The Guptas 11th History Lesson 3 Questions in English

11th History Lesson 3 Questions in English

3] The Guptas

1. In the period from c. 300 to 700 CE which kingdom emerged as a great power and achieved the political unification of a large part of the India?

1. Mauryan kingdom
2. Gupta kingdom
3. Mughal kingdom
4. Delhi sultan

Explanation

In the period from c. 300 to 700 CE the Gupta kingdom emerged as a great power and achieved the political unification of a large part of the Indian subcontinent.

2. Which type of government began to take root during Gupta period?

1. Feudalism
2. Socialism
3. Democratic
4. Anarchism

Explanation

Feudalism as an institution began to take root during this period. With an effective guild system and overseas trade, the Gupta economy boomed.

3. Which class living standard reached a peak during Gupta period?

1. Upper class
2. Middle class
3. Lower class
4. All the above

Explanation

The living standards of upper classes reached a peak. Education, art and study of science progressed, but the feudal system of governance put people in some form of hardship.

4. How many types of sources are there for reconstructing the history of the Gupta period?

1. Two
2. Four
3. Three
4. Five

Explanation

There are three types of sources for reconstructing the history of the Gupta period. I. Literary sources 2. Epigraphical Sources 3. Numismatic Sources

5. Which poet wrote Mudrarakshasam a Sanskrit play?

1. Bhavabhuti
2. Vishakadutta
3. Bharavi
4. Bindusara

Explanation

Devichandraguptam and Mudrarakshasam (Sanskrit play) by Vishakadutta provide details about the rise of the Guptas

6. Which Chinese traveller account for literature source of Gupta kingdom?

1. Fa Hien
2. Yijing
3. Xuan Zang
4. Zheng He

Explanation

The Chinese traveller Fa Hien account for literature source of Gupta kingdom

7. Whose achievements was written in Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription?

1. Bindusara
2. Asoka
3. Samudragupta
4. Chandragupta I

Explanation

Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription – achievements of Chandragupta I.

8. Whose personality and achievements were described in Allahabad Pillar inscription?

1. Bindusara
2. Asoka
3. Samudragupta
4. Chandragupta I

Explanation

Allahabad Pillar inscription – describing Samudragupta’s personality and achievements.

9. Who composed Samudragupta’s personality and achievements in 33 lines?

1. Harisena
2. Harsha
3. Kalidasa
4. Pulakeshin

Explanation

Allahabad Pillar inscription – describing Samudragupta’s personality and achievements in 33 lines composed by Harisena and engraved in Sanskrit in Nagari script.

10. Chandragupta I, who was the third ruler of the Gupta dynasty married to whom?

1. Asandhimitra
2. Padmavati
3. Kumaradevi
4. Subhadrangi

Explanation

Chandragupta I, who was the third ruler of the Gupta dynasty married Kumaradevi, a Lichchavi prince. The marriage is mentioned in the records of his successors with pride indicating that that royal connection would have contributed to the rise of Guptas.

11. Arrange the following rulers in chronological order

1. Samudragupta
2. Ghatotkacha
3. Chandragupta I
4. Sri Gupta
5. 2 – 1 – 4 – 3
6. 2 – 4 – 1 – 3
7. 3 – 1 – 2 – 4
8. 4 – 2 – 3 – 1

Explanation

The first ruler of the Gupta Empire was Sri Gupta (240–280 CE) who was succeeded by his son Ghatotkacha (280–319 CE). Chandragupta I, the son of Ghatotkacha, ruled from 319CE and is considered to be the first great king of the Gupta Empire.

12. When Chandragupta I appointed his son Samudragupta to succeed him?

1. 370 CE
2. 341 CE
3. 335 CE
4. 327 CE

Explanation

Chandragupta I, appointed his son Samudragupta to succeed him in 335 CE. A lengthy eulogy on him, inscribed on an Ashokan pillar, suggests that he was claiming the legacy of the Mauryan kingdom.

13. Which of the following statement regarding Samudragupta is incorrect

1. Four northern kings were conquered mainly in the area around Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh. Twelve kings of the western half of the Ganges Plain were violently uprooted.
2. The kings of the south and the east were forced to pay homage, and from the places mentioned, it appears that Samudragupta campaigned down the eastern coast as far as Kanchipuram.
3. The forest kings (tribal chiefs of Central India and the Deccan) were forced to pay tribute. The kings of Assam and Bengal in eastern India and those of small kingdoms in Nepal and the Punjab also paid tribute by submission
4. Only 1
5. Only 1 and 2
6. Only 3
7. All 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Nine kings of the western half of the Ganges Plain were violently uprooted. Four northern kings were conquered mainly in the area around Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh

14. How many Republics in Rajasthan, including the Malavas and Yaudheyas, were forced to accept Gupta’s suzerainty?

1. Five
2. Seven
3. Nine
4. Twelve

Explanation

Nine Republics in Rajasthan, including the Malavas and Yaudheyas, were forced to accept Gupta’s suzerainty.

15. Who among the following foreign kings didn’t paid tribute to Samudragupta?

1. The Daivaputra Shahanushahi
2. The Khmer
3. The Sakas
4. King of Sri Lanka

Explanation

The foreign kings, such as the Daivaputra Shahanushahi (a Kushana title), the Sakas and the king of Lanka also paid tribute, as mentioned in the eulogy.

16. Samudragupta’s Campaign broke the power of the tribal republics in Rajasthan regions that led to repeated invasions of whom?

1. Huns
2. Timurid
3. Seljuk
4. Ottoman

Explanation

Samudragupta’s campaign broke the power of the tribal republics in Rajastan regions that led to repeated invasions from the Huns.

17. Which Lanka ruler sent presents and requested permission from Samudragupta to build a Buddhist monastery at Gaya?

1. Pandukabhaya
2. Valagamba
3. Vijayabahu
4. Meghavarman

Explanation

The relationship with Kushanas is not certain, but with regard to Lanka, its ruler Meghavarman sent presents and requested permission from Samudragupta to build a Buddhist monastery at Gaya.

18. Samudragupta perform which animal sacrifice ritual to proclaim his military conquests?

1. Buffalo
2. Pig
3. Horse
4. Deer

Explanation

Samudragupata performed the horse sacrifice ritual to proclaim his military conquests.

19. Samudragupta is an ardent follower of which religious form?

1. Shaivism
2. Vaishnavism
3. Buddhism
4. Jainism

Explanation

Samudragupta patronised scholars and poets like Harisena and thus promoted Sanskrit literature. Though an ardent follower of Vaishnavism, he also patronised the great Buddhist scholar Vasubandhu.

20. Who held the title of maharaja-adhiraja (great king over other kings)?

1. Chandragupta II
2. Asoka
3. Samudragupta
4. Chandragupta I

Explanation

Chandragupta I, held the title of maharaja-adhiraja (great king over other kings). His imperial position is inferred from the records of others.

21. Samudragupta coins bear the insignia of him playing which instrument?

1. Ghatam
2. Vina
3. Table
4. Flute

Explanation

Samudragupta coins bear the insignia of him playing the vina (lute).

22. Who came to power after Samudragupta, ruled from 375 to 415 CE?

1. Chandragupta II
2. Bindusara
3. Ashoka
4. Skandagupta

Explanation

Chandragupta II named after his grandfather, Chandragupta II was a capable ruler, who ruled for 40 years from c. 375 to 415 CE. He came to power after a succession struggle with his brother Rama Gupta.

23. Chandragupta is also known as ______

1. Veer Raja
2. Thig Maharaja
3. Vikramaditya
4. Bhoja

Explanation

Chandragupta II is also known as Vikramaditya.

24. What was the capital of Chandragupta II?

1. Magadha
2. Pataliputra
3. Mathura
4. Varanasi

Explanation

With the capital at Pataliputra, Chandragupta II extended the limits of the Gupta Empire by conquest and matrimonial alliances.

25. Chandragupta II married off his daughter Prabhavati to whom?

1. Palava prince
2. Saka prince
3. Kadambas prince
4. Vakataka prince

Explanation

Chandragupta II married off his daughter Prabhavati to a Vakataka prince, who ruled the strategic lands of Deccan. This alliance was highly useful when he proceeded against the Saka rulers of western India.

26. Which of the following statement regarding Chandragupta II is correct?

1. Chandragupta II conquered Deccan and Bengal by defeating the Saka rulers who had reigned for about four centuries in the region
2. After establishing himself in eastern and western India, Chandragupta II defeated northern rulers like the Huns, Kambojas and Kiratas. He was a great conqueror and an able administrator as well.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Chandragupta II conquered western Malwa and Gujarat by defeating the Saka rulers who had reigned for about four centuries in the region.

27. The kingdom’s prosperity grew out of its trade links with which Empire outside India during Chandragupta II?

1. Roman empire
2. Egypt empire
3. Ottoman empire
4. Mongol empire

Explanation

The kingdom’s prosperity grew out of its trade links with Roman Empire.

28. Which of the following is not the other name of Chandragupta II?

1. Devagupta
2. Sakraditya
3. Vikrama
4. Sakari

Explanation

Chandragupta II other names (as mentioned in coins) include Vikrama, Devagupta, Devaraja, Simhavikrama, Vikramaditya and Sakari.

29. Who was given the title “Kaviraja” because of his love for poetry and music?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Chandragupta II
3. Samudragupta
4. Asoka

Explanation

As a lover of poetry and music, Samudragupta was given the title “Kaviraja”.

30. Who was the great Sanskrit poet in the court of Chandragupta II?

1. Kalidasa
2. Amarasimha
3. Dhanvantari
4. Banabhatta

Explanation

Chandragupta II court had nine jewels or navaratnas, that is, nine eminent people in various fields of art, literature and science. This included the great Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, the Sanskrit scholar Harisena, the lexicographer Amarasimha, and the physician Dhanvantari.

31. Which Buddhist scholar from China, visited India during Chandragupta II reign?

1. Yijing
2. Xuan Zang
3. Fa Hien
4. Fotudeng

Explanation

Fa Hien, the Buddhist scholar from China, visited India during Chandragupta II reign. He records the prosperity of the Gupta Empire.

32. Chandragupta II was the first Gupta ruler to issue which coins?

1. Gold coins
2. Silver coins
3. Copper coins
4. Bronze coins

Explanation

Chandragupta II was the first Gupta ruler to issue silver coins. His rule thus formed the peak period of Gupta’s territorial expansion.

33. Who founded the Nalanda University?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Kumara Gupta I
3. Skanda Gupta
4. Chandragupta II

Explanation

Chandragupta II was succeeded by his son Kumara Gupta I, who founded the Nalanda University.

34. Who was the last great king of the Gupta dynasty?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Kamara Gupta
3. Chandragupta II
4. Skanda Gupta

Explanation

The last great king of the Gupta dynasty, Skanda Gupta, was the son of Kumara Gupta I.

35. Which Gupta king was also called Sakraditya?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Kumara Gupta
3. Skanda Gupta
4. Vishnu Gupta

Explanation

Kumara Gupta was also called Sakraditya

36. The recurrence invasion of whom strained Kumara Gupta empire’s coffers?

1. Huns
2. Ottomans
3. Romans
4. Arabs

Explanation

Kumara Gupta was able to repulse an attack by the Huns, but the recurrence of Huns’ invasion strained his empire’s coffers. The Gupta Empire declined after the death of Skanda Gupta in 467 CE.

37. Who was the last recognised king of the Gupta line?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Kumara Gupta
3. Skanda Gupta
4. Vishnu Gupta

Explanation

The last recognised king of the Gupta line was Vishnu Gupta who reigned from 540 to 550 CE.

38. Which of the following is not the title assumed by kings during Gupta age?

1. Maharajadhiraja
2. parama-bhattaraka
3. parameshvara
4. bhramaneshwar

Explanation

During the Gupta age, political hierarchies can be identified by the titles adopted. Kings assumed titles such as maharajadhiraja, parama-bhattaraka and parameshvara.

39. Which king is compared to Purusha (Supreme Being) in the Allahabad inscription?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Chandragupta II
3. Samudragupta
4. Kumara Gupta

Explanation

Samudragupta is compared to Purusha (Supreme Being) in the Allahabad inscription. These assertions can be seen as reflections of an attempt to claim divine status by the king. They were also connected with gods through epithets such as parama-daivata (the foremost worshipper of the gods) and parama-bhagavata (the foremost worshipper of Vasudeva Krishna).

40. Which term occurs in six Vaishali seals, which suggests that this title represented a high-ranking officer associated with an office of his own?

1. Kumaramatya
2. Bharavata
3. Paramasila
4. All the three

Explanation

The term “kumaramatya” occurs in six Vaishali seals, which suggests that this title represented a high-ranking officer associated with an office (adikarana) of his own.

41. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The designation “amatya” occurs on several Bita seals, and the “kumaramatya” seems to have been pre-eminent among amatyas and equivalent in status to princes of royal blood.
2. Kumaramatyas were attached to the king, crown prince, revenue department or a province. One of the Vaishali seals refers to a kumaramatya who seems to have been in charge of the maintenance of the sacred coronation tank of the Lichchavis
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

42. Which of the following is not the tittle given for Harisena, composer of the Allahabad prashasti?

1. Kumaramatya
2. Sandhivigrahika
3. Mahadandanayak
4. Bhindayanka

Explanation

Harisena, composer of the Allahabad prashasti (inscriptions of praise), was a kumaramatya, sandhivigrahika and mahadandanayaka, and was the son of Dhruvabhuti, a mahadandanayaka.

43. The Allahabad prashasti refers to an assembly or council, presumably of ministers, which was known as the ______

1. Mantir
2. Sabha
3. Alaya
4. Vasa

Explanation

The Allahabad prashasti refers to an assembly or council, presumably of ministers, which was known as the Sabha. The Gupta king was assisted by a council of mantrins (ministers)

44. The high-ranking judicial or military officers were called ______

1. Mahadandanayakas
2. Mahasandhivigrahika
3. Bhramanthiyaga
4. Sandhanayaks

Explanation

High-ranking officials were called dandanayakas, and mahadandanayakas were high-ranking judicial or military officers. One of the seals mentions a mahadandanayaka named Agnigupta.

45. Which of the following statement is incorrect

1. The Allahabad prashasti refers to six mahadandanayakas. All these suggest that these posts were hereditary by nature.
2. Another person had a designation mahashvapati (commander of the cavalry), indicating military functions
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

The Allahabad prashasti refers to three mahadandanayakas. All these suggest that these posts were hereditary by nature.

46. The minister for peace and war were called _____

1. Mahadandanayakas
2. Mahasandhivigrahika
3. Bhramanthiyaga
4. Sandhanayaks

Explanation

The various high-ranking functionaries included the sandhivigrahika or mahasandhivigrahika (minister for peace and war), who seems to have been a high-ranking officer in charge of contact and correspondence with other states, including initiating wars and concluding alliances and treaties.

47. The Gupta Empire was divided into provinces known as ____

1. Uru
2. Bhuktis
3. Grama
4. Pariksha

Explanation

The Gupta Empire was divided into provinces known as deshas or bhuktis.

48. What was the designation of Governors who administrated deshas or bhuktis?

1. Uparikas
2. Jawans
3. Thilagas
4. Peernals

Explanation

The deshas or bhuktis were administered by governors who were usually designated as uparikas. The uparika was directly appointed by the king and he, in turn, frequently appointed the head of the district administration and the district board.

49. Which pillar inscription of Budhagupta, dated Gupta year 165 CE, refers to maharaja Surashmichandra as a lokpala?

1. Mehrauli Iron pillar
2. Allahabad pillar
3. Eran pillar
4. Ashoka pillar

Explanation

The Eran pillar inscription of Budhagupta, dated Gupta year 165 CE, refers to maharaja Surashmichandra as a lokpala, governing the land between the Kalinndi and Narmada rivers. Lokpala here seems to refer to a provincial governor.

50. Which of the following statement is correct?

1. Uparika carried on the administration “with the enjoyment of the rule consisting of horses and soldiers not elephants they are reserved for only kings”, indicating his control over the military machinery as well
2. The fact that the uparika had the title maharaja in three of the Damodarpur plates indicates his high status and rank in the administrative hierarchy.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Uparika carried on the administration “with the enjoyment of the rule consisting of elephants, horses and soldiers”, indicating his control over the military machinery as well.

51. The provinces of the Gupta Empire were divided into districts known as ___

1. Urus
2. Deshas
3. Visayas
4. Joras

Explanation

The provinces of the Gupta Empire were divided into districts known as visayas, which were controlled by officers known as vishyapatis. The vishyapatis seems to have been generally appointed by the provincial governor

52. Which among the following is not the name given for the administrative units below the district level included clusters of settlements?

1. Vithi
2. Bhumi
3. Nilam
4. Peta

Explanation

The administrative units below the district level included clusters of settlements known variously as vithi, bhumi, pathaka and peta. There are references to officials known as ayuktakas and vithi-mahattaras.

53. At the village level, villagers chose functionaries such as _____

1. Bhuktis
2. Daivata
3. Mantrin
4. Gramika

Explanation

At the village level, villagers chose functionaries such as gramika and gramadhyaksha.

54. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The Damodarpur copper plate of the reign of Chandragupta I mentions an ashtakula-adhikarana (a board of eight members) headed by the mahattara.
2. Mahattara has a range of meanings including village elder, village headman, and head of a family community.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

The Damodarpur copper plate of the reign of Budhagupta mentions an ashtakula-adhikarana (a board of eight members) headed by the mahattara.

55. The Sanchi inscription of whose time of mentions the panchmandali, which may have been a corporate body?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Chandragupta II
3. Samudragupta
4. Budhagupta

Explanation

The Sanchi inscription of the time of Chandragupta II mentions the panchmandali, which may have been a corporate body.

56. Seals and inscriptions of Gupta period mention military designations such as _____?

1. Pandalike
2. Boonasetha
3. Baladhirkrita
4. Senathari

Explanation

Seals and inscriptions mention military designations such as baladhikrita and mahabaladhikrita (commander of infantry and cavalry). A Vaishali seal mentions the ranabhandagar-adhikarana, which is the office of the military storehouse.

57. The standard term “senapati” does not occur in Gupta inscriptions, but the term could be found in which epigraphs?

1. Maurya
2. Vakataka
3. Pallava
4. Chola

Explanation

The standard term “senapati” does not occur in Gupta inscriptions, but the term could be found in some Vakataka epigraphs.

58. The chief of the palace guards were known as _____

1. Khadyatapakita
2. Adhikarana
3. Subalanga
4. Mahapratiara

Explanation

The chief of the palace guards was known as mahapratiara

59. Which of the following statement is correct

1. A Vaishali seal mentions a person both as a mahapratihara and a taravara. The top layer of the administrative structure also included amatyas and sachivas, who were executive officers in charge of various departments.
2. Another Vaishali seal mentions the adhikarana (office) of the dandapashika, which may have been a superintendent of the royal kitchen.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Another Vaishali seal mentions the adhikarana (office) of the dandapashika, which may have been a district-level police office.

60. The superintendent of the royal kitchen were known as ____

1. Khadyatapakita
2. Adhikarana
3. Subalanga
4. Mahapratiara

Explanation

The superintendent of the royal kitchen was known as the khadyatapakita.

61. The Guptas Military system of espionage included spies known as ____

1. Adhikarna
2. Jhankars
3. Dutakas
4. Bannors

Explanation

The Guptas Military system of espionage included spies known as dutakas. The ayuktakas were another cadre of high-ranking officers.

62. Who wrote ‘Nitisara’ that emphasises the importance of the royal treasury and mentions various sources of revenue?

1. Harisena
2. Dhanvantari
3. Bimbisara
4. Kamandaka

Explanation

Nitisara, written by Kamandaka, is a text like Arthasastra. It emphasises the importance of the royal treasury and mentions various sources of revenue. The many ambitious military campaigns of kings like Samudragupta must have been financed through revenue surpluses.

63. Who was the keeper of royal records in Gupta period?

1. Amarasimha
2. Khadyatapakita
3. Ranabhandagar
4. Akshapataladhikrita

Explanation

The akshapataladhikrita was the keeper of royal records. Gupta inscriptions mention the terms klipta, bali, udranga, uparikara, and iranyavesti meant forced labour.

64. Which among the following is not the crops cultivated during the Gupta period?

1. Rice
2. Chili
3. Pulses
4. Sugarcane

Explanation

The crops cultivated during the Gupta period were rice, wheat, barley, peas, lentils, pulses, sugarcane and oil seeds.

65. From whom, we come to know that the south was famous for pepper and cardamom?

1. Kalidasa
2. Fa Hien
3. Harisena
4. Varman

Explanation

From Kalidasa, we come to know that the south was famous for pepper and cardamom. Varahamihira gives elaborate advice on the plantation of fruit trees.

66. Who among the following brought waste lands under cultivation when they were donated to them as religious endowments?

1. Brahmins
2. Buddhist
3. Jain sanghas
4. All the above

Explanation

Apart from the state and individual cultivators, Brahmins, Buddhists and Jain sanghas brought waste lands under cultivation when they were donated to them as religious endowments.

67. Who was the sole proprietor of the land according to The Paharpur copper plate inscription?

1. God
2. Brahmins
3. King
4. Queen

Explanation

The Paharpur copper plate inscription indicates that the king was the sole proprietor of the land. Even when he made land grants, he reserved his prerogatives over it.

68. Who maintained records of all the land transactions in the district and the village accountant preserved records of land in the village?

1. Khadyatapakita
2. Adhikarana
3. Ustapala
4. Mahapratiara

Explanation

As stated in Paharpur plates, an officer called ustapala maintained records of all the land transactions in the district and the village accountant preserved records of land in the village.

69. Match the following List I with List II and choose the correct answer

List I List II

Land Characteristic

1. Kshetra 1. Waste land
2. Khila 2. Habitable land
3. Aprahata 3. Cultivable land
4. Vasti 4. Jungle or Waste land
5. Gapata Saraha 5. Pastoral land
6. 3 – 1 – 4 – 2 – 5
7. 2 – 4 – 1 – 5 – 3
8. 4 – 3 – 2 – 5 – 1
9. 5 – 1 – 4 – 3 – 2

70. The land Grants made to feudatories of Guptas is known as ____

1. Agrahara grants
2. Devagrahara grants
3. Secular grants
4. Pastoral grants

Explanation

The land Grants made to feudatories of Guptas is known as Secular grants.

71. A land grant in favour of a Brahmin as well as gifts to merchants for the repair and worship of temples is known as _______

1. Agrahara grants
2. Devagrahara grants
3. Secular grants
4. Pastoral grants

Explanation

A land grant in favour of a Brahmin as well as gifts to merchants for the repair and worship of temples is known as Devagrahara grants. Agrahara grants are given to Brahmins, it was perpetual, hereditary and tax free.

72. Which among the following land tenure is not correctly matched with its nature of holding

1. Nivi dharma – Endowment of land under a kind of trusteeship was prevalent in south India and Bengal.
2. Nivi dharma aksayana – A perpetual endowment. The recipient could make use of income derived from it.
3. Aprada dharma – Income from land could be enjoyed, but the recipient is not permitted to gift it to anyone. The recipient has no administrative rights either.
4. Bhumichchidranyaya – Right of ownership acquired by a person making barren land cultivable for the first time. This land was free from any rent liability.

Explanation

Nivi dharma – Endowment of land under a kind of trusteeship was prevalent in North and Central India and Bengal.

73. From which we understand that there were two kinds of dykes: the bardhya and the khara?

1. Kamandakiya Nitisara
2. Narada smriti
3. Dayabhaga
4. Arthashastra

Explanation

From the Narada Smriti, we understand that there were two kinds of dykes: the bardhya, which protected the field from floods, and the khara, which served the purpose of irrigation.

74. To prevent inundation, what were constructed, which is mentioned by Amarasimha?

1. Bardhaya
2. Neerharasata
3. Gangamethaya
4. Jalanirgamah

Explanation

To prevent inundation, jalanirgamah (drains) were constructed, which is mentioned by Amarasimha. Canals were constructed not only from rivers but also from tanks and lakes.

75. The most famous lake was the sudarsana lake present in which state?

1. Gujarat
2. Rajasthan
3. Himachal Pradesh
4. Uttar Pradesh

Explanation

The most famous lake was the Sudarsana lake at the foot of Girnar Hills in Gujarat.

76. Which of the following statement is incorrect

1. The peasants were reduced to the position of serfs due to the caste classification and also due to the granting of various privileges and lands to others
2. The practice of lease-holding increases the permanent tenants to tenants at will. The farmers were required to pay various taxes.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

The practice of lease-holding reduced the permanent tenants to tenants at will (which means tenants could be evicted without notice). The farmers were required to pay various taxes.

77. Who among the following does not make frequent mention of the existence of mines during Gupta period?

1. Amarasimha
2. Varahamihira
3. Charaka
4. Kalidasa

Explanation

Mining and metallurgy were one of the most flourishing industries during the Gupta period. Amarasimha, Varahamihira and Kalidasa make frequent mention of the existence of mines.

78. Which among the following rich deposits metal was mined extensively during Gupta period in Rajasthan?

1. Gold
2. Bronze
3. Silver
4. Copper

Explanation

The rich deposits of iron ore from Bihar and copper from Rajasthan were mined extensively during this period.

79. Which among the following metal is not used during Gupta period?

1. Platinum
2. Antimony
3. Tin
4. Bronze

Explanation

The list of metals used apart from iron were gold, copper, tin, lead, brass, bronze, bell-metal, mica, manganese, antimony, red chalk (sanssilajata) and red arsenic.

80. Who were next only to agriculturists in importance in the society?

1. Horseman
2. Priest
3. Blacksmith
4. Architects

Explanation

Blacksmiths were next only to agriculturists in importance in the society. Metal was used for the manufacture of various domestic implements, utensils and weapons.

81. Where the Mehrauli Iron Pillar of King Chandra is located?

1. Mumbai
2. Delhi
3. Patna
4. Allahabad

Explanation

The most important and visible evidence of the high stage of development in metallurgy is the Mehrauli Iron Pillar of King Chandra in the Qutb Minar Complex in Delhi, identified with Chandragupta II. This monolith iron pillar has lasted through the centuries without rusting.

82. Which among the following tax is correctly matched with its nature?

1. Kara – A periodic tax levied on the villagers
2. Halivakara – A plough tax paid by every cultivator owning a plough
3. Klipta and Upakilpta – Related to sale and purchase of Land
4. Bhoga – King’s customary share of the produce normally amounting to one-sixth of the produce paid by cultivators

Explanation

Bhoga – Periodic supply of fruits, firewood, flowers, etc., which the village had to provide to the king.

83. The tax which was voluntary offering by the people to the king, but later became compulsory is known as ____

1. Bhaga
2. Bali
3. Udianga
4. Hiranya

Explanation

Bali – A voluntary offering by the people to the king, but later became compulsory. It was an oppressive tax.

84. King’s customary share of the produce normally amounting to one-sixth of the produce paid by cultivators, this tax is known as ____

1. Bhaga
2. Bali
3. Udianga
4. Hiranya

Explanation

Bhaga – King’s customary share of the produce normally amounting to one-sixth of the produce paid by cultivators.

85. How many types of traders were in Gupta period?

1. Three
2. Four
3. Six
4. Two

Explanation

The contribution of traders to the soundness of the Gupta economy is quite impressive. Two distinctive types of traders called sresti and sarthavaha existed.

86. Who was a caravan trader who carried his goods to different places for profitable sale?

1. Sresti
2. Sarthavaha
3. Payanastra
4. Soheithava

Explanation

The sarthavaha was a caravan trader who carried his goods to different places for profitable sale. Sresti was usually settled at a particular place and enjoyed an eminent position by virtue of his wealth and influence in the commercial life and administration of the place.

87. Which is a society or other organisation of people with common interests or an association of merchants?

1. Artisans
2. Merchants
3. Guild
4. Peasants

Explanation

Guild is a society or other organisation of people with common interests or an association of merchants. Guilds continued as the major institution in the manufacture of goods and in commercial enterprise.

88. Which among the following statement is incorrect

1. Trade items ranged from products for daily use to valuable and luxury goods. The abundant inscriptions and seals mentioning artisans, merchants and guilds are indicative of the thriving crafts and trade
2. Guilds remained under the control of government. They respected the laws formed by governments in trades.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Guilds remained virtually autonomous in their internal organisation, and the government respected their laws. These laws were generally drafted by a larger body, the corporation of guilds, of which each guild was a member.

89. Which among the following describe the organisation and activities of guilds?

1. Narada Smriti
2. Manusmriti
3. Arthashastra
4. Dayabhaga

Explanation

The Narada Smriti and Brihaspati Smritis describe the organisation and activities of guilds. They mention that the guild had a chief and two, three or five executive officers.

90. Which refers to guilds rendering justice to their members and suggests that these decisions should, by and large, be approved by the king?

1. Narada Smriti
2. Brihaspati Smriti
3. Arthashastra
4. Dayabhaga

Explanation

The Brihaspati Smriti refers to guilds rendering justice to their members and suggests that these decisions should, by and large, be approved by the king. The inscription also records that the chief of the guilds played an important role in the district-level administrative bodies.

91. The guilds also acted as what according to Brihaspati Smriti?

1. Military
2. University
3. Schools
4. Banks

Explanation

In Brihaspati Smriti there is also mention of joint corporate bodies of merchant-bankers, caravan merchants and artisans. The guilds also acted as banks. The names of donors are mentioned in this inscription.

92. The lending of money at an exorbitant rate of interest is known as ____

1. Usury
2. Bribery
3. Debt
4. Evasion

Explanation

Usury (the lending of money at an exorbitant rate of interest) was in practice during the Gupta period. The detailed discussion in the sources of that period indicates that money was used, borrowed and loaned for profit.

93. Who refers to Tamralipti in Bengal as an important centre of trade on the eastern coast?

1. Kalidasa
2. Amarasimha
3. Fa Hein
4. Dhanvantari

Explanation

Fa Hien refers to Tamralipti in Bengal as an important centre of trade on the eastern coast. Fahien describes the perils of the sea route between India and China. The goods traded from India were rare gems, pearls, fine textiles and aromatics.

94. Which among the following is not the port in western coast of India?

1. Calliena
2. Chaul port
3. Arikamedu port
4. Mangarouth

Explanation

There were many ports that facilitated trade in the western coast of India such as Calliena (Kalyan), Chaul port in ruin sixty kilometres south of Mumbai, and the markets of Male (Malabar), Mangarouth (Mangalore), Salopatana, Nalopatana and Pandopatana on the Malabar coast.

95. The ports and towns were connected with which of the following kingdom during Gupta period?

1. Persia
2. China
3. Arabia
4. Egypt

Explanation

The ports and towns were connected with those of Persia, Arabia and Byzantium on the one hand and Sri Lanka, China and Southeast Asia on the other.

96. Which coin was issued by Guptas more than any other coins?

1. Gold
2. Silver
3. Copper
4. Bronze

Explanation

The Guptas issued many gold coins but comparatively few silver and copper coins. However, the post-Gupta period saw a decline in the circulation of gold coins.

97. Which among the following statement regarding Fa Hien’s account on Mathura is Incorrect

1. At Mathura, the people are numerous and happy; they do not have to register their household. Everyone has to pay a portion of the grain from it.
2. In the case of repeated rebellion, their right hands are cut off. Throughout the whole country, the people do not kill any living creatures or drink any intoxicant
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

At Mathura, the people are numerous and happy; they do not have to register their household. Only those who cultivate the royal land have to pay a portion of the grain from it. Criminals are fined both lightly and heavily depending on the circumstances.

98. In the Pataliputra cities, whose families establish houses for dispensing charity and medicines?

1. Brahmins
2. Kshatriyas
3. Vaisyas
4. All the above

Explanation

The inhabitants of Pataliputra are rich and prosperous and vie with one another in the practice of benevolence. In the cities, the Vaisya families establish houses for dispensing charity and medicines.

99. According to which roman historian Huns were a barbarian tribe living near Caspian Sea and contributed to the fall of Roman Empire?

1. Cicero
2. Suetonius
3. Tacitus
4. Tiberius

Explanation

The origin of Huns is not definitely known. According to Roman historian Tacitus, they were a barbarian tribe living near Caspian Sea and contributed to the fall of Roman Empire.

100. Huns organised under whom and were known for their savagery and bestiality in Europe?

1. Bleda
2. Attila
3. Genghis Khan
4. Alaric I

Explanation

Huns organised under Attila and were known for their savagery and bestiality in Europe.

101. White branch of Huns, moved towards India from Central Asia and their invasion began about a hundred years after the Kushanas?

1. White Huns
2. Spear Huns
3. Arrow Huns
4. Blue Huns

Explanation

One branch of Huns, known as white Huns, moved towards India from Central Asia and their invasion began about a hundred years after the Kushanas.

102. Which among the following cave is not correctly mentioned with its location

1. Ajanta cave – Maharashtra
2. Bagh cave – Madhya Pradesh
3. Udayagiri cave – Uttar Pradesh
4. Ellora cave – Maharashtra

Explanation

The most notable groups of the rock-cut caves are found at Ajanta and Ellora (Maharashtra) and Bagh (Madhya Pradesh). The Udayagiri caves (Orissa) are also of this type.

103. The second group of temples shows many of the characteristic features of which style?

1. Nagara style
2. Dravida style
3. Sultan style
4. Huns style

Explanation

The second group of temples shows many of the characteristic features of the Dravida style

104. Which of the following statement is correct

1. By evolving the Nagara and the Dravida styles, the Gupta art ushers in a formative and creative age in the history of Indian architecture with considerable scope for future development.
2. The rock-cut caves continue the old forms to a great extent but possess striking novelty by bringing about extensive changes in the ornamentation of the facade and in the designs of the pillars in the interior.
3. A good specimen of stone sculpture is the well-known erect vishnu from Sarnath. Of the puranic images, perhaps the most impressive is the great Boar (Varaha) at the entrance of a cave at Elora.
4. Only 1
5. Both 1 and 2
6. Both 1 and 3
7. All 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

A good specimen of stone sculpture is the well-known erect Buddha from Sarnath. Of the puranic images, perhaps the most impressive is the great Boar (Varaha) at the entrance of a cave at Udayagiri.

105. Which of the following attributes is not the structural temples in Gupta period?

1. Square temple with a curvilinear tower
2. Circular temple
3. Pyramid shaped roof top square temple
4. Rectangular temple

Explanation

The structural temples have the following attributes: (1) flat-roofed square temples; (2) flat-roofed square temple with a vimana (second storey); (3) square temple with a curvilinear tower (shikara) above; (4) rectangular temple; and (5) circular temple.

106. The importance of the third group of temples lies in the innovation of what?

1. Shikara
2. Sthambha
3. Mandap
4. Pilaster

Explanation

The importance of the third group of temples lies in the innovation of a shikhara that caps the sanctum sanctorum, the main feature of the Nagara style.

107. In which of the following are stupas are found build by Guptas?

1. Samat
2. Ratnagiri
3. Mirpur Khas
4. Lahore

Explanation

Stupas were also built in large numbers but the best are found at Samat (Uttar Pradesh), Ratnagiri (Orissa) and Mirpur Khas (Sind).

108. Where a copper image of the Buddha about eighteen feet high is found build in Gupta period?

1. Uttar Pradesh
2. Madhya Pradesh
3. Bihar
4. Odisha

Explanation

A copper image of the Buddha about eighteen feet high at Nalanda in Bihar and the Sultanganj Buddha of seven-and-a-half feet in height.

109. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The art of stone sculptures seems to have been in popular demand in the Gupta period than the art of painting.
2. The mural paintings of Ajanta are not true frescoes, for frescoes is painted while the plaster is still damp and the murals of Ajanta were made after it had set.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

The art of painting seems to have been in popular demand in the Gupta period than the art of stone sculptures. The mural paintings of this period are found at Ajanta, Bagh, Badami and other places

110. The art of Ajanta and Bagh shows the which School of painting at its best?

1. Barahmasa school of painting
2. Rajagir school of painting
3. Madhyadesa school of painting
4. Purna school of painting

Explanation

The art of Ajanta and Bagh shows the Madhyadesa School of painting at its best.

111. In which of the following area Gupta pottery remains are not found?

1. Hastinapur
2. Rajgarh
3. Ahchichhatra
4. Gauda

Explanation

Gupta pottery remains found at Ahchichhatra, Rajgarh, Hastinapur and Bashar afford proof of excellence of pottery. The most distinctive class of pottery of this period is the “red ware”.

112. Which are religious texts covering a wide range of subjects such as ethics, politics, culture and art?

1. Smritis
2. Sruti
3. Aranyaka
4. Samhita

Explanation

Smritis are religious texts covering a wide range of subjects such as ethics, politics, culture and art. Dharmasastras and puranas form the core of this body of literature.

113. Which was the official language of Guptas?

1. Pali
2. Sanskrit
3. Tulu
4. Prakrit

Explanation

The Guptas made Sanskrit the official language and all their epigraphic records were written in it. The period saw the last phase of the Smriti literature.

114. Who wrote mahabhashya on the Sanskrit grammar?

1. Panini
2. Patanjali
3. Charaka
4. Mahavira

Explanation

The Gupta period also saw the development of Sanskrit grammar based on Panini who wrote Ashtadhyayi and Patanjali who wrote Mahabhashya on the topic.

115. Who make the compilation of the Amarakosa, a thesaurus in Sanskrit?

1. Amarasimha
2. Panini
3. Mahavir
4. Pingala

Explanation

Gupta period is particularly memorable for the compilation of the Amarakosa, a thesaurus in Sanskrit, by Amarasimha.

116. Who composed a book on grammar named Chandravyakaranam?

1. Dharmakirti
2. Shantideva
3. Charaka
4. Chandrogomia

Explanation

A Buddhist scholar from Bengal, Chandrogomia, composed a book on grammar named Chandravyakaranam.

117. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The Puranas, as we know them in their present form, were composed during this time. They are the legends as recorded by the Vaisyas.
2. They were originally composed by bards (professional storytellers), but now, having come into priestly hands, they were rewritten in classical Sanskrit.
3. The succession of dynasties was recorded in the form of prophesies. The Mahabharata and the Ramayana also got their final touches and received their present shape during this period.
4. Only 1
5. Both 1 and 2
6. Both 2 and 3
7. Both 1 and 3

Explanation

The Puranas, as we know them in their present form, were composed during this time. They are the legends as recorded by the Brahmins.

118. How many major puranas are there?

1. Twelve
2. Eighteen
3. Ten
4. Twenty-four

Explanation

There are Eighteen major puranas are listed. Of them the well-known are: Brahma Purana, Padma Purana, Vishnu Purana, Skanda Purana, Shiva Maha Purana, Markendeya Purana, Agni Purana, Bhavishya Purana, Matsya Purana and Shrimad Bhagavat Purana.

119. The earliest Buddhist works were written in which language?

1. Pali
2. Sanskrit
3. Tulu
4. Prakrit

Explanation

The earliest Buddhist works are in Pali, but in the later phase, Sanskrit came to be used to a great extent. Most of the works are in prose with verse passages in mixed Sanskrit.

120. The first regular Buddhist work on logic was written by whom?

1. Asanga
2. Jaimini
3. Chandrakirti
4. Vasubandhu

Explanation

The first regular Buddhist work on logic was written by Vasubandhu.

121. Who among the following are the most notable writers of Buddhist literature in Gupta period?

1. Ashoka
2. Bindhusena
3. Arya Deva
4. Dhana Nanda

Explanation

Arya Deva and Arya Asanga of the Gupta period are the most notable writers.

122. The Jaina canonical literature at first took shape in which dialects?

1. Pali
2. Sanskrit
3. Tulu
4. Prakrit

Explanation

The Jaina canonical literature at first took shape in Prakrit dialects. Sanskrit came to be the medium later. Within a short time, Jainism produced many great scholars and by their efforts the Hindu itihasa and puranas were recast in Jaina versions to popularise their doctrines.

123. Who among the following was the discipline of Vasubandhu’s?

1. Sudraka
2. Visakhadatta
3. Dignaga
4. Vimala

Explanation

Vasubandhu’s disciple, Dignaga, was also the author of many learned Buddhist works.

124. Who produced a Jaina version of Ramayana?

1. Pingala
2. Vimala
3. Shaunaka
4. Mahavira

Explanation

Vimala produced a Jaina version of Ramayana. Siddasena Divakara laid the foundation of logic among the Jainas.

125. Which of the following statement is correct

1. Chandragupta I himself had established his fame as Kaviraja.
2. Chandragupta I court was adorned by the celebrated navaratnas like Kalidasa, Amarasimha, Visakadatta and Dhanvantri.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Samudragupta himself had established his fame as Kaviraja. It is widely believed that his court was adorned by the celebrated navaratnas like Kalidasa, Amarasimha, Visakadatta and Dhanvantri.

126. Which among the following dramas was not written by Kalidasa’s?

1. Sakunthalam
2. Malavikagnimitram
3. Mrichchhakatika
4. Vikramaurvashiyam

Explanation

Kalidasa’s famous dramas are Sakunthalam, Malavikagnimitram and Vikramaurvashiyam. Mrichchhakatika was written by Sudraka.

127. Who among the following wrote the Mudraraksasa and Devichandraguptam?

1. Sudrakas
2. Charaka
3. Visakhadatta
4. Bhavabhuti

Explanation

The Mudraraksasa and Devichandraguptam was written by Visakhadatta.

128. What was the language spoken by common people in the dramas of Gupta period?

1. Sanskrit
2. Prakrit
3. Pali
4. Tulu

Explanation

An interesting feature of the dramas of this period is that while the elite spoke in Sanskrit, the common people spoke Prakrit.

129. which of the following Prakrit form is not correctly matched with its region

1. Suraseni – Pataliputra
2. Ardh Magadh – Awadh
3. Magadhi – Modern Bihar
4. Only 1
5. Only 3
6. Both 2 and 3
7. Both 1 and 2

Explanation

In Prakrit, there was patronage outside the court circle. The Gupta age witnessed the evolution of many Prakrit forms such as Suraseni used in Mathura and its vicinity, Ardh Magadhi spoken in Awadh and Bundelkhand and Magadhi in modern Bihar

130. Which is a large Buddhist monastery in the ancient kingdom of Magadha in India?

1. Rohtas
2. Taxila
3. Nalanda
4. Kaimur

Explanation

Nalanda was an acclaimed Mahavihara, a large Buddhist monastery in the ancient kingdom of Magadha in India.

131. Which among the following statement is incorrect

1. The highly formalised methods of Vedic learning helped inspire the establishment of large teaching institutions such as Taxila, Nalanda and Vikramashila, which are often characterised as India’s early universities.
2. Nalanda flourished under the patronage of the Gupta Empire in the fifth and sixth centuries. Harsha, the emperor of Kanauj destroyed Nalanda in battle.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Nalanda flourished under the patronage of the Gupta Empire in the fifth and sixth centuries and later under Harsha, the emperor of Kanauj. The liberal cultural traditions inherited from the Gupta age resulted in a period of growth and prosperity until the ninth century

132. The Shailendra Dynasty belong to which country?

1. China
2. Tibet
3. Korea
4. Indonesia

Explanation

At its peak, the Nalanda attracted scholars and students from near and far with some travelling all the way from Tibet, China, Korea and Central Asia. Archaeological findings also confirm the contact with the Shailendra dynasty of Indonesia, one of whose kings built a monastery in the complex.

133. Under whom Nalanda was ransacked and destroyed by an army of the Mamluk dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate?

1. Qutb al din Aibak
2. Alauddin Khalji
3. Bakhtiyar Khalji
4. Malik Kafur

Explanation

Nalanda was ransacked and destroyed by an army of the Mamluk dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate under Bakhtiyar Khalji in c. 1200 CE. While some sources note that the Mahavihara continued to function in a makeshift fashion for a little longer, it was eventually abandoned and forgotten.

134. In which year systematic excavation unearthed 11 monasteries and 6 brick temples situated on 12 hectares (30 acres) of land?

1. 1863
2. 1915
3. 1953
4. 1945

Explanation

Systematic excavations commenced in 1915, which unearthed 11 monasteries and 6 brick temples situated on 12 hectares (30 acres) of land. A trove of sculptures, coins, seals and inscriptions have also been discovered since then and all of them are on display in the Nalanda Archaeological Museum situated nearby.

135. Which of the following statement is correct

1. Nalanda is now a notable tourist destination and a part of the Buddhist tourism circuit. Recently, the government of India, in cooperation with UNESCO, has revived this university
2. Nalanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is located about ninety-five kilometres southeast of Patna near the town of Bihar Sharif and was a centre of learning from the fifth century CE to c. 1200 CE
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

Nalanda is now a notable tourist destination and a part of the Buddhist tourism circuit. Recently, the government of India, in cooperation with other South and South-east Asian countries, has revived this university.

136. In the Surya Siddanta, who examined the true cause of the solar eclipses?

1. Chanakya
2. Mahavira
3. Varahamihira
4. Aryabhata

Explanation

In the Surya Siddanta, Aryabhatta (belonging to late fifth and early sixth century CE) examined the true cause of the solar eclipses.

137. Which among the following was wrote by Aryabhata?

1. Brihat Samhita
2. Aryabhattiyam
3. Brahmasphutasiddhanta
4. Lilavati

Explanation

Aryabhata is also the author of Aryabhattiyam, which deals with arithmetic, geometry and algebra.

138. Who wrote Brihat Samhita an encyclopaedia of astronomy, physical geography, botany and natural history?

1. Chanakya
2. Mahavira
3. Varahamihira
4. Aryabhata

Explanation

Varahamihira’s Brihat Samhita (sixth century CE) is an encyclopaedia of astronomy, physical geography, botany and natural history.

139. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The invention of the theory of zero and the consequent evolution of the decimal system are to be credited to the thinkers of this age.
2. In calculation of the size of the earth, Aryabhata is very close to the modern estimation. He was the first astronomer to discover that the earth rotates on its own axis.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

140. Which among the following is not the book written by Varahamihira?

1. Brihat Samhita
2. Bhrigu Sanghita
3. Panch Siddhantika
4. Brihat Jataka

Explanation

Varahamihira’s Brihat Samhita (sixth century CE) is an encyclopaedia of astronomy, physical geography, botany and natural history. His other works are Panch Siddhantika and Brihat Jataka.

141. Who is author of important works on mathematics and astronomy, namely Brahmasphuta-siddhanta and Khandakhadyaka?

1. Mahavira
2. Brahmagupta
3. Aryabhata
4. Bhaskara I

Explanation

Brahmagupta (late sixth and early seventh century CE) is author of important works on mathematics and astronomy, namely Brahmasphuta-siddhanta and Khandakhadyaka.

142. Which was a medical work, which is a manual of recipes, formulation and prescriptions?

1. Brihat Samhita
2. Aryabhattiyam
3. Brahmasphutasiddhanta
4. Navanitakam

Explanation

Metallic preparations for the purpose of medicine and references to the use of mercury and iron by Varahamihira and others indicate that much progress was made in chemistry. The Navanitakam was a medical work, which is a manual of recipes, formulation and prescriptions.

143. Who was the author of Hastyayurveda during Gupta period?

1. Palakapya
2. Bhaskara II
3. Mahavira
4. Varahamihara

Explanation

Hastyayurveda or the veterinary science authored by Palakapya attests to the advances made in medical science during the Gupta period.

144. The royal share of merchandise brought into a town or harbour by merchants is known as ___________

1. Bhaga
2. Hiranya
3. Upakilpa
4. Sulka

Explanation

The royal share of merchandise brought into a town or harbour by merchants is known as Sulka. Hence it can be equated with the customs and tolls.

145. The tax for the maintenance of police stations or a water tax is known as what?

1. Kara
2. Udianga
3. Upakilpa
4. Klipta

Explanation

Udianga – Either a sort of police tax for the maintenance of police stations or a water tax. Hence, it was also an extra tax.

146. Which among the following tax payable on gold coins, but in practice, it was probably the king’s share of certain crops paid in kind?

1. Kara
2. Bali
3. Hiranya
4. Halivakara

Explanation

Hiranya – Literally, it means tax payable on gold coins, but in practice, it was probably the king’s share of certain crops paid in kind.

147. Which among the following is the tax for maintenance of rites for the winds and the spirits?

1. Hiranya
2. Vata – Bhuta
3. Halivakara
4. Sulka

Explanation

Vata-Bhuta – Different kinds of cess for maintenance of rites for the winds (vata) and the spirits (bhuta).

148. Which of the following statement is correct

1. The last recognised king of the Gupta line was Skanda Gupta who reigned from 540 to 550 CE. Internal fighting and dissensions among the royal family led to its collapse.
2. During the reign of a Gupta king, Budhagupta, the Vakataka ruler Narendrasena of western Deccan, attacked Malwa, Mekala and Kosala.
3. Only 1
4. Only 2
5. Both 1 and 2
6. None

Explanation

The last recognised king of the Gupta line was Vishnugupta who reigned from 540 to 550 CE. Internal fighting and dissensions among the royal family led to its collapse.

149. Which Vakataka king conquered Malwa and Gujarat from the Guptas?

1. Vindhyashakti
2. Pravarasena I
3. Harishena
4. Narendrasena

Explanation

Vakataka king Harishena conquered Malwa and Gujarat from the Guptas.

150. Who was grandson of Chandragupta II, successful in repulsing the Huns?

1. Kumara Gupta
2. Skanda Gupta
3. Vishnugupta
4. Buddhagupta

Explanation

During Skanda Gupta’s reign, the grandson of Chandragupta II, the Huns invaded northwest India. He was successful in repulsing the Huns, but consequently his empire was drained of financial resources.

151. In sixth century which of the following region was not occupied by Huns?

1. Malwa
2. Gujarat
3. Pataliputra
4. Punjab

Explanation

In the sixth century CE, the Huns occupied Malwa, Gujarat, Punjab and Gandhara.

152. As the Hun invasion weakened the Gupta hold in which among the following region independent rulers didn’t emerge?

1. Malwa
2. Magadha
3. Uttar Pradesh
4. Saurashtras

Explanation

As the Hun invasion weakened the Gupta hold in the country, independent rulers emerged all over the north like Yasodharman of Malwa, the Maukharis of Uttar Pradesh, the Maitrakas in Saurashtra and others in Bengal. In time, the Gupta Empire came to be restricted to only Magadha.

153. Who was the founder of Gupta dynasty?

1. Chandragupta I
2. Sri Gupta
3. Buddhagupta
4. Kumara Gupta

Explanation

Sri Gupta was the founder of Gupta Dynasty.

154. Who was the rulers before the Gupta kingdom emerged as a great power?

1. Nanda Dynasty
2. Pallava Dynasty
3. Mahajanapada
4. Maurya Dynasty

Explanation

After the Mauryan Empire, the Gupta kingdom emerged as a great power

155. Match the following List I with List II and choose correct answer

List I List II

Authors Books

1. Kalidasa 1. Aryabhattiyam
2. Varahamihira 2. Panch Siddhantika
3. Aryabhata 3. Ashtadhyayi
4. Sudraka 4. Mrichchhakatika
5. Panini 5. Sakunthalam
6. 2 – 4 – 1 – 5 – 3
7. 4 – 1 – 2 – 3 – 5
8. 5 – 2 – 1 – 4 – 3
9. 3 – 4 – 1 – 5 – 2