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Which of these is the characteristic feature of the Citadel at Lothal?
  • a)
    Low walls
  • b)
    High walls
  • c)
    Built at a height
  • d)
    Away from the river
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Soumya Nair answered
The Citadel at Lothal is an ancient fortified town located in present-day Gujarat, India. It is one of the most important archaeological sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to around 2400 BCE. The characteristic feature of the Citadel at Lothal is that it was built at a height. Let us understand the feature in detail.

Built at a height
The Citadel at Lothal was built on a raised platform, which was about 13 meters high. This elevated platform gave the citadel a strategic advantage by providing a clear view of the surrounding areas. It also protected the citadel from floods during the monsoon season, which was a common occurrence in the region. The height of the citadel also made it difficult for enemies to attack, as they would have to climb up the platform to reach the town.

Other Features
Apart from being built at a height, the Citadel at Lothal had other features that made it a unique fortified town. It was surrounded by a massive wall that was about 4.5 meters thick and 2.4 meters high. The wall was built using mud bricks and had a series of bastions and gateways. The town was also divided into two parts, the Lower Town and the Citadel, with the latter being the more elevated part of the town.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the characteristic feature of the Citadel at Lothal is that it was built at a height. This feature made it a strategic location for trade and defense, as it provided a clear view of the surrounding areas and protected the town from floods and attacks. The Citadel at Lothal is an important archaeological site that has given us insights into the urban planning and architecture of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Jewelry in the Indus Valley Civilization is amongst the most commonly found relics and artifacts of the Harappan society. Which among the following things was not found at craft production centers in the Harappan Civilization?
  • a)
    Diamond
  • b)
    Carnelian
  • c)
    Jasper
  • d)
    Quartz
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Shalini Patel answered
Ornaments made of gold, silver, copper, ivory, pottery and beads have been discovered in this civilization as they were the most commonly used materials to make jewelry. They used carnelian, jasper, quartz to make their jewelry.

Which one of the following teaching is not associated with the teachings of Mahavira or Jaina Philosophy?
  • a)
    The entire world is animated.
  • b)
    Ahimsa (Non-Violence).
  • c)
    The cycle of birth and rebirth is not related to Karma.
  • d)
    Monastic existence is a necessary condition of salvation.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Jain answered
The correct answer is option 'C' - The cycle of birth and rebirth is not related to Karma.

Explanation:
Jaina philosophy, also known as Jainism, was founded by Mahavira, who is considered the 24th Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) in Jainism. Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world and revolves around principles such as non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).

Teachings of Mahavira:

1. Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Ahimsa is one of the core principles of Jainism. It emphasizes non-violence towards all living beings, including humans, animals, and even plants. Jains believe in the sanctity of life and practice vegetarianism to avoid causing harm to animals.

2. Monastic existence is a necessary condition of salvation: Mahavira preached that the path to salvation or liberation (moksha) requires renunciation of worldly attachments and a life of asceticism. Monastic existence, where individuals renounce all material possessions and live a life of self-discipline, celibacy, and meditation, is considered a necessary condition for attaining salvation in Jainism.

3. The entire world is animated: Jainism believes in the concept of a living universe, where all living beings, including plants and microscopic organisms, possess a soul (jiva). According to Jain philosophy, all souls are equal and have the potential to attain liberation.

4. Karma: Karma is a fundamental concept in Jainism. It is believed that all actions, both physical and mental, have consequences. The cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) is intricately linked to the accumulation of karma. Good actions lead to positive karma, while negative actions lead to negative karma, which perpetuates the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Why option 'C' is not associated with the teachings of Mahavira or Jaina Philosophy:

The statement "The cycle of birth and rebirth is not related to Karma" goes against the core principles of Jainism. Karma is considered a key factor in the cycle of birth and rebirth. Jainism teaches that the accumulation of karma through actions determines the conditions of one's next birth. The ultimate goal of a Jain follower is to break free from this cycle by shedding all accumulated karma through spiritual practices and asceticism. Therefore, option 'C' is not associated with the teachings of Mahavira or Jaina Philosophy.

Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched?
  • a)
    Kouravas-Son of Ghandhari
  • b)
    Ekalabya-Chandala
  • c)
    Pandavas-Sons of Pandu
  • d)
    Suvarnakaras-Goldsmith
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Sengupta answered
Ekalavya is a character from the epic 'The Mahabharata'. He was a young prince of the Nishadha, a confederation of jungle tribes in ancient India.

The first Director General of Archeological Survey was:
  • a)
    Alexander Cunningham
  • b)
    James Prinsep
  • c)
    Daya Ram Sahni
  • d)
    Rakhal Das Banerjee
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Sengupta answered
Alexander Cunningham, India's first professional archaeologist, became the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1871.

The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement as Virashaiva tradition. This continues to be an important community in the region to date. Our understanding of this tradition is derived from vachanas composed of women and men who joined the movement. Which of the following statement is correct about this tradition?
  • a)
    It emerged in Kerala.
  • b)
    It was led by a Basavanna.
  • c)
    Their followers were known Nayanars.
  • d)
    They supported the idea of caste and theory of rebirth.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The correct answer is option B) It was led by Basavanna.



Explanation:



The Virashaiva tradition emerged in the twelfth century and continues to be an important community in the region to date. This tradition was led by a prominent philosopher and social reformer named Basavanna. Basavanna was a Kannada poet and a key figure in the development of the Virashaiva movement.

Key Points:

- The Emergence of the Virashaiva Tradition: The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of the Virashaiva tradition. This movement was a social and religious reform movement that aimed to challenge the existing social hierarchy and caste system prevalent in society.

- Basavanna: Basavanna was the main leader and founder of the Virashaiva movement. He was born into a Brahmin family but challenged the caste system and advocated for equality and social justice. Basavanna emphasized the importance of spiritual experience over ritualistic practices and rejected the notion of caste-based discrimination.

- Vachanas: Our understanding of the Virashaiva tradition comes from the vachanas composed by the women and men who joined the movement. Vachanas are devotional poetry written in the Kannada language. They express the spiritual experiences, social critique, and philosophical ideas of the Virashaivas.

- Views and Beliefs: The Virashaivas rejected the idea of caste and believed in the equality of all individuals. They emphasized the importance of personal and direct experience of the divine. They advocated for social reform, gender equality, and rejected the notion of untouchability. The Virashaivas also challenged the priestly class and emphasized the idea of a direct relationship with God.

In conclusion, the Virashaiva tradition emerged in the twelfth century and was led by Basavanna. This movement aimed to challenge the caste system and promote social equality and justice. Our understanding of this tradition comes from the vachanas composed by the followers of the movement.

Why is the Harappan script called enigmatic? Choose the correct reason from the following options :
  • a)
    It resembles the Hieroglyphic script of Egypt.
  • b)
    It had too many symbols, between 600 and 1000 in number.
  • c)
    It was written from left to right.
  • d)
    Its script remains undeciphered till date.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Sengupta answered
The Harappan script is called enigmatic because of the following reasons: Most inscriptions were short, the longest contained about 26 signs, each sign stood for a vowel or consonant. Sometimes it contained wider space, sometimes shorter, had no consistency. Till today, the script remains undeciphered.

Read the following statements:
I. Krishnadeva Raya’s rule was characterised by expansion and consolidation.
II. There was peace and prosperity in his empire.
III. He was credited with building some fine temples.
IV. He was defeated in Battle of Rakshi Tangadi.
Which of the above statements are related to Krishnadeva Raya?
  • a)
    Only I
  • b)
    I, II and III
  • c)
    II, III and IV
  • d)
    I, III and IV
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Joshi answered
Krishnadevaraya was an emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire who reigned from 1509–1529. He was the third ruler of the Tuluva Dynasty and is considered to be its greatest ruler. Krishnadeva Raya’s rule was characterised by expansion and consolidation. There was peace and prosperity in his empire.
He was credited with building some fine temples.

Name the Queen who had independent access to land, against the provisions of Sanskrit legal texts was:
  • a)
    Salsvati
  • b)
    Vijaya Satakani
  • c)
    Prabhavati Gupta
  • d)
    Yana Sakasena
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Queen Prabhavati Gupta
Queen Prabhavati Gupta is notable for her unique position in the historical context of ancient India, particularly regarding women's rights and land ownership.
Context of Land Ownership in Ancient India
- In ancient Indian society, as outlined in various Sanskrit legal texts, women typically had limited access to property and land.
- These texts often emphasized a patriarchal system where land ownership was predominantly reserved for men.
Prabhavati Gupta's Exception
- Prabhavati Gupta, a queen from the Gupta dynasty, is historically recognized for her independent control over land.
- She was married to a powerful king and played a significant role in the administration and politics of her time, which was unusual for women in her era.
Implications of Her Rule
- Her access to land was not just personal; it symbolized a shift in the societal norms of her time.
- By managing estates and engaging in political affairs, she challenged the conventional restrictions placed on women.
Historical Significance
- Prabhavati Gupta's reign exemplifies how certain women in history could transcend societal limitations.
- Her legacy contributes to discussions around gender roles in ancient India, showcasing the complexities of women's status beyond the restrictive norms of Sanskrit law.
In conclusion, Queen Prabhavati Gupta stands out as a significant figure in Indian history, marking an important departure from traditional views on women's rights and land ownership.

Which of the following statement is correct regarding Mahnavami Dibba?
  • a)
    Mahnavami Dibba was part of ‘The King’s Palace Complex’.
  • b)
    Mahnavami Dibba was a part of Sacred centre.
  • c)
    Mahnavami Dibba was a ‘Counselling Hall’.
  • d)
    Mahnavami Dibba was a “Discussion Hall’.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Suresh Iyer answered
Equally impressive is the massive Mahanavami Dibba, where the kings of the Vijayanagara Empire once sat upon their gem studded golden throne and watched processions pass by. The structure is also embellished with densely carved bands of horses, soldiers ans depictions of various aspects of courtly life.

Why is the Harappan script called enigmatic? Identify the appropriate reason from the following options:
  • a)
    It was pictograph and uniform.
  • b)
    It was written from left to right.
  • c)
    Scholars are not able to read the script.
  • d)
    It shows common feature of writing.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Neha Sharma answered
Harappan seals usually have a line of writing, probably containing the name and title of the owner. Scholars have also suggested that the motif (generally an animal) conveyed a meaning to those who could not read.

Which of the following information is/are correct about the Vijayanagar empire?
I. Its first dynasty was the Sangama dynasty.
II. Tuluvas were replaced by the Aravidu.
III. Krishnadeva Raya belonged to the Suluva dynasty.
IV. Harihara and Bukka were from Aravidu dynasty.
  • a)
    II & III
  • b)
    I & III
  • c)
    I & IV
  • d)
    I & II
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
The Sangama Dynasty was a dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire founded in the 14th century by two brothers: Harihara I (also called Vira Harihara or Hakka Raya) and Bukka Raya I. Tuluva is the name of the third ruling dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire. Tuluvas were replaced by the Aravidu. Krishnadeva Raya belonged to the Tuluva dynasty.

Read the following source carefully and answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:
One Lord Here is a composition attributed to Kabir:
Tell me, brother, how can there be
No one lord of the world but two?
Who led you so astray?
God is called by many names:
Names like Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari and Hazrat.
Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles.
Isn’t it gold all the same?
Distinctions are only words we invent …
Kabir says they are both mistaken.
Neither can find the only Ram.
One kills the goat, the other cows.
They waste their lives in disputation
Q. How has Kabir’s compositions promote communal harmony at large?
  • a)
    Kabir mentioned about one God in all
  • b)
    He questioned religious practices
  • c)
    He was a Hindu by birth
  • d)
    He was an Islamic by birth
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Swara Ahuja answered
Understanding Kabir's Perspective on Communal Harmony
Kabir, a 15th-century poet-saint, is renowned for his profound spiritual insights that transcend religious boundaries. His composition elucidates the concept of one universal God, a notion that is pivotal in promoting communal harmony.

Emphasis on One God
- **Unity in Diversity**: Kabir emphasizes that God is referred to by various names across different religions—Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari, and Hazrat. This highlights the idea that despite the diversity in names and practices, there is a singular divine essence that binds all humanity.
- **Commonality Over Distinction**: By stating that "Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles. Isn’t it gold all the same?" Kabir draws a parallel between God and gold. This metaphor suggests that the differences in religious practices and terminologies are mere superficial distinctions, much like how gold can take various forms but remains fundamentally the same.

Critique of Religious Disputes
- **Condemnation of Violence**: Kabir criticizes those who engage in violence in the name of religion, stating that "one kills the goat, the other cows." This reflects his disdain for religious fanaticism and underscores his belief that such actions are misguided and detrimental to communal harmony.
- **Call for Reflection**: His rhetorical question, “Who led you so astray?” serves as a call for introspection among followers of different faiths, urging them to reconsider their beliefs and practices in light of a shared divine truth.

Conclusion
Kabir's message promotes communal harmony by advocating for the recognition of one God, irrespective of the various names by which He is called. His teachings encourage individuals to transcend religious barriers and engage in dialogue and understanding, thereby fostering a spirit of unity among diverse communities.

Read the following source carefully and answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option
Prayaga Prashasti
This is an excerpt from the Prayaga Prashasti: He was without an antagonist on earth; he, by the overflowing of the multitude of (his) many good qualities adorned by hundreds of good actions, has wiped off the fame of other kings with the soles of (his) feet; (he is) Purusha (the Supreme Being), the cause of the prosperity of the good and the destruction of the bad (he is) incomprehensible; (he is) one whose tender heart can be captured only by devotion and humility; (he is) possessed of compassion; (he is) the giver of many hundred thousands of cows; (his) mind has received ceremonial initiation for the upliftment of the miserable, the poor, the forlorn and the suffering; (he is) resplendent and embodied kindness to mankind; (he is) equal to (the Gods) Kubera (the god of wealth), Varuna (the God of the ocean), Indra (the God of rains) and Yama (the God of death) ... kingship?
Q. This inscription is known as a Prashasti because:
  • a)
    It is composed in praise of its patron
  • b)
    It is composed by a court poet
  • c)
    It is treasured as an important account of its patron
  • d)
    It is composed in Sanskrit
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Gayatri Sharma answered
Explanation:
Prashasti is a type of inscription that is composed in praise of its patron. In this case, the excerpt provided is from the Prayaga Prashasti, which is a eulogy praising the virtues and accomplishments of a king. It is a form of literary composition that serves to glorify and honor the subject of the inscription.

Key Points:
- Prashastis are typically written in Sanskrit and are characterized by their elaborate and often exaggerated praise of the patron.
- They are composed by court poets or scholars who are commissioned to create these inscriptions.
- Prashastis are valuable historical documents as they provide insights into the achievements and qualities of the ruler or individual being honored.
- The purpose of a Prashasti is to extol the virtues and accomplishments of the patron, often using poetic language and imagery to create a sense of grandeur and magnificence.

Which of the following languages were spoken by Rayas and Nayakas in the Vijayanagar empire?
  • a)
    Malayalam and Telugu
  • b)
    Kannada and Telugu
  • c)
    Tamil and Telugu
  • d)
    Sanskrit and Telugu
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Preeti Khanna answered
Vijayanagara literature was produced in the Vijayanagara Empire during the golden age of literature in South India in general. The rulers patronised Kannada, Telugu, Sanskrit and Tamil scholars who wrote in the Jain, Virashaiva and Vaishnava traditions.
Languages spoken by Rayas and Nayakas in the Vijayanagar Empire were Kannada and Telugu.

Read the following source carefully and answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:
One Lord Here is a composition attributed to Kabir:
Tell me, brother, how can there be
No one lord of the world but two?
Who led you so astray?
God is called by many names:
Names like Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari and Hazrat.
Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles.
Isn’t it gold all the same?
Distinctions are only words we invent …
Kabir says they are both mistaken.
Neither can find the only Ram.
One kills the goat, the other cows.
They waste their lives in disputation
Q. Kabir used different names for God or the Supreme power. What can one infer from this?
  • a)
    Concept of Ultimate Reality
  • b)
    Faith in Saguna bhakti
  • c)
    Rituals as a way to gain insight
  • d)
    Reality is in worshipping idols
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Poulomi Desai answered
There any difference between the gold in them?Just as the same gold is in all the ornaments,Similarly, the same God is in all the names.He is formless, and without qualities and attributes.He is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of the universe.He is the one lord of the world, but people have given Him different names and forms based on their beliefs and cultural traditions.People argue and fight over these names and forms,But they fail to understand that God is beyond all names and forms.He cannot be confined to any particular religion or belief system.He is beyond our comprehension and understanding.He is the ultimate truth, the absolute reality.We may call Him by different names,But He remains the same, the one and only Lord of the world.1. The composition is attributed to whom?
A. Kabir
B. Allah
C. Ram
D. Karim

Read the following source carefully and answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:
One Lord Here is a composition attributed to Kabir:
Tell me, brother, how can there be
No one lord of the world but two?
Who led you so astray?
God is called by many names:
Names like Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari and Hazrat.
Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles.
Isn’t it gold all the same?
Distinctions are only words we invent …
Kabir says they are both mistaken.
Neither can find the only Ram.
One kills the goat, the other cows.
They waste their lives in disputation
Q. Identify the connotation of Kabir from the following options
  • a)
    Monotheistic aspect
  • b)
    Polytheistic Aspect
  • c)
    Atheist Aspect
  • d)
    Theocratic Aspect
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Upasana Sen answered
It not still gold?Similarly, God may be called by different names, but ultimately, there is only one divine entity.

MCQs:
1. Who is the attributed author of the composition?
a) Kabir
b) Allah
c) Ram
d) Karim

2. According to the composition, how many lords are there in the world?
a) One
b) Two
c) Many
d) None

3. What is the analogy used in the composition to explain the different names of God?
a) Gold rings and bangles
b) Different languages
c) Different religions
d) Different cultures

4. What are some of the names mentioned for God in the composition?
a) Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari, and Hazrat
b) Gold, silver, platinum
c) Brother, sister, friend
d) One, two, three

5. What is the main message of the composition?
a) There are multiple gods
b) Different religions have different gods
c) God is called by different names, but there is ultimately only one divine entity
d) Different cultures have different gods

 Who composed Prayaga Prashasti?
  • a)
    Banabhatta
  • b)
    Jaydeva
  • c)
    Harisena
  • d)
    Kalahana
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Bhavya Joshi answered
Prayaga Prashasti is a Sanskrit composition that was written by Harisen, also known as Harisena. Harisen was a poet and scholar who lived during the Gupta Empire in ancient India. He was a court poet in the court of Emperor Samudragupta and is considered one of the Navaratnas, or the nine gems, of his court.

The Prayaga Prashasti is a eulogy or praise poem that praises the city of Prayaga, which is now known as Allahabad. Prayaga is considered a sacred city in Hinduism and is the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The poem describes the religious and cultural significance of Prayaga and its importance in Hindu mythology.

The composition is written in Sanskrit, which was the classical language of ancient India. Sanskrit was used for religious and scholarly purposes, and many ancient texts and scriptures are written in this language.

The Prayaga Prashasti is written in a poetic and lyrical style, with rich imagery and metaphors. It praises the city of Prayaga for its beauty, purity, and spiritual significance. The poem also describes the various rituals and ceremonies that take place in Prayaga, particularly during the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu festival held every 12 years at the confluence of the rivers.

Harisen's composition not only praises the city of Prayaga but also reflects the cultural and religious ethos of ancient India. It highlights the importance of pilgrimage, devotion, and the worship of deities in Hinduism. The Prayaga Prashasti is considered a valuable literary and historical document that provides insights into the beliefs and practices of ancient Indian society.

In conclusion, the Prayaga Prashasti was composed by Harisen, a court poet in the Gupta Empire. It is a Sanskrit composition that praises the city of Prayaga for its religious and cultural significance. The poem reflects the poetic and lyrical style of ancient India and provides insights into the beliefs and practices of the time.

Read the following source carefully and answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:
One Lord Here is a composition attributed to Kabir:
Tell me, brother, how can there be
No one lord of the world but two?
Who led you so astray?
God is called by many names:
Names like Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari and Hazrat.
Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles.
Isn’t it gold all the same?
Distinctions are only words we invent …
Kabir says they are both mistaken.
Neither can find the only Ram.
One kills the goat, the other cows.
They waste their lives in disputation
Q. Kabir’s poetry has a literary as well as a philosophical significance. Select the most appropriate option from the following that describes this essence.
  • a)
    God is one who just has different names.
  • b)
    God is vested in all saguna forms.
  • c)
    God is a philosophy in isolation from rituals.
  • d)
    God is based on reincarnation.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Niti Mishra answered
Understanding Kabir's Philosophy
Kabir’s poetry reflects a profound understanding of spirituality and the nature of God. The essence of the selected answer, option 'A', emphasizes the unity of God despite diverse names and forms attributed to Him.
The Core Message of the Poem
- Kabir argues that different names for God—Allah, Ram, Karim, etc.—represent the same divine essence.
- He uses the metaphor of gold, which can be fashioned into various ornaments but remains fundamentally gold, to illustrate that distinctions among religions are mere human constructs.
Significance of Option 'A'
- Unity in Diversity: By stating that God is one with different names, Kabir promotes the idea of universal brotherhood. Despite varied cultural expressions, the underlying truth is a singular divine presence.
- Critique of Sectarianism: Kabir criticizes religious divisions and the resulting violence, as seen in his observation of those who kill goats and cows in the name of their respective faiths. This highlights the futility of disputes based on superficial differences.
Contrast with Other Options
- Option 'B' (God is vested in all saguna forms) suggests a more specific interpretation of God that may not encapsulate Kabir’s broader message of unity.
- Option 'C' (God is a philosophy in isolation from rituals) overlooks the communal aspects Kabir addresses.
- Option 'D' (God is based on reincarnation) diverges from the essence of Kabir’s message, which is centered on the oneness of God rather than specific beliefs about life cycles.
Conclusion
In summary, option 'A' encapsulates Kabir's philosophy that transcends religious boundaries, advocating for a singular, universal understanding of God that is accessible to all, underscoring his role as a spiritual unifier.

Which one of the following temples was used only by the Vijayanagara rulers and their families?
  • a)
    The Vitthala Temple
  • b)
    The Virupaksha Temple
  • c)
    The Hazara Rama Temple
  • d)
    The Raghunatha Temple
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanjana Bajaj answered
Explanation:

The Hazara Rama Temple:
- The Hazara Rama Temple was used exclusively by the Vijayanagara rulers and their families.
- It is located in the royal center of Hampi, Karnataka, India.
- The temple is known for its exquisite stone carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
- The name "Hazara Rama" means "a thousand Rama," suggesting that the temple was dedicated to Lord Rama.
- The temple was built in the 15th century during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- It served as a private place of worship for the royal family and was not open to the public.
- The temple complex consists of a sanctum sanctorum, a pillared hall, and a closed hall with intricately carved pillars and panels.
- The outer walls of the temple are adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana, such as the coronation of Lord Rama and his victory over the demon king Ravana.
- The Hazara Rama Temple is a significant architectural and historical monument that provides insights into the religious and cultural practices of the Vijayanagara rulers.

Inscriptions that record gifts made to religious institutions are known as ....................... .
  • a)
    Elogium inscriptions
  • b)
    Votive inscriptions
  • c)
    Honorific inscriptions
  • d)
    Dedicatory inscriptions
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Votive inscriptions are inscriptions that record gifts made to religious institutions. They have details like the name of the donor, its occupation and about people who lived in towns: washing folk, weavers, scribes, carpenters, potters, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, officials, religious teachers, merchants and kings.

Which one of the following battles weakened the Vijayanagar kingdom?
  • a)
    Battle of Talikotta
  • b)
    Battle of Panipat
  • c)
    Battle of Mysore
  • d)
    Battle of Travancore
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Riya Banerjee answered
The Battle of Talikota (or Tellikota) (January 26, 1565) constituted a watershed battle fought between the Vijayanagara Empire and the Deccan sultanates, resulting in a rout of Vijayanagara, ending the last great Hindu kingdom in South India.

The process of understanding the inscription of the past is known as:
  • a)
    Archaeology
  • b)
    Topography
  • c)
    Paleontology
  • d)
    Decipherment
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shalini Patel answered
The archaeologist's study the inscription found in the process of excavation and understanding these inscriptions is known as the decipherment.

Which one of the following is a correct pair?
  • a)
    A
  • b)
    B
  • c)
    C
  • d)
    D
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Nandini Iyer answered
The Chola Dynasty was a Tamil thalassocratic empire of southern India, one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the world's history.

Look at the figure below. Which school of art is evident with the image of Bodhisatta?
  • a)
    Gandhara School of Art
  • b)
    Mathura School of Art
  • c)
    Greeco-Roman School of Art
  • d)
    Amaravati School of Art
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Joshi answered
This image of Bodhisattas were based on Greek models. These were, found in the northwest, in cities such as Taxila and Peshawar, where Indo-Greek rulers had established kingdoms in the second century BCE.

Identify and name the given seal of the Harappan Civilization.
  • a)
    Proto-Shiva
  • b)
    Indra
  • c)
    Mother-goddess
  • d)
    Priest-king
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
The Proto-Shiva seal shows a three-faced deity wearing a buffalo-horned headdress, seated crosslegged on a throne surrounded by an elephant, a tiger, a buffalo, a rhinoceros with two deers at his feet. This seal shows that perhaps the people of the Indus Valley Civilisation believed in Lord Shiva.

.............. deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi.
  • a)
    Alexander Cunningham
  • b)
    James Prinsep
  • c)
    Mortimer Wheeler
  • d)
    Colin Mackenzie
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Shalini Patel answered
James, an officer of the East India Company deciphered Brahmi and Kharosti Scripts used in the earliest inscriptions and coins.

Who among the following Begums provided money for the preservation of the Sanchi Stupa?
  • a)
    Shahjehan Begum
  • b)
    Nur Jahan Begum
  • c)
    Rukaiyya Begum
  • d)
    Nur-un-Nissa Begum
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Suresh Iyer answered
The rulers of Bhopal, Shahjehan Begum and her successor Sultan Jehan Begum, provided money for the preservation of the ancient site. The stupa complex has survived because of her.

The Harappan Culture is known as ____________ Civilization.
  • a)
    Iron Age
  • b)
    Bronze Age
  • c)
    Stone Age
  • d)
    Copper Age
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Sengupta answered
The Harappan Culture is known as a Bronze Age civilization because it existed during the Bronze Age, which occurred between 3000 BCE and 1000 BCE.

Who among the following was the author of the book  'Arthashastra'?
  • a)
    Bimbisar
  • b)
    Ajatshatru
  • c)
    Chanakya
  • d)
    Bindusar
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Joshi answered
The Arthasastra is an ancient Indian Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, economic policy and military strategy. Kautilya, also identified as Vishnugupta and Chanakya, is traditionally credited as the author of the text.

In which of the following are the problems of archaeological interpretation most evident:
  • a)
    Architecture
  • b)
    Religious practices
  • c)
    Social structure
  • d)
    Occupational structure
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Joshi answered
The problems of archaeological interpretation are perhaps most evident in attempts to reconstruct religious practices. Early archaeologists thought that certain objects which seemed unusual or unfamiliar may have had a religious significance.

Krishnadeva Raya belonged to which of the following dynasties?
  • a)
    Sangama
  • b)
    Tuluva
  • c)
    Aravidu
  • d)
    Suluva
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Sengupta answered
Krishnadevaraya was an emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire who reigned from 1509–1529. He was the third ruler of the Tuluva Dynasty and is considered to be its greatest ruler.

Fill in the blank: The compilation of Vinaya Pitaka, the Sutta Pitaka and the Abhidhamma Pitaka are called as.
  • a)
    Dipavamsa
  • b)
    Tipitaka
  • c)
    Mahavamsa
  • d)
    Asokvadana
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Joshi answered
The Buddha taught orally – through discussion and debate. None of the Buddha’s speeches were written down during his lifetime. After his death (c. fifth-fourth century BCE) his teachings were compiled by his disciples. These compilations were known as Tipitaka – literally, three baskets to hold different types of texts. They were first transmitted orally and then written and classified according to length as well as subject matter.

Panini’s 'Ashtadhyayi' is a work on:
  • a)
    Sanskrit grammar
  • b)
    Sanskrit history
  • c)
    Sanskrit mantras
  • d)
    Sanskrit plays
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Neha Sharma answered
Panini is known for his text Ashatadhyayi a sutra-style treatise on Sanskrit grammar. This work set the linguistic standards for Classical Sanskrit. It sums up in 4,000 sutras the science of phonetics and grammar that had evolved in the Vedic religion.

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