Indian History Quiz - 1, General Knowledge - Railways MCQ

The Battle of Plassey, 23 June 1757, was a decisive British East India Company victory over the Nawab of Bengal and his French allies, establishing Company rule in South Asia which expanded over much of the Indies for the next 190 years. The battle took place at Palashi, Bengal, on the river banks of the Bhagirathi River, about 150 km north of Calcutta, near Murshidabad, then capital of undivided Bengal. The belligerents were Siraj-ud-daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and the British East India Company.

More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Plassey

The Territory of Porus

• Introduction: The territory of Porus refers to the area where Porus, an ancient Indian king, offered strong resistance to Alexander the Great during his invasion of India.



• Location: The territory of Porus was situated between two rivers.



• Rivers: The rivers that formed the boundaries of Porus' territory were Jhelum and Chenab.



• Option B: Therefore, the correct answer is option B - Jhelum and Chenab.



• Importance: Porus' resistance to Alexander marked one of the toughest battles the Macedonian king faced in his conquest of the Indian subcontinent.



• Historical Significance: Despite being defeated by Alexander, Porus gained respect for his bravery and honor. Alexander was impressed by Porus' fighting spirit and leadership qualities, and he reinstated Porus as the ruler of his territory, albeit as a vassal to the Macedonian Empire.

By identifying the correct answer as option B, we can conclude that the territory of Porus was situated between the rivers Jhelum and Chenab.

The Tripitakas are sacred books of Buddhists. Here is a detailed explanation:
Definition:
- Tripitakas are a collection of scriptures or teachings of Buddhism.
- The term "Tripitaka" translates to "three baskets" or "three collections" in English.
- It is also known as the Pali Canon or the Tipitaka.
Contents:
The Tripitakas consist of three main sections or baskets:
1. Vinaya Pitaka: This section contains rules and regulations for monastic discipline.
2. Sutta Pitaka: It consists of discourses and teachings of the Buddha.
3. Abhidhamma Pitaka: This section contains philosophical and psychological analysis of Buddhist teachings.
Significance and Use:
- The Tripitakas are considered the most authoritative and oldest Buddhist scriptures.
- They are used as a guide for Buddhist monastic discipline and practice.
- The teachings contained in the Tripitakas provide guidance on ethics, meditation, and the path to enlightenment.
- They are studied and recited by Buddhist monks and nuns as a means of preserving and transmitting the teachings of the Buddha.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Tripitakas are sacred books of Buddhists. They contain the teachings and scriptures of Buddhism and are considered essential for understanding and practicing the Buddhist faith.

The head of the military was called the Mir Bakshi, appointed from among the leading nobles of the court. The Mir Bakshi was in charge of intelligence gathering, and also made recommendations to the emperor for military appointments and promotions.

Trident Symbol of Buddhism: What it Represents
The trident-shaped symbol of Buddhism is known as the Triratna or the Three Jewels. It represents the three fundamental aspects of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha. However, it does not represent Nirvana. Here's a detailed explanation:
The Three Jewels:
1. Buddha: The trident symbol represents the Buddha, who is the founder and spiritual teacher of Buddhism. The Buddha symbolizes enlightenment, compassion, and wisdom. He serves as a guide and a source of inspiration for Buddhists.
2. Dhamma: The trident symbol also represents the Dhamma, which refers to the teachings and the path laid down by the Buddha. It encompasses the principles of morality, mindfulness, and wisdom that lead to liberation from suffering.
3. Sangha: The trident symbol further represents the Sangha, which refers to the community of Buddhist practitioners. It includes monks, nuns, and laypeople who follow the teachings of the Buddha and support each other in their spiritual journey.
What the Trident Symbol Does Not Represent:
The trident symbol does not represent Nirvana, which is the ultimate goal of Buddhism. Nirvana refers to the state of liberation from suffering, the cessation of craving, and the realization of ultimate truth. While Nirvana is the ultimate aim of Buddhist practice, it is not directly represented by the trident symbol.
In conclusion, the trident-shaped symbol of Buddhism represents the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha, but it does not represent Nirvana. It serves as a visual reminder of the Three Jewels and their significance in the Buddhist tradition.

The theory of economic drain of India during British imperialism was propounded by Dadabhai Naoroji.
Explanation:
Dadabhai Naoroji, also known as the Grand Old Man of India, was an Indian political leader and social reformer. He was one of the earliest and most prominent advocates of Indian nationalism and played a crucial role in exposing the economic exploitation of India under British rule.
Naoroji propounded the theory of economic drain, also known as the Drain Theory, which highlighted the economic exploitation of India by the British during the period of British imperialism. According to this theory, the British colonial rule in India resulted in the systematic drain of India's wealth to Britain, leading to the impoverishment of the Indian economy and its people.
The theory of economic drain put forward by Dadabhai Naoroji was based on several key points:
1. Drain of wealth: Naoroji argued that the British colonial rule in India led to the extraction of India's wealth in the form of heavy taxes, high tariffs, and the export of raw materials to Britain. This drain of wealth deprived India of its resources and hindered its economic development.
2. Exploitative economic policies: Naoroji criticized the economic policies implemented by the British, such as the discriminatory tariff system, which favored British goods over Indian goods. This resulted in the decline of Indian industries and the dominance of British manufactured goods in the Indian market.
3. Capital outflow: Naoroji highlighted the significant outflow of capital from India to Britain, primarily in the form of profits made by British companies and investments in Britain. This capital outflow further weakened the Indian economy and hindered its progress.
4. Lack of industrialization: Naoroji emphasized the lack of industrial development in India under British rule. He argued that the British deliberately hindered the growth of Indian industries to maintain their economic dominance and exploit India as a source of raw materials and a market for British goods.
Overall, Dadabhai Naoroji's theory of economic drain provided a comprehensive analysis of the economic exploitation faced by India under British imperialism. His work laid the foundation for future economic and political movements in India, advocating for self-reliance, industrialization, and economic independence.

The Treaty of Srirangapatna:
The Treaty of Srirangapatna was signed between Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore, and Lord Cornwallis, the Governor-General of the British East India Company. The treaty was signed on March 18, 1792, after the Battle of Srirangapatna during the Third Anglo-Mysore War. Here are the key details and outcomes of the treaty:
Participants:
- Tipu Sultan: The ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore.
- Lord Cornwallis: The Governor-General of the British East India Company.
Reasons for the Treaty:
- The Third Anglo-Mysore War had been ongoing since 1789.
- The British forces, led by Cornwallis, had laid siege to Srirangapatna, the capital of Mysore.
- Tipu Sultan faced significant losses and realized the futility of continuing the war.
Key Points of the Treaty:
- Surrender of Territory: Tipu Sultan agreed to cede half of his kingdom, including significant territories such as Malabar, Canara, and Dindigul, to the British.
- Payment of War Indemnity: Mysore had to pay a war indemnity of four crores of rupees to the British.
- Hostages: Tipu Sultan had to release British prisoners of war and send two of his sons as hostages to the British until the war indemnity was paid.
Outcomes and Impact:
- Loss of Territory: The treaty resulted in the significant territorial loss for Mysore, weakening its power and influence in the region.
- Subjugation to British Rule: The treaty established British dominance and control over Mysore.
- Financial Burden: The war indemnity imposed on Mysore put a heavy financial burden on the kingdom.
- Subsequent Conflicts: The treaty did not bring lasting peace, and subsequent conflicts between Mysore and the British East India Company continued until Tipu Sultan's death in 1799.
The Treaty of Srirangapatna marked a significant turning point in the power dynamics between Mysore and the British East India Company. It resulted in the loss of territory and autonomy for Mysore and further strengthened British control over the region.

The system of competitive examination for civil service was accepted in principle in the year 1853. Here is a detailed explanation:
Introduction:
The system of competitive examination for civil service refers to the practice of selecting government officials based on merit through a competitive exam. This system was introduced to ensure transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.
History:
The acceptance of the competitive examination system for civil service can be traced back to the mid-19th century. Here is a breakdown of the key milestones:
1. 1833:
- This year marked the beginning of civil service reform in Britain with the passage of the Civil Service Act.
- The Act aimed to professionalize the civil service and improve its efficiency.
2. 1853:
- In this year, the British government officially accepted the principle of competitive examinations for civil service recruitment.
- The decision was influenced by the recommendations of the Macaulay Committee, which emphasized the need for a merit-based selection process.
3. 1858:
- The Indian Civil Service (ICS) was established in this year, which further promoted the use of competitive examinations for recruitment.
- The ICS became one of the most prestigious and sought-after civil services in British India.
4. 1882:
- Although not directly related to the acceptance of the system, this year saw the establishment of the Public Service Commission in the United Kingdom.
- The Commission was responsible for conducting competitive examinations for various government positions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the system of competitive examination for civil service was accepted in principle in the year 1853. This decision was a significant step towards ensuring transparency and meritocracy in the recruitment process for government officials.

The king exercised his control over villages in the Vijayanagar Empire through the position of Mahanayakacharya.
Explanation:
The Vijayanagar Empire was a powerful South Indian empire that existed from the 14th to the 17th century. The king of the empire exercised control over the villages through various administrative positions. One such important position was that of Mahanayakacharya.
Key Points:
- Mahanayakacharya was a high-ranking official appointed by the king to oversee the administration of villages.
- The Mahanayakacharya acted as a representative of the king and had the authority to collect taxes, maintain law and order, and resolve disputes in the villages.
- They were responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the villages and reporting any issues or concerns to the king.
- The Mahanayakacharya played a crucial role in implementing the king's policies and maintaining control over the villages.
- They acted as a link between the king and the villagers, ensuring that the king's commands and decisions were carried out effectively.
- The position of Mahanayakacharya helped the king exercise his control and authority over a vast network of villages in the empire.
Therefore, it can be concluded that the king exercised his control over villages in the Vijayanagar Empire through the position of Mahanayakacharya.

Answer:
Introduction:
The Vijayanagara ruler, Kirshnadev Raya, is known for his literary work called Amuktamalyada. It is important to note that the language in which this work was written is Telugu.
Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:
1. Background:
- The Vijayanagara Empire was a prominent South Indian empire that flourished during the 14th to 17th centuries.
- Krishnadevaraya was one of the most famous rulers of this empire, known for his patronage of arts and literature.
2. Literary Work:
- Krishnadevaraya wrote a famous epic poem called Amuktamalyada, which means "The Giver of the Worn Garland."
- This work is a Telugu literary masterpiece and is considered one of the greatest contributions to Telugu literature.
3. Content and Theme:
- Amuktamalyada is a retelling of the story of the marriage of the Hindu god Ranganatha (Lord Vishnu) with the princess Goda (Andal).
- The poem explores themes of devotion, love, and the significance of rituals in Hinduism.
- It also highlights the importance of virtue and righteousness in personal and social life.
4. Language:
- The work Amuktamalyada was written in Telugu, which is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Telugu has a rich literary tradition and has been the language of many great works of literature throughout history.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Vijayanagara ruler Kirshnadev Raya's literary work Amuktamalyada was written in Telugu, a Dravidian language. This work is highly regarded in Telugu literature and reflects the cultural and literary achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Background:
Subhas Chandra Bose was an Indian nationalist who played a significant role in India's struggle for independence against British rule. During World War II, Bose sought help from various countries to free India from British colonial rule. He formed the Azad Hind Fauj, also known as the Indian National Army (INA), with the aim of liberating India from British control.
Agreement and Organization:
Under an agreement with Japan, Subhas Chandra Bose organized Indian soldiers, who were taken as prisoners by the Axis Powers, into the Azad Hind Fauj. Here are the details:
- Japan: The agreement was made between Subhas Chandra Bose and the Japanese authorities, who were also fighting against the Allied Powers during World War II.
- Indian Soldiers: Subhas Chandra Bose organized Indian soldiers from the British Indian Army who had been captured by the Axis Powers, including Japan, during the war.
- Azad Hind Fauj: Also known as the Indian National Army (INA), the Azad Hind Fauj was formed under the leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose. It aimed to fight against the British forces and liberate India from British colonial rule.
- Objective: The main objective of organizing the Indian soldiers into the Azad Hind Fauj was to use their military strength and support to fight for India's independence.
Conclusion:
Under an agreement with Japan, Subhas Chandra Bose organized Indian soldiers who were prisoners of war into the Azad Hind Fauj. This alliance between Bose and the Axis Powers aimed to free India from British colonial rule and played a significant role in India's struggle for independence.

Answer: B - Trajan
The Roman kings received two envoys during different time periods. The first envoy was sent in 27-28 AD to the court of Augustus, and the second envoy was sent in 110-20 AD. The second envoy was sent to the court of Trajan.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. First envoy:
- Time period: 27-28 AD
- Sent to the court of Augustus, who was the Roman king at that time.
2. Second envoy:
- Time period: 110-20 AD
- Sent to the court of Trajan, another Roman king who ruled after Augustus.
To summarize, the envoys were sent to the Roman kings, with the first envoy sent to Augustus in 27-28 AD and the second envoy sent to Trajan in 110-20 AD. Therefore, the correct answer is B - Trajan.

The Use of Kharoshti in Ancient Indian Architecture

The use of Kharoshti in ancient Indian architecture is the result of India's contact with Greece. The Kharoshti script was derived from the Aramaic script and was used primarily in the northwestern regions of ancient India, including present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan. Here is a detailed explanation:

1. Introduction to Kharoshti:

• Kharoshti is an ancient script that was used to write several ancient languages, including Prakrit and Gandhari.


• It is primarily found in inscriptions on rock edicts, coins, and other archaeological artifacts.

2. Origin and Spread of Kharoshti:

• The Kharoshti script is believed to have originated in the Achaemenid Empire, which was centered in Iran.


• It was later adopted by the Mauryan Empire in India and became widely used in the northwestern regions.


• India's contact with Greece, particularly through the campaigns of Alexander the Great, played a significant role in the spread of the Kharoshti script in ancient India.

3. Greek Influence on Indian Architecture:

• Greek influence on Indian architecture can be seen in various aspects, including the use of columnar architecture, decorative motifs, and architectural elements such as pillars.


• These influences were likely transmitted through trade and cultural interactions between ancient India and Greece.

4. Kharoshti in Ancient Indian Architecture:

• As a result of India's contact with Greece, the Kharoshti script found its way into ancient Indian architecture.


• The script was used in inscriptions on architectural elements such as pillars, rock-cut caves, and other structures.


• These inscriptions often contained religious or political messages, providing valuable historical and cultural information.

5. Significance of Kharoshti in Indian History:

• The use of the Kharoshti script in ancient Indian architecture reflects the cultural exchange and influences between India and its neighboring regions.


• It highlights the importance of trade, diplomacy, and intellectual exchange in shaping ancient Indian civilization.


• The decipherment and study of Kharoshti inscriptions have contributed to our understanding of ancient Indian history, languages, and cultures.

In conclusion, the use of Kharoshti in ancient Indian architecture is a result of India's contact with Greece. The script was adopted and used in inscriptions on various architectural elements, providing valuable historical and cultural insights into ancient Indian civilization.

The five-fold conception of Vishnu in the Vaikhanasa tradition includes the following:
1. Brahman: This refers to the ultimate reality or the absolute truth.
2. Purusha: Purusha represents the supreme being or the divine personality of Vishnu.
3. Prakriti: Prakriti refers to the cosmic nature or the material manifestation of the universe.
4. Satya: Satya represents truth or the eternal reality.
5. Achyuta: Achyuta is one of the names of Vishnu and signifies his eternal and immutable nature.
6. Aniruddha: Aniruddha is another name of Vishnu and represents his ability to control and direct everything.
Based on the given options, the correct answer is option D: I, III, IV, V, and VI. This means that the five-fold conception of Vishnu in the Vaikhanasa tradition consists of Brahman, Prakriti, Satya, Achyuta, and Aniruddha.

Explanation:
The troops raised by the emperor but not paid directly by the state and placed under the charge of mansabadars were known as Dakhili.
Reasoning:
- The term "mansabadars" refers to the military commanders or officers appointed by the Mughal emperor to command and administer a certain number of troops.
- The Mughal emperor raised a large number of troops to maintain a strong military force. However, it was not feasible for the state to directly pay and maintain all these troops.
- To address this issue, the emperor introduced the system of mansabdari. Under this system, the emperor granted jagirs (land grants) to the mansabdars, who were responsible for raising and maintaining troops on their own.
- The mansabdars were given the authority to collect revenue from the assigned jagirs to support their troops.
- The troops raised by the mansabdars and placed under their charge were known as Dakhili.
- The Dakhili troops were distinct from the regular troops directly paid by the state, known as Walashahi troops.
Summary:
The troops raised by the emperor but not paid directly by the state and placed under the charge of mansabadars were known as Dakhili. This system allowed the emperor to maintain a large military force without directly bearing the financial burden of paying and maintaining all the troops. The mansabdars, who were granted jagirs, were responsible for raising and supporting these troops.

The Treaty of Mangalore
The Treaty of Mangalore was signed between the English East India Company and Tipu Sultan.
Background
- The Treaty of Mangalore was signed on 11 March 1784.
- It marked the end of the Second Anglo-Mysore War which was fought between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled by Tipu Sultan.
Key Points
- The treaty was signed in Mangalore, a port city in present-day Karnataka, India.
- The terms of the treaty were negotiated by Governor-General Sir John Macpherson and Tipu Sultan.
- The treaty restored all territories and possessions to their respective parties.
- Both the British and Mysore agreed to return prisoners of war without ransom.
- The British agreed to abandon their alliance with the Marathas against Mysore.
- The treaty established peace between the two sides and marked the end of hostilities.
Significance
- The Treaty of Mangalore brought a temporary period of peace between the British East India Company and Mysore.
- It allowed Tipu Sultan to consolidate his power and focus on modernizing his kingdom.
- However, the peace did not last long, as the British and Mysore would engage in further conflicts in the Third and Fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars.

Background:
Mahmud of Ghazni was a powerful ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire in the 11th century. He is known for his military campaigns and conquests in the Indian subcontinent. One of his major objectives was to conquer and annex the regions of Peshawar and Punjab.
Conquest of Peshawar:
To conquer Peshawar, Mahmud of Ghazni defeated the following:
- Ghurids: The Ghurids were a dynasty in present-day Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan. However, Mahmud of Ghazni successfully defeated them and established his control over Peshawar.
Conquest of Punjab:
To conquer Punjab, Mahmud of Ghazni defeated the following:
- Arabs: The Arabs had previously ruled over Punjab, but Mahmud of Ghazni successfully drove them out and annexed the region.
- Karkotakas: The Karkotakas were a dynasty that ruled over Kashmir and parts of Punjab. Mahmud of Ghazni defeated them and incorporated Punjab into his empire.
- Hindushahis: The Hindushahis were rulers of the Kabul Shahi dynasty, which controlled parts of Punjab. Mahmud of Ghazni defeated them and extended his empire into Punjab.
Conclusion:
In his quest to conquer and annex Peshawar and Punjab, Mahmud of Ghazni defeated the Ghurids, Arabs, Karkotakas, and Hindushahis. His military campaigns and victories allowed him to establish his control over these regions and expand his empire in the Indian subcontinent.

Professions of the earlier leaders who struggled for freedom of India:

• Lawyers: Many of the leaders who fought for India's independence were lawyers by profession. They used their legal knowledge and skills to advocate for the rights of the people and challenge the oppressive British rule.


• Teachers: Some of the leaders were also teachers who played a significant role in educating and inspiring the masses about the importance of freedom and the need for a united struggle against the British.


• Journalists: Several freedom fighters were journalists who used the power of the press to expose the atrocities of the colonial government and mobilize public opinion in favor of independence.

Detailed Explanation:
The leaders who fought for the freedom of India belonged to various professions, but the most prominent ones were lawyers, teachers, and journalists. These individuals played a crucial role in the struggle for independence by utilizing their professional skills and platforms to raise awareness, mobilize people, and challenge the British rule.
1. Lawyers: Lawyers such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhash Chandra Bose were at the forefront of the freedom movement. They used their legal expertise to fight for the rights of the people and to challenge the unjust laws imposed by the British government.
2. Teachers: Many freedom fighters, such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bhagat Singh, were also teachers. They believed in the power of education and used their position to educate and inspire the masses about the importance of freedom and the need for a united struggle against the British.
3. Journalists: Journalists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai played a significant role in the freedom movement. They used newspapers and other publications to expose the atrocities of the colonial government, promote nationalist ideas, and mobilize public opinion in favor of independence.
Overall, the leaders who struggled for the freedom of India came from diverse professional backgrounds, but lawyers, teachers, and journalists played a crucial role in shaping and leading the movement. Their collective efforts and sacrifices eventually led to the independence of India on August 15, 1947.

Victories of Karikala:
- Karikala was a legendary Chola king who is believed to have ruled during the Sangam Period in ancient Tamil Nadu, India.
- His victories and achievements were well-documented in various literary works of that time.
Pattinappalai:
- One of the literary works that portrays Karikala's victories is the Pattinappalai.
- Pattinappalai is a Tamil poetic work written by the poet Uruttiran Kannanar.
- It is a part of the Sangam literature and describes the beauty and prosperity of the ancient city of Kaveripattinam, which was the capital of the Chola kingdom during Karikala's reign.
- The poem also highlights the victories and military achievements of Karikala.
Other Literary Works:
- While Pattinappalai specifically mentions Karikala's victories, there are other Sangam literary works that also refer to his military successes.
- Palamoli, Aruvanad, and Padirrupattu are examples of such works.
- These works contain references to the conquests, battles, and military strategies employed by Karikala.
Conclusion:
- The victories of Karikala, the Chola king, are well-portrayed in various Sangam literary works such as Pattinappalai, Palamoli, Aruvanad, and Padirrupattu.
- These works document his military achievements and shed light on the glory and prosperity of the Chola kingdom during his reign.

Raja Todar Mal was the Finance Minister of the Mughal empire during Akbar's reign. He was one of the Navaratnas in Akbar's durbar.

Explanation:
The title of 'Viceroy' was added to the office of the Governor-General of India in 1858 AD. Here's a detailed explanation:
Background:
- The British East India Company established its rule in India during the 18th century.
- The Governor-General of India was the highest-ranking official representing the British Crown in India.
- Initially, the Governor-General had limited powers and was accountable to the Board of Control in London.
1857 Rebellion:
- In 1857, a widespread rebellion against British rule, known as the Indian Rebellion or the Sepoy Mutiny, erupted in India.
- The uprising was brutally suppressed by the British, leading to significant changes in the governance of India.
Government of India Act 1858:
- In the aftermath of the rebellion, the British Parliament passed the Government of India Act 1858.
- This act abolished the rule of the British East India Company and transferred the administration of India to the British Crown.
- The Governor-General's office was transformed into that of a Viceroy, representing the direct authority of the British monarch.
Key Points:
- The title of 'Viceroy' was added to the office of the Governor-General of India in 1858 AD.
- This change in title reflected the increased control and authority of the British Crown over India.
- The Viceroy became the highest-ranking British official in India, with enhanced powers and responsibilities.
- The Viceroy was appointed by the British monarch and served as the representative of the Crown in India.
- The Viceroy was responsible for the administration and governance of India, with the support of an executive council.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C: 1858 AD.

King Bhoja and his Dynasty
King Bhoja, a renowned patron of literature and art, belonged to the Paramara dynasty. Here is a detailed explanation of the dynasty and its significance:
Paramara Dynasty:
- The Paramara dynasty was a medieval Indian dynasty that ruled in the Malwa region of central India from the 9th to the 14th centuries.
- They were known for their patronage of art, literature, and architecture, and were great supporters of Hinduism.
- The dynasty reached its peak of power and glory during the reign of King Bhoja, who ruled from the late 10th to early 11th century.
- King Bhoja was not only a skilled warrior but also a renowned scholar, poet, and philosopher.
- He was a prolific writer and composed several works on a wide range of subjects, including poetry, drama, medicine, and astrology.
- King Bhoja's contributions to literature and art were highly significant and he is remembered as one of the greatest patrons of learning in Indian history.
In conclusion, King Bhoja, the great patron of literature and art, belonged to the Paramara dynasty.

The two great Mughals who wrote their own memories are Babar and Jahangir. Below is a detailed explanation of the answer:
1. Introduction:
- The question asks about two Mughals who wrote their own memories.
- We need to identify the correct pair of Mughals.
2. Possible Options:
The given options are:
A) Babar and Humayun
B) Humayun and Jahangir
C) Babar and Jahangir
D) Jahangir and Shahjahan
3. Analyzing the Options:
- We need to determine which pair of Mughals wrote their own memories.
- We will analyze each option to find the correct answer.
4. Option A) Babar and Humayun:
- It is known that Babar wrote his own memoir called "Baburnama."
- However, there is no record of Humayun writing his own memoirs.
- Therefore, this option is incorrect.
5. Option B) Humayun and Jahangir:
- While Humayun did not write his own memoirs, Jahangir did.
- The memoirs written by Jahangir are known as "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri."
- Therefore, this option is incorrect.
6. Option C) Babar and Jahangir:
- As mentioned earlier, Babar wrote his own memoir called "Baburnama."
- Jahangir also wrote his own memoirs known as "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri."
- Both Babar and Jahangir wrote their own memories, making this option correct.
7. Option D) Jahangir and Shahjahan:
- While Jahangir did write his own memoirs, there is no record of Shahjahan writing his own memoirs.
- Therefore, this option is incorrect.
8. Conclusion:
- After analyzing all the options, we can conclude that the correct answer is option C) Babar and Jahangir.
- Both Babar and Jahangir wrote their own memoirs, namely "Baburnama" and "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri," respectively.

King Vikramaditya and the Vikrama Samvat

• Vikramaditya was a king of Ujjain, a city located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, India.


• He is believed to have ruled during the 1st century BC.


• Vikramaditya is known for his valor, wisdom, and patronage of arts and culture.

Origin of Vikrama Samvat

• Vikramaditya started the Vikrama Samvat in 58 BC.


• The Vikrama Samvat is a Hindu calendar system that is still widely used in India and Nepal.


• It is based on the lunar calendar and begins with the victory of Vikramaditya over his enemies.

Commemoration of Victory

• Vikramaditya's victory is believed to be over the Sakas, also known as the Scythians.


• The Sakas were a Central Asian nomadic tribe who had invaded and settled in northwestern India during that time.


• By starting the Vikrama Samvat, Vikramaditya commemorated his triumph over the Sakas.

Significance of the Vikrama Samvat

• The Vikrama Samvat is used as an official calendar in some regions of India, particularly in Gujarat.


• It is also used for religious and cultural purposes, such as dating festivals and auspicious occasions.


• The calendar follows a lunar system, with months based on the phases of the moon.


• Each month begins with the new moon and is divided into two fortnights - the bright half and the dark half.


• The Vikrama Samvat is an important part of India's cultural heritage and continues to be observed and celebrated by many.

Conclusion

Vikramaditya, the king of Ujjain, started the Vikrama Samvat in 58 BC to commemorate his victory over the Sakas. This Hindu calendar system is still widely used in India and Nepal, serving as an official calendar in some regions and playing a significant role in religious and cultural festivities. The Vikrama Samvat follows a lunar calendar, with months based on the phases of the moon, and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India.

The Lion Capital at Sarnath and its belonging to King Ashoka
The Lion Capital at Sarnath is an ancient Indian sculpture that is considered one of the most iconic symbols of India. It is also known as the Ashoka Pillar, as it was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the Maurya Empire. Here is a detailed explanation of the connection between the Lion Capital and King Ashoka:
The Lion Capital
- The Lion Capital is a sandstone sculpture that features four lions standing back to back. It is mounted on an inverted lotus base with a circular abacus.
- The capital is adorned with various intricate carvings and symbols, including four galloping horses, a bull, an elephant, and a lion.
- The sculpture is approximately 2.3 meters tall and was originally placed on top of a pillar at Sarnath, a Buddhist site near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
King Ashoka
- Ashoka was an emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled most of the Indian subcontinent from 268 to 232 BCE.
- Initially known for his military conquests and expansionist policies, Ashoka later converted to Buddhism after witnessing the horrors of war during the Kalinga War.
- As a Buddhist ruler, Ashoka promoted the principles of Buddhism and embraced a policy of non-violence and compassion.
- He erected numerous pillars and edicts throughout his empire to spread Buddhist teachings and moral values.
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is one of the many pillars erected by Ashoka, serving as a symbol of his patronage of Buddhism.
Connection between the Lion Capital and King Ashoka
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is believed to have been erected by King Ashoka to commemorate the site where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) after attaining enlightenment.
- The capital is a significant representation of Ashoka's commitment to Buddhism and his efforts to spread the religion across his empire.
- The Lion Capital has also become the national emblem of India, appearing on Indian currency, official documents, and government emblems.
In conclusion, the Lion Capital at Sarnath belongs to King Ashoka, an influential ruler of the Maurya Empire who played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism. The capital serves as a symbol of Ashoka's patronage of Buddhism and his efforts to promote peace and compassion throughout his empire.