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All questions of Chola Empire [9th to 12th Century] for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Mahabalipuram was a 7th-century port city of the South Indian dynasty of 
  • a)
    Pallavas
  • b)
    Chalukyas
  • c)
    Pandyas
  • d)
    Cheras
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Jaya Nair answered
By the 7th century, Mahabalipuram was a port city of the South Indian dynasty of the Pallavas. It has a group of sanctuaries, which was carved out of rock along the Coromandel Coast in the 7th and 8th centuries: rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air rock reliefs such as the famous Descent of the Ganges and the Shore Temple with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva.
The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Uttarmerur inscription gives details of the functioning of which village assembly?
  • a)
    Ur
  • b)
    Sabha
  • c)
    Nagaram
  • d)
    Ur and Sabha
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Nilesh Patel answered
Uttarmerur inscription is a tenth-century inscription on a temple wall of the brahman village of Uttaramerur that gives the details of village administration or Sabha under Cholas. 

Which of the following regarding the administration of the Cholas is incorrect?
  • a)
    The king adopted high-sounding titles.
  • b)
    The raja guru was both the confident and confessor of the royal family.
  • c)
    The statues of the dead rulers were worshipped.
  • d)
    The royal household was maintained in a very austere manner, typifying the Southern tradition.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Jaideep Verma answered
Incorrect Statement: The royal household was maintained in a very austere manner, typifying the Southern tradition.

Explanation:

The Cholas were one of the most prominent dynasties of South India. They ruled from the 9th to the 13th century CE, with their capital at Thanjavur. They were known for their efficient administration, military prowess, and patronage of art and literature.

The administration of the Cholas was characterized by a centralized system of government, with the king at the top and various officials and ministers at different levels. The following are the correct statements regarding the administration of the Cholas:

a) The king adopted high-sounding titles: The Chola kings used various titles to emphasize their power and authority. Some of the titles used by them were 'Kadaram Kondan' (Conqueror of Kadaram), 'Gangaikonda Cholan' (Chola who conquered the Ganges), and 'Rajakesari' (Lion among Kings).

b) The raja guru was both the confident and confessor of the royal family: The raja guru was a high-ranking official who acted as the spiritual guide and advisor to the king and his family. He was responsible for performing religious ceremonies and rituals and giving advice on matters of statecraft.

c) The statues of the dead rulers were worshipped: The Cholas believed in the cult of the royal ancestors and worshipped the statues of their dead rulers. They believed that the spirits of their ancestors would protect and guide them.

d) The royal household was maintained in a very lavish manner, reflecting the grandeur and opulence of the Chola dynasty. The kings and their families lived in palaces with elaborate decorations and furnishings. They were attended by a large retinue of servants, including cooks, musicians, and dancers. The royal treasury was filled with vast amounts of gold, jewels, and other precious objects.

Therefore, the correct option is D.

Which of the following was one of the titles assumed by the Chola king Rajendra I?
  • a)
    Gangaikonda
  • b)
    Mudikonda
  • c)
    Kadarangoda
  • d)
    Panditichola
  • e)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
E is the correct option. Rajendra Chola I was one of the most successful monarchs of the South Indian Chola Empire. To commemorate his victory over Mahipala, he built a new capital called Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Rajendra assumed many titles such as Mudigonda Cholan, Irattapadikonda Cholan, Gangaikondachola, Panditachola, etc.

Which of the following was the great historical contribution of Rajaraja?
  • a)
    He greatly contributed towards the development of foreign trade.
  • b)
    He made the Cholas the biggest naval and military power in India.
  • c)
    He introduced the tradition of beginning the Chola epigraphs with historical introductions.
  • d)
    None of these.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
He introduced the tradition of beginning the cholaepigraphs with historical introductions. He streamlined the administrative system with the division of the country into various districts and by standardizing revenue collection through systematic land surveys. Being an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, he built the magnificent Peruvudaiyar Temple (also known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple) in Thanjavur and through it enabled wealth distribution amongst his subjects. His successes enabled his son Rajendra Chola I to extend the empire even further. 

They were present in Hallur and Paiyampalli. The inscriptions of the Pallavas mention a number of local assemblies including the ‘Ur’. Consider the following about it.
1. The assembly was found in areas where landowners were generally Brahmins.
2. Agriculture was not practiced in regions administered by the ‘Ur’.
Which of the above is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    None of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anita Desai answered
The assemblies mentioned in the Pallava inscriptions include the sabha, which was an assembly of Brahmin landowners. This assembly functioned through subcommittees that looked after irrigation, agricultural operations, making roads, local temples, and so on. There was a village assembly found in areas where the landowners were not Brahmins. And the nagaram was an organization of merchants.

They introduced the art of excavating temples from the rock, and the Dravidian style of temple architecture began with their rule. They were?
  • a)
    Cheras
  • b)
    Pallavas
  • c)
    Eastern Chalukyas
  • d)
    Jaffna
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Bhubanyu Basu answered
The dravidian architecture saw a bloom during the Pallava period. Dantidurga and other Southern kings after their succession in war , used to erect temples of magnificent beauty, these were the symbols of triumph at that time. Moreover , the area is in Deccan Plateau region , which is much harder and tougher than those of the plains or the himalayas. So as aforesaid , the craftsmen were ordered to make the temples by excavating rocks.

With reference to the Chalukya dynasty, consider the following statements. 
1. Vatapi was the capital of the Chalukya dynasty.
2. Chinese visitor Huen Tsang visited Chalukya in the reign of Kirtivarman II.
3. Last Chalukya king Kirtivarman II was defeated by Cholas.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    1 and 3 only
  • c)
    2 and 3 only
  • d)
    1, 2 and 3
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Vandana Shah answered
The Chalukya dynasty was a powerful dynasty that ruled over parts of present-day South India from the 6th to the 12th century CE. Let's discuss the given statements one by one.

Vatapi was the capital of the Chalukya dynasty.
- This statement is true. Vatapi, also known as Badami, was the capital of the Early Chalukyas from the 6th to the 8th century CE. It is located in present-day Bagalkot district of Karnataka.

Chinese visitor Huen Tsang visited Chalukya in the reign of Kirtivarman II.
- This statement is false. Huen Tsang, also known as Xuanzang, did visit India during the reign of the Chalukya dynasty, but he did not specifically mention visiting the Chalukya kingdom. He did mention visiting a kingdom called Pulakeshin, which is believed to be the Chalukya kingdom. However, he did not mention any Chalukya king by the name of Kirtivarman II.

Last Chalukya king Kirtivarman II was defeated by Cholas.
- This statement is true. Kirtivarman II was the last ruler of the Chalukya dynasty. He ruled from 745 to 755 CE. He was defeated by the Pallavas, who were then defeated by the Cholas. This led to the downfall of the Chalukya dynasty.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B - 1 and 3 only.

The Chalukyan administration was characterized by
1. High centralization in administration
2. Absence of village autonomy
3. Maritime power and small standing army
Choose the correct answer using the codes below.
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Centralization in Administration
- The Chalukyan administration was highly centralized, with power and authority concentrated in the hands of the king and his appointed officials.
- The king had control over various aspects of governance, including tax collection, justice administration, and military affairs.
Absence of Village Autonomy
- Unlike some other medieval Indian kingdoms, the Chalukyan administration did not grant significant autonomy to villages.
- Villages were closely monitored and governed by appointed officials who reported directly to the central administration.
- This lack of autonomy meant that decisions regarding local matters were often made at the central level.
Maritime Power and Small Standing Army
- The Chalukyas were known for their maritime power, with a strong navy that controlled trade routes along the western coast of India.
- While they had a powerful navy, the Chalukyas maintained a relatively small standing army compared to other contemporary kingdoms.
- The focus on maritime power allowed the Chalukyas to expand their influence beyond land-based territories.
In conclusion, the Chalukyan administration was characterized by high centralization, the absence of village autonomy, and a focus on maritime power with a small standing army. These features set the Chalukyan administration apart from other medieval Indian kingdoms and contributed to their overall governance strategy.

The Brahmadeya and Devadhana lands under the Pallava Kingdom were those lands that were
  • a)
    Declared of divine origin
  • b)
    Exempted from tax
  • c)
    Maintained by the village assembly
  • d)
    Granted to the marginalized and extremely poor
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Krithika Joshi answered
Explanation:

Brahmadeya and Devadhana lands:
- The Brahmadeya and Devadhana lands under the Pallava Kingdom were exempted from tax.
- These lands were considered as special lands that were granted certain privileges, including exemption from paying taxes.
- The Brahmadeya lands were those lands that were considered of divine origin and were usually associated with temples or religious institutions.
- The Devadhana lands were also lands dedicated to deities and were exempt from taxation.
- These lands were maintained by the respective temples or religious institutions, and the revenue generated from these lands was used for the maintenance of the temple or for religious purposes.
- The exemption from taxation was a way to ensure the continued prosperity and functioning of these religious institutions without the burden of paying taxes to the state.
- These lands were considered sacred and were granted special status under the Pallava Kingdom to uphold religious and cultural practices.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option 'B': Exempted from tax.

What is the importance of Kanchi in the context of ancient India?
1. Ghatika at Kanchi was an ancient center of learning attracting students from India and abroad.
2. Founder of the Kadamba dynasty, Mayurasarman, studied Vedas at Kanchi.
3. Dharmapala, who later became the head of the ancient Nalanda University, belonged to Kanchi.
4. It was known as the religious capital of South India.
5. Kanchi hosts Kailasanatha, which is one of the largest and most ornate ancient temples in India.
Select the correct answer using the codes below.
  • a)
    2 and 5 only
  • b)
    1 and 3 only
  • c)
    3 and 4 only
  • d)
    1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Sakshi Joshi answered
The correct answer is option 'D' - 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Kanchi, also known as Kanchipuram, holds great significance in the context of ancient India. Here are the reasons why:

1. Ghatika at Kanchi was an ancient center of learning attracting students from India and abroad:
- Kanchi was home to numerous educational institutions, and Ghatika was one of the prominent centers of learning.
- Ghatika attracted scholars and students from various parts of India and even from foreign countries, making it a hub of intellectual activities.
- It played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and promoting academic excellence.

2. Founder of the Kadamba dynasty, Mayurasarman, studied Vedas at Kanchi:
- The Kadamba dynasty was one of the earliest dynasties in ancient South India.
- Mayurasarman, the founder of the dynasty, studied the Vedas, the ancient Hindu scriptures, at Kanchi, which highlights the city's importance as a center for Vedic education.

3. Dharmapala, who later became the head of the ancient Nalanda University, belonged to Kanchi:
- Dharmapala, a renowned scholar and teacher, hailed from Kanchi.
- He later went on to become the head of Nalanda University, one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of higher learning in ancient India.
- Dharmapala's association with Kanchi further enhances the city's reputation as a center of knowledge and scholarship.

4. It was known as the religious capital of South India:
- Kanchi has long been considered a significant religious center in South India.
- It is home to numerous ancient temples, including the famous Kailasanatha temple, which is one of the largest and most ornate ancient temples in India.
- The city's religious importance attracts pilgrims and devotees from all over the country.

5. Kanchi hosts Kailasanatha, one of the largest and most ornate ancient temples in India:
- The Kailasanatha temple in Kanchi is a remarkable architectural masterpiece dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- It is renowned for its intricate carvings, exquisite sculptures, and grandeur, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark in India.
- The presence of such a magnificent temple further adds to Kanchi's prominence and allure.

In conclusion, Kanchi's significance in ancient India can be attributed to its role as a center of learning, its association with renowned scholars and educational institutions, its reputation as a religious capital, and its architectural marvels like the Kailasanatha temple. These factors make Kanchi an important city in the historical and cultural landscape of India.

Consider the following statements.
Assertion (A): Pallava rulers issued their charters only in Prakrit.
Reason (R): Pallava rulers were against the dominance of Brahmanism and banned the use of Sanskrit for all official works.
In the context of the above, which of these is correct?
  • a)
    A is correct and R is an appropriate explanation of A.
  • b)
    A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.
  • c)
    A is correct, but R is incorrect.
  • d)
    Both A and R are incorrect.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Assertion (A): Pallava rulers issued their charters only in Prakrit.
Reason (R): Pallava rulers were against the dominance of Brahmanism and banned the use of Sanskrit for all official works.

The correct answer is option 'D' - Both A and R are incorrect.

Explanation:
The Pallava dynasty was a South Indian dynasty that ruled from the 4th to the 9th century CE. They were known for their patronage of arts, architecture, and literature.

1. Pallava Charters:
The Pallava rulers issued their charters in both Sanskrit and Prakrit languages. These charters were inscriptions carved on stone or copper plates, which served as legal documents, grants, or royal decrees. The Pallavas were known for their extensive patronage of art and architecture, and their inscriptions played a significant role in documenting their achievements and contributions.

2. Use of Sanskrit and Prakrit:
The Pallava rulers did not ban the use of Sanskrit. In fact, they were patrons of Sanskrit literature and promoted the growth of Sanskrit as a language of learning and culture. They encouraged the study of Sanskrit texts and sponsored the translation of important works from Sanskrit to Tamil and other regional languages. They were also known for their patronage of Brahmanical temples and rituals.

3. Brahmanism and Pallava Rulers:
The Pallava rulers were not against the dominance of Brahmanism. In fact, they themselves were followers of Brahmanism and their rule was marked by the patronage of Brahmins and the construction of numerous Brahmanical temples. They supported and promoted Brahmanical rituals and ceremonies, and their inscriptions often mention their devotion to deities like Shiva and Vishnu.

In conclusion, both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are incorrect. The Pallava rulers issued their charters in both Sanskrit and Prakrit, and they were not against the dominance of Brahmanism. They were patrons of Sanskrit literature and promoted Brahmanical rituals and temples.

The executive committee of which one of the following general assemblies was called alungnum?
  • a)
    Ur
  • b)
    Sabha
  • c)
    Mahasabha
  • d)
    Nagaram
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Tejas Rane answered
The correct answer is option 'A', the executive committee of the Urban General Assembly was called alungnum.

Explanation:
Urban General Assembly (UGA) is a term used in India to refer to the administrative bodies at the local level in urban areas. These assemblies are responsible for governing and managing the affairs of the urban areas. Each UGA has an executive committee that is responsible for making decisions and implementing policies.

In this context, the executive committee of the Urban General Assembly was called alungnum. Alungnum is a term used in the local language to refer to the executive committee. It is the body that consists of elected representatives who are responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations of the UGA.

The executive committee of the UGA plays a crucial role in the functioning of the urban area. It is responsible for making decisions on various issues such as urban planning, infrastructure development, public services, and welfare programs. The committee members discuss and deliberate on these matters to ensure the smooth functioning of the urban area and the well-being of its residents.

The executive committee is usually headed by a chairperson who is elected from among the committee members. The chairperson presides over the meetings and represents the committee in external forums. The other members of the committee are elected representatives from different wards or constituencies within the urban area. They bring the concerns and issues of their respective constituencies to the committee meetings and work collectively to address them.

The executive committee of the Urban General Assembly is a key decision-making body that plays a vital role in the governance and development of urban areas. It ensures that the needs and aspirations of the urban population are met and that the urban area remains a vibrant and inclusive place to live and work.

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