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All questions of Class 12 (Themes in Indian History I) for UPSC CSE Exam

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?

Panini was a grammarian from approximately 5th century BC. In the book 'Ashtadhyayi', he described the structure of Sanskrit completely in 3959 aphorisms, or sutras. Ashtadhyayi is one of the earliest known grammars of Sanskrit.

The Director General of the ASI who brought a military precision to the practice of archaeology was
  • a)
    Cunningham
  • b)
    Hargreaves
  • c)
    James Burgess
  • d)
    R.E.M. Wheeler
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Kunal Ghoshal answered
In the excavation field, Mortimer Wheeler followed the stratigraphy of the mound, rather than digging mechanically along uniform horizontal lines. At the beginning of the First World War, he was commissioned into the Royal Artillery (Territorial Force), first remaining in London as an instructor in the University of London Officers' Training Corps.

A form of Hinduism within which Vishnu was worshipped as the principal deity is known as
  • a)
    Brahmanism.
  • b)
    Vaishnavism.
  • c)
    Shaivism.
  • d)
    Bhagavatism.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Alok Verma answered
The cult of Vaishnavism developed around the various avatars or incarnations of the deity Vishnu. Ten avatars of Vishnu were recognised within the Hindu tradition.

Which of the following is true about the sixteen Mahajanapadas?
i. Mahajanapadas were early states mentioned in Buddhist and Jaina texts.
ii. Some Mahajanapadas were ruled by kings, while others were oligarchies known as ganas or sanghas.
iii. All Mahajanapadas were located in southern India.
iv. Magadha was the most powerful of the Mahajanapadas.
  • a)
    i, ii, and iv
  • b)
    ii and iii
  • c)
    iii and iv
  • d)
    only iv
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ruchi Joshi answered
Understanding the Mahajanapadas
The Mahajanapadas were significant early states in ancient India, primarily mentioned in Buddhist and Jaina texts. Here's a detailed explanation of why options i, ii, and iv are true.
i. Early States in Texts
- The Mahajanapadas are indeed referred to in Buddhist and Jaina literature, which highlights their importance as political entities during the 6th century BCE.
- These texts provide insights into the socio-political structures of the time, showcasing the rise of these states.
ii. Varied Systems of Governance
- Some Mahajanapadas were ruled by kings, indicating a centralized form of governance.
- Others operated as oligarchies known as ganas or sanghas, where power was distributed among a group of individuals.
- This duality illustrates the diverse political landscape of ancient India.
iv. Magadha's Dominance
- Magadha is often recognized as the most powerful of the sixteen Mahajanapadas, playing a crucial role in the political and cultural development of the region.
- Its strategic location and resources contributed to its ascendancy over other states.
Incorrect Options
- Option iii states that all Mahajanapadas were located in southern India, which is inaccurate. The Mahajanapadas were primarily situated in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, encompassing regions that are now part of modern-day Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of surrounding states.
In conclusion, options i, ii, and iv accurately reflect the historical significance of the Mahajanapadas, making option 'A' the correct answer.

Ekalavya was a
  • a)
    nishada.
  • b)
    suvarnakara.
  • c)
    chandala.
  • d)
    priest.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Naina Sharma answered
In the Mahabharata, Nishadas are mentioned as tribes that have the hills and the forests their abode. They are linked with a king called Vena who became a slave of wrath and malice, and became unrighteous. Ekalavya was an archer of a Nishada tribe.

The first issue of Epigraphia Indica was published in
  • a)
    1885.
  • b)
    1886.
  • c)
    1887.
  • d)
    1888.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Akshat Sen answered
The first volume of Epigraphia Indica was edited by Burgess and brought out in the year 1888. This was a critically edited periodical, containing important inscriptions in different languages and scripts.

Assertion (A): The Mahabharata reflects a blend of historical context and poetic imagination, complicating direct correlations with archaeological findings.
Reason (R): The text was strictly a historical account without any creative narrative elements.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • c)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Divya Mishra answered
Understanding the Assertion and Reason
The assertion (A) states that "The Mahabharata reflects a blend of historical context and poetic imagination, complicating direct correlations with archaeological findings." This indicates that the epic combines both historical and imaginative elements, making it challenging to align its content strictly with archaeological evidence.
In contrast, the reason (R) claims that "The text was strictly a historical account without any creative narrative elements." This suggests that the Mahabharata is a factual account devoid of any creative storytelling, which directly contradicts the assertion.
Analyzing the Truth of A and R
- Assertion (A): True
- The Mahabharata is indeed a mixture of history and mythology, containing narrative elements that enhance its storytelling. It reflects various cultural and historical influences of its time, making it a complex text.
- Reason (R): False
- The assertion’s claim of a blend of historical context and poetic imagination directly opposes the reason’s claim of it being a purely historical account. The Mahabharata includes many creative and imaginative elements, such as divine interventions and moral dilemmas.
Conclusion
Since the assertion is true and the reason is false, the correct answer is option B: "If Assertion is true but Reason is false." This highlights the importance of recognizing the dual nature of texts like the Mahabharata, which cannot be reduced to simple historical accounts.

What was the purpose of the Great Bath in Mohenjodaro's Citadel?
i. It was used as a special ritual bath.
ii. It served as a water reservoir for agriculture.
iii. It was a place for public gatherings and celebrations.
iv. The Great Bath had eight connected bathrooms.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i and iv
  • d)
    iii and iv
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The Great Bath: Purpose and Significance
The Great Bath, located in the Citadel of Mohenjo-Daro, is one of the most remarkable features of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Its design and structure suggest various potential functions, primarily focused on ritualistic and social aspects.
Ritual Bathing
- The Great Bath is widely believed to have served as a special ritual bath.
- Archaeological evidence indicates that it was used for purification rites, which were significant in the spiritual practices of the time.
- The presence of steps leading down to the water suggests a ceremonial aspect, where individuals might have engaged in ritualistic cleansing before important events or gatherings.
Public Gatherings
- The size and accessibility of the Great Bath imply it may have also functioned as a venue for public gatherings and celebrations.
- Its architectural prominence indicates that it was a focal point for the community, fostering social interactions.
- Events surrounding the Great Bath likely played a crucial role in the cultural and social life of Mohenjo-Daro, enhancing communal bonds among inhabitants.
Misinterpretations
- While the Great Bath had impressive plumbing features, such as drainage systems, it is not primarily considered a reservoir for agriculture (which rules out option ii).
- The statement about eight connected bathrooms (option iv) could refer to adjacent facilities, but they are not a defining feature of the Great Bath itself.
In conclusion, the Great Bath's primary functions appear to revolve around ritualistic practices and community gatherings, reinforcing its importance in the social and spiritual life of Mohenjo-Daro's citizens. Thus, the correct answer is option 'C': i and iii.

The Arthashastra was composed by
  • a)
    Banabhatta.
  • b)
    Kautilya.
  • c)
    Ravikirti.
  • d)
    Ashvaghosha.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kautilya or Chanakya was the prime minister of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan dynasty. The text Arthashastra deals with the monetary and fiscal policies, public welfare, international relations and war strategies in great detail.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. Jatis were often organized into guilds (shrenis), facilitating social mobility within specific professions.
ii. The Mandasor inscription provides details on the social roles of a guild of silk weavers, highlighting their investment in communal projects.
iii. Brahmanical texts uniformly classified all new groups into jatis without exception.
iv. The story of Ekalavya illustrates the conflict between Brahmanical norms and the practices of marginalized communities.
  • a)
    i and ii
  • b)
    ii and iii
  • c)
    i, iii, and iv
  • d)
    i, ii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding the Correct Statements
The question revolves around the historical context of jatis and guilds in Indian society, as well as the implications of Brahmanical norms. Let's break down the statements:
Statement i: Guilds and Social Mobility
- Jatis, or social groups, were indeed often organized into guilds called shrenis.
- These guilds facilitated social mobility within specific professions, allowing for a degree of flexibility in social status based on skill and economic contribution.
Statement ii: The Mandasor Inscription
- The Mandasor inscription does provide insights into the social roles of specific guilds, particularly silk weavers.
- It highlights their involvement in communal projects, showcasing their economic and social contributions to the community.
Statement iii: Brahmanical Classification of Jatis
- This statement is incorrect as Brahmanical texts did not uniformly classify all new groups into jatis.
- The classification was often selective and reflected existing hierarchies and socio-political contexts, leading to exceptions based on various factors.
Statement iv: Ekalavya's Story
- The tale of Ekalavya emphasizes the tension between Brahmanical ideals and the realities faced by marginalized communities.
- Ekalavya, a tribal youth, defied Brahmanical norms to pursue his education, which highlights the conflict between established social structures and individual aspirations.
Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct statements are i, ii, and iv, making the answer option 'D' correct.
- This illustrates the complexities of social organization in ancient India, the role of guilds, and the challenges posed by rigid caste norms.

Which of the following is true about Mohenjodaro's drainage system?
i. Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with drains.
ii. Drainage systems were constructed after the houses were built.
iii. Each house had drains connected to street drains.
iv. Mohenjodaro lacked a well-designed drainage system.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i and iv
  • d)
    iii and iv
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Harsh Roy answered
Overview of Mohenjodaro's Drainage System
Mohenjodaro, an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its advanced urban planning, particularly its sophisticated drainage system.
Key Features of the Drainage System
- Grid Pattern Streets:
The streets in Mohenjodaro were laid out in a grid pattern, facilitating organized movement and efficient drainage. This design is indicative of a well-thought-out urban planning strategy.
- Drains in Connection with Houses:
Each house in Mohenjodaro had drains that connected to the main street drains. This connection allowed for effective waste disposal and ensured that the streets remained clean.
Misconceptions about Drainage Construction
- Drainage Built After Houses:
Contrary to option ii, the drainage systems were not constructed after the houses were built. Instead, they were integrated into the urban planning from the beginning.
- Lack of Drainage System:
Option iv is also incorrect. Mohenjodaro is celebrated for its well-designed drainage system, which was advanced for its time and demonstrates the city's sophistication.
Conclusion
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' because:
- Statement i is true: Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with drains.
- Statement iii is also true: Each house had drains connected to street drains.
Mohenjodaro’s drainage system exemplifies the ingenuity of its civilization, showcasing their commitment to sanitation and urban planning.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization's burial practices reveal significant social differences among its members.
Reason (R): Artifacts such as jewelry and pottery found in graves indicate a belief in their utility in the afterlife.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

 
- Assertion (A) is true as archaeological evidence suggests that variations in burial practices, such as the presence of brick-lined pits and grave goods, indicate differing social statuses within the Harappan civilization.
- Reason (R) is also true because the inclusion of items like jewelry and pottery in graves does imply a belief in their usefulness in the afterlife.
- The reason provided supports the assertion by explaining how the graves reflect social differences through the artifacts included. Thus, the reason is indeed the correct explanation of the assertion.
 

The first ever ruler to propagate the principles of Dhamma was
  • a)
    Bimbisara.
  • b)
    Chandragupta II.
  • c)
    Chandragupta Maurya.
  • d)
    Asoka.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aravind Chawla answered
The Dhamma, as explained in Asokan edicts, is not a religion or religious system, but a moral law, which is a common meeting ground for all religions. After the Kalinga war, the greatest ideal and objective before Ashoka was the propagation of Dhamma.

Assertion (A): The stupa at Sanchi serves as a vital symbol of the enduring legacy of ancient Buddhist philosophies.
Reason (R): The preservation efforts at Sanchi were primarily funded by the rulers of Bhopal in the 19th century, which reflects a growing European interest in Indian heritage.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

 
- The assertion is true; the stupa at Sanchi is indeed a significant representation of ancient Buddhist ideologies and practices.
- The reason is also true; the rulers of Bhopal did play a significant role in funding the preservation of Sanchi, indicating the interest from Europeans in Indian cultural sites.
- The reason does not serve as the correct explanation for the assertion, as the significance of the stupa is rooted in its historical and cultural importance rather than merely in the preservation efforts initiated by the rulers. Thus, the correct option is Option A, as both statements are true, but the reason does not explain the assertion.
 

The number of categories into which the Dharmashastras and Dharmasutras divided the ideal occupations were
  • a)
    Two
  • b)
    Three
  • c)
    Four
  • d)
    Five
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajat Iyer answered
According to Dharmashastras and Dharmasutras, Brahmanas were supposed to study and teach Vedas, Kshatriyas were to engage in warfare, Vaishyas to engage in agriculture, pastrolism and trade; while Shudras were assigned only to serve the upper three Varnas.

Arrange the following events related to the Mauryan Empire in the correct chronological order:
  1. Reign of Ashoka
  2. Emergence of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya
  3. Kalinga War
  4. End of the Mauryan Empire
  • a)
    2 → 1 → 3 → 4
  • b)
    1 → 2 → 4 → 3
  • c)
    2 → 3 → 1 → 4
  • d)
    4 → 1 → 3 → 2
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Emergence of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya (c. 321 BCE): Chandragupta Maurya founded the empire.
  • Reign of Ashoka (269-231 BCE): Ashoka was the most famous Mauryan ruler.
  • Kalinga War (261 BCE): Fought during Ashoka’s reign, leading to his adoption of dhamma.
  • End of the Mauryan Empire (185 BCE): The empire declined and ended after about 150 years.

Assertion (A): The social hierarchy in ancient Tamilakam was significantly influenced by the practice of sharing wealth among chiefs and their communities.
Reason (R): The Tamil Sangam literature reflects a cultural emphasis on generosity, suggesting that social status was derived more from communal sharing than from wealth accumulation.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- Assertion Analysis: The assertion is true as the social structure in ancient Tamilakam indeed highlighted the importance of wealth sharing among chiefs as a means of establishing status.
- Reason Analysis: The reason is also true; Tamil Sangam literature emphasizes the value of generosity, reinforcing that social esteem was linked to sharing rather than mere accumulation of wealth.
- Explanation of Relationship: The reason correctly explains the assertion since the cultural practice of generosity was a foundational element in shaping the social hierarchy in Tamilakam.

Which of the statements given below is/are correct?
i. The concept of the Bodhisatta in Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes self-effort in achieving nirvana.
ii. Vaishnavism and Shaivism emerged as significant movements within Hinduism, focusing on the worship of Vishnu and Shiva.
iii. Early temple architecture included shikharas, which are intricate structures built over the central shrine.
iv. The Kailashnatha temple, dedicated to Shiva, is an example of a temple built during the 3rd century BCE.
  • a)
    ii and iii
  • b)
    i and iv
  • c)
    ii and iii
  • d)
    i, ii, iii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Statement i: The concept of the Bodhisatta in Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the idea of altruism and compassion toward all sentient beings rather than solely self-effort in achieving nirvana. Therefore, this statement is false.
  • Statement ii: Vaishnavism and Shaivism are indeed significant movements within Hinduism, focusing on the worship of Vishnu and Shiva, respectively. This statement is true.
  • Statement iii: Early temple architecture included shikharas, which are indeed intricate structures built over the central shrine. This statement is true.
  • Statement iv: The Kailashnatha temple, dedicated to Shiva, is an example of a temple built during the 8th century CE, not the 3rd century BCE. Therefore, this statement is false.
Thus, only statements ii and iii are correct.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. The discovery of the Amaravati stupa was made by a local raja in 1796 while planning to build a temple.
ii. H.H. Cole successfully advocated for the preservation of Amaravati's original sculptures during the colonial era.
iii. Sanchi, discovered in 1818, experienced significant structural removal similar to Amaravati.
iv. The shalabhanjika motif in Buddhist sculpture represents a woman whose touch caused trees to flower and bear fruit.
  • a)
    i and iv
  • b)
    ii and iii
  • c)
    i and iii
  • d)
    i, iii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct; the ruins of Amaravati were indeed discovered by a local raja in 1796.
- Statement ii is incorrect; H.H. Cole's efforts for preservation were largely unsuccessful amidst the removal of sculptures.
- Statement iii is incorrect; Sanchi managed to retain its monuments better than Amaravati.
- Statement iv is correct; the shalabhanjika motif symbolizes a woman associated with the flourishing of trees, reflecting local beliefs integrated into Buddhist art.
Thus, the correct statements are i and iv, making Option A the right choice.

Assertion (A): Mahavira and Buddha emphasized individual agency in the quest for liberation from worldly existence.
Reason (R): They both held that an individual's existence is predetermined by their caste and gender.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

- Assertion Analysis: The assertion is true. Both Mahavira and Buddha taught that individuals have the power to seek liberation and that one's efforts are crucial in overcoming the cycle of birth and rebirth.
- Reason Analysis: The reason is false. While the Brahmanical view emphasizes caste and gender as determinants of one's existence, Mahavira and Buddha challenged this notion, advocating for personal effort over predetermined status.
- Conclusion: Since the assertion is true and the reason is false, the correct answer is Option C.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization is noted for its advanced urban planning and architecture during the Mature Harappan period.
Reason (R): The archaeological evidence indicates that Harappan settlements featured large buildings and sophisticated drainage systems.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Assertion: The assertion is true as the Harappan civilization is indeed recognized for its advanced urban planning, particularly during the Mature Harappan period.
  • Reason: The reason is also true, as extensive archaeological findings support the presence of large buildings and complex drainage systems in Harappan cities, indicating advanced urban infrastructure.
  • Explanation: The reason provides a correct explanation for the assertion since the urban planning and architectural achievements of the Harappan civilization are supported by the evidence of large structures and sophisticated infrastructure. Thus, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. The stupa at Sanchi is renowned for its architectural significance and preservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India.
ii. The Rigveda is the oldest known text that details the sacrificial rituals performed during early Vedic traditions.
iii. The emergence of thinkers in the mid-first millennium BCE led to the questioning of the significance of sacrificial rituals.
iv. The Upanishads were written in the first millennium CE, focusing exclusively on the practical aspects of life.
  • a)
    i, ii, and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i and iii
  • d)
    ii, iii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct as the stupa at Sanchi is indeed a significant architectural monument that reflects the successful preservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India.
- Statement ii is partially correct but misleading: While the Rigveda is the oldest known text of the Vedic tradition, it primarily consists of hymns and praises to gods rather than detailing sacrificial rituals. These rituals are more elaborately described in later Vedic texts like the Yajurveda.
- Statement iii is correct as the emergence of philosophical thinkers during the mid-first millennium BCE indeed sparked debates about the significance of sacrifices and the nature of ultimate reality.
- Statement iv is incorrect as the Upanishads were composed around the sixth century BCE and explore profound philosophical questions rather than focusing solely on practical aspects of life.
Thus, the correct statements are i and iii, making Option C the accurate choice.

Arrange the following phases of the Harappan civilization in the correct chronological order:
  1. Mature Harappan
  2. Late Harappan
  3. Early Harappan
  • a)
    3 --> 2 --> 1
  • b)
    3 --> 1 --> 2
  • c)
    1 --> 2 --> 3
  • d)
    2 --> 1 --> 3
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Crafty Classes answered
  • Early Harappan (6000 BCE - 2600 BCE): This is the formative phase of the civilization.
  • Mature Harappan (2600 BCE - 1900 BCE): This is the period of urban prosperity and growth.
  • Late Harappan (1900 BCE - 1300 BCE): This phase marks the decline of the Harappan civilization.

  • a)
    1 → B, 2 → C, 3 → A, 4 → D
  • b)
    1 → B, 2 → D, 3 → C, 4 → A
  • c)
    1 → C, 2 → B, 3 → A, 4 → D
  • d)
    1 → C, 2 → D, 3 → A, 4 → B
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Citadel (C): The Citadel was an elevated area in Harappan cities used for important buildings.
  • Great Bath (B): The Great Bath was used for ritualistic bathing, located within the Citadel.
  • Seal (A): Seals were common artifacts, often featuring undeciphered scripts and animal motifs.
  • Faience (D): Faience was a material used to craft beads and other small valuable items.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. Exogamy was commonly practiced among high-status families to forge alliances and avoid close kin marriages.
ii. The Manusmriti recognized only one form of marriage, which was the gift of a daughter to a learned man.
iii. Women in early Indian society were expected to adopt their husband's gotra upon marriage, reflecting patrilineal norms.
iv. The Dharmasutras prescribed the ideal occupation for Brahmanas as engaging in agriculture and trade.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i, iii, and iv
  • d)
    i, ii, iii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct because exogamy (marrying outside one's kin group) was indeed a common practice among high-status families for forming alliances and preventing close kin marriages.
- Statement ii is incorrect as the Manusmriti outlined eight forms of marriage, not just one. These included various types that reflected different societal values.
- Statement iii is correct as it accurately represents the practice of women adopting their husband's gotra upon marriage, highlighting the patrilineal norms of the society.
- Statement iv is incorrect. The Dharmasutras prescribed specific roles for each varna, with Brahmanas primarily tasked with religious and educational duties, not agriculture and trade, which were assigned to Vaishyas.
Therefore, the correct options are those including statements i and iii, making the answer Option A.

  • a)
    1-b, 2-a, 3-d, 4-c
  • b)
    1-b, 2-d, 3-a, 4-c
  • c)
    1-d, 2-c, 3-b, 4-a
  • d)
    1-c, 2-d, 3-a, 4-b
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

  • V.S. Sukthankar led the project for the critical edition of the Mahabharata (1-b).
  • Charioteer-bards are credited with the original composition of the Mahabharata (2-d).
  • B.B. Lal conducted excavations at Hastinapura (3-a).
  • Vyasa is traditionally considered the compiler of the Mahabharata (4-c).

Which of the following best describes the layout of Mohenjodaro?
  • a)
    Randomly arranged buildings without planning
  • b)
    A single large temple complex
  • c)
    A well-planned urban center with a grid layout
  • d)
    A rural settlement with scattered homes
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Mohenjodaro was designed as a well-planned urban center featuring a grid layout, with streets and roads that facilitated efficient movement and drainage. The city was divided into two main sections: the Citadel and the Lower Town, which showcased advanced urban planning that included standardized brick sizes and organized building platforms. This meticulous design reflects the sophistication of the Harappan civilization.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. The Mahabharata was composed over a period of approximately 1,000 years, starting around 500 BCE.
ii. The critical edition of the Mahabharata was completed in 1919 and spans over 13,000 pages.
iii. Patriliny in early Indian society was primarily concerned with tracing descent from mother to daughter.
iv. The project to create a critical edition of the Mahabharata involved collecting manuscripts written in various scripts from different regions.
  • a)
    i, ii and iv
  • b)
    i and iii
  • c)
    ii and iv
  • d)
    i and iv
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct as the Mahabharata was indeed composed over approximately 1,000 years starting around 500 BCE.
- Statement ii is incorrect; while the project began in 1919, the critical edition was completed after 47 years, thus it was finalized in 1966, not 1919.
- Statement iii is incorrect; patriliny specifically refers to tracing descent through the male line, not from mother to daughter.
- Statement iv is correct, as the critical edition involved collecting manuscripts in various scripts from different regions to document variations.
Thus, the correct statements are i and iv, making Option D the accurate answer.

Assertion (A): The Kushanas adopted the title devaputra to enhance their royal status by associating themselves with divine authority.
Reason (R): This title was commonly used by emperors in ancient Rome to signify their legitimacy and connection to the gods.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is correct, as the Kushanas indeed used the title "devaputra" to claim a divine lineage and elevate their status among their subjects.
- The Reason is also correct; however, it inaccurately attributes the title's usage to Roman emperors, which does not directly explain the Kushanas' context or rationale for adopting it.
- Thus, while both statements are true, the Reason does not correctly explain the Assertion, leading to the conclusion that the correct answer is Option B.

Assertion (A): The construction of the Kailashnatha temple marked the pinnacle of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.
Reason (R): The temple was built during the 3rd century BCE, showcasing a blend of artistic and architectural advancements.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

- The assertion is true because the Kailashnatha temple, dedicated to Shiva, is indeed considered a monumental achievement in rock-cut architecture, representing the zenith of this artistic tradition in the 8th century.
- The reason is false; the temple was constructed in the 8th century, not during the 3rd century BCE as stated.
- Since the assertion is true but the reason is false, the correct answer is Option A, as both statements are not correct, but the reason does not adequately explain the assertion.

  • a)
    1-d, 2-a, 3-c, 4-b
  • b)
    1-c, 2-b, 3-a, 4-d
  • c)
    1-b, 2-d, 3-c, 4-a
  • d)
    1-a, 2-c, 3-d, 4-b
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Sanchi (1-d) is an ancient Buddhist site preserved by rulers like Shahjehan Begum.
  • Mahavira (2-a) was a Jain teacher known for his teachings on non-violence.
  • Stupa (3-c) is a sacred mound containing Buddhist relics.
  • Buddha (4-b) founded the Buddhist Sangha and spread his teachings across the subcontinent.

Assertion (A): The decipherment of Kharosthi was significantly aided by the discovery of coins from Indo-Greek kings, which featured inscriptions in both Greek and Kharosthi scripts.
Reason (R): Scholars were able to compare the Greek letters with Kharosthi, leading to the identification of key symbols in the inscriptions.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Assertion (A): The statement about the decipherment of Kharosthi being aided by Indo-Greek coins is correct. These coins provided essential comparative material for understanding the Kharosthi script.
  • Reason (R): This statement is also correct. The ability to compare Greek letters with Kharosthi was crucial in the decipherment process, as it allowed scholars to identify symbols and their meanings.
  • Explanation: Since both the assertion and the reason are correct and the reason directly explains why the assertion is true, Option A is the correct choice.

  • a)
    1 → A, 2 → B, 3 → D, 4 → C
  • b)
    1 → B, 2 → A, 3 → C, 4 → D
  • c)
    1 → D, 2 → B, 3 → C, 4 → A
  • d)
    1 → D, 2 → C, 3 → B, 4 → A
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Mauryan Empire's capital - B. Patna (Pataliputra):
    Patna, known as Pataliputra in ancient times, was the capital of the Mauryan Empire. It was a significant political and administrative center.
  • Ashoka's dhamma - A. Respect towards elders:
    Ashoka's dhamma emphasized respect towards elders, compassion, non-violence, and religious tolerance.
  • Kautilya's Arthashastra - C. Ashoka’s Minister:
    Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was the chief advisor and minister of Chandragupta Maurya, not Ashoka. The Arthashastra is his treatise on statecraft and military strategy.
  • Suvarnagiri - D. Provincial center of the Mauryan Empire:
    Suvarnagiri was one of the important provincial centers of the Mauryan Empire, particularly known for its gold mines.

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