Important Questions Test: Traders, Kings & Pilgrims - UPSC MCQ

The territories set up by the emperor outside his his territories are generally considered colonies. it is so because those territories are under his control and he normally externally rule it. also he exploits its resources for enhancing his own territory. we can understand this in consideration of India, as it was a British colony before independence.

Process of Making Silk Cloth:
The process of making silk cloth involves several steps, which are arranged in a specific order. Here is a detailed explanation of each step:
1. Extract cocoons of silk worms:
- The first step in making silk cloth is to extract the cocoons of silk worms.
- Silk worms spin their cocoons using silk threads, which are made up of protein fibers.
- These cocoons are carefully collected without damaging the silk threads.
2. Spun into thread:
- Once the cocoons are collected, they are subjected to a process called reeling.
- During reeling, the cocoons are soaked in hot water to soften the silk threads.
- The softened silk threads are then carefully unwound from the cocoons.
- Several silk threads are combined together to form a single, strong thread.
- This process of spinning the silk threads is usually done using a spinning wheel or machine.
3. Woven into cloth:
- The final step in making silk cloth is to weave the silk threads into a fabric.
- The silk threads are placed on a loom, which is a device used for weaving.
- The threads are interlaced vertically (warp) and horizontally (weft) to create a tightly woven fabric.
- Skilled artisans use various weaving techniques to create different patterns and designs on the silk cloth.
- Once the weaving process is complete, the silk cloth is carefully removed from the loom.
Arrangement of the process in order:
Based on the above explanation, the correct order of the process of making silk cloth is:
- II. Extract cocoons of silk worms
- I. Spun into thread
- III. Woven into cloth
Therefore, the correct answer is A: II, I, III.

Explanation:
The correct answer is B: Sanskrit term.
Here is a detailed explanation:
- Bhakti is a term that originated in ancient India and is widely used in Hinduism as well as other Indian religions.
- Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit language, which is an ancient Indo-Aryan language used in the Indian subcontinent.
- Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world and has a rich literary tradition.
- The term "Bhakti" is rooted in the Sanskrit word "bhaj," which means "to worship" or "to adore."
- Bhakti refers to the devotional love and devotion towards a personal deity or god.
- It is a spiritual path that emphasizes the emotional connection and love between the devotee and the divine.
- Bhakti is a central concept in many Hindu scriptures and has been the basis for the development of various devotional practices and traditions.
- The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu text, discusses the importance of Bhakti as a means of attaining spiritual liberation.
- Bhakti is also commonly associated with the concept of surrendering oneself completely to the divine will and experiencing a state of blissful union with the divine.
In conclusion, Bhakti is a term derived from the Sanskrit language, and it represents the devotional love and devotion towards a personal deity or god in Hinduism and other Indian religions.

Introduction:
Wearing silk became the fashion amongst rulers and rich people in Rome.
Explanation:
- Silk fabric was highly prized and considered a symbol of wealth and status in ancient Rome.
- The popularity of silk can be traced back to the Silk Road, a trade route that connected Rome to China, where silk was produced.
- The rulers and rich people in Rome were able to afford the expensive silk fabric, making it a fashionable choice among them.
- Silk was known for its luxurious texture, vibrant colors, and ability to drape elegantly on the body, making it highly desirable for clothing.
- The craftsmanship involved in producing silk garments also added to its exclusivity and appeal.
- Silk garments were often embellished with intricate designs, embroidery, and patterns, further enhancing their aesthetic value.
- Wearing silk became a way for the rulers and rich people to display their wealth, power, and social status.
- It was also a way to differentiate themselves from the common people, who could not afford such luxurious fabrics.
- Silk garments were worn for various occasions, including formal events, banquets, and religious ceremonies.
- The fashion trend of wearing silk among rulers and rich people in Rome continued for centuries, leaving a lasting impact on Roman fashion and culture.
Conclusion:
Silk became the fashion among rulers and rich people in Rome due to its exclusivity, luxury, and association with wealth and status.

The rulers who controlled the Silk Route were the Kushanas.
The Silk Route was an ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between different civilizations. Several rulers had control over different sections of the Silk Route at various times in history, but the best-known rulers were the Kushanas.
Here are some key points about the Kushanas and their control over the Silk Route:
- The Kushanas were a Central Asian nomadic tribe that established a powerful empire in the 1st century CE.
- Under the leadership of their most famous ruler, Kanishka the Great, the Kushanas expanded their empire to encompass a vast territory that included parts of modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Central Asia.
- The Kushanas played a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the Silk Route, which passed through their territories.
- They actively promoted trade along the Silk Route, allowing merchants from different regions to conduct business and exchange goods.
- The Kushanas benefited greatly from the trade along the Silk Route, particularly from the lucrative trade in silk, spices, precious metals, and other luxury goods.
- They also introduced new technologies, such as the use of coins as a standardized form of currency, which facilitated trade and economic growth along the Silk Route.
- The Kushanas' control over the Silk Route lasted for several centuries, until their empire declined and was eventually replaced by other powers in the region.
In conclusion, while there were several rulers who had control over different sections of the Silk Route, the Kushanas were the best-known rulers associated with this ancient trade network. Their empire played a significant role in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and economic growth along the Silk Route.

The cholas controlled the areas from Kaveri Delta to the above areas.

Gautamiputra Satakarni  was a ruler of the Satavahana Empire in present-day Deccan region of India.

Chinese Buddhist Pilgrims Who Visited India 1400 Years Ago

The Chinese Buddhist pilgrims who visited India 1400 years ago included:

• Xuan Zang: Xuan Zang, also known as Hsuan Tsang, was a famous Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar who embarked on a journey to India in 627 CE. He is well-known for his extensive travel and his remarkable pilgrimage to India in search of Buddhist scriptures. Xuan Zang spent 17 years in India, studying Buddhism at various monasteries and collecting important Buddhist texts, which he later brought back to China. His journey and writings have greatly contributed to the understanding of ancient Indian culture and Buddhism.



• Fa Xian: Fa Xian, also known as Faxian, was another prominent Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the early 5th century. He embarked on a pilgrimage to India to search for Buddhist scriptures, relics, and sacred texts. Fa Xian spent several years in India, visiting important Buddhist sites and monasteries, and collecting Buddhist texts. His journey provided valuable insights into the Buddhist culture and practices of ancient India.



• I-Qing: I-Qing, also known as Yijing, was a Chinese Buddhist monk who visited India in the 7th century. He traveled to India to study Buddhism, learn Sanskrit, and collect Buddhist texts. I-Qing spent over a decade in India, visiting various monasteries and studying under renowned Buddhist scholars. His writings and translations of Buddhist scriptures have had a significant impact on the spread of Buddhism in China.



• Quan-Qing: There is no historical record of a Chinese Buddhist pilgrim named Quan-Qing who visited India 1400 years ago. The correct answer is not Quan-Qing.

In conclusion, the Chinese Buddhist pilgrims who visited India 1400 years ago include Xuan Zang, Fa Xian, and I-Qing. Their journeys and contributions have greatly influenced the understanding and spread of Buddhism in both China and the rest of the world.

The Sanskrit word bhakti is derived from the verb root bhaj-, which means "to divide, to share, to partake, to participate, to belong to”. The word also means "attachment, devotion to, fondness for, homage, faith or love, worship, piety to something as a spiritual, religious principle or means of salvation.”

The Natural History (Latin: Naturalis Historia) is a book about the whole of the natural world in Latinby Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and naval commander who died in 79 AD. It is one of the largest single works to have survived from the Roman Empire to the modern day and purports to cover all ancient knowledge.

The trade route between China and Western Asia
The trade route between China and Western Asia was known as the Silk Route. This ancient network of trade routes connected China with the civilizations of Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Here is a detailed explanation of the Silk Route and its significance:
1. Silk Route: The Silk Route, also known as the Silk Road, was a series of trade routes that facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between China and Western Asia. It derived its name from the lucrative silk trade that flourished along this route.
2. Central Asia: Central Asia played a crucial role in the Silk Route as it served as a bridge between China and Western Asia. It encompassed regions such as present-day Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
3. Trade Goods: The Silk Route was not limited to the trade of silk alone. It facilitated the exchange of various goods, including spices, precious metals, gemstones, porcelain, tea, paper, and gunpowder. This trade route also facilitated the spread of religions such as Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity.
4. Trade Caravans: Trade along the Silk Route was predominantly carried out by caravans. These caravans consisted of merchants, traders, and their goods. They traveled long distances, navigating through deserts, mountains, and hostile territories.
5. Economic Impact: The Silk Route had a significant economic impact on the regions it connected. It stimulated economic growth, fostered cultural exchanges, and facilitated the establishment of prosperous cities along the route. It also played a crucial role in the development of trade networks and the growth of civilizations.
6. Legacy: The Silk Route left a lasting legacy on the regions it traversed. It contributed to the development of diverse cultures, languages, and art forms. It also played a crucial role in the transmission of knowledge, technology, and ideas between China, Western Asia, and Europe.
In conclusion, the trade route between China and Western Asia, also known as the Silk Route, played a vital role in connecting these regions and facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures. It left a lasting impact on the regions it traversed and contributed to the development and growth of civilizations.

India has two very fertile river valleys. Both are fed by the mountains in the north. When the snow in the Himalaya melts, water flows into the Ganges River (GAN • JEEZ) and the Indus River (IHN • duhs). If the water is controlled, the land near these rivers can be used for farming.

The correct answer is B as Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh was built by Ashoka and later by Shungas. It is one of the biggest stupa in India.

The correct answer is C as Cave at Karle is in maharashtra.

The sacred book of the Hindus is the Geeta, which is a part of the great epic, Mahabharata.
Explanation:
The Geeta is a significant text in Hinduism and is considered to be a sacred scripture. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Mahabharata:
- The Mahabharata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the Ramayana.
- It is an epic narrative of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes.
- The Mahabharata is divided into multiple books, including the Bhagavad Gita, also known as the Geeta.
2. Bhagavad Gita:
- The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Geeta, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture.
- It is a part of the Mahabharata, specifically the Bhishma Parva (Book of Bhishma).
- The Geeta is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer.
- It is presented as a philosophical and moral guide, addressing dilemmas and providing insights into life, duty, and spirituality.
3. Significance:
- The Geeta is highly regarded by Hindus and is considered a concise summary of the teachings of Hindu philosophy.
- It covers various aspects of life, including duty (dharma), righteousness, selfless action, devotion, and the nature of reality.
- The Geeta has been influential in shaping Hindu thought and has had a profound impact on Indian literature, philosophy, and spirituality.
Conclusion:
The Geeta is the sacred book of the Hindus and is an integral part of the Mahabharata. It serves as a philosophical and moral guide, addressing various aspects of life and spirituality.

Answer:
The correct answer is D: Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu scripture that is a part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It contains the dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior prince Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Lord Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to Arjuna, who is confused and morally troubled about fighting in the war.
Explanation:
The Bhagavad Gita is divided into 18 chapters, and in Chapter 18, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to abandon all dharmas, which refers to his duties and responsibilities as a warrior, and surrender to God. Lord Krishna emphasizes that only through surrendering to God can Arjuna be freed from all evil and attain liberation.
Some key points from the Bhagavad Gita's teachings include:
1. Surrender to God: Lord Krishna urges Arjuna to surrender to God and trust in His divine plan. By surrendering, one can find peace and liberation from suffering.
2. Renunciation of Attachments: Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to detach himself from the fruits of his actions and perform his duties selflessly. This helps in overcoming desires and achieving spiritual growth.
3. Self-realization: The Bhagavad Gita teaches the importance of self-realization and understanding one's true nature. Lord Krishna explains that the soul is eternal and indestructible, and the body is just a temporary vessel.
4. Yoga and Meditation: Lord Krishna introduces various paths of yoga, including Karma Yoga (path of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (path of knowledge). These paths help in attaining union with the divine.
In conclusion, the Bhagavad Gita contains Lord Krishna's advice to Arjuna to surrender to God and find liberation from all evil. It provides profound spiritual teachings and insights on various aspects of life, duty, and self-realization.

The correct option is C.
Kaniska, also spelled Kanishka, greatest king of the Kushan dynasty that ruled over the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, Afghanistan, and possibly areas of Central Asia north of the Kashmir region.

Explanation:
The correct answer is C: Bodhisattavas.
- Bodhisattavas are individuals who have attained enlightenment, also known as Buddhahood.
- The term "bodhisattva" is commonly used in Mahayana Buddhism, which emphasizes the path of the bodhisattva to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
- Bodhisattvas are regarded as compassionate beings who vow to postpone their own enlightenment until all beings can be liberated from suffering.
- They are seen as role models and inspirations for others on the Buddhist path.
- The term "parinamana" refers to transformation or change, but it does not specifically refer to a person who has attained enlightenment.
- "Bodhista" is not a recognized Buddhist term.
- Mahayana Buddhism is a major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes compassion and the aspiration to attain enlightenment for the sake of all beings, but it is not a specific term for a person who has attained enlightenment.
In summary, a person who has attained enlightenment in Buddhism is referred to as a Bodhisattva.

The correct answer is C as Kanishka was the greatest king of the Kushan dynasty that ruled over the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, Afghanistan, and possibly areas of Central Asia north of the Kashmir region. He was a great patron of Buddhism.

Pilargrims are men and women who undertake journeys to holy places in order to offer worship. The best-know of these are the Chinese Buddhist pilgrims, Fa Xian, who came to the sub-continent about 1600 years ago, Xuan Zang, who came around 1400 years ago and I-Qing, who came about 50 years after Xuan Zang. They came to visit places associated with the life of the Buddha as well as famous monasteries. They spent time studing in the monasteries. Xuan-Zang and other pilgrims spent time studing in Nalanda (Bihar), the most famous Buddhist Monastery of the period.