Welcome to “Set 3” of our “Indian History – UPSC MCQ Series”! This set is dedicated to testing your knowledge of one of the most celebrated periods in ancient Indian history – the Gupta Empire, often referred to as the “Golden Age,” and the subsequent reign of Emperor Harsha. Explore questions covering political consolidation, significant cultural and scientific advancements, administrative structures, and the decline of these powerful empires. Each question is accompanied by a detailed explanation to deepen your understanding and aid your competitive exam preparation.
Set 3
101. Who is considered the founder of the Gupta dynasty?
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Sri Gupta
D. Ghatotkacha
Answer: C
Explanation: Sri Gupta is generally considered the founder of the Gupta dynasty, establishing a kingdom in Magadha in the late 3rd century CE. His grandson, Chandragupta I, significantly expanded the empire and initiated the Gupta era.
102. The Gupta era was started in:
A. 319 CE
B. 310 CE
C. 321 CE
D. 300 CE
Answer: A
Explanation: The Gupta era, also known as the Gupta calendar, officially began in 319 CE. This era is traditionally associated with the accession of Chandragupta I, who significantly consolidated and expanded the early Gupta kingdom.
103. The Allahabad Pillar inscription was composed by:
A. Harisena
B. Kalidasa
C. Bharavi
D. Banabhatta
Answer: A
Explanation: The famous Allahabad Pillar inscription, which provides a detailed account of the military conquests and achievements of the great Gupta emperor Samudragupta, was composed by his court poet and minister of peace and war, Harisena.
104. Which Gupta ruler is called the “Napoleon of India”?
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B
Explanation: The historian V.A. Smith famously referred to Samudragupta as the “Napoleon of India” due to his extensive military conquests and expansion of the Gupta Empire across the Indian subcontinent, as vividly described in the Allahabad Pillar inscription.
105. Who among the following issued the first gold coins in India on a large scale?
A. Kushanas
B. Satavahanas
C. Guptas
D. Indo-Greeks
Answer: A
Explanation: The Kushanas, particularly during the reign of Vima Kadphises and Kanishka, were the first to issue gold coins in India on a large and systematic scale. These coins were notable for their weight and purity, reflecting extensive trade and a flourishing economy.
106. The title ‘Vikramaditya’ was assumed by:
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Chandragupta II
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: C
Explanation: The illustrious title of ‘Vikramaditya’ was famously assumed by Chandragupta II, following his decisive victory over the Saka Satraps of Western India. This victory significantly expanded the Gupta Empire and added rich territories.
107. The Chinese traveler Fa-Hien visited India during the reign of:
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Harsha
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: B
Explanation: The renowned Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler Fa-Hien (Faxian) visited India between 399 and 414 CE, primarily to collect Buddhist scriptures. His travels in India largely coincided with the prosperous reign of Chandragupta II.
108. The famous iron pillar at Mehrauli was erected by:
A. Ashoka
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: C
Explanation: The celebrated Iron Pillar of Mehrauli, known for its remarkable rust-resistant composition, bears an inscription mentioning a powerful king named ‘Chandra’, who is widely identified with Chandragupta II of the Gupta dynasty.
109. The classical Sanskrit writer Kalidasa was in the court of:
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: C
Explanation: The legendary classical Sanskrit poet and dramatist Kalidasa, author of masterpieces like Abhijnanashakuntalam and Meghaduta, is believed to have been one of the ‘Navaratnas’ (Nine Jewels) in the court of Chandragupta II.
110. The decimal system was known to the people of:
A. Harappan civilization
B. Vedic period
C. Mauryan period
D. Gupta period
Answer: D
Explanation: While rudimentary forms of numerical understanding existed earlier, the decimal system, including the concept of zero as a placeholder, saw significant development and practical application during the Gupta period, particularly with the contributions of mathematicians like Aryabhata.
111. The greatest mathematician and astronomer of the Gupta period was:
A. Aryabhata
B. Varahamihira
C. Brahmagupta
D. Bhaskaracharya
Answer: A
Explanation: Aryabhata (born 476 CE) was the pre-eminent mathematician and astronomer of the Gupta period. His seminal work, the Aryabhatiya, introduced concepts like the place-value system, zero, trigonometric functions, and the heliocentric model of the solar system.
112. Aryabhata wrote:
A. Suryasiddhanta
B. Panchasiddhantika
C. Aryabhatiya
D. Brahmasphutasiddhanta
Answer: C
Explanation: Aryabhata authored the famous mathematical and astronomical treatise titled Aryabhatiya. This work is divided into four sections covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and astronomy.
113. The Gupta rulers were the first to issue:
A. Silver coins
B. Gold coins
C. Bronze coins
D. Paper currency
Answer: B
Explanation: The Gupta rulers are renowned for their extensive and aesthetically superior gold coins (dinars), which they issued in large quantities. While not the very first dynasty in India to issue gold coins (Indo-Greeks and Kushanas preceded them), the Guptas significantly popularized and standardized gold coinage, known for its purity and diverse artistic motifs.
114. Which Gupta king is credited with defeating the Huna invaders?
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta I
Answer: C
Explanation: Skandagupta, one of the last powerful rulers of the Gupta dynasty, is famously credited in inscriptions (like the Bhitari pillar inscription) with successfully repelling the formidable invasion of the Hunas (Hephthalites) during his reign (c. 455-467 CE).
115. The book Panchatantra was composed by:
A. Vishakhadatta
B. Banabhatta
C. Varahamihira
D. Vishnu Sharma
Answer: D
Explanation: The Panchatantra, a celebrated collection of ancient Indian animal fables and moral stories, widely translated and influential globally, is traditionally attributed to Vishnu Sharma. It was likely composed during the Gupta period.
116. The Bhitari pillar inscription is associated with:
A. Skandagupta
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Harsha
Answer: A
Explanation: The Bhitari pillar inscription, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a significant epigraphical record primarily associated with the Gupta emperor Skandagupta. It provides valuable information about his lineage, his struggles against the Hunas, and his military achievements.
117. Who among the following was known as the last great Gupta ruler?
A. Chandragupta II
B. Kumaragupta I
C. Skandagupta
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: C
Explanation: Skandagupta is widely considered the last great ruler of the Gupta Empire. Although he successfully repelled the Hunas, his reign marked the beginning of the empire’s decline, as subsequent rulers faced continuous challenges and territorial losses.
118. The Gupta period saw a decline in:
A. Literature
B. Art
C. Foreign trade
D. Science
Answer: C
Explanation: While the Gupta period is known for its flourishing in literature, art, and science, it witnessed a relative decline in foreign trade, particularly with the Roman Empire, which itself was facing decline. This led to a greater reliance on internal trade.
119. Gupta temple architecture is known for its:
A. Absence of shikharas
B. Use of granite
C. Development of shikhara style
D. Rock-cut techniques only
Answer: C
Explanation: Gupta temple architecture is significant for its transition from earlier rock-cut forms to freestanding structural temples. It is particularly known for the development of the shikhara style (a curvilinear spire over the sanctum) and the use of stone and brick, with the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh being a prime example.
120. The Dashavatara temple at Deogarh was built during:
A. Satavahana period
B. Kushana period
C. Gupta period
D. Pallava period
Answer: C
Explanation: The magnificent Dashavatara Temple (Vishnu Temple) at Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its sculptured panels and an early example of a shikhara, was built during the Gupta period (around the early 6th century CE).
121. The famous university of Nalanda was established by:
A. Harsha
B. Kumaragupta I
C. Ashoka
D. Chandragupta II
Answer: B
Explanation: The world-renowned Nalanda Mahavihara, a center of Buddhist learning and scholarship in ancient India, was founded by the Gupta emperor Kumaragupta I in the 5th century CE. It later flourished under the patronage of subsequent rulers like Harsha.
122. Who composed Kadambari and Harshacharita?
A. Kalidasa
B. Vishakhadatta
C. Banabhatta
D. Bharavi
Answer: C
Explanation: The eminent Sanskrit prose writer and poet Banabhatta was the court poet (Asthana Kavi) of Emperor Harsha. He authored the famous prose romances Kadambari and Harshacharita, a biography of his patron.
123. The Pushyabhuti dynasty was founded by:
A. Harsha
B. Naravarman
C. Prabhakaravardhana
D. Rajyavardhana
Answer: C
Explanation: The Pushyabhuti dynasty, also known as the Vardhana dynasty, which rose to prominence in Thanesar, was founded by Prabhakaravardhana. His son, Harsha, significantly expanded its power.
124. Harsha’s empire was centered in:
A. Bengal
B. Magadha
C. Thanesar and Kanauj
D. Ujjain
Answer: C
Explanation: Emperor Harsha’s empire was initially centered around Thanesar (Sthanesvara). After his ascension and the acquisition of Kanauj, he shifted his capital to Kanauj, which became the central political and cultural hub of his vast empire.
125. The Chinese pilgrim who visited India during Harsha’s reign was:
A. Fa-Hien
B. Hiuen Tsang
C. I-Tsing
D. Megasthenes
Answer: B
Explanation: The celebrated Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang) visited India between 629 and 645 CE, spending significant time at Nalanda and traveling extensively. His detailed accounts provide invaluable information about the reign of Emperor Harsha.
126. Harsha was defeated by:
A. Pulakesin II
B. Chandragupta II
C. Baladitya
D. Shashanka
Answer: A
Explanation: Emperor Harsha suffered a significant defeat at the hands of the Chalukya king Pulakesin II on the banks of the Narmada River around 618-619 CE. This defeat prevented Harsha’s expansion into the Deccan region.
127. Harsha’s religious orientation was mainly:
A. Buddhist
B. Shaivite
C. Jain
D. Vaishnavite
Answer: A
Explanation: While Harsha initially showed inclinations towards Shaivism and Vaishnavism, he gradually became a devout follower and patron of Mahayana Buddhism, especially influenced by Hiuen Tsang. He organized great Buddhist assemblies and promoted the faith.
128. The assembly at Prayag every five years was presided over by:
A. Harsha
B. Ashoka
C. Chandragupta II
D. Samudragupta
Answer: A
Explanation: Emperor Harsha is known for organizing the grand quinquennial (every five years) assemblies at Prayag (Allahabad), known as the Mahamoksha Parishad. These assemblies involved elaborate rituals, charity, and discussions on religious doctrines.
129. Harsha’s reign marked the:
A. Decline of urban centers
B. Revival of feudalism
C. Re-emergence of Buddhism
D. Expansion of Mauryan model
Answer: C
Explanation: Harsha’s reign, occurring after the decline of the Guptas, saw a significant re-emergence and patronage of Buddhism, particularly the Mahayana school. He actively promoted Buddhist learning and built stupas and viharas.
130. The art style during Harsha’s time was influenced by:
A. Persian
B. Gandhara
C. Gupta
D. South Indian
Answer: C
Explanation: The art and architecture during Harsha’s period continued and extended the traditions established during the Gupta period. It is often seen as a transitional phase, carrying forward the classical Gupta aesthetics.
131. Which ancient Indian astronomer suggested that the earth rotates on its axis?
A. Aryabhata
B. Varahamihira
C. Bhaskaracharya
D. Brahmagupta
Answer: A
Explanation: Aryabhata, in his Aryabhatiya, was a pioneer in suggesting that the earth rotates on its axis daily, causing the apparent movement of the sun and stars. This was a revolutionary concept for his time.
132. Which of the following works is associated with Varahamihira?
A. Aryabhatiya
B. Brihat Samhita
C. Siddhantakaumudi
D. Surya Siddhanta
Answer: B
Explanation: Varahamihira, another prominent astronomer and polymath of the Gupta period, is famous for his encyclopedic work, the Brihat Samhita. This text covers diverse subjects including astronomy, astrology, architecture, meteorology, and gemology.
133. During the Gupta period, land grants were called:
A. Agrahara
B. Bhoga
C. Dronavapi
D. Charth
Answer: A
Explanation: During the Gupta period, land grants made primarily to Brahmins, religious institutions, and sometimes officials, which were often free from taxes, were known as Agrahara grants.
134. The famous poet Bharavi wrote:
A. Kiratarjuniya
B. Meghaduta
C. Raghuvamsa
D. Abhijnanashakuntalam
Answer: A
Explanation: The celebrated Sanskrit poet Bharavi (6th century CE) is known for his highly acclaimed epic poem, the Kiratarjuniya. This work narrates the conflict and eventual encounter between Arjuna and Shiva (in the guise of a Kirata or hunter).
135. The rock-cut caves of Ajanta belong to which period?
A. Maurya
B. Gupta
C. Post-Gupta
D. Early Medieval
Answer: B
Explanation: The most significant phase of excavation and painting in the famous rock-cut Buddhist caves of Ajanta (Maharashtra) occurred during the Gupta period (specifically, under the Vakatakas, who were contemporaries and allies of the Guptas, particularly in the 5th century CE). These caves (e.g., Caves 16, 17, 19) represent the pinnacle of Gupta-era art.
136. The Gupta coins were mostly made of:
A. Bronze
B. Copper
C. Silver
D. Gold
Answer: D
Explanation: The Gupta emperors issued a vast array of coins, with gold coins being the most prominent. These highly artistic gold coins, known as dinars, showcased diverse rulers, deities, and themes, reflecting the economic prosperity of the empire.
137. The Nalanda University flourished under:
A. Samudragupta
B. Harsha
C. Kumaragupta I
D. Chandragupta II
Answer: B
Explanation: While founded by Kumaragupta I, the Nalanda University reached its peak of fame and prosperity under the strong patronage of Emperor Harsha (7th century CE). He endowed it generously and made it a global center for Buddhist learning.
138. The term Kumaramatya during Gupta period referred to:
A. Chief tax collector
B. Governor
C. Military general
D. High administrative officer
Answer: D
Explanation: The Kumaramatya was a significant and versatile rank of high administrative officer during the Gupta period. They could hold various portfolios, serving as ministers, provincial administrators, or even military commanders, indicating their importance in the bureaucracy.
139. Who among the following wrote a drama on Chandragupta Maurya?
A. Kalidasa
B. Banabhatta
C. Vishakhadatta
D. Harisena
Answer: C
Explanation: Vishakhadatta, a Sanskrit dramatist, is famous for his historical play Mudrarakshasa, which vividly depicts the political intrigue and machinations of Chanakya in consolidating Chandragupta Maurya’s power after overthrowing the Nanda dynasty.
140. The Devichandraguptam is attributed to:
A. Vishakhadatta
B. Kalidasa
C. Harisena
D. Bhasa
Answer: D
Explanation: The ancient Sanskrit play Devichandraguptam, though existing only in fragments, is an important historical drama. It is traditionally attributed to the playwright Bhasa, and it deals with the events surrounding Chandragupta II and the Saka king.
141. The early Pallava dynasty came into prominence during the decline of the:
A. Kushanas
B. Satavahanas
C. Guptas
D. Mauryas
Answer: B
Explanation: The early Pallava dynasty rose to prominence in South India during the decline of the Satavahanas (around the 3rd-4th centuries CE), initially serving as their feudatories before establishing their independent kingdom in the Tondaimandalam region.
142. Which Gupta ruler performed the Asvamedha sacrifice?
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta I
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B
Explanation: The mighty Gupta emperor Samudragupta performed the Asvamedha (horse sacrifice), a grand Vedic ritual, to proclaim his imperial supremacy and military conquests. Coins depicting him performing the sacrifice attest to this event.
143. Who succeeded Chandragupta I?
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A
Explanation: Samudragupta, considered one of the greatest rulers in Indian history, succeeded his father Chandragupta I. His reign marked a period of extensive military campaigns and significant territorial expansion of the Gupta Empire.
144. The occupation of Sarthavaha in Gupta times referred to:
A. Craftsman
B. Caravan trader
C. Temple priest
D. Royal courier
Answer: B
Explanation: In the Gupta period, a Sarthavaha referred to the leader or head of a caravan of merchants. These individuals played a crucial role in facilitating long-distance trade and commerce.
145. Which of the following was not a port during Gupta period?
A. Tamralipti
B. Broach
C. Sopara
D. Pataliputra
Answer: D
Explanation: Pataliputra was the inland capital of the Gupta Empire, located on the confluence of rivers, but it was not a sea port. Tamralipti (on the east coast), Broach (Bharuch), and Sopara (on the west coast) were all prominent sea ports during the Gupta period, facilitating maritime trade.
146. The University of Vallabhi was known for:
A. Vedic education
B. Medical science
C. Jain studies
D. Mathematics
Answer: C
Explanation: The University of Vallabhi, located in Saurashtra (Gujarat), was a significant center of learning, particularly renowned for its Jain studies. It also offered education in various secular subjects.
147. The end of the Gupta Empire came with the invasion of:
A. Huns
B. Shakas
C. Turks
D. Greeks
Answer: A
Explanation: The final decline and eventual collapse of the Gupta Empire were significantly hastened by repeated and devastating invasions by the Huns (specifically, the Hephthalites or White Hunas) from the northwest, beginning in the late 5th century CE.
148. Gupta inscriptions were generally written in:
A. Sanskrit
B. Pali
C. Prakrit
D. Tamil
Answer: A
Explanation: The Gupta period witnessed the flourishing of classical Sanskrit. Consequently, most of the Gupta inscriptions (such as the Allahabad Pillar inscription and various copper plates) were generally composed in elegant Sanskrit language and script.
149. The Bhaskaracharya of the 7th century was famous for his work in:
A. Surgery
B. Grammar
C. Astronomy
D. Metallurgy
Answer: C
Explanation: Bhaskaracharya I (c. 6th-7th century CE) was an influential Indian mathematician and astronomer who wrote commentaries on the works of Aryabhata. He contributed significantly to arithmetic, algebra, and the understanding of planetary movements.
150. The ancient Indian astronomer who accurately calculated the solar year: (2)
A. Aryabhata
B. Varahamihira
C. Brahmagupta
D. Bhaskaracharya
Answer: A
Explanation: Aryabhata was one of the earliest Indian astronomers to make remarkably accurate calculations regarding the length of the solar year, approximating it to 365.258 days, very close to modern scientific values.