Practice Test: Modern India - 1 - UPSC MCQ

The institution of gotra appeared in the later Vedic times. Gotra, Vis, and Jana may be corresponding to the viz., Zantu and Dagun of the Iranian world.

Evidence of ladies taking part in advanced Vedic studies is found in 'Stage' directions in the Taittiya Aryanka and Aiteriya Upanishads, where ladies were directed to leave the hall of learning where some principles of gynaecology were explained, which are indelicate for the female ear.

The list of victims at the symbolic human sacrifice of the later texts of the Yajurveda provides us with a large variety of occupations. In one of them we might find a trace of police officials in the Ugras who occur in one passage of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.

Indian west coast had numerous ports when compared with Indian east coast. The reason for concentration of ports in west coast could be that they were easily approached by the traders of Roman Empire. Muciri, an ancient port town, is popular among the port towns in the west coast (Chera country). Greeks or Yavanas called this port as Muziris. It was here, the temple of Augustus was built by Romans.

Nicolaus of Damascus describes an embassy sent by the "Indian king Porus (or Pandion, Pandya or Pandita (Buddhism)) to Caesar Augustus. The embassy traveled with a diplomatic letter on a skin in Greek. One of its members was a sramana who burned himself alive in Athens to demonstrate his faith. Nicholas of Damascus met the embassy at Antioch and this is related by Strabo and Dio Cassius.

For surveys and taxation purposes, various measurements were used to measure the land and its produce. The small land was known as Ma and bigger one as Veli. One Veli was equal to a hundred Kuli. 

Isai Nunukkam is a grammar book for the Tamil language. It was written by Sikandi, before the second Sangam period.
Patiṟṟuppattu is a classical Tamil poetic work and one of the Eight Anthologies (Ettuthokai) in the Sangam literature. It is a panegyric collection that exclusively contains puram (war, public life) category of Sangam poems.The God Vishnu is the centre of this work and is referred to as Thirumal who holds the disk and the conch. The invocatory poem is on Krishna.
Thiruvalluvar was the author of the book ‘Tirukkural (also known as the Kural). It is a classic Tamil sangam literature consisting of 1330 couplets or Kurals. The book is also called as the fifth Veda or ‘Bible of the Tamil Land’.
Silappatikaram is the earliest Tamil epic. It is a poem of 5,730 lines in almost entirely akaval (aciriyam) meter. The epic is a tragic love story of an ordinary couple, Kannaki and her husband Kovalan. The Silappathikaram has more ancient roots in the Tamil bardic tradition, as Kannaki and other characters of the story are mentioned or alluded to in the Sangam literature such as in the Naṟṟiṇai and later texts such as the Kovalam Katai. It is attributed to a prince-turned-monk Iḷaṅkõ Aṭikaḷ, and was probably composed about 5th- or 6th-century CE.

The three ruling houses of Tamil India, the Pandyas, Cheras, and Cholas, fought for supremacy of southern India and Sri Lanka. These dynasties promoted early literature on the Indian subcontinent and built important Hindu temples.

A is the correct option.

• Undiyejeral was called “Imayavaramban”, he who had the Himalayas as his boundary'.

• Lord Venkateswara(Maha Vishnu) is the presiding deity of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India.

• Eripatti, Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank.

The Jain Tirthankaras, Lord Aristanemi (22nd Tirthankar) and Lord Rishabh Nath (1st Tirthankar) has been mentioned in Rigveda.

The  correct answer is A as all are correctly matched in option A .

The Three Types of Villages during the Pre-Maurya Period:
The Pali texts describe three types of villages that existed during the Pre-Maurya period. These villages were characterized by their inhabitants and their geographical locations.
1. Village Inhabited by Various Castes and Communities:
- This type of village was inhabited by people belonging to different castes and communities.
- The village was headed by a village headman known as Bhojaka.
- The Bhojaka served as the local authority and was responsible for maintaining law and order in the village.
- The village was a diverse community with people from different backgrounds living together.
2. Sub-Urban Craft Villages:
- These villages were located on the outskirts of larger urban centers.
- They were specialized in various crafts and industries.
- Artisans and craftsmen resided in these villages, engaging in occupations such as pottery, weaving, metalworking, and carpentry.
- The craft villages played a crucial role in supplying goods and services to the urban centers.
3. Border Villages:
- These villages were situated on the boundaries of the countryside and often merged into forests.
- They were located in the border regions of the country.
- The people living in these villages were exposed to the challenges and threats posed by the forest and the neighboring regions.
- These villages played a defensive role, protecting the country from external invasions.
The Option that is Not One of the Three Types of Villages:
The option that is not one of the three types of villages described in the Pali texts is:
D. Villages Inhabited by Only the Brahmanas:
- The Pali texts do not explicitly mention villages inhabited exclusively by Brahmanas.
- The classification of villages during the Pre-Maurya period was primarily based on caste diversity, craft specialization, and geographical location.
- While Brahmanas were an important social group during that time, the texts do not highlight villages specifically inhabited by them.

Vaddhaki, apparently covered all kinds of woodcraft . A settlement of vaddhakis is able to make both furniture and seagoing ships".

Explanation:
In the Jataka, the term "Shippikani" refers to a type of currency. It is mentioned in the context of a story in which the Buddha, in one of his previous lives as a Bodhisattva, was born as a merchant. The story revolves around the Bodhisattva's encounter with a poor woman who was unable to pay her rent.
Here is a detailed explanation of Shippikani mentioned in the Jataka:
1. Shippikani:
- Shippikani is a form of currency mentioned in the Jataka.
- It is believed to refer to cowry shells, which were commonly used as currency in ancient times.
- Cowry shells were small, round shells that were widely used in trade and commerce.
- They were often used as a form of currency in various parts of the world, including ancient India.
- The value of Shippikani, or cowry shells, would vary depending on the region and time period.
2. Usage in the Jataka:
- In the Jataka story, the Bodhisattva, as a merchant, comes across a poor woman who is unable to pay her rent.
- The Bodhisattva offers to help her by giving her a bag of Shippikani.
- This act of generosity and compassion demonstrates the Bodhisattva's virtuous qualities.
- The story highlights the importance of kindness and selflessness in helping those in need.
3. Symbolic Meaning:
- The mention of Shippikani in the Jataka has symbolic significance.
- It represents the Bodhisattva's willingness to help others and his understanding of the value of compassion.
- By giving the woman Shippikani, the Bodhisattva not only provides her with a means to pay her rent but also offers her a sense of security and support.
In conclusion, Shippikani mentioned in the Jataka refers to cowry shells, which were used as a form of currency in ancient times. Its mention in the story emphasizes the Bodhisattva's compassionate nature and his willingness to help those in need.

Bahubali also called Gomateshwara was an Arihant. According to Jainism, he was the second of the hundred sons of the first Tirthankara, Rishabha and king of Podanpur. A monolithic statue of Bahubali referred to as “Gommateshvara” built by the Ganga dynasty minister and commander Chamundaraya is a 60 feet (18 m) monolith and is situated above a hill in Shravanabelagola, in the Hassan district of Karnataka. It was built in the 10th century AD.

Factors contributing to the rise of Buddhism:

• The crisis of tribal society: The decline of tribal societies and the breakdown of traditional social structures created a sense of instability and uncertainty. This led people to seek alternative belief systems and philosophies.


• The emergence of an agricultural economy based on private property: As societies transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural communities, the concept of private property and ownership became more prominent. This shift brought about changes in social hierarchies and economic systems.


• The development of trade and the formation of guilds of traders: The growth of trade networks and the establishment of guilds allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. This facilitated the spread of Buddhism as it was adopted and adapted by different communities along trade routes.

These socioeconomic transformations created a fertile ground for the rise of Buddhism by creating a need for new belief systems and providing opportunities for its dissemination. While the persuasive force of the doctrine certainly played a role, it is important to consider the broader context in which Buddhism emerged.

Contributions of Buddhism:
I. Created a feeling of political unity, peace, and universal brotherhood.
- Buddhism emphasized non-violence and peaceful coexistence.
- It promoted a sense of unity and brotherhood among its followers, regardless of social or caste differences.
- Buddhist teachings and principles were often used to resolve conflicts and establish political unity.
II. Gave the idea of a classless society, no accumulation of wealth, and development of Apabhramsa.
- Buddhism challenged the caste system and promoted the idea of a classless society.
- It emphasized the importance of equality and discouraged the accumulation of wealth.
- Buddhism also contributed to the development of Apabhramsa, a medieval form of Prakrit language used in literature.
III. Had a reformatory influence on Hinduism.
- Buddhist ideas and practices influenced Hinduism and led to its reform.
- Concepts such as ahimsa (non-violence) and karma were adopted from Buddhism.
- The popularity of Buddhism also led to the rise of Bhakti movement in Hinduism.
IV. Helped in the development of education, literature, and had a greater influence on art.
- Buddhist monastic institutions played a significant role in the development of education.
- Buddhist monks and scholars preserved and translated ancient texts, contributing to the growth of literature.
- Buddhist art, including sculptures and paintings, had a profound influence on the artistic traditions of various regions.
Therefore, the correct answer is [I], [II], [III], [IV]. Buddhism had a multifaceted impact on society, influencing political, social, religious, and artistic aspects.

B is the correct option.Apabhramsha language, literary language of the final phase of the Middle Indo-Aryan languages. When the Prakrit languages were formalized by literary use, their variations came to be known as Apabhramsha and seen in Mahayana sutras which were a broad genre of Buddhist scriptures that various traditions of Mahayana Buddhism accept as canonical. They are largely preserved in the Chinese Buddhist canon, the Tibetan Buddhist canon, and in extant Sanskrit manuscripts.

The germs of the Bhagavata cult were found in the Jatakas, Vedas, Upanishads and Puranas.
Hence, the correct option would be Option C.
 

Megasthenes was a Greek historian who came to India in the fourth century B.C. as a ambassador of Seleucus Nicator. Mauryan Empire was the greatest of world, full of prosperity. Actually he didn’t identified Sri Krishna as Heracles in-fact he, due to problem to pronounce Hare Krishna; pronounced him “Heracles”. The incorrect names may be because the Greek, like other westerners, were not able to pronounce the Sanskrit words or Indian names correctly. Many scholars have suggested that the deity identified as Heracles was Lord Krishna.

B is the correct option. Said Budha in one of his sermons  “if women was not admitted in the monasteries, Buddism would have continued for thousand of years, but because this admission has been granted it would last only five hundred years”

Right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct are the three most essentials for attaining liberation in Jainism. In order to acquire these, one must observe the five great vows:

• Non-violence - Ahimsa
• Truth - Satya
• Non-stealing - Achaurya or Asteya
• Celibacy/Chastity - Brahmacharya
• Non-attachment/Non-possession – Aparigraha 

Jainism and the Stoppage of Karmas
In Jainism, the stoppage of the influx of new karmas and the eradication of old ones is an important concept. To achieve this, one must follow certain practices and principles. Here are the key points to understand:
1. Taking the Five Great Vows:
- Jainism emphasizes the importance of taking the five great vows, known as Mahavratas. These vows are:
- Ahimsa (non-violence): Not causing harm to any living being.
- Satya (truthfulness): Speaking the truth and avoiding falsehood.
- Asteya (non-stealing): Not taking anything that is not freely given.
- Brahmacharya (celibacy): Practicing self-control and abstaining from sexual misconduct.
- Aparigraha (non-possessiveness): Detachment from material possessions.
2. Practicing Restraint:
- Jainism teaches the practice of restraint in thought, speech, and bodily movement. This involves:
- Controlling one's thoughts and avoiding negative or harmful thinking.
- Speaking carefully and avoiding lies, gossip, or hurtful words.
- Being mindful of one's actions and avoiding any form of violence or harm.
3. Practicing Dharma:
- Dharma refers to the righteous path or moral duties. By practicing dharma, one can lead a virtuous life and reduce the accumulation of karmas. This includes:
- Following the principles of truth, non-violence, and compassion.
- Performing acts of charity, kindness, and selflessness.
- Engaging in spiritual practices and rituals.
4. Meditating on the Cardinal Truths:
- Meditation plays a crucial role in Jainism for self-realization and liberation. By meditating on the cardinal truths, one can gain a deeper understanding of the self and the world. These truths include:
- Anitya (impermanence): Realizing the transient nature of all worldly things.
- Asharan (no refuge): Understanding that no external entity can provide ultimate salvation.
- Samsara (cycle of birth and death): Recognizing the continuous cycle of rebirth.
- Nirvana (liberation): Aspiring for liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
5. All of the Above:
- To achieve the stoppage of the influx of new karmas and the eradication of old ones, one must follow all the aforementioned practices and principles. Each aspect contributes to the purification of the soul and the progress towards spiritual liberation.
In conclusion, according to Jainism, the stoppage of karmas requires the adoption of the five great vows, practice of restraint, adherence to dharma, and meditation on the cardinal truths. By following these principles, individuals can strive towards attaining liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Samkhya (Sanskrit: सांख्य, IAST: sāṃkhya) is one of the six āstika schools of Hindu philosophy. It is most related to the Yoga school of Hinduism, and it was influential on other schools of Indian philosophy. Sāmkhya is an enumerationist philosophy whose epistemology accepts three of six pramanas (proofs) as the only reliable means of gaining knowledge. These include pratyakṣa (perception), anumāṇa (inference) and śabda (āptavacana). Sometimes described as one of the rationalist schools of Indian philosophy, this ancient school's reliance on reason was exclusive but strong.

The correct option is C.
 "The goddess of the Gopas or Abhiras, having her origin from the famous family of the ... Bhagavatism did not admit an analogy between the humans. 

The Bhagavad Gita, which is a part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, is a sacred text that provides guidance on how to attain salvation or liberation. It presents various paths or approaches that can be followed to achieve this goal. Among these paths, the three main ones are:
I. Path of Knowledge:
- The path of knowledge, also known as Jnana Yoga, emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the self and the universe.
- It involves deep contemplation, self-inquiry, and the study of philosophical teachings to gain insights into the ultimate reality.
- By realizing the eternal and divine nature of the self, one can overcome ignorance and attain liberation.
II. Path of Action:
- The path of action, also known as Karma Yoga, emphasizes the performance of selfless actions without attachment to the results.
- It involves fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities in a spirit of service and dedication.
- By offering the fruits of one's actions to a higher power or performing actions as an offering to the divine, one can purify the mind and attain liberation.
III. Path of Devotion:
- The path of devotion, also known as Bhakti Yoga, emphasizes the cultivation of love, devotion, and surrender towards a personal deity or God.
- It involves developing a deep emotional connection and intense longing for the divine.
- Through practices such as prayer, chanting, singing hymns, and engaging in rituals, one can experience a union with the divine and attain liberation.
Conclusion:
The Bhagavad Gita presents these three paths - knowledge, action, and devotion - as complementary and states that individuals can choose the path that resonates with them the most. It encourages seekers to integrate these paths in their spiritual journey to attain salvation. Therefore, the correct answer is option A: [I], [II], [III].

The Mahabharata elevated Krishna to divine status.With passing time, his cult following grew along with that of Sankarshana Balarama. Megasthenes, the Greek envoy in the court of Emperor Chandragupta, in his work Indica, speaks about the flourishing cult of the Indian Herakles,Krishna, in the fourth century BCE.At the same time, Kautilya in his Arthashastra also speaks of a religious order devoted to Sankarshana and Krishna. Gradually, temples were built to worship these two divinities in north India. An inscription from the second century BCE found at Ghosundi, near Nagari, in Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, speaks of a stone enclosure built around the temple called Narayana Vatika, where worship used to be offered to Sankarshana and Vasudeva.
 

Shaivism and its Divisions

• Shaivism: Shaivism is a major tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Lord Shiva as the supreme deity.


• Divisions of Shaivism: After the second century A.D., Shaivism was divided into different schools, each with its own beliefs, practices, and philosophies.

Four Schools of Shaivism

• Pasupata: The Pasupata school is one of the divisions of Shaivism.


• Saiva: The Saiva school is another division of Shaivism.


• Kapalika: The Kapalika school is also a division of Shaivism.


• Kalamukha: The Kalamukha school is the fourth and final division of Shaivism.

Answer Explanation

• The question asks which of the following is one of the divisions of Shaivism after the second century A.D.


• Among the given options, the correct answer is [I], [II], [III], [IV] because all four options are indeed divisions of Shaivism.


• Therefore, the correct answer is option D: [I], [II], [III], [IV].

A is the correct option.

• Panini begins with the fourteen Siva Sutras; tradition tells us Siva himself passed these to Panini.
• In order to reach Lord Shiva, Patanjali, with his mastery over grammatical forms, spontaneously composed a prayer in praise of the Lord without using any extended (Dirgha) syllable, (without Charana and Shringa) 
• The Greek connection of Shiva. Hercules is believed to be either Balram or Lord Krishna.-quoted by Megasthenes.
   

The Mahajanapadas were a set of sixteen kingdoms that existed in ancient India. It all began when the tribes (janas) of the late Vedic period decided to form their own territorial communities, which eventually gave rise to new and permanent areas of settlements called ‘states’ or ‘janapadas.’ 
The list of Mahajanapadas is:
1.  Anga
2.  Assaka (or Asmaka)
3.  Avanti
4.  Chedi
5.  Gandhara
6.  Kashi
7.  Kamboja
8.  Kosala
9.  Kuru
10. Magadha
11. Malla
12. Machcha (or Matsya)
13. Panchala
14. Surasena
15. Vriji
16. Vatsa (or Vamsa)