Important Questions: Rulers & Buildings - UPSC MCQ

The Quwwatul Islam Masjid is located in Delhi.

1. Location: Delhi

The Quwwatul Islam Masjid, also known as the Qutub Mosque, is situated in the Qutub Minar complex in Delhi, India. It is one of the oldest surviving mosques in India and holds great historical and architectural significance.
The mosque was built in the early 12th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. It was constructed using materials from demolished Hindu and Jain temples, which gives the mosque a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements.
The Quwwatul Islam Masjid is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The prayer hall of the mosque is adorned with beautiful arched entrances and pillars, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of that time.
The mosque also houses the famous Iron Pillar of Delhi, which stands tall in the courtyard. This pillar, made of pure iron, is known for its rust-resistant properties and has stood the test of time for over a millennium.
Visitors to Delhi often visit the Quwwatul Islam Masjid to admire its architectural beauty and learn about its historical significance. It is a popular tourist attraction and a place of worship for Muslims.
In conclusion, the Quwwatul Islam Masjid is located in Delhi, India.

Reasons why temples and mosques were beautifully constructed:

• Places of Worship: The primary purpose of temples and mosques is to serve as places of worship. Therefore, they were constructed beautifully to create a serene and sacred environment that would inspire devotion and reverence among the worshippers.


• Spiritual Significance: Temples and mosques hold great spiritual significance in their respective religions. Their architectural beauty and intricate designs are believed to reflect the divine and provide a connection between the human and the divine realms.


• Symbolism: The design and construction of temples and mosques often incorporate symbolic elements that represent the religious beliefs and traditions. These symbols are expressed through various architectural features, such as domes, minarets, spires, and intricate carvings.


• Cultural Identity: Temples and mosques also serve as important cultural landmarks and symbols of identity for religious communities. The architectural grandeur of these structures reflects the cultural heritage and traditions of the people who built them.


• Community Gathering: In addition to being places of worship, temples and mosques often act as community centers where people come together for various religious ceremonies, festivals, and social gatherings. The aesthetic appeal of these structures enhances the sense of community and belonging among the worshippers.


• Architectural Excellence: The construction of temples and mosques provided an opportunity for skilled artisans and architects to showcase their craftsmanship and architectural prowess. The intricate carvings, decorative motifs, and precise geometrical patterns are a testament to their skills and creativity.

In conclusion, the beauty of temples and mosques is a result of their significance as places of worship, their cultural and symbolic importance, and the architectural excellence of the craftsmen involved in their construction.

Rajarajeshvara Temple
Answer: A. King Rajarajadeva
The Rajarajeshvara Temple was built by King Rajarajadeva. Here is a detailed explanation:
Historical Background:
- The Rajarajeshvara Temple is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the greatest achievements of Chola architecture.
- The temple was built during the reign of the Chola dynasty, specifically by King Rajarajadeva.
Evidence Supporting the Answer:
- Inscriptions found in the temple provide clear evidence that King Rajarajadeva was responsible for its construction.
- The inscriptions mention the king's name, titles, and his role in building the temple.
Importance of Rajarajadeva:
- King Rajarajadeva was one of the most prominent rulers of the Chola dynasty.
- He expanded the Chola empire and established a strong military and administrative system.
- Rajarajadeva was also known for his patronage of art, literature, and architecture.
- The Rajarajeshvara Temple stands as a testament to his architectural and cultural achievements.
Architectural Features of the Temple:
- The Rajarajeshvara Temple is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture.
- It has a towering vimana (temple tower) and a mandapa (hall) with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- The temple complex also includes a Nandi (sacred bull) statue and various smaller shrines.
- The construction of the temple showcases the superior craftsmanship of the artisans of that time.
In conclusion, the Rajarajeshvara Temple was built by King Rajarajadeva, as evidenced by inscriptions found in the temple. This magnificent temple stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the Chola dynasty under the reign of King Rajarajadeva.

Background:
The question states that the name of the ruler and the god are very similar, and the king took the god's name. The question asks for the reason behind the king's decision.
Detailed Explanation:
The correct answer is option D: Because it was auspicious and he wanted to appear like a god. Here's a detailed explanation:
- The king decided to take the god's name because it was considered auspicious. This means that it was believed to bring good luck and blessings to the king and his reign.
- By taking the god's name, the king wanted to appear like a god himself. This would have given him a sense of power, authority, and divine connection.
- In many cultures and belief systems, naming oneself after a god or adopting a god's name is seen as a way to gain favor and protection from that deity.
- It is also possible that the king believed that by taking the god's name, he would be able to channel the god's qualities and abilities, further enhancing his reputation and influence.
- Additionally, adopting the god's name might have been a way for the king to establish a close connection with the religious beliefs and practices of his people, ensuring their loyalty and support.
- It is unlikely that the king took the god's name because it was told by their parents (option A) or because local people of their village liked those names (option B), as the question does not provide any information supporting these reasons.
- Option C, which suggests that the king did not want to appear like a god, is also incorrect because the question states that the ruler and the god had very similar names, indicating that the king intentionally chose the god's name.
Conclusion:
The king took the god's name because it was considered auspicious and he wanted to appear like a god. This decision would have brought him good luck, divine connection, power, authority, and the support of his people.

The Masjid e Jahan Numa, commonly known as the Jama Masjid of Delhi, is one of the largest mosques in India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656 at a cost of one million rupees, and was inaugurated by Imam Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari from Bukhara, present-day Uzbekistan.

Introduction:
The question asks for the greatest law giver and architect, and the answer is God himself. Let's delve into the reasons behind this choice.
Reasons why God is the greatest law giver and architect:
- Divine authority: As the embodiment of divine authority, God has the power to establish and enforce laws that govern the universe.
- Creation of the world: God is believed to have created the world and everything in it, making him the ultimate architect.
- Design of natural laws: God has designed the natural laws that govern the functioning of the universe, including gravity, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
- Moral laws: God has provided moral laws and commandments to guide human behavior and promote harmony and justice.
- Religious texts: Many religious texts, such as the Bible, Quran, and Torah, are believed to be divinely inspired and contain laws and teachings from God.
- Role as a judge: God is often depicted as the ultimate judge who will hold people accountable for their actions and dispense justice accordingly.
Conclusion:
Considering God's divine authority, role as a creator, and the laws and teachings attributed to him, it is evident that God is the greatest law giver and architect.

Between the 8th and the 18th century, kings and their officers built the following kinds of structures:

- Safe, protected and grandiose places of rest in this world and in the next world, e.g. forts, palaces, garden residences and tombs.

- Structures meant for public activity, e.g. temples, mosques, tanks, wells, bazaars and caravanserais.

Trabeate' was a style of architecture in which roofs, doors and windows were made by placing a horizontal beam across two vertical columns. Between the eighth and thirteenth centuries the trabeate style was used in the construction of temples/mosques, tombs and in buildings attached to large stepped-wells.

Ab is the Persian word which means water.
Explanation:
- The Persian word "Ab" translates to "water" in English.
- In Persian language, "Ab" is commonly used to refer to the natural element of water.
- Water is a fundamental element of life and is essential for the survival of all living organisms.
- In Persian culture, water has significant symbolic and spiritual meanings.
- The word "Ab" is widely used in various contexts such as in literature, poetry, and everyday conversations in Iran and other Persian-speaking countries.
- It is important to note that the Persian language has many words that represent different elements, and "Ab" specifically refers to water.

It was widely believed that the rule of a just king would be an age of plenty when the heavens would not withhold rain. At the same time, making precious water available by constructing tanks and reservoirs was highly praised. Sultan Iltumish won universal respect for constructing a large reservoir just outside Delhi-i-Kuhna. It was called the Hauz-i-Sultani or the ‘King’s Reservoir’. 

Golden Temple is located in Amritsar, Punjab, India.
The Golden Temple is also known as:
- Harmandir Sahib
- Darbar Sahib
Significance of Golden Temple:
- The Golden Temple is the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs around the world.
- It is considered the spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism.
- The temple is known for its stunning architecture, including its golden exterior and marble interior.
- It symbolizes equality, unity, and the principles of Sikhism.
Key Features of the Golden Temple:
- The temple is built on a platform in the middle of a man-made pool, known as the Amrit Sarovar.
- The structure is adorned with intricate gold-plated decorations and is surrounded by white marble.
- The main entrance to the temple complex is through the imposing Darshani Deorhi (Gateway of the Sikh Religion).
- The temple complex also includes a langar hall, where free meals are served to all visitors regardless of their religion or background.
- The Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, is kept inside the temple and is read aloud continuously.
How to reach the Golden Temple:
- The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar.
- Amritsar Junction is the nearest railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- Local transport options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws.
Tourism and Accommodation:
- The Golden Temple attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
- There are various hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas (religious accommodations) available for visitors to stay near the temple.
In conclusion, the Golden Temple is located in Amritsar, Punjab, and holds immense religious and cultural significance for Sikhs. Its stunning architecture and inclusive practices make it a must-visit destination for people from all walks of life.

Amritsar is in:
- Gujarat
- Rajasthan
- Punjab
- Sindh
Answer: C. Punjab
Detailed
- Amritsar is a city located in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab.
- It is situated in the Punjab region, which is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
- The city is famous for its iconic Golden Temple, which is a sacred religious site for Sikhs.
- Amritsar is also known for its historical significance, as it was the site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919.
- The city has a vibrant food scene, with Punjabi cuisine being the highlight.
- Amritsar is well-connected to other parts of India by road, rail, and air.
- It serves as an important pilgrimage center and attracts a large number of tourists every year.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. Punjab.

Pandyan king Shrimara Shrivallabha invasion and defeat:

• Invaded: Sri Lanka


• Defeated: Sena I

Detailed

The Pandyan king Shrimara Shrivallabha launched an invasion on Sri Lanka and emerged victorious, defeating Sena I.

The Pandyan dynasty was a powerful ancient Tamil dynasty that ruled over parts of present-day South India, including the region of Tamil Nadu. They were known for their military prowess and frequently engaged in warfare and territorial expansion.

During his reign, Shrimara Shrivallabha set his sights on Sri Lanka, which was ruled by Sena I at the time. The invasion was a strategic move to expand the Pandyan kingdom's influence and control over the neighboring region.

Shrimara Shrivallabha's forces launched a successful military campaign against Sena I and emerged victorious in the conflict. The defeat of Sena I marked a significant milestone in the Pandyan dynasty's expansion and solidified their dominance in the region.

This invasion and victory further enhanced the reputation and power of the Pandyan kingdom, establishing them as a formidable force in the region during that period.

The most unique aspect of planning during the Indus Valley civilization was the system of underground drainage. The main sewer, 1.5 meters deep and 91 cm across, connected to many north-south and east-west sewers. It was made from bricks smoothened and joined together seamlessly. The expert masonry kept the sewer watertight. Drops at regular intervals acted like an automatic cleaning device.

The first years of Shah Jahan, years in which he was known as Prince Khurram, saw the young man receive a refined and cultivated education. He studied a large number of disciplines and became a specialist in martial arts. He surprised his world by taking an interest in architecture. An anecdote is told that he himself built his quarters in the Fort of Kabul, but also by proposing various internal arrangements to the fort of Agra.

Answer:
Babar, the founder of the Mughal Empire in India, described his interest in planning and laying out formal gardens. These gardens were placed within rectangular walled enclosures and divided into four quarters by artificial channels. Here is a detailed explanation:
Babar:
- Babar was the first Mughal emperor of India, who ruled from 1526 to 1530.
- He had a keen interest in horticulture and landscape design.
- Babar described his fascination with planning and laying out formal gardens.
- His gardens were characterized by their symmetrical layout and division into four quarters.
- The gardens were enclosed within rectangular walls to create a sense of privacy and seclusion.
Formal Gardens:
- Babar's gardens followed the concept of formal garden design.
- Formal gardens are known for their structured and organized layout.
- They often feature geometric patterns, straight lines, and symmetrical arrangements.
- The gardens are meticulously planned and maintained to create a sense of order and beauty.
Rectangular Walled Enclosures:
- The gardens were enclosed within rectangular walls, which served multiple purposes.
- The walls provided privacy and protection from outside elements.
- They also created a defined boundary for the garden space.
- The rectangular shape allowed for a more organized and symmetrical layout of the garden.
Artificial Channels:
- Babar's gardens were divided into four quarters by artificial channels or waterways.
- These channels served both functional and aesthetic purposes.
- They helped in the irrigation of the gardens and provided a source of water for the plants.
- The water channels also added a visual element to the garden, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance.
In conclusion, Babar, the founder of the Mughal Empire, described his interest in planning and laying out formal gardens. His gardens were characterized by their rectangular walled enclosures and division into four quarters by artificial channels. This attention to detail and design showcases Babar's passion for horticulture and landscape architecture.

The correct answer is A as Akbar's architects turned to the tombs of his Central Asian ancestor, Timur. The central towering dome and the tall gateway (pishtaq) became important aspects of Mughal architecture, first visible in Humayun's tomb.

Humayun's tomb was built in the tradition known as the “eight paradises” or Hasht Bihisht, meaning a central hall surrounded by eight rooms. A central dome and a tall gateway called Pishtaq, a Persian influence became a part of Mughal Architecture.