1. Who among the following laid the foundation of the Chola Empire in the IX th century A.D.?
(a) Krishna-I
(b) Rajaraja Chola
(c) Vijayalaya
(d) Parantaka
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Vijayalaya
- The stories of the first Chola dynasty written in the Sangam literature, and the period between when the Chola Empire ended and when Medieval Chola began again under Vijayalaya in 850 AD.
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2. Which one of the following temple complexes has a massive statue of Nandi, considered to be the biggest in India:
(a) Brihadeeswara Temple
(b) Lingaraja Temple
(c) Kandariya Mahadeo Temple
(d) Lepakshi Temple
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (a) Brihadeeswara Temple
- The Brihadeeswara temple is a magnificent example of the Dravidian style of architecture during the reign of Rajaraja-I.
- It is the largest and tallest temple in India, covering an area of 500′ x 250′.
- There are two statues of guards outside the main shrine.
- The giant ‘Nandi’ statue carved out of a single rock is located outside the temple and is thought to be the tallest Nandi statue in India.
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3. Brihadeeswara Temple of Thanjavur was built during the reign of the Chola emperor –
(a) Parantaka-I
(b) Raj raja-I
(c) Rajendra-I
(d) Rajadhiraja-I
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (b) Raj raja-I
- The Brihadeeswara temple was built during the rule of Rajaraja-I and is an amazing example of a Dravidian-style Chola temple.
- It is the largest and tallest temple in India and its main shrine covers an area of 500′ x 250′.
- There are two statues of ‘Dwarpals’ near the main shrine and a huge ‘Nandi’ (carved out of a single rock) outside the sanctum, which is believed to be the biggest in India.
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4. In which region, the Chola empire was expanded?
(a) Vijayanagara Area
(b) Malabar Coast
(c) Hoysala
(d) Coromandel Coast and some region of Deccan
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991]
Ans. (d) Coromandel Coast and some region of Deccan
- The Chola Dynasty’s area of rulership ranged from south to north, from the Tungabhadra River to the Krishna River.
- The Chola Empire also controlled the Coromandel coast and some parts of the Deccan, such as Uraiyur, Kaveripattinam, and Thanjavur
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5. The capital of Cholas was –
(a) Kaveripattinam
(b) Mahabalipuram
(c) Kanchi
(d) Tanjore
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (d) Tanjore
- The city of Tanjore was the original capital of the Chola dynasty.
- Later, Gangaikondacholapuram also became a capital of the Cholas.
- In the Sangam era, Uraiyur was the Chola’s capital.
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6. Which of the following was a special feature of the Chola administration :
(a) Division of empire into Mandalam
(b) Autonomy of village administration
(c) Full powers to Ministers of State
(d) Cheap and proper tax collection method
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (b) Autonomy of village administration
- The Chola dynasty was unique in that it had very organized and advanced village administration that was only in place during their reign.
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7. Which medieval Indian empire was famous for elaborated local self-government?
(a) Chalukya
(b) Chola
(c) Solanki
(d) Parmar
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (b) Chola
- The Chola dynasty was unique because they had a very organized and efficient system of village administration that gave a lot of autonomy to the villages.
- This system was only used during the Chola era.
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8. The Chola era was famous for:
(a) Religious development
(b) Village Assemblies
(c) Warfare with Rashtrakuta
(d) Trade from Sri Lanka
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1993]
Ans. (b) Village Assemblies
- The Chola dynasty was known for its independent village administration, which was very organized and sophisticated.
- This type of autonomous village governance was only seen during the Chola period.
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9. The Chola age was most famous for -:
(a) village assemblies
(b) war with the Rashtrakutas
(c) trade with Ceylon
(d) advancement of Tamil culture
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[63rd B.P.S.C (Pre.) 2017]
Ans. (a) village assemblies
- The Chola dynasty had a unique characteristic which was the independence of village government.
- This system was very organized and efficient, and only occurred during the Chola period.
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10. Which southern Indian state had excellent village administration?
(a) Chera
(b) Chalukya
(c) Chola
(d) Vatapi
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991]
Ans. (c) Chola
- The Chola dynasty was known for having a well-organized and independent village administration that was unique to them.
- This type of village system was only seen during the Chola period.
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11. A dynasty famous for efficient rural administration was
(a) Cholas
(b) Rashtrakutas
(c) Chalukyas
(d) Pallavas
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (a) Cholas
- The Chola dynasty had a unique way of managing villages which was well-planned and efficient.
- This system of autonomous village administration was created by the Chola dynasty and was not used before.
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12. A lot of details regarding the village administration under the Cholas is provided by the inscription at:-
(a) Thanjavur
(b) Uraiyur
(c) Kanchipuram
(d) Uttaramerur
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1993]
Ans. (d) Uttaramerur
- Records from the Uttaramerur inscription provide an in-depth explanation of how the executive committee of the Gram Sabha (village assembly) worked in Chola village administration.
- Each village had its own committee, generally independent of the Central Command, that was responsible for managing village affairs.
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13. During the rule of the Chola Kings which of the following Variyams looked after garden administration?
(a) Pan Variyam
(b) Airi Variyam
(c) Thotta Variyam
(d) Samvatsara Variyam
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (c) Thotta Variyam
- A group that oversaw the operations of villages during the Chola period was called Variyam.
- Thotta Variyam was in charge of the Horticulture Board, Samvatsara Variyam was the yearly group, Eri Variyam managed tanks and water sources, and Pan Variyam was in charge of the gold/finance committee.
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14. Consider the following statements :
1. The Cholas defeated Pandya and Chera rulers and established their domination over peninsular India in the early medieval times.
2. The Cholas sent an expedition against the Sailendra empire of South East Asia and conquered some of the areas
Which of these statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2003]
Ans. (c) Both 1 and 2
- The Chola dynasty began in Southern India under Parantak-I.
- He beat the Madura King and called himself “Madurai-Kond”.
- Records in Thanjavur show that Rajaraja-I beat the naval forces of the Cheras at Kandalloor.
- He and his son Rajendra-I then attacked the Sailendra empire of Southeast Asia because they were having trouble trading with China.
- They were successful and took over some parts of the region.
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15. Bronze icons of Nataraja cast during the Chola period invariably show the deity with :
(a) Eight hands
(b) Six hands
(c) Four hands
(d) Two hands
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (c) Four hands
- The Chola artists, known as Sthapatis, were very skilled in carving art.
- They created a lot of stone and metal sculptures.
- They made more bronze sculptures than stone ones.
- Many beautiful statues of Nataraja (Shiva) exist, and they are considered some of the best sculptures in the world.
- These statues have four arms.
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16. Which one of the following is considered to be the world’s greatest iconographical creations made by chapatis of South India, particularly during the Chola period?
(a) Mahishasuramardini
(b) Nataraja
(c) Rama
(d) Somaskanda
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1993]
Ans. (b) Nataraja
- The Chola artists were skilled at carving artwork.
- They created a lot of sculptures from stone and metal, with bronze sculptures being the most common.
- Many exceptional statues of Nataraja (Shiva) have been discovered, and they are considered to be some of the finest sculptures in the world.
- These idols have four arms.
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17. The most famous sculptures of the Cholas age were:
(a) Stone sculptures
(b) Marble sculptures
(c) Vishnu sculptures
(d) Bronze sculptures of Nataraja Shiva
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (d) Bronze sculptures of Nataraja Shiva
- The Chola artists (Sthapati) were skilled in carving art.
- They created a lot of stone and metal figures.
- Bronze sculptures were made in much larger quantities than stone sculptures.
- Many of the most beautiful idols of Nataraja (Shiva) are found in great numbers.
- These statues are considered to be some of the best sculptures in the world.
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18. The famous bronze image of Nataraja is a fine example of:
(a) Chola Art
(b) Gandhara Art
(c) Gupta Art
(d) Mauryan Art
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (a) Chola Art
- Chola artists, known as Sthapatis, were highly skilled in carving art.
- They produced a variety of sculptures using both stone and metal, with bronze sculptures being particularly well-crafted.
- The most iconic Chola sculptures are the idols of Nataraja (Shiva), which are four-handed and are considered to be some of the finest sculptures in the world.
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19. The ‘Dakshinamurti’ idol of Shiva depicts him in which form?
(a) Teacher
(b) Dancing
(c) Reclining
(d) Meditating
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (a) Teacher
- The idol of Shiva called Dakshinamurti shows him as a teacher.
- People see Shiva as giving knowledge to those who worship him.
- The Dakshinamurti Idol is placed facing south.
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20. In whose tenure, 72 traders were sent to China?
(a) Kulottunga-I
(b) Rajendra-I
(c) Rajaraja-I
(d) Rajadhiraja- I
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1992]
Ans. (a) Kulottunga-I
- In 1077, King Kulottunga-I from the Chola dynasty sent a group of 72 merchants to China as a sign of goodwill.
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21. Which of the following South Indian state was famous for its naval power :
(a) Chola
(b) Chera
(c) Pallava
(d) Rashtrakuta
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2004, R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1993, U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 1992]
Ans. (a) Chola
- The Chola Kings kept a large, well-trained army and navy.
- The Chola navy was very important in helping the Chola Empire expand, including taking over Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and attacking Srivijaya, Sinhala, and Maldives.
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22. Which among the following dynasties the king declare their successor in his own tenure?
(a) Chalukya
(b) Chola
(c) Kadamba
(d) Kalchuri
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (b) Chola
- The Chola emperors usually picked a “Yuvraj” (Crown Prince) during their reign who would take over the Empire after them.
- Other rulers also appointed a Prince to take on this role.
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23. Who among the following Chola rulers converted the Bay of Bengal into a ‘Chola Lake’?
(a) Rajaraja-I
(b) Rajendra-I
(c) Adhiraj
(d) Kulottunga
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (b) Rajendra-I
- Rajendra Chola-I was a powerful king and great military leader of India.
- He took over the throne from his father, Rajaraja Chola-I.
- Rajendra-I conquered Sri Lanka and then defeated Mahipal and earned the title of Gangaikonda.
- He created a new city named Gangaikonda Cholapuram in honour of himself.
- The Chola navy was the most powerful in the region, and they turned the Bay of Bengal into the ‘Chola Lake’.
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24. Who was the founder of ‘Gangai Konda Cholapuram’ ?
(a) Rajaraja-I
(b) Rajadhiraj
(c) Rajendra-I
(d) Vijayaditya
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (c) Rajendra-I
- Rajendra Chola-I was a powerful Chola emperor who is remembered as one of the best rulers and military commanders in India.
- He followed in the footsteps of his father, Rajaraja Chola-I.
- Rajendra-I was able to take over Sri Lanka and he was victorious over Mahipal.
- To mark this success, he named himself Gangaikonda.
- He also built a new city which he named Gangaikonda Cholapuram after himself.
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25. Who among the following Chola rulers is credited to have built a huge artificial lake known as Chola Gangam?
(a) Rajaraja-I
(b) Rajendra
(c) Rajdhiraja
(d) Rajaraja-II
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (b) Rajendra
- Rajendra Chola-I was an amazing ruler of India and the successor of Rajaraja Chola-I.
- He conquered Sri Lanka and defeated Mahipal, and then named himself Gangaikonda.
- He also built a new city called Gangaikonda Cholapuram and made the Bay of Bengal into Chola Lake, which made his navy the most powerful in the region.
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26. Arrange the following temples in chronological order and select the correct answer from the codes given below:
I. Brihadishwar temple
II. Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple
III. Shore temple of Mahabalipuram
IV. Sapt pagoda
Codes :
(a) I, II, IV, III
(b) II, I, III, IV
(c) III, II, I, IV
(d) IV, III, I, II
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (d) IV, III, I, II
- The order in which these temples were built is:
- Sapt Pagoda (640-674 AD).
- Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram (674-800 AD).
- Brihadishwara Temple (during Rajaraja I’s reign).
- Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple (during Chola dynasty in 1035 AD).
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27. Which Chola King started Naval Army?
(a) Rajendra Chola
(b) Parantaka Chola
(c) Rajaraja I
(d) Rajaraja II
(e) None of these
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (c) Rajaraja I
- The reign of the Chola empire began when Rajaraja-I became king in 985 AD.
- He was the first Chola king to set up a naval force.
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28. Name the Chola King who conquered the northern part of Sri Lanka.
(a) Rajaraja-I
(b) Rajendra-I
(c) Parantaka-I
(d) Aditya-I
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (a) Rajaraja-I
- Rajaraja-I invaded Sri Lanka and destroyed Anuradhapura.
- He only took control of the northern part while the south remained independent.
- His son Rajendra-I then conquered the south, making him the ruler of the entire country.
- He was able to defeat Mahendra V in the process.
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29. Which one of the Chola kings conquered Ceylon?
(a) Aditya- I
(b) Rajaraja- I
(c) Rajendra- I
(d) Vijayalaya
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (c) Rajendra- I
- Rajaraja-I went into Sri Lanka and destroyed Anuradhapura.
- He only took over the northern part while the south stayed separate.
- His son, Rajendra-I, then took over the southern island which allowed them to have control over the whole of Sri Lanka (Ceylon).
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30. Given below are two statements, one is labeled as
Assertion (A) and other as Reason (R):
Assertion (A): We have much more information about Cholas than their predecessors.
Reason (R): The Chola rulers adopted the practice of having inscriptions written on the walls of temples giving a historical narrative of their victories.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
Code :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
- We know more about the Cholas than the people before them.
- Rajaraja I and Rajendra I wrote messages on temple walls.
- Rajaraja I started the tradition of writing down and collecting stories of their ancestors’ victories.
- The kings after him also kept the tradition.
- This means that both the statement and the reason are true, so option (a) is the correct answer.
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31. Who was the Chola monarch who gave complete freedom to Sri Lanka and got his daughter married to the Sinhala Prince?
(a) Kulottunga I
(b) Rajendra
(c) Adhirajendra
(d) Rajadhiraj I
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) Kulottunga I
- Vijayabahu, the Ceylon king, declared Sinhala Island to be independent during the time of Kulottunga-I, but Kulottunga did not act in an unfriendly way and instead married his daughter
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32. In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs:
Term Description
Eripatti: Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank
Taniyurs: Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group of Brahmins
Ghatikas: Colleges generally attached to the temples
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (d) 1 and 3
- Here’s the list that matches correctly:
- Eripatti: Land that was used to take care of village tanks
- Taniyurs: Very big villages that were run as one unit
- Ghatikas: Schools usually near temples
- So, (1) and (3) are the right answers.
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33. Which one of the following trade centers of ancient India was it on the trade route connecting Kalyana with Vengi?
(a) Tagara
(b) Sripur
(c) Tripuri
(d) Tamralipti
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (a) Tagara
- Tagara was an important trading hub located between Kalyan and Vengi.
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34. Who was the greatest king of the Chalukya dynasty?
(a) Vikramaditya
(b) English
(c) Pulakesin – II
(d) Pulakesin – I
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991]
Ans. (c) Pulakesin – II
- Pulakesin II was a very strong leader of the Chalukyas who ruled from 610 to 642 AD.
- The Aihole inscription tells the story of his successes.
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35. Information about which king is found in the “Kuruspal Inscription’?
(a) Harsha Gupta
(b) Mahapravar Raj
(c) Someshwar I
(d) Mahashivgupta Balarjun
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (c) Someshwar I
- An inscription from Kruskal was discovered near the Jagdalpur city in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.
- It talks about how Someshwar I, a king of the Western Chalukyas, had a successful reign.
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36. Which of the following dynasties frequently assigned to the ladies high ranking positions in administration?
(a) Chola
(b) Chalukya
(c) Pala
(d) Sena
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2007]
Ans. (b) Chalukya
- Women were made important roles in the Chalukya government.
- Queen Chandraditya’s sister, Vijaya Bhattarika, even issued two copper plates in her own name and was a great poet.
- Vijayaditya, her brother, gave a village to a scholar Brahmin at the suggestion of his sister Kumkum Devi.
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37. Where was the capital of Chalukyas located?
(a) Vatapi
(b) Shravasti
(c) Kanchi
(d) Kannauj
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991]
Ans. (a) Vatapi
- Currently, the old town of Vatapi in Bijapur district (Karnataka) is called Badami.
- This was the city of the Chalukyas during the 6th to 7th centuries.
- The first leader of the Chalukya dynasty in Vatapi was Pulakesin
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38. Which of the following institutions belonged to foreign trade?
(a) Sreni
(b) Nagaram
(c) Nanadesis
(d) Manigrama
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (c) Nanadesis & (d) Manigrama
- In Ancient India, Sreni was a group of people including traders, merchants, and artisans.
- The merchants did business in the city of Nagaram.
- The Nanadesis and Manigrama, two guilds of traders, made up one of the largest trading associations of the Hoysala empire.
- They had strong connections with many places, including other countries.
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39. The name of the poet Kalidasa is mentioned in the:
(a) Allahabad Pillar Inscription
(b) Aihole Inscription
(c) Alapadu Grant
(d) Hanumankonda Inscription
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (b) Aihole Inscription
- The Aihole inscription is a reliable way to learn about King Pulakeshin II.
- It was written in Sanskrit and southern Brahmi by Ravikirti.
- In the end, the author said he was as famous as the poets Kalidasa and Bharavi because of writing it.
- Kalidasa’s name is mentioned in the Aihole inscription.
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40. The Sanskrit poet and dramatist Kalidasa finds a mention in –
(a) Aihole inscription of Pulakesin-II
(b) Gwalior inscription of Mihir Bhoja
(c) Karamdanda Sivalinga inscription of Kumargupta-I
(d) Mathura Pillar inscription of Chandragupta-II
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (a) Aihole inscription of Pulakesin-II
- The Aihole inscription is a reliable way to learn about the history of King Pulkeshin II.
- It is written in Sanskrit and Southern Brahmi and was written by Ravikirti.
- At the end, the author said he was famous like Kalidasa and Bharavi because of the inscription.
- The poet Kalidasa’s name is mentioned in the Aihole inscription.
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41. The term ‘Yavanapriya’ is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit text denoted :
(a) A fine variety of Indian muslin
(b) Ivory
(c) Damsels sent to the Greek court for the dance performance
(d) Pepper
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (d) Pepper
- Indian black pepper was very popular with the most expensive Roman chefs.
- This is why it is called ‘Yavanapriya’ in Sanskrit, which means it was a favorite of the Greeks.
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42. Halbi is related to which language family?
(a) Aryan
(b) Dravidian
(c) Mundari
(d) None of these
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (a) Aryan
- Halbi is a type of language spoken in Eastern India which is a mixture of Oriya and Marathi.
- It is written using both the Oriya and Devanagari scripts.
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43. Tolkappiyam text deals with :
(a) Administration
(b) Law
(c) Grammar and Poetry
(d) All the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (c) Grammar and Poetry
- Tolkappiyam is an old text from the 2nd Sangam period and it is the oldest known text from the Tamil literature.
- It was written by Tolkappiyar, who was a student of Saint Agastya.
- It is a book about grammar and poetry and it is written in a specific style.
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44. In Sangam Literature ‘Tolkappiyam’ is a text of –
(a) Tamil poetry
(b) Tamil grammar
(c) Tamil architecture
(d) Tamil polity
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (b) Tamil grammar
- Tolkappiyam is an ancient text from the 2nd Sangam period, written by Tholkappiyar who was a disciple of Saint Agastya.
- It is a book about grammar and poetry that is written in a formulaic style.
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45. The author of the Silapadikaram was –
(a) Ilango
(b) Parmara
(c) Karikala
(d) Vishnu Swami
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2002]
Ans. (a) Ilango
- Ilango Adigal, who was the grandson of the Chola King Karikal, wrote the Tamil Literature Silappadikaram.
- This epic tells the sad tale of Kannagi and her spouse Kovalan.
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46. The collection of the writings of the Saivite saints is considered as Fifth Veda. What is the name of the above collection?
(a) Tolkappiyam
(b) Silappadikaram
(c) Manimekhalai
(d) Thirumurai
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre.) 2021]
Ans. (d) Thirumurai
- Thirumurai is a collection of twelve books of songs dedicated to Shiva, written in Tamil from the 6th to 11th centuries.
- It is made up of work from various authors.
- Thirumurai, along with the Vedas and Saiva agamas, are the main basis of the Saiva Siddhantha philosophy in the south of India.
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47. Match items of List-I with those of List-II and select your correct answer from the codes given below in the lists :
List-I List-II
| A. Thirukural |
1. Love Story |
| B. Tolkappiyam |
2. Philosophy |
| C. Silapadikaram |
3. Merchant Story |
| D. Manimekalai |
4. Grammar |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 1 2 4 3
(b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 4 2 3 1
(d) 2 4 1 3
[U.P.P.S.C. (R.I.) 2014]
Ans. (d) 2 4 1 3
- The correctly matched pairs are :
| List I |
List II |
| A. Thirukural |
Philosophy |
| B. Tolkappiyam |
Grammar |
| C. Silapadikaram |
Love Story |
| D. Manimekalai |
Merchant Story |
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48. From the excavations of which ancient site, information has been gathered regarding brisk trade relations between India and Rome, during the early centuries of the Christian era :
(a) Madurai
(b) Tamralipti
(c) Tondi
(d) Arikamedu
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2003, U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2002, U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (d) Arikamedu
- At Arikamedu in India, close to Pondicherry, an archaeological site was found with a stone carving of a man which was later identified as Augustus Caesar.
- Furthermore, beads and gems were discovered, which led to the conclusion that the antiquities were from the Roman Empire.
- Dubreuil referred to Arikamedu as a “true Roman city” and it was named Poduke in the Periplus.
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49. Which one of the following ports was known as Poduke to the author of ‘The Periplus of the Erythrean Sea :
(a) Arikamedu
(b) Tamralipti
(c) Korkai
(d) Barbaricum
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (a) Arikamedu
- Arikamedu is an archaeological site located in Pondicherry, India.
- An object called an intaglio was uncovered featuring the image of a man, which was identified as Augustus Caesar.
- Beads and gems were also found, indicating that the items were from the Roman Empire.
- Dubreuil referred to Arikamedu as a “true Roman city” and it was mentioned in the Periplus as Poduke.
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50. The Roman settlement has been found?
(a) Kalibangan
(b) Arikamedu
(c) Rangpur
(d) Satara
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (b) Arikamedu
- At Arikamedu, an archaeological site in Pondicherry, India, an intaglio carving of a man was found and identified as Augustus Caesar.
- Additionally, beads and gems were found, leading experts to believe that these objects came from the Roman Empire.
- Dubreuil referred to Arikamedu as “a true Roman city,” and it is mentioned in Periplus as Poduke.
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51. Amphora Jar is a –
(a) Perforated jar
(b) Tall double-handle jar
(c) Painted grey jar
(d) Black and red ware jar
[U.P.P.S.C. (R.I.) 2014]
Ans. (b) Tall double-handle jar
- Amphorae Jar is an old container with a long, skinny neck and two handles on either side.
- It was used in ancient Rome to store wine and oil.
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52. Which of the following dynasties is not mentioned in Sangam literature?
(a) Kadamb
(b) Chera
(c) Chola
(d) Pandya
[41st B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1996]
Ans. (a) Kadamb
- Sangam Literature talks about the beginnings and successes of the Chola, Chera and Pandya dynasties.
- Kadamb dynasty is not mentioned in the literature.
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53. Which one of the following was not a ruling dynasty of the Tamil country during the Sangam Age?
(a) Chera
(b) Chola
(c) Pallava
(d) Pandya
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (c) Pallava
- In South India during the Sangam Age, the Chera, Chola, and Pandya dynasties were in power.
- The Pallavas did not rule during this time.
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54. Religious anthology ‘Kural’ composed in which language?
(a) Greek
(b) Tamil
(c) Telugu
(d) Pali
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (b) Tamil
- Thiruvalluvar, a famous poet, wrote the Kural, which is widely considered the most important and influential piece of Tamil literature, also known as the ‘Muppal’.
- It is said that Thiruvalluvar was sent down by the god Brahma.
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55. Which one of the following Tamil Texts has been called Laghuveda?
(a) Nandhikalambagam
(b) Kalingattuparani
(c) Periyapuranam
(d) Kural
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (d) Kural
- The Tamil text ‘Kural’ is thought of as a “Laghuveda” and was written by Thiruvall
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56. Who among the following was the author of the Tamil Ramayanam or Ramavataram?
(a) Kamban
(b) Kuttan
(c) Nannaya
(d) Tikkana
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (a) Kamban
- Kamban wrote the story of Ramavataram, also known as Tamil Ramayanam, in the 12th century.
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57. With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements:
1. Siddhas (Sittars) of the Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
2. Lingayats of the Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Both 1 and 2
- Siddhas have been traced back to the Sangama period, but the word Siddha is not found in Sangama literature.
- It is associated with the beginning and growth of Shaivism, Siddhanta philosophy, and Tantras Science and Technology in South India.
- Siddhas stands for refined monotheism and opposed idol worship.
- Thus, statement (1) is accurate.
- The Lingayat from the Kannada region challenged the concept of caste that was connected to certain Brahmin groups.
- They also questioned the idea of reincarnation.
- They supported the remarriage of widows and did not approve of prepuberty marriage.
- Thus, statement (2) is also correct.
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58. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using codes given below the lists :
List-I List-II
| A. Gupta |
1. Badami |
| B. Chandela |
2. Panamalai |
| C. Chalukya |
3. Khajuraho |
| D. Pallava |
4. Deogarh |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 4 3 1 2
(b) 4 2 3 1
(c) 2 3 4 1
(d) 3 4 1 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (a) 4 3 1 2
- The correctly matched ruling dynasties and their capitals are as follows –
| List- I |
List- II |
| A. Gupta |
Deogarh |
| B. Chandela |
Khajuraho |
| C. Chalukya |
Badami |
| D. Pallava |
Panamalai |
- The Dashavatara Temple is located in Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh and dates back to the Gupta era.
- The Khajuraho area is known for its beautiful Chandela art, including around 25 temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and Jain gods.
- The most well-known temple is Kandariya Mahadeva.
- The Chalukyas had their capital in Badami, Karnataka, and Panamalai
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59. Match List- I with List- II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists
List- I List- II
(Ruling Dynasties) (Capitals)
| A. Pallava |
1. Warangal |
| B. Pandya |
2. Kanchi |
| C. Yadava |
3. Madurai |
| D. Kaktiya |
4. Devagiri |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 2 1 4 3
(b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 1 2 3 4
(d) 2 4 3 1
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (b) 2 3 4 1
- The correctly matched ruling dynasties and their capitals is as follows –
| List- I |
List- II |
| A. Pallava |
1. Kanchi |
| B. Pandya |
2. Madurai |
| C. Yadava |
3. Devagiri |
| D. Kakatiya |
4. Warangal |
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60. Consider the following events in the history of India :
1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja
2. Establishment of Pallava power under Mahendravarman-I
3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka – I
4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala
What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time?
(a) 2 – 1 – 4 – 3
(b) 3 – 1 – 4 – 2
(c) 2 – 4 – 1 – 3
(d) 3 – 4 – 1 – 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (c) 2 – 4 – 1 – 3
- Mahendravarman started the Pallava Empire in 600-630 CE.
- Gopala began the Pala dynasty in 750 AD.
- Mihira Bhoja (or Bhoja I) ruled the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty in 836-885 CE.
- Parantaka I was the king of the Chola kingdom in Tamil Nadu from 907-953.
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61. Which of the following King did send two naval expeditions to Ceylon in 642 AD?
(a) Rajaraj
(b) Narasimha Verman I
(c) Kirti Verman I
(d) Jayasinha I
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (b) Narasimha Verman I
- Narasimha Verman I was a king who ruled in southern India from 630-668 AD.
- He was called Mahamalla (great wrestler).
- During his reign, the famous Pancha Ratha Temples were built.
- He invaded and destroyed the capital of the Chalukya kingdom (Vatapi) and took the title of Vatapikonda.
- In 642 AD, he sent two ships to Ceylon (now known as Sri Lanka) to support a prince.
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62. Which one of the following was a corporation of merchants in ancient India?
(a) Chaturvedi Mangalam
(b) Parishad
(c) Ashtadiggajas
(d) Manigramam
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (d) Manigramam
- In towns like Manigramam, Nandesi, and Valanjiyar in South India, there were different unions that were created to help promote commerce and industry.
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63. Famous South Indian ‘The Battle of Takkolam’ was fought between?
(a) Between Chola and North Chalukyas
(b) Between Chola and Rashtrakutas
(c) Between Chola and Hoyasala
(d) Between Chola and Pandya
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (b) Between Chola and Rashtrakutas
- Rajaditya, the son of the Chola King Parantaka – I, fought against a group of western Gangas and Vaidunbas that was led by the Rashtrakuta King Krishna – III in a battle called the Battle of Takkolam.
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64. Who devastated the Chola dynasty eventually?
(a) Mahmud Ghaznavi
(b) Bakhtiyar Khalji
(c) Muhammad Gauri
(d) Malik Kafur
[U. P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (d) Malik Kafur
- Around 1250 AD, the Hoysala and Pandya Kingdoms triumphed over Chola King Rajendra III, leading to the end of the Chola dynasty by 1279 AD.
- Then in 1310 AD, Malik Kafur invaded South India and overpowered the Yadav.
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65. Why was ‘Uraiyur’ famous in Sangam Era?
(a) An important trade center of spices
(b) An important trade center for cotton
(c) An important center of foreign trade
(d) An important center of domestic trade
[39th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (b) An important trade center for cotton
- Uraiyur was an important town during the Sangam period, located near the Cauvery River in Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu).
- It was referred to as Koli and Varanam and was the main producer of cotton.
- It is mentioned in the “Periplus of the Erythraen Sea”.
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66. Which river was the lifeline of Pandya state?
(a) Godavari
(b) Krishna
(c) Tungabhadra
(d) Vengi
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Spl) (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) Vengi
- The Vengi River was very important to the state of Pandya.
- It started near Madurai, Tamil Nada. Pandya was located south of the Kaveri River and included modern Madura and parts of Travancore.
- Its main city was Madura.
- The land near the Vengi River was well-known for being very fertile.
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67. Which of the following Sangam ports were situated on the western coast? Select the correct answer from the code given below:
1. Korkai 2. Puhar
3. Tondi 4. Mushiri
Code :
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 4 and 1 only
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) 3 and 4 only
- The ‘Periplus of the Erythraean Sea’, a famous book written by an anonymous Greek sailor, contains a list of many different ports.
- The main ports along the western coast were Naura, Tondi, Mushiri, and Nelisanda.
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68. According to the Sangam texts, the terms Kon, Ko, and Mannan were attributed to which of the following?
(a) Prime Minister
(b) Revenue Minister
(c) Commander of the army
(d) King
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) King
- The Sangam text said that the King was referred to as Kon, Ko, and Mannan.
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69. Third Sangam was held at :
(a) Arikamedu
(b) Ernakulam
(c) Madurai
(d) Tuticorin
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (c) Madurai
- Sangam is a gathering of poets or scholars.
- Anything written by the scholars during this meeting is called ‘Sangam Literature’.
- Three of these meetings happened in the south of India, and were supported by the Pandya kings.
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70. The sage who is said to have Aryanised South India was
(a) Vishwamitra
(b) Agastya
(c) Vashishtha
(d) Sambhara
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (b) Agastya
- Agastya was a wise person who is said to have brought Aryan culture to Southern India.
- It is thought that he went south after being asked to by the Gods and stayed there.
- He is also recognized as the creator of Tamil literature.
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71. Match List- I with List -II and select the correct answer with the help of the codes given below:
List -I List-II
| A. Chalukyas |
1. Madurai |
| B. Pallava |
2. Kannauj |
| C. Harsha |
3. Badami |
| D. Pandya |
4. Kanchipuram |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 3 4 2 1
(b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 1 4 2 3
(d) 1 3 2 4
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (a) 3 4 2 1
- The correctly matched ruling dynasties and their capitals are as follows –
| List- I |
List- II |
| A. Chalukyas |
Badami |
| B. Pallava |
Kanchipuram |
| C. Harsha |
Kannauj |
| D. Pandya |
Madurai |
|
- Badami was the city where the Chalukyas ruled and Pulakesin-II was their most famous king.
- Details about him are found in the Aihole inscription written by Ravikirti.
- Kanchipuram was the capital city of the Pallavas and Harsha and his sister Rajyashri ruled together over Kannauj.
- Lastly, Madurai city is very old and has been governed by the Pandya.
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72. Arrange the name of the following Pallava rulers according to their reign in the correct chronological order and select the correct answer from the codes given below :
1. Parmeshvaravarma I
2. Narsinghvarman I
3. Nandivarman II
4. Mahendravarman I
Codes :
(a) 4, 2, 1, 3
(b) 4, 3, 1, 2
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4
(d) 3, 2, 1, 4
[U.P.B.E.O. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) 4, 2, 1, 3
- As per the question, the timeline of the Pallava king’s rule is as follows:-
- 1. Mahendravarman I – (600-630 A.D.)
- 2. Narsinghvarman I – (630-668 A.D.)
- 3. Parmeshvaravarman I – (Approx 670-700 A.D.)
- 4. Nandivarman II – (731-795 A.D.)
- Hence option (a) is the right answer.
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73. Which of the following king/kings was/were elected/ chosen directly by the public?
(1) Harshavardhan
(2) Gopal
(3) Yashovarman
(4) Nandivarman Pallava Malla
Select the correct answer using the code given below –
Code –
(a) Only (1), (2), and (4)
(b) Only (2), (3), and (4)
(c) Only (2) and (4)
(d) Only (2) and (3)
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Pre.) 2021]
Ans. (c) Only (2) and (4)
- People selected two rulers, Gopala from Bengal’s Pala dynasty and Nandivarman II (Pallavamalla) from the Pallava dynasty in South India, from the options given.
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74. Which of the following pair (A State of South India from the 6th to 12th century and its Capital) is not correctly matched?
(a) Pallava-Kanchipuram
(b) Pandya-Madurai
(c) Chera-Puducheri
(d) Chola-Tanjvur
(e) Hoyasala-Dwarasamudra
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Chera-Puducheri
- Chera was a region located in South India, with its capital being Vanchi.
- This region was in the current state of Kerala and had some parts in Tamil Nadu.
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75. Which of the following Chinese travelers has given an account of the relationship of China with India during the reign of Chalukyas?
(a) Fa-Hien
(b) Hiuen-Tsang
(c) It-Sing
(d) Matwalin
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (d) Matwalin
- Matwali was a Chinese explorer who wrote about the connections between China and India when the Chalukyas were in charge.
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76. Which dynasty did not rule over North India?
(a) Chalukyas
(b) Rajputs
(c) Gupta
(d) Mauryas
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (a) Chalukyas
- The Chalukya Dynasty mainly governed Deccan and Southern India, and their capital was located in Badami (Vatapi).
- Pulakesin – II was the first ruler of this dynasty and he defeated Harshavardhana in 618 AD.
- Additionally, there were also smaller branches of the Chalukya Dynasty, the most well-known of which was the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
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77. Which of the following kings is known to have sent his Ministers to suppress the cruelty against animals in the Kashi region?
(a) Chalukya King Siddharaja Jayasimha
(b) Chalukya King Kumarapala
(c) Chola King Kulottunga I
(d) Kashmirian King Jayasimha
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (b) Chalukya King Kumarapala
- Kumarbala was a king of the Chalukya dynasty who ruled for 29 years.
- He was a Jain and a student of Jain Scholar Ramachandra.
- Many Jain historians wrote about his life.
- He followed Jain customs and was against animal cruelty, so he sent his minister to stop the mistreatment of animals in the Kashi area.
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78. The capital of Kadamba Kings was –
(a) Tanjore
(b) Vanavasi
(c) Kanchi
(d) Badami
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2005]
Ans. (b) Vanavasi
- Vanavasi was the capital of the Kadamba rulers.
- The Kadamba dynasty was started by Mayurasharman.
- Eventually, Pulakesin – II took control of the Kadamba state.
- It is interesting to note that Tanjore was the capital of the Cholas, Kanchi of the Pallavas
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79. A king of South India sent an ambassador to the kingdom of Rome in 26 B.C. to which dynasty did he belong?
(a) Chola
(b) Chera
(c) Pandya
(d) Chalukya
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (c) Pandya
- In 26 B.C., the Pandya King from South India sent a representative to the Roman Empire.
- The Pandya dynasty was in power in the South Indian area for a long time and their capital was Madurai.
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80. Meenakshi Mandir is located at:
(a) Madurai
(b) Pudukottai
(c) Sri Rangam
(d) Thanjavur
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1992, U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (a) Madurai
- The Meenakshi temple is located in Madurai, which used to be the capital of the Pandyas.
- In ancient times, two meetings, known as the 1st and 3rd Sangam, were held here and were presided over by Acharya Agastya
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81. Meenakshi Temple is situated here –
(a) Chennai
(b) Kolkata
(c) Madurai
(d) Mahabalipuram
[Uttarakhand U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2007, U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 1991]
Ans. (c) Madurai
- Meenakshi temple is located in Madurai, which was the capital of the Pandyas.
- During the Sangama era, two conferences were held here and were led by Acharya Agastya and Nakkirar.
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82. Match the following :
List – I List – II
| A. Meenakshi Mandir |
1. Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) |
| B. Venkateswara Mandir |
2. Madurai (Balaji Vishwanath) |
| C. Mahakal Mandir |
3. Howrah (West Bengal) |
| D. Bellore Matha |
4. Ujjain |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4
(b) 2 1 4 3
(c) 4 3 1 2
(d) 3 4 2 1
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (b) 2 1 4 3
- The correctly matched list is as follows:
| A. Meenakshi Mandir |
Madurai (Balaji Vishwanath) |
| B. Venkateswara Mandir |
Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) |
| C. Mahakal Mandir |
Ujjain |
| D. Vellore Math |
Howrah (West Bengal) |
|
