A Quiz On The Indian Civilization And History

Primitive man first learnt to make fire. Fire was a crucial discovery for early humans as it provided warmth, protection from predators, and a means to cook food. The ability to control fire also allowed for the development of various tools and technologies. Fire was likely discovered through natural causes such as lightning strikes or volcanic activity, and early humans eventually learned to create fire themselves by rubbing sticks together or using flint and steel. This discovery marked a significant milestone in human evolution and greatly influenced the course of our history.

Buddha's preaching was mainly related to purity of thought and conduct. This means that his teachings focused on the importance of having pure and virtuous thoughts, as well as conducting oneself in a morally upright manner. Buddha emphasized the need to let go of negative emotions and desires, and to cultivate qualities such as compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom. His teachings were not centered around belief in one god, practice of rituals, or idol worship, but rather on personal transformation and the pursuit of enlightenment through self-discipline and ethical behavior.

The correct answer is an inscription at Eran in Madhya Pradesh dated 510 AD. This inscription provides evidence of the practice of Sati, which refers to the act of a widow self-immolating on her husband's funeral pyre. The inscription at Eran suggests that this practice was already in existence by 510 AD in Madhya Pradesh.

The main occupation of the Paleolithic people was hunting and gathering food. This is because during this time period, humans were primarily nomadic and relied on hunting animals and gathering plants for their sustenance. Agriculture and animal husbandry did not develop until later stages of human civilization. Fishing may have been a secondary activity for some Paleolithic groups, but it was not their main occupation.

Wheat and barley were the earliest cereals grown by man. These grains were among the first crops cultivated by early civilizations, such as the ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians. Wheat and barley provided a reliable food source and played a crucial role in the development of agriculture and settled societies. They were well-suited to the climates and soils of these regions, making them ideal for cultivation. Over time, these cereals became staple crops and continue to be important food sources in many parts of the world today.

Ashoka's Dhamma, or moral code, focused on promoting peace and nonviolence. This means that Ashoka emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and avoiding any form of violence or harm towards others. This principle was central to his reign and was reflected in his policies and teachings. Ashoka believed in the power of compassion and understanding to create a harmonious society, and he actively promoted these values throughout his empire. Through his emphasis on peace and nonviolence, Ashoka aimed to create a more just and compassionate society.

The most significant feature of the Indus Valley civilization is the use of burnt brick buildings. This feature is significant because it demonstrates the advanced construction techniques and urban planning of the civilization. The use of burnt brick allowed for the creation of large, durable structures that could withstand the test of time. Additionally, the use of bricks in construction suggests a high level of organization and centralized authority within the civilization. Overall, the use of burnt brick buildings is a key characteristic that sets the Indus Valley civilization apart from other ancient civilizations.

Chandragupta II assumed the title 'Vikramaditya'. This title was given to him to honor his military conquests and his patronage of arts and literature. Chandragupta II was a powerful ruler of the Gupta Empire in ancient India. He expanded his empire through successful military campaigns and established a prosperous and culturally rich reign. The title 'Vikramaditya' signifies his bravery, valor, and excellence as a ruler.

During the Mesolithic age, people used small stone tools. This is because during this time, humans had not yet discovered or mastered the techniques of working with metals like copper or iron. Instead, they relied on natural resources such as stones, which were readily available and could be shaped into tools for various purposes like hunting, cutting, and scraping. These small stone tools were essential for their survival and daily activities in the Mesolithic period.

Mohenjodaro and Harappa are not in India. These two sites are actually located in present-day Pakistan. They are important archaeological sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization. Mohenjodaro and Harappa were once thriving cities with advanced urban planning and sophisticated drainage systems, providing valuable insights into the ancient civilization's social, economic, and cultural aspects.

The staple food of the Indus people was wheat. This is because archaeological evidence suggests that wheat was widely cultivated and consumed by the Indus Valley Civilization, which existed from around 3300 to 1300 BCE. Wheat was a versatile crop that could be ground into flour and used to make various types of bread, which would have provided a reliable source of sustenance for the Indus people. Additionally, the discovery of wheat grains and wheat chaff at various Indus sites further supports the conclusion that wheat was a significant part of their diet.

The people of the Indus Valley civilization worshipped Pashupati. Pashupati is considered to be an important deity in Hinduism and is often associated with Lord Shiva. The worship of Pashupati suggests that the people of the Indus Valley civilization had a belief in a powerful and divine being, and that they likely practiced some form of religious rituals and ceremonies. This deity may have held significance in their daily lives and may have been revered as a protector or a source of spiritual guidance.

The paintings of Ajanta primarily depict stories of the Jatakas. The Jatakas are a collection of tales that narrate the previous lives of Gautama Buddha. These stories often teach moral lessons and highlight the virtues of compassion, generosity, and wisdom. The paintings at Ajanta showcase various scenes from these Jatakas, portraying the life and teachings of Buddha. The intricate details and vibrant colors in these paintings make them significant examples of ancient Indian art and provide insights into the cultural and religious beliefs of that time.

Fa-hien, a famous Chinese pilgrim, visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II. Chandragupta II, also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya, was a powerful ruler of the Gupta Empire in India. His reign is considered a golden age in Indian history, known for its prosperity, cultural development, and patronage of arts and sciences. Fa-hien's visit to India during this time allowed him to witness and document the flourishing Buddhist culture and pilgrimage sites in the country.

Indians developed a sense of parochialism and ceased to learn from others. The prohibition on sea voyages and visiting foreign lands limited the exposure of Indians to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives. This isolation led to a narrow-minded attitude and a reluctance to learn from other civilizations. As a result, Indians missed out on the opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas, hindering their intellectual and cultural growth.

Rice cultivation is associated with the Harappan site of Lothal. Lothal was an ancient city located in present-day Gujarat, India. Excavations at Lothal have revealed evidence of a well-planned urban settlement with advanced engineering techniques. The discovery of rice husks and grains suggests that rice cultivation was practiced in this region during the Harappan civilization. This indicates the importance of agriculture and the development of agricultural techniques in the Harappan society.

Shankaracharya is known for founding four mathas in the four corners of India. These mathas are located in the north (Jyotirmath), south (Sringeri), east (Puri), and west (Dwaraka) of the country. These mathas were established to preserve and propagate the teachings of Advaita Vedanta, a philosophical school of thought founded by Shankaracharya. Through the establishment of these mathas, Shankaracharya aimed to ensure the continuity and dissemination of his teachings across different regions of India.

Rajtarangini, written by Kalhan, is a historical text that chronicles the history of Kashmir. It provides detailed accounts of the rulers, dynasties, and events that shaped the region over several centuries. The text is considered a significant source of information for understanding the political, social, and cultural aspects of Kashmir's past. Therefore, the correct answer is "a history of Kashmir."

The correct answer is bull. The Indus Valley people venerated the bull. This is evident from the numerous depictions of bulls found in their art and seals. The bull was considered a sacred animal and was associated with fertility and power. It was also believed to be a symbol of the gods and was worshipped as a deity. The veneration of the bull suggests that agriculture and animal husbandry played a significant role in the Indus Valley civilization.

Khajuraho is correctly paired with the Chandelas. The Chandelas were a medieval Indian dynasty that ruled over the region where Khajuraho is located. The Khajuraho temples, built between the 9th and 11th centuries, are famous for their intricate and erotic sculptures. The Chandelas were known for their patronage of the arts and their support for temple building, which is evident in the magnificent temples at Khajuraho.

The Tripitakas are the sacred books of the Buddhists. These texts contain the teachings and doctrines of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. They are considered the most authoritative and important scriptures in Buddhism, and are divided into three sections: the Vinaya Pitaka (rules for monastic discipline), the Sutta Pitaka (discourses of the Buddha), and the Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical analysis and interpretation). These scriptures serve as a guide for Buddhist monks and nuns, as well as lay followers, in their spiritual practice and understanding of the Buddhist teachings.

The script used by the Indus Valley people was depicted through pictures and diagrams. This means that instead of using alphabets or letters, the script relied on visual symbols to convey meaning. The script has not yet been deciphered, which means that its exact meaning and language are still unknown. The Vedic language, which is an ancient Indo-Aryan language, was not the script used by the Indus Valley people. Therefore, the answer is that the script was depicted through pictures and diagrams.

Megasthenes visited India during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya. This is known from his book "Indika" which provides detailed accounts of the Mauryan Empire. Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya dynasty and ruled from 322 BCE to 298 BCE. Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador, was sent to the Mauryan court by Seleucus Nicator, the ruler of the Seleucid Empire. His observations and descriptions of Indian society, culture, and administration are valuable historical sources.

The local name of Mohenjodaro is "Mound of the Dead" because the archaeological site is a mound that contains the remains of the ancient city of Mohenjodaro. The name suggests that the site was associated with death or burial practices, indicating that it was a significant burial ground or cemetery. The presence of numerous graves and evidence of ritualistic practices related to death further support this interpretation.

The Rigvedic religion was characterized by the worship of nature. This can be seen in the hymns of the Rigveda, which are dedicated to various natural phenomena such as the sun, rivers, mountains, and storms. The Rigvedic people believed that these natural elements possessed divine powers and they offered prayers and sacrifices to appease them. Nature was seen as a manifestation of the divine and played a central role in their religious practices. This emphasis on nature worship distinguishes the Rigvedic religion from later Hinduism, which developed a more anthropomorphic and deity-centric approach to worship.

The Satavahanas were the most important kingdom in Deccan and Central India after the Mauryas. They ruled from the 2nd century BCE to the 3rd century CE and were known for their administrative and military prowess. The Satavahanas controlled a vast territory and played a crucial role in promoting trade and commerce in the region. They also patronized Buddhism and supported the construction of Buddhist monuments. The Satavahanas left a lasting impact on the political, cultural, and economic landscape of Deccan and Central India.

Kautilya's Arthasastra is a book that primarily focuses on the principles and practice of statecraft. It provides detailed guidance on various aspects of governance, including administration, law enforcement, diplomacy, and military strategies. The book emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong and efficient state, offering insights into how to establish and sustain political power. It also discusses economic policies, foreign policy, and the duties of the king, but these topics are all encompassed within the broader theme of statecraft.

Megasthenes was the ambassador of Seleucus. This means that he was appointed by Seleucus to represent him in diplomatic matters. Seleucus was one of Alexander the Great's generals and eventually became the ruler of the Seleucid Empire, which included parts of modern-day Iran, Iraq, and Syria. As an ambassador, Megasthenes would have been responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations and negotiating with other kingdoms and empires on behalf of Seleucus.

During the Indus civilization, the horse was not considered an important animal. Archaeological evidence suggests that horses were not domesticated or widely used for transportation or warfare in the Indus Valley. Instead, other animals like the humped bull, goat, and elephant played more significant roles in the daily lives and economy of the Indus civilization. The absence of horse-related artifacts and depictions further supports the idea that horses were not as important in the Indus civilization as they were in other contemporary civilizations like Mesopotamia or Central Asia.

The effects of the Kalinga war on King Ashoka can be found in the rock edicts. Rock edicts were inscriptions carved on rocks and pillars by King Ashoka himself. These edicts were used to spread his teachings and principles of non-violence and compassion after the Kalinga war. The rock edicts serve as a historical record of the transformation of King Ashoka from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler.

The transition from the Paleolithic to the Neolithic age was made possible by the practice of growing grain. This marked a significant shift in human civilization as it led to the development of agriculture and the ability to settle in one place. The cultivation of grain allowed humans to have a stable and reliable food source, which in turn supported the growth of permanent settlements, the establishment of complex societies, and the advancement of technology and culture.

The correct answer is Sumer. The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, was primarily located in the region of modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. Sumer, on the other hand, was an ancient civilization located in southern Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and Kuwait). While both civilizations developed independently, they were contemporaneous and had some similarities in terms of urban planning and writing systems. However, the Indus Valley civilization is distinct and separate from Sumer.

The correct answer is drawing a cart. This is because the wheel was initially used for transportation purposes, and drawing a cart was one of the earliest and most practical applications of the wheel. The invention of the wheel revolutionized the way goods and people could be transported, making it easier and more efficient. The advancement of metallurgy, spinning, and pottery are not directly related to the first use of the wheel.

The correct answer is the Indica of MEGASTHENES. This is because Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador to the Mauryan Empire, wrote the Indica, which provides detailed information about the society and culture of the Mauryan Empire. In his writings, Megasthenes mentions the division of Mauryan society into seven classes, providing valuable insights into the social structure of the time.

The presence of a pictographic script in the Indus Valley Civilization suggests that it was non-Aryan. The Aryans, who migrated to the Indian subcontinent later, did not have a writing system at that time. The use of a pictographic script indicates a sophisticated level of civilization and a developed culture, which predates the arrival of the Aryans. This supports the idea that the Indus Valley Civilization was a distinct and separate civilization from the Aryan culture that emerged later.

The Saka Era began in 78 AD. This era is named after the Saka people, a group of Central Asian nomads who migrated to India. The Saka Era is used as a calendar system in India and is still in use in some regions. The Saka Era calendar begins with the year 78 AD, which is why 78 AD is the correct answer.

Ashoka, the Mauryan ruler, began to issue edicts from the twelfth year of his reign. This suggests that he did not start issuing edicts immediately after becoming the ruler, but rather after ruling for twelve years. This indicates that there may have been a specific event or change in Ashoka's reign that prompted him to start issuing these edicts.

Excavations have taken place in Hastinapur and Atranjikhera in connection with the Vedic age. These archaeological sites have provided valuable insights into the Vedic period and the ancient civilization that existed in these regions. The excavations have unearthed various artifacts, including pottery, coins, tools, and structures, which have helped in understanding the cultural, social, and economic aspects of the Vedic age. Hastinapur, located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, is believed to be the capital of the Kuru Kingdom, while Atranjikhera, also in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its ancient settlement and numerous archaeological finds from the Vedic period.

Purushasukta is a hymn found in the Rigveda, which is one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. It is a hymn dedicated to the cosmic being known as Purusha, describing his creation and the various parts of his body. The Rigveda is composed of a collection of hymns and prayers, and Purushasukta is one of the most important hymns in this collection. It is considered to be a significant text in Hindu philosophy and is often recited during religious ceremonies and rituals.

Samudragupta's achievements are mentioned in the Allahabad Prasasti. The Allahabad Prasasti is an inscription composed by Harishena, a court poet of Samudragupta. It provides detailed information about the military conquests and achievements of Samudragupta, who was one of the greatest rulers of the Gupta Empire. The inscription highlights his successful campaigns, subjugation of various kingdoms, and his patronage of arts and culture. It serves as an important historical document that sheds light on the reign and accomplishments of Samudragupta.

The first coins circulated in India in Bihar and eastern UP. These regions were known for their rich cultural and economic history, and were centers of trade and commerce. The coins were used as a medium of exchange for various transactions, indicating the development of a monetary system in these areas. This suggests that Bihar and eastern UP played a significant role in the early economic development of India.

Rajendra Chola I is the correct answer because he was an Indian ruler from the Chola dynasty who successfully conquered Java and Sumatra. He expanded the Chola empire through his military campaigns and naval expeditions, establishing his dominance over the Southeast Asian region. Rajendra Chola I is known for his naval prowess and his conquests played a significant role in enhancing trade and cultural exchange between India and Southeast Asia during his reign.

Sir Mortimer Wheeler is associated with the Indus Valley Civilization. He was a British archaeologist who conducted extensive excavations at the site of Mohenjo-daro, one of the major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. His excavations revealed important information about the urban planning, architecture, and material culture of the civilization. Wheeler's work significantly contributed to our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization and its significance in ancient history.

Milindapanha is a religious conversation. This can be inferred from the fact that it is a Pali Buddhist text that records a dialogue between the Indo-Greek king Menander I and the Buddhist monk Nagasena. The text primarily focuses on philosophical and ethical discussions related to Buddhism, making it a religious conversation rather than a Sanskrit play, political treatise, or chronicle.

During the Chola age, village assemblies were a significant aspect. These assemblies were known as "Sabhas" and played a crucial role in the administration and governance of the villages. They were responsible for making decisions, resolving disputes, and maintaining law and order at the local level. The Chola rulers encouraged the participation of the common people in these assemblies, thereby promoting a sense of democracy and decentralization of power. The village assemblies also facilitated the development and implementation of various welfare measures for the benefit of the villagers.

The Uttaramerur inscription belongs to the period of Parantaka I. This can be inferred from the information provided in the question.

The correct answer is Punjab, Sindh, Rajasthan, Gujarat. The Indus Valley civilization was spread over these regions based on archaeological evidence. The cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, which were major centers of the civilization, are located in present-day Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh provinces. Excavations have also revealed the presence of Indus Valley sites in Rajasthan and Gujarat, indicating the extent of the civilization's reach.

Jainism distinguishes itself from Buddhism by attributing a soul to all beings and things. This belief in the existence of a soul, known as jiva, is a central tenet of Jainism. It holds that all living beings, including plants and animals, possess a soul and that these souls are eternal and unique. This belief influences the Jain concept of ahimsa (non-violence), as followers of Jainism strive to minimize harm to all living beings due to the recognition of their inherent spiritual nature. Buddhism, on the other hand, does not attribute a soul to all beings and things, emphasizing the concept of non-self (anatta) instead.

The correct answer is Bana because Bana is one of the sources from which we derive our information regarding Harsha.

The Uttaramerur inscription is the main source for the study of village government under the Cholas. This inscription provides valuable information about the administrative structure, taxation system, and judicial procedures followed in the Chola villages. It also gives insights into the role of various officials and the functioning of the village assembly. The inscription is considered significant as it offers a detailed account of the village administration during the Chola period, making it an important source for understanding the governance system of that time.