The UPSC Prelims Mock Test on Ancient, Medieval History, and Art & Culture is a vital tool for aspirants aiming to navigate the challenging terrain of the Civil Services Examination. Focused on assessing knowledge and analytical skills, this mock test replicates the actual exam environment. Covering Ancient and Medieval History, it challenges candidates to navigate through dynasties, socio-cultural transformations, and historical nuances. Additionally, it tests their understanding of Art & Culture, demanding insights into diverse art forms and their historical contexts. This mock test serves as a diagnostic tool, enabling aspirants to evaluate their preparedness, refine their strategies, and enhance their performance in the UPSC Preliminary Examination.
Q1. Which of the following is/are ideas of the Bhakti poet Saint Kabir?
- He emphasized the unity of God.
- He believes in idol worship and considers it as the ultimate way to salvation.
- The mission of Kabir was to preach a religion of love that would unite all castes
and creeds.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 only
Answer-D
Kabir was one of the most prominent Saints of the Bhakti movement. There is a good deal of uncertainty about the dates and early life of Kabir. It is said that Kabir was conceived miraculously. His mother was a devout Brahmin widow who had accompanied her father on a pilgrimage to a famous ascetic. Impressed by their dedication, the ascetic blessed her and told her she would soon bear a son. After the son was born, to escape dishonor (as she was not married), Kabir’s mother abandoned him. Young Kabir was adopted by Nima, the wife of a Muslim weaver. He learned the profession of his adopted father, but he came in contact with both the Hindu and Muslim saints while living at Kashi.
Ideas and Philosophies of Kabir:
- He emphasized the unity of God, whom he calls by several names, such as Rama, Hari, Govinda, Allah, Sain, Sahib, etc. (Statement 1 is correct)
- He strongly denounced idol worship, pilgrimages, bathing in holy rivers, or informal worship, including namaz. (Statement 2 is not correct)
- He did not consider it necessary to abandon the life of a householder for the sake of a saintly life. Though familiar with yogic practices, he considered neither asceticism nor book knowledge important for actual knowledge.
- As a modern historian, Dr. Tara Chand, says: ‘The mission of Kabir was to preach a religion of love which would unite all castes and creeds’. (Statement 3 is correct)
- He rejected those features of Hinduism and Islam that were against this spirit and was of no importance for the real spiritual welfare of the individual.
- He strongly denounced the caste system, especially the practice of untouchability, and emphasized the fundamental unity of man.
- He was opposed to all kinds of discrimination between human beings, whether based on caste, religion, race, family, or wealth. His sympathies were decided with the poor with whom he identified himself. However, he was not a social reformer, his emphasis being reform of the individual under the guidance of a true guru or teacher.
Q2. Consider the following pairs:
Traditional Theatre Form State of India
- Maach: Madhya Pradesh
- Bhaona: Gujarat
- Tamasha : Maharashtra
- Dashavatar: Goa
- Krishnattam: Odisha
Which of the pairs given above are correctly
matched?
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer- B
Pair 1 is correctly matched: The term Maach is used for the stage as well as for the play. Maach is the traditional theatre form of Madhya Pradesh. In Maach, songs are prominently used between the dialogues. In this form, the term for dialogue is Bol and rhyme in narration is termed Vanag. Rangat is the tune of this theatre form.
Pair 2 is not correctly matched: Ankia Naat of Assam is presented through Bhaona. Cultural glimpses of Assam, Bengal Orissa, Mathura and Brindavan can be seen in Bhaona. The narrator or the Sutradhaar begins the story first in Sanskrit and then in either Brajboli or Assamese.
Pair 3 is correctly matched: Tamasha, a traditional folk theatre form of Maharashtra, has evolved from folk forms such as Gondhal, Jagran and Kirtan. In Tamasha, unlike in other theatre forms, the female actress is the chief exponent of dance movements in the play. She is called Murki. Classical music, footwork at lightningspeed, and vivid gestures make it possible to portray all the emotions through dance.
Pair 4 is correctly matched: Dashavatar theatre form is most developed in Konkan and Goa regions. The ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu-the god of preservation and creativity are personified by the performers. The ten incarnations are Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narsimha (lion-man), Vaman (dwarf), Parashuram, Rama, Krishna (or Balram), Buddha
and Kalki. Dashavatar performers wear masks of wood and papier mache and put on stylized makeup.
Pair 5 is not correctly matched: Under the patronage of King Manavada of Calicut. A folk theatre of Kerala, Krishnattam, came into existence in the mid-17th century AD. Krishnattam is a cycle of eight plays performed for eight consecutive days. The plays are Avataram, Kaliamandana, Rasa krida, kamasavadha, Swayamvaram, Bana Yudham, Vivida Vadham, and Swargarohana. The episodes are based on the theme of Lord Krishna – his birth, childhood pranks, and various deeds depicting the victory of good over evil.
3. In the context of Pala empire, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Pala rulers had close cultural relations with Tibet and Buddhist scholars Atisa introduced a new form of Buddhism in Tibet.
- Pala’s patronage to Saivism and Vaishnavism led to the prosperity of Bengal.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer-C
Statement 1 is correct: The Pala rulers had close cultural relations with Tibet. The noted Buddhist scholars, Santarakshita and Dipankara (called Atisa), were invited to Tibet, and they introduced a new form of Buddhism there. As a result, many Tibetan Buddhists flocked to the universities of Nalanda and Vikramshila for study.
Statement 2 is correct: Although the Palas were supporters of Buddhism, they also extended their patronage to Saivism and Vaishnavism. They gave grants to large numbers of brahmins from North India who flocked to Bengal. Their
settlements helped in the extension of cultivation in the area, and the transformation of many pastoralists and food-gatherers to settle down to cultivation. Therefore, the growing prosperity of Bengal helped extend trade and cultural contacts with countries of Southeast Asia-Burma, Malaya, Java, Sumatra, etc.
Q4. with reference to the Pratiharas, consider the following statements:
- Pratiharas originated from Gujarat and ruled over Kanauj for a long time.
- Pratiharas had first their capital at Bhinmal, gained prominence under Nagabhata I.
- The efforts of Pratiharas rulers to extend their control over upper Ganga valley met with stiff resistance from Pala rulers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer -A
Statement 1 is correct: The Pratiharas who ruled over Kannauj for a long time are also called Gurjara Pratiharas. Most scholars consider that they originated from the Gurjaras who were pastoralists and fighters, like the Jats.
Statement 2 is correct: The Pratiharas established a series of principalities in central and eastern Rajasthan. They clashed with the Rashtrakutas for the control of Malwa and Gujarat, and later for Kanauj which implied control of the upper Ganga valley. The Pratiharas who first had their capital at Bhinmal gained prominence under Nagabhata I who offered stout resistance to the Arab rulers of Sind who were trying to encroach on Rajasthan, Gujarat, the Punjab, etc. The Arabs made a big thrust towards Gujarat but was decisively defeated by the Chalukyan ruler of Gujarat in 738. Although small Arab incursions continued, the Arabs ceased to be a threat thereafter.
Statement 3 is not correct: The efforts of the early Pratihara rulers to extend their control over the upper Ganga valley and Malwa were defeated by the Rashtrakuta rulers (not Pala rulers) Dhruva and Gopal III. In 790 and again in 806-07, the Rashtrakutas defeated the Pratiharas, and then withdrew to the Deccan, leaving the field free for the Palas. Perhaps the main interest of the Rashtrakutas was the domination of Malwa and Gujarat.
Q5. With reference to the Battle of Tarain, consider the following statements:
- The First Battle of Tarain was fought over the rival claims for Tabarhinda between Muizzuddin Muhammad of Ghur and Prithviraj Chauhan of Ajmer.
- In the First Battle of Tarain, the Chauhan had completely ousted the Ghurids from Punjab.
- The Second Battle of Tarain ended in favor of Prithviraj.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer-D
The Battles of Tarain were a series of two battles fought in 1191 and 1192 AD between Muizzuddin Muhammad Sam of Ghur and Prithviraj III, the Chauhan (Chahamana) Rajput ruler of Ajmer and Delhi. The battlefield lay between Karnal, about 70 miles (110 km) north of Delhi, and Thanesar, in the Karnal region of the modern state of Haryana, India.
Statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is not correct: The First Battle of Tarain, 1191 AD, between Muizzuddin Muhammad of Ghur and Prithviraj III started with rival claims for Tabarhinda (modern Bathinda). In the battle, which was fought at Tarain in 1191, the Ghurid forces were completely routed, and Muizzuddin Muhammad’s life being saved by a young Khalji horseman. Prithviraj now pushed on to Tabarhinda and conquered it after a twelve-month siege. Little attempt was made by Prithviraj to oust the Ghurids from Punjab. Perhaps, he felt that this was another of recurrent Turkish raids, and that the Ghurid ruler would be content to rule over Punjab. This gave Muizzuddin Muhammad time to regroup his forces and make another bid for India the following year. He rejected the proposal said to be made by Prithviraj to leave Punjab under the possession of the Ghurid ruler.
Statement 3 is not correct: The Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 is regarded as one of the turning points in Indian history. It established the Ghurid rule in India. Muizzuddin Muhammad had made careful preparations for the contest.
The superior organization skill and speed of movements of the Turkish cavalry and their mounted archers and heavy cavalry ultimately decided the issue. A large number of Indian soldiers lost their lives. Prithviraj escaped but was captured near Saraswati (Sirsa). The Turkish armies captured the fortresses of Hansi, Saraswati and Samana.
Q6. In the context of Medieval India, the term ‘Antyaja’ refers to
(a) Head of the Rajput clan
(b) Chief, who collected tax
(c) Untouchables
(d) Millionaire
Answer-C
Option (c) is correct: As compared to the Shudras, the position of the Dalits seems to have deteriorated between 800-1200 AD in India. The Dalits included those following professions such as scavenging, skinning dead animals, shoemakers, hunters, etc. These people were called the Antyaja or untouchables, and formed the fifth social grade, outside the four-fold varna system. They were often required to live away from the areas inhabited by the upper castes. There is even a discussion in the smritis on whether the shadow of an Antyaja was polluting or not. In some parts of the country, the Chandals were
required to hit a wooden board on a stick as they walked so that upper-caste people would not come into contact with them. In most areas of the country, these sections were not allowed to be owners of cultivated land.
Q7. Lilavati’s book is written by which of the following personalities?
(a) Bhaskara Acharya
(b) Sandhyakar Nandin’s
(c) Hemachandra’s
(d) Jaychandara
Answer- A
Option (a) is correct: Lilavati is written by the Indian mathematician Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskara Acharya. In the book the author posed, in verse form, a series of problems in (elementary) arithmetic to one Leelavati (perhaps his daughter) and followed them up with hints to solutions. This work appears to have been the main source of learning arithmetic and algebra in medieval India. The work was also translated into Persian and was influential in West Asia. Bhaskara II (c. 1114-1185) also known as Bhaskaracarya was an Indian mathematician and astronomer, born in Bijapur in Karnataka. Bhaskara was the leader of a cosmic observatory at Ujjain, the main mathematical centre of ancient India. His main work Siddhanta-Siromani,
(Sanskrit for “Crown of Treatises”) is divided into four parts which are also sometimes considered four independent works called
- Lilavati – Arithmetic.
- Bijaga?ita – Algebra.
- Grahaga? ita – Mathematics of the planets
- Goladhyaya – Mathematics of the Spheres
He also wrote another treatise named Kara.a Kautuhala. He is particularly known in the discovery of the principles of differential calculus and its application to astronomical problems and computations. He was perhaps the first to conceive the differential coefficient and differential calculus. In 1981 the ISRO launched the Bhaskara II satellite honouring the mathematician and astronomer.
Q8. With reference to the Delhi Sultanate, consider the following statements about Ala-ud-din Khilji:
- Diwan-i-riyasat were appointed in the offices called Shahana-i-mandi to standardize the market during his period.
- Diwan-i-Mustakhraj was Department of arrears introduced by Alauddin Khilji.
- He constructed Alai Darwaza, the Palace of a thousand pillars and the Fort of Siri.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer-D
The Khiljis served under the Ilbari dynasty of Delhi. Malik Firuz was the founder of the Khilji Dynasty who was originally the Ariz-I-Mumalik appointed by Kaiqubad during the days of the decline of the Ilbari Dynasty.
Ala-ud-din Khilji (1296-1316 A.D.): In 1296 A.D. Ala-ud-din Khilji succeeded Jalal-ud-din Firoz
Khilji and ascended the throne.
Domestic Policies of Alauddin Khilji
Ala-ud-din followed the Divine Right Theory
of Kingship.
- He introduced four ordinances to prevent
- repeated revolts.
- He impounded pious grants and free grants of
- lands
- He introduced a permanent standing army.
- He started the system of branding of horses
- and descriptive roster of individual soldiers to
- inhibit corruption.
- He fixed the prices of necessary commodities
- which were below the normal market rates.
- He strictly prohibited black marketing.
- Revenue was collected in cash and not in kind.
Marketing System
Statement 1 is correct: Officers called Diwani-riyasat were appointed in the offices called Shahana-i-mandi to standardize the market. Merchants should have to register themselves in the office (Shahana-i-mandi) before selling their goods at the fixed rates.
Statement 2 is correct: Diwan-i-Mustakhraj was Department of Arrears introduced by Alauddin Khilji.
Ala-ud-din-Khilji’s Estimate He was the first to bring the standing army system.
Statement 3 is correct: He constructed Alai Darwaza, the Palace of a Thousand Pillars and the Fort of Siri.
Q9. Consider the following statements about the King Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijaynagar Empire:
- Krishnadeva Raya was contemporary to Akbar.
- His main enemies had been the Gajapatis of Orissa with whom he had been constant warfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer B
Krishnadeva Raya was the most popular king of the Vijaynagar Empire. He belonged to the Tuluva dynasty. He was the strongest king of the Vijaynagar Empire, he won Orissa and extended his emperor in various territories.
Statement 1 is incorrect: He took titles such as Yavanarjana Sthapanacharya, Andhra Bhoj, Abhinav Bhoj, and Andhra Pitamaha. He was contemporary to Babur. Babur writes about Krishnadeva Raya in his autobiography named Baburnama and described that Krishnadeva Raya was the strongest ruler of his reign. According to Domingo Paes, a Portuguese traveller,
“Krishnadeva Raya was the most feared and perfect king there could possibly be”. Krishnadeva Raya was focused on the development of agriculture. He built large tanks and canals for irrigation. He made good policies for trade. He also maintained friendly relations with Portuguese and Arab traders. He increased the revenue collection of his government. He patronized art and architecture. It was during his rule that the empire, popularly known as Krishnadevaraya Dynasty, saw its highest glory.
Statement 2 is correct: Krishnadevaraya never lost any battle, because of his astute use of his massive military, successfully campaigning against the kingdoms to his north. His main enemies had been the Gajapatis of Orissa, with whom he had been in constant warfare since the rule of Saluva Narasimha Deva Raya. Krishnadevaraya’s conquest on May 19, 1520 as considered the highlight among his victories. In this battle, he secured the fortress of Raichur from Ismail Adil Shah of Bijapur after a difficult siege during which 16,000 Vijayanagar soldiers died. The emperor felicitated the chief military commander, Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu, for his leadership, valour and strategy to win this war of Raichur.
Q10. Consider the following statements:
- Slave Dynasty succeeded the Lodhi Dynasty during medieval period.
- Tughlak dynasty was succeeded by the Sayyad Dynasty in medieval period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer-B
Different dynasties ruled India during the medieval period:
Statement 1 is incorrect:The Slave Dynasty (1206-1290AD) was founded by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, a slave of Mohammad Ghori. The other important rulers of this dynasty were Iltutmish, Razia and Balban. The Khilji Dynasty (1290-1320AD): Sultan Jalal-ud-din Khilji (1290-1296) was the founder of the Khilji dynasty. Jalal-ud-din was murdered when he went to Kara to welcome his
commander, Ala-ud-din. Ala-ud-din proved to be the ablest Khilji Sultan.
Statement 2 is correct: 3. The Tughlak Dynasty (1320-1414 AD): (i) Ghiasuddin Tughlak (1320- 1325) was the founder of the Tughlak dynasty. He was a very able and merciful king Mohammad Tughlak and Feroz Shah Tughlak were other important rulers of the dynasty.
The Sayyad Dynasty (1414-1450 AD): There were only four kings of this dynasty. The rule of this dynasty was confined to Delhi and a few surrounding districts. The last Sayyad king descended in favour of Bahlol Lodhi and himself retired.
The Lodhi Dynasty (1451-1526 AD): Bahlol Lodhi (1451-1488) was the founder of the Lodhi dynasty. Sikandar Lodhi (1488-1517) succeeded his father, Bahlol Lodhi. He transferred the capital from Delhi to Agra. Ibrahim Lodhi (1517-1526) was the last king of this dynasty.
Q11. With reference to the pottery in Indus valley civilization, consider the following statements:
- Indus potter was a skilled craftsman who produced plain, coloured and glazed pottery.
- Indus valley pottery consists of very fine handmade wares, very few being wheel made.
- The black painted ware had a fine coating of red slip on which geometric and animal designs were executed.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and
Answer -A
statement 1 is correct: In the Harappan culture, the art of pottery making was at its peak. The Indu’s potter was a skilled craftsman who produced plain, coloured and glazed pottery. Made in various shapes, the pottery had rich designs
and a perfect finish.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Indus valley pottery consists of very fine wheel made wares, very few being handmade. Harappan pottery was made of good quality clay, which was baked in controlled heat in various shapes like bowls, vases, pots
(Handi), feeder, dish, storage jar, offering stand, dish-on-stand jars, drinking vessels, cup and cup on a stand, basin, casket and so on.
Statement 3 is correct: Plain pottery was more common than painted ware. Plain pottery was generally red clay, with or without a fine red or grey slip. The black painted ware had a fine coating of red slip on which geometric and animal
designs were executed in glossy black paint. Cultural Significance: – The discovery of miniature pottery has been explained culturally as either serving as playthings for children or for cult practices. The finish and the workmanship of a majority of these suggest that they were perhaps not made by children. The votive purpose of these pieces is as speculative, as the existence of a cult where these miniatures could have been used.
Artistic Significance: – A large find of small and miniature pottery have been discovered in the Harappan civilization. The size of this kind of pottery is about an inch. It consists of jars and pots, some of which have been crudely executed, have asymmetrical lower bodies and bases. However, many of them are wheel made, with careful finish and painted with great care. In case of this miniature pottery, the body wall thickness is significant in relation to maximum body diameter. It was made of both clay and faience, the latter being a paste made of crushed steatite.
Q.12 With reference to the Hathigumpha inscription, consider the following statement:
- These are found in the Udyagiri caves in Odisha.
- Hathigumpha inscription was inscribed by the emperor of Kalinga Kapilendra.
- These inscriptions consist of seventeen lines in a deep-cut Brahmi script.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer-C
Statement 1 is correct: The Hathigumpha Inscription (“Elephant Cave” inscription), from Udayagiri, near Bhubaneswar in Odisha.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Hathigumpha The inscription was inscribed by Kharavela, the then Emperor of Kalinga in India, during the 2nd century BCE.
Statement 3 is correct: The Hathigumpha The inscription consists of seventeen lines in a CentralWestern form of Prakrit incised in a deep-cut Brahmi script on the overhanging brow of a natural cavern called Hathigumpha in the southern
side of the Udayagiri hill, near Bhubaneswar in Odisha. It faces straight towards the Rock Edicts of Ashoka at Dhauli, situated at a distance of about six miles.
The inscription is written in a type that is considered as one of the most archaic forms of the Kalinga alphabet, also suggesting a date around 150 BCE.
Q13. With reference to the Kalinga school of architecture, consider the following statements:
- In Kalinga temple architecture the shrine is called a deal and the hall is called
Jagmohan. - Pidha Deula refers to the square building with a pyramid-shaped roof, like the
vimanas. - Lingaraj Temple was built by the Somvanshi King Yayati I.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer-D
The Indian temples are broadly divided into Nagara, Vesara, Dravida, and Gadag styles of architecture. However, the temple architecture of Odisha corresponds to altogether a different category for their unique representations called Kalinga style of temple architecture. This style broadly comes under the Nagara style.
Statement 1 is correct: In Kalinga Architecture, basically, a temple is made in two parts, a tower and a hall. The tower/shrine is called deul and the hall is called jagmohan. The walls of both the deul and the jagmohan are lavishly sculpted with architectural motifs and a profusion of figures. The most repeated form is the horseshoe shape, which has come from the earliest times, starting with the large windows of the chaitya-gracias. It is the deul or deula which makes three distinct types of temples in Kalinga Architecture. Rekha Deula: Rekha Deula is a tall building with a sikhara. The most distinct example of Rekha
Deula is the Lingraj Temple of Bhubneshwar. The Rekha Deula means a shrine with different parts in a line.
Statement 2 is correct: Pidha Deula: Pidha Deula refers to the square building with a pyramid-shaped roof, like the vimanas. The assembly hall of the Konark Sun Temple is an example. Khakhara Deula: The Khakhara Deula is altogether a different style of architecture closely appearing similar to the Dravidian Gopuram design. The word is derived from Khakharu (Pumpkin, gourd) as the crown looks like a barrel-vaulted elongated roof.
Lingaraj Temple, Bhubneshwar:
Statement 3 is correct: Lingaraj Temple, built in 11th century AD, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered as the largest temple of the city of Bhubaneswar (Odisha). It is believed to have been built by the Somvanshi King Yayati I. It is built in red stone and is a classic example of Kalinga style of architecture. The temple is divided into four sections – Garbha Griha (sanctum
sanctorum), Yajna Shala (the hall for prayers), Bhoga Mandap (the hall of offering) and Natya Shala (hall of dance). The sprawling temple complex has one hundred and fifty subsidiary shrines. Lingaraj is referred to as ‘Swayambhu’ – self originated Shivling. Another important aspect of the temple is that it signifies the syncretisation of Shaivism and Vaishnavism sects in Odisha.
Q14. With reference to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in India, consider the following statements:
- Kutiyattam is one of the oldest traditional theatre forms of Tamil Nadu and is based
on Sanskrit theatre traditions. - Ramman is a religious festival and ritual theatre of the Garhwal region,
Uttarakhand.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer-B
Statement 1 is incorrect: Kutiyattam is one of the oldest traditional theatre forms of Kerala and is based on Sanskrit theatre traditions. It is traditionally performed in theatres called Kuttampalams, which are located in the Hindu temples. Kutiyattam is performed by a community of male actors called Chakyars and female performers called Nangiars, assisted by drummers called Nambiars. Kutiyattam includes the plays of almost all the major playwrights in Sanskrit, including Bhasa, Harsha, Saktibhadra, Kulasekhara, Neelakantha, Bodhayana and Mahendravikramavarman. However, notable exceptions are Kalidasa and Bhavabhuti, whose plays are not traditionally part of its repertoire. Kutiyattam has been declared as among the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Statement 2 is correct: Ramman is a religious festival and ritual theatre of the Garhwal region, Uttarakhand. It is a festival of the Hindu community in the Saloor Dungra village in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The festival and the eponymous
art form are conducted as an offering to the village deity, Bhumiyal Devta. It was included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009. This festival consists of a series of intricate ceremonies, including the reciting of a rendition of Rama’s epic and different stories, as well as the performance of songs and masked dances.
Q15. Karmaprabhrita and Kashayaprabhrita, two famous literature belong to which of the following religions?
(a) Hinduism
(b) Jainism
(c) Buddhism
(d) Sikhism
Answer- B
Apart from writing in Prakrit and Ardha Magadhi, Jain monks wrote in many other languages depending on the era, region and the patrons who supported them. They wrote in Tamil during the Sangam Age in south India. They also wrote in
Sanskrit, Shauraseni, Gujarati, and Marathi. They can be broadly divided into two major categories; Canonical or religious texts called Jain Agamas or Agam and non-canonical literary works.
Option (b) is correct: Digambaras gave sacred status to two works: the Karmaprabhrita (discussion on Karma) or Shatkhandagama and the Kashayaprabhrita. Some other important Jain works and authors are: Bhadrabahu (3rd century BC) is one of the greatest Jain monks and was the teacher of Chandragupta Maurya. He wrote the sacred Uvasaggaharam Stotra, and Kalpa Sutra (Biographies of Jain Tirthankars). He was the pioneer of the Digambara sect. Acharya Kundkund’s Samayasara and Niyamasara discuss the Jain philosophy. Samanta Bhadra’s Ratna Karanda ravakachara (Life of a Jaina householder) and Aptamimansa was written around 2nd century AD. Nalatiyar, an ancient Tamil text was written by Jain monks. Umasvati’s Tattvartha-sutra (1st -2nd century AD) is an important Jain work in Sanskrit on logic, epistemology, ethics, and astronomy
Q16. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
- Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
- The Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
- The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer- B
Statement 1 is not correct: The first division in the Buddhist community occurred in 383 B.C. The order broke into Sthaviravada (in Pali Theravada) and the Mahasanghikas. While the Sthaviravadins were believers in the teaching of elders, and orthodox school. They did not belong to the Mahayana Buddhism.
Statement 2 is correct: Subdivisions of the Mahasanghikas included aspects of Lokottarvadin whose philosophy was based on the concept of Lokottara Buddha or Supernatural Buddha. Hence, the Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism. The Major split took place during the reign of Kanishka in 100 A.D. and there emerged two
sects: Hinayana or the Lesser Vehicle and Mahayana or the Greater Vehicle.
Statement 3 is correct: Mahasanghika Paved the way for the emergence of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism during the 4th Buddhist Council. Mahayanists gave prominence to the Bodhisattva ideal. Thus, the deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Q17. With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct description of the term ‘paramitas’?
(a) The earliest Dharmashastra texts written in aphoristic (sutra) style
(b) Philosophical schools that did not accept the authority of Vedas
(c) Perfections whose attainment led to the Bodhisattva path
(d) Powerful merchant guilds of early medieval South India
Answer- C
Option (c) is correct: To achieve enlightenment and realise Nibbana, the Fourth Noble Truth, the Noble Eightfold Path, gives a Buddhist practitioner, ways to practice, and the path to follow. There also exists a parallel path that consists of perfecting certain qualities, in order for a pilgrim to become a self-Enlightened Universal Buddha. These qualities are termed as the Paramis (perfections) in the Southern traditions and the Paramitas in the Eastern and Northern traditions in the context of the
Bodhisattva path.
Q18. Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?
(a) The extinction of the flame of desire
(b) The complete annihilation of self
(c) A state of bliss and rest
(d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension
Answer- A
Buddhism is a religion and philosophy that developed from the teachings of the Buddha, a teacher who lived in northern India between the mid-6th and mid-4th centuries BCE. Ancient Buddhist scripture and doctrine developed in several closely related literary languages of ancient India, especially in Pali and Sanskrit.
Option (a) is correct: The Pali word Nibbana (nirvana in Sanskrit) was first used by the Buddha to describe the highest state of profound well-being a human is capable of attaining. The fires of greed, hatred, and delusion-toxic unconscious mental and emotional dispositions that cause people to harm themselves and one another and cause suffering- have been extinguished (kibbutz) in a person who attains nirvana.
Q19. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?
- Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
- Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
- Denial of efficacy of rituals
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer-B
The school of Buddhism evolved in the eastern part of India in 563 BCE. More or less at the same time (in & around 550 BCE) another school, Jainism, with almost similar thoughts, was developing in the same part of India. The founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavira was a contemporary of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and even the Buddhist texts called Lord Mahavira ‘an
enlightened being’.
- Both were the products of intellectual, spiritual and social forces of their age and therefore, both stood up as revolts against the prevalent Brahmanical religion.
- Both Mahavira and Buddha, the founders of Jainism and Buddhism respectively, were Kshatriya princes and were able to get support for their cause from the contemporary ruling class, different Kshatriya rulers and economically prosperous Vaishyas.
- Both opposed the ritualism and the sacrifices of Brahmanism and also challenged the supremacy of the Brahmanas. (Statement 3 is correct)
- Both denied the authenticity of the Vedas as an infallible authority. (Statement 2 is correct) Both accepted the doctrines of the transmigration of soul and Karma and emphasized the effects of good and bad Karmas (deeds) upon an individual’s future births and ultimate salvation which was accepted as the highest goal of life.
- Even though both emphasised Ahimsa or non-violence However, Jainism believes in extremities of penance, for example, the practice of Kaya klesh, a must for Jain monks who take the lifelong vow of diksha or monkhood, is excruciatingly painful.(Statement 1 is not correct)
Q20. With reference to the guilds (Shreni) of ancient India that played a very important role in the country’s economy, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Every guild was registered with the central authority of the State and the king was the chief administrative authority on them.
- The wages, rules of work, standards and prices were fixed by the guild.
- The guild had judicial powers over its own members.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer- C
Ancient Indian guilds are a unique and multi-faceted form of organization, which combined the functions of a democratic government, a trade union, a court of justice, and a technological institution. The trained workers of the guilds provided a congenial atmosphere for work.
Option (c) is correct: Guilds were autonomous socio-economic entities, and the King was the chief administrative authority. The guilds regulated the wages, rules of work, standards, prices, etc. The guilds had some judicial powers, some
of them even had their own army and forces known as Screnibal.
Q21. Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolises:
(a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation.
(b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara.
(c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and finally dissolve into the Earth, and thus this life
is transitory.
(d) Both the statements (a)and (b)are correct in this context
Answer-B
Option (b) is correct: Bhumisparsha means touching the earth. It is most commonly known as the “earth witness” mudra. This mudra involves all the five fingers of the right hand extended to touch the ground. This posture of mudra symbolizes the pose of Buddha at the time of enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, when he summoned the earth goddess Sthavara, to bear
witness to his attainment of enlightenment. Shakyamuni Buddha is commonly represented upon his enlightenment throne with his right hand touching the earth and his left hand resting upon his lap in the gesture of meditation. This symbolizes his method or skillful means in overcoming Mara (right hand), through the perfect wisdom of his deep meditation on
emptiness (left hand). The earth-touching gesture is also the mudra of Akshobya, the ‘unshakable’ blue Buddha of the
centre or eastern direction.
Q22. The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by
(a) Universal Law
b) Universal Truth
(c) Universal Faith
(d) Universal Soul
Answer-A
Jainism lays emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa). Followers of Jainism follow a very strict and well-disciplined life. The first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, flourished before the Indus Valley Civilization and is referred to as Lord Vishnu in the Puranas and
is also mentioned in the Vedas.
Option (a) is correct: Jainism does not support belief in a creator deity. According to the Jain Doctrine, the universe and its constituents have always existed, and their actions are governed by Universal Natural Laws. The world, according to the Jain Doctrine is not created, maintained or destroyed by any deity but functions according to Universal Law.
Q23. Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements:
- It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present,
did not dominate the scene. - During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer-C
Statement 1 is correct: The Indus Valley Civilization was highly developed, and it must have taken thousands of years to reach that stage. It was a predominantly secular civilization and even though religious elements were present, it did not dominate the scene.
Statement 2 is correct: The economy of the Indus Valley Civilization depended upon crops and animal husbandry. The main crops grown were rice, wheat, melons, dates, vegetables, mainly legumes and cotton. Large granaries were also found. Cotton later became the stimulus for the growth of the textile industry.
Q24. The “dharma” and “Rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements:
- Dharma was a conception of obligations and of the discharge of one’s duties to
oneself and to others. - Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer-C
statement 1 is correct: Dharma means law or natural law and it is a concept of importance in Indian religion and philosophy. In the Hindu context, it refers to a person’s personal obligation or duties. A Hindu’s Dharma is affected by his age, class, caste, gender and occupation. Dharma is usually defined as “righteousness” or “duty”. The four aims of a man’s life are
- Kama (gratification of desire)
- Artha (acquirement of wealth)
- Dharma (discharge of duty)
- Moksha (final emancipation)
Statement 2 is correct: Rita is the physical order of the universe, the order of the sacrifice and the moral law of the world. According to Vedic Religion, Rita was guarded by Varuna, the godsovereign, who was assisted by Mitra, the god of honor and proper performance of sacrifices was necessary to guarantee its continuance. Violation (amrita) of the order was considered a sin and required careful expiation.
Q25. India maintained its early cultural contacts and trade links with Southeast Asia across the Bay of Bengal. For this pre-eminence of the early maritime history of the Bay of Bengal, which of the following could be the most convincing explanation/explanations?
(a) As compared to other countries, India had better ship-building technology in ancient and medieval times.
(b) The rulers of southern India always patronized traders, brahmin priests and Buddhist monks in this context.
(c) Monsoon winds across the Bay of Bengal facilitated sea voyages.
(d) Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context.
Answer-C
Option (c) is correct: Monsoon plays a predominant role in the daily life of the people of South Asia. The use of monsoon wind in the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea for maritime trade was a boon to the sailing ships to reach overseas countries. It is believed that Hippalus discovered monsoon wind in AD 45-47. Before the discovery of monsoon wind, the mariners of Odisha, India set their journey to Southeast Asian countries during the northeast monsoon (trade wind) and return during the Southwest monsoon. Monsoon winds across the Bay of Bengal facilitated sea voyages. The flow of wind and current was favorable for setting sail for both onward and return journeys. Similarly, during the historical period, the Arabs sailed in the Indian Ocean with the help of monsoon wind and the Europeans, particularly the Portuguese sailed their vessels in such a manner that they could reach the shores of India before the Southwest monsoon and return only after the
beginning of the Northeast monsoon.
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