Malanadu, and extracted a tribute from him.
73. Who claimed the protection of Alauddin Khalji?
a) Maravarman Kulasekara c) Rajasimhan II
b) Sundara Pandyan III d) Vira Pandyan
Explanation
The elder son of Maravarman Khulasekharan, Sundara Pandyan III fled to Delhi and took refuge under the protection of Alauddin Khalji. This turn of events provided an opening for the invasion of Malik Kafur.
74. Up to Which year the Madurai was under the Delhi Sultanate?
a) 1335 c) 1435
b) 1248 d) 1378
Explanation
In Madurai, a Muslim state subordinate to the Delhi Sultan came to be established and continued until 1335 CE when the Muslim Governor of Madurai Jalaluddin Asan Shah threw off his allegiance and declared him as independent.
75. Which of these is not the Title of the Later Pandyas?
a) Kodanda Raman c) Puvanekaviran
b) Kolakalan d) Eka Viran
Explanation
The Pandya kings are traditionally revered as Kudalkon, Kudal Nagar Kavalan, and Madurapura Paramesvaran. Titles of the later Pandyas in Sanskrit include Kodanda Raman, Kolakalan, Puvanekaviran, and Kaliyuga Raman.
76. What was the name of the Royal scribe by the Pandya Kings?
a) Munaiya Daraiyan c) Tirumantira Olai
b) Pandiya Daraiyan d) Kalinkat Traiyan
Explanation
The king issued royal order orally while majestically seated on the couches. It was documented by royal scribe called Tirumantira Olai.
77. Match
A. Royal Palace i) Eluttu Mandapam
B. Prime Minister ii) Pallivelan
C. Royal Secretariat iii) Tirumaligai
D. Military Commanders iv) Uttaramantri
a) iii, iv, i, ii c) iii, i, ii, iv
b) iii, ii, iv, i d) ii, iii, iv, i
Explanation
The Royal palaces of Pandya rulers were called Tirumaligai and Manaparanan Tirumaligai. The prime minister was called Uttaramantri. The royal secretariat was known as Eluttu Mandapam. Akapparivara Mudalikal was the personal attendants of the kings. The titles of military commanders were Palli Velan, Parantakan Pallivelan, Maran Adittan and Tennavan Tamizhavel.
78. Name the unique political division of the Pandya reign?
a) Kurram c) Kulakkil
b) Mangalam d) Nadu
Explanation
A unique political division in Pandy Mandalam is Kulakkil, area under irrigation tank. For instance, Madurai is described in an inscription as Madakkulakkil Madurai.
79. Who were titled as the Brahmmadhi Rajan and Brahmmaraiyan in the Pandya Dynasty?
a) Military Commanders c) Brahmins
b) Prime Ministers d) Nattar
Explanation
Kings and local chiefs created Brahmin settlements called Mangalam or Caturvedimangalam with irrigation facilities. These settlements were given royal names and names of the deities. Influential Brahmins had honorific titles such as Brahmmadhi Rajan and Brahmmaraiyan.
80. Which of these places were the Trade guilds of the Pandyas?
a) Periyakulam c) Sivagangai
b) Madurai d) Pudhukottai
Explanation
In the inscriptions, the traders are referred to as nikamattor, nanadesi, ticai-ayiratu-ainutruvar, ainutruvar, manikiramattar and patinen-vishyattar. They founded the trade guilds in Kodumpalur and Periyakulam.
81. Assertion (A): People trading the horses were called as Kudirai-Chetti.
Reasoning (R): Marco Polo and Wassaff stated about the Pandya Kings interest and need of Horses.
a) Both A and R is True and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R is True and R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is True but R is False.
d) Both A and R is False
Explanation
In the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, horse trade was brisk. Marco Polo and Wassaff state that the kings invested in horses as there was a need of horses for ceremonial purposes and for fighting wars. Those who were trading in horses were called kudirai-chetti. They were active in maritime trade also.
82. Choose the In Correct Statements.
i) The Pandya rulers built Canals on the either sides of the rivers Vaigai and Tamiraparni.
ii) The Sendan Maran inscription gives the details of the Tamiraparni river bed Sluice.
a) i only c) Both i and ii
b) ii only d) Neither i nor ii
Explanation
On either side of the rivers Vaigai or Tamiraparni, canals leading to the tanks for irrigation were built. The Sendan Maran inscription of Vaigai river bed speaks of a sluice installed by him to distribute the water from the river. Sri Maran Srivallabha created a big tank, which is till now in use.
83. Identify the Correct Match
A. Pumipittirar i) Pesants
B. Nattumakkal ii) Land Owners
C. Cittirameli-Periyanattar iii) Communal Assembly
D. Iruppaikkuti-kilavan iv) Local people
a) I only c) iii only
b) ii only d) iv only
Explanation
Iruppaikkuti-kilavan, a local chief built many tanks and repaired the tanks in disrepair. The actual landowning groups are described as the Pumipittirar. Historically they were locals and hence they were referred to as nattumakkal. The communal assembly of this group is Cittirameli-periyanattar.
84. What were the other names of the Sluice device used in Pandya irrigation Techniques?
a) Kumili c) Madai
b) Madagu d) All the above
Explanation
Sluice is a device to distribute the water from the water resources like river, tank and lakes. It is called Kumili, madai and Madagu in inscriptions.
85. Which of these literary texts does not belong to the Pandyas period?
a) Tiruppavai c) Tiruvasagam
b) Tirumantiram d) Periya Puranam
Explanation
The important Tamil literary texts composed in the reign of the Pandyas were Tiruppavai, Tirvempavai, Tiruvasagam, Tirukkovai and Tirumantiram.
86. Which of these was the religion of early Pandyas?
a) Saivism c) Jainism
b) Buddhism d) Vaishnavism
Explanation
It is said that Pandyas were Jains initially and later adopted Saivism. Inscriptions and the sculptures in the temples attest to this belief. The early rock-cut cave temples were the outcrop of transitional stage in religion and architecture.
87. Which of these locations does not have the rock cut temples of the Early Pandyas?
a) Pillayarpatti c) Kalugumalai
b) Tiruchendur d) Ellora
Explanation
The prominent rock-cut cave temples created by the early Pandyas are found in Pillayarpatti, Tirumeyyam, Kuntrakkudi, Tiruchendur, Kalugumalai, Kanyakumari and Sittannavasal.
88. Who renovated the Sittannavasal temple in the 9th Century?
a) Maravarman c) Srivallaban
b) Kulasekara d) Rajasimha
Explanation
A 9th century inscription from Sittannavasal cave temple informs that the cave was authored by Ilam Kautamar. Another inscription of the same period tells us that Sri Maran Srivallaban renovated this temple.
89. Which of these region people were having Matrimonial links with the Pandya Kings?
a) Arabian Dynasties c) Persian Dynasties
b) Southeast Asian Dynasties d) China Dynasties
Explanation
The busiest port-towns were located all along the east coast of the Tamizh country. By establishing matrimonial link with Southeast Asian dynasties, Pandyas left an imprint in maritime trade activities.
90. Which of these Pandyan King donated a Vishnu idol of the Srirangam temple?
a) Sadaiyavarman Sundara Pandyan c) Maravarman Kulasekara
b) Rajasimhan II d) Sri vallabha
Explanation
Sadaiyavarman Sundara Pandyan was anointed in Srirangam temple, and to commemorate it, he donated an idol of Vishnu to the temple.