Ancient History of India

91. Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems

Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

[amp_mcq option1=”Mimamsa and Vedanta” option2=”Nyaya and Vaisheshika” option3=”Lokayata and Kapalika” option4=”Sankhya and Yoga” correct=”option3″]

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Lokayata and Kapalika do not form part of the six orthodox (Astika) systems of Indian Philosophy recognized traditionally.
The question requires identification of the components of the traditional six systems of Indian Philosophy (Shad-darshanas).
The six orthodox systems of Indian Philosophy are Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Yoga, Purva Mimamsa (or simply Mimamsa), and Uttara Mimamsa (or Vedanta). Lokayata (also known as Charvaka) is a heterodox (Nastika) materialistic school. Kapalika is a tantric sect of Shaivism.

92. With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan

With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to

[amp_mcq option1=”an assembly of village elders” option2=”a religious sect” option3=”a style of temple construction” option4=”an administrative functionary” correct=”option3″]

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The term ‘Panchayatan’ in the cultural history of India refers to a specific style of temple construction.
A) an assembly of village elders: An assembly of village elders is typically referred to as a Gram Panchayat or similar terms depending on the historical period and region, not Panchayatan.
B) a religious sect: While ‘pancha’ means five, and some religious traditions might involve groups of five or specific sets of deities, ‘Panchayatan’ in the context of cultural history specifically denotes an architectural style.
C) a style of temple construction: The Panchayatan style of temple architecture is a layout where the main shrine is built on a raised platform, and four subsidiary shrines are located at the four corners, making it a group of five (pancha) shrines dedicated typically to a principal deity in the center and four other deities. This forms a complete ‘mandala’ pattern. This is the correct meaning of Panchayatan in this context.
D) an administrative functionary: An administrative functionary would not be referred to by this term.
– Panchayatan is a style of Hindu temple architecture.
– It features a main shrine surrounded by four subsidiary shrines.
Famous examples of temples built in the Panchayatan style include the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh (Uttar Pradesh) and the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), although the latter is sometimes debated as a strict Panchayatan due to the integration of subsidiary shrines into the main structure’s platform. This style became prominent during the Gupta period and continued in later periods.

93. Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the B

Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?

  • 1. Avanti
  • 2. Gandhara
  • 3. Kosala
  • 4. Magadha

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1, 2 and 3″ option2=”2 and 4″ option3=”3 and 4 only” option4=”1, 3 and 4″ correct=”option3″]

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The Kingdoms of Kosala and Magadha were closely associated with the life and activities of the Buddha.
The Buddha spent a significant part of his life preaching and travelling in the Gangetic plains, primarily within the territories of Kosala and Magadha. Important sites related to his life, such as Sravasti (capital of Kosala) and Rajagriha (capital of Magadha) and Bodh Gaya, Kushinagar, and Sarnath (all within or bordering these kingdoms), highlight their central role in his journey and teachings.
Avanti was a powerful kingdom contemporary to the Buddha but located further west (capital Ujjain); it was not as central to his travels and teachings as Kosala and Magadha during his lifetime, although it later became important for Buddhism. Gandhara, in the northwest, became a major center for Buddhism much later, particularly known for Gandhara art during the Kushana period, long after the Buddha’s passing.

94. With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consi

With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consider the following statements regarding Sankhya school:

  • 1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of soul.
  • 2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-knowledge that leads to liberation and not any exterior influence or agent.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”2 only” option3=”Both 1 and 2″ option4=”Neither 1 nor 2″ correct=”option2″]

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Statement 1 is incorrect. The Sankhya school, like almost all mainstream Indian philosophical systems, accepts the concept of rebirth or transmigration of the soul (Purusha). The goal of Sankhya is liberation (kaivalya) from the cycle of birth and death by realizing the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti. Statement 2 is correct. Sankhya is a gnostic system that emphasizes achieving liberation through discriminative knowledge (viveka-jnana) of the true nature of Purusha and its distinction from Prakriti, independent of any external influence or divine grace.
Sankhya is a dualistic philosophy positing two ultimate realities: Purusha (consciousness/self) and Prakriti (matter/nature). It explains creation and evolution as the interaction of these two principles and identifies ignorance of their distinction as the root cause of suffering and bondage. Liberation is achieved through knowledge.
The Sankhya system does not explicitly advocate for belief in God as essential for liberation, making it a unique orthodox school in this regard. Its emphasis on knowledge as the sole means to salvation distinguishes it from systems that rely on devotion (Bhakti) or ritualistic action (Karma). The concept of karma and rebirth are fundamental to understanding the bondage from which Sankhya seeks liberation.

95. Consider the following historical places: 1. Ajanta Caves 2. Lepa

Consider the following historical places:

  • 1. Ajanta Caves
  • 2. Lepakshi Temple
  • 3. Sanchi Stupa

Which of the above places is/are also known for mural paintings?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”1 and 2 only” option3=”1, 2 and 3″ option4=”None” correct=”option2″]

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Ajanta Caves are world-renowned for their ancient Buddhist mural paintings dating back primarily to the Gupta period and earlier. The Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi is famous for its extensive Vijayanagara period mural paintings on ceilings, depicting epic scenes. Sanchi Stupa is primarily known for its architectural structure and the elaborate carvings on its gateways (toranas), but not for significant surviving mural paintings.
Mural paintings are paintings applied directly onto a wall or ceiling surface. India has a rich tradition of mural painting, found in caves, temples, palaces, and homes across different periods and regions.
Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra) represent some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art, particularly painting. Lepakshi Temple (Andhra Pradesh) is a prominent example of Vijayanagara architecture and painting. Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh) is one of the oldest Buddhist sites and is known for the Great Stupa built by Ashoka, with its beautifully carved gateways added later. While walls existed at Sanchi, the site is primarily celebrated for its sculpture and architecture, not its paintings.

96. Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine?

Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine?

  • 1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance.
  • 2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul.
  • 3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”2 and 3 only” option3=”1 and 3 only” option4=”1, 2 and 3″ correct=”option4″]

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All three statements are applicable to Jain doctrine.
1. **Penance (Tapas):** Jainism strongly emphasizes ascetic practices and penance as a means to burn off accumulated Karma and attain liberation. It is considered essential for purifying the soul and annihilating Karmic matter.
2. **Soul in every object:** Jain philosophy believes that souls (Jiva) exist not only in humans and animals but also in plants, water bodies, air, and even subtle particles (nigodas). This belief underlies the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) towards all forms of life.
3. **Karma as bane of the soul:** Jainism views Karma as subtle matter that attaches to the soul, binding it to the cycle of birth, death, and suffering (samsara). The ultimate goal is to shed all Karmic matter to achieve Moksha (liberation) and attain the soul’s pure state of infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy.
Key principles of Jainism include Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possession). The path to liberation involves following the three jewels (Triratna): Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).

97. Which of the following characterizes/characterize the people of Indus

Which of the following characterizes/characterize the people of Indus Civilization?

  • 1. They possessed great palaces and temples.
  • 2. They worshipped both male and female deities.
  • 3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare.

Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2 only” option2=”2 only” option3=”1, 2 and 3″ option4=”None of the statements given above is correct” correct=”option2″]

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Based on current archaeological evidence, only statement 2 accurately characterizes the people of the Indus Civilization.
1. There is no strong evidence of grand palaces or temples in the Indus Civilization sites. Their architecture suggests well-planned cities with focus on civic amenities and dwelling units, not monumental religious or royal structures.
2. Evidence from seals and figurines suggests the worship of a male deity (often identified as ‘proto-Shiva’) and numerous female figurines implying the worship of a Mother Goddess.
3. While the presence of the horse in the Indus Valley is debated and evidence is scarce, there is no clear indication of the widespread use of horse-drawn chariots in warfare, unlike later periods in South Asia.
The Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan Civilization) was known for its urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, standardized weights and measures, and seals with undeciphered script. Major sites include Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Lothal, Kalibangan, and Dholavira.

98. Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in

Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?

[amp_mcq option1=”The extinction of the flame of desire” option2=”The complete annihilation of self” option3=”A state of bliss and rest” option4=”A mental stage beyond all comprehension” correct=”option1″]

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The concept of Nirvana in Buddhism is best described as the extinction of the flame of desire.
Nirvana (Pali: Nibbana) is the ultimate spiritual goal in Buddhism. It signifies the cessation of suffering (dukkha) and the cycle of rebirth (samsara). This is achieved by extinguishing the “three poisons” or “three fires”: craving (tanha, desire), aversion (hatred), and ignorance (delusion). Therefore, the extinction of desire, which is seen as a primary cause of suffering and attachment, is a central aspect of achieving Nirvana.
Nirvana is not a place, but a state of being. It is characterized by freedom from suffering, samsara, and the causes of suffering. While sometimes associated with peace and liberation, the core concept revolves around the transcendence of the conditioned existence driven by craving and ignorance.

99. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are

Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

[amp_mcq option1=”Vihara is a place of worship, while Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks” option2=”Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks” option3=”Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial to it” option4=”There is no material difference between the two” correct=”option2″]

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Chaitya is a Buddhist place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place or monastery for monks.
Buddhist rock-cut architecture primarily consists of two types:
1. **Chaitya:** A prayer hall or place of worship. These often have a stupa at one end, which is the object of veneration. The hall typically has a nave, aisles, and an apse surrounding the stupa.
2. **Vihara:** A monastery or dwelling place for monks and nuns. Viharas usually consist of a central hall surrounded by cells for residential purposes.
Famous examples of Buddhist rock-cut caves with both Chaitya and Vihara halls include those at Ajanta, Ellora, Karle, Bhaja, and Kanheri. These sites provide significant insights into early Indian Buddhist art and architecture.

100. The Chinese traveller Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) who visited India reco

The Chinese traveller Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) who visited India recorded the general conditions and culture of India at that time. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?

  • 1. The roads and river-routes were completely immune from robbery.
  • 2. As regards punishment for offences, ordeals by fire, water and poison were the instruments for determining the innocence or guilt of a person.
  • 3. The tradesmen had to pay duties at ferries and barrier stations.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”2 and 3 only” option3=”1 and 3 only” option4=”1, 2 and 3″ correct=”option2″]

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Statements 2 and 3 are correct descriptions based on Yuan Chwang’s account of India during the reign of Harshavardhana. Statement 1 is incorrect as he himself reported being robbed.
Yuan Chwang’s “Si-Yu-Ki” (Records of the Western Regions) is a valuable historical source. He noted the judicial system sometimes employed ordeals by fire, water, poison, or weighing metal to determine guilt or innocence. He also documented that tradesmen were required to pay duties at various checkpoints, including ferries and barrier stations, which constituted a source of state revenue.
Regarding statement 1, Yuan Chwang explicitly details instances where he and his party were attacked and robbed, indicating that the roads and river routes were by no means completely safe or “immune” from robbery, although law and order were generally maintained in many areas under Harsha’s rule.
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