Welcome to “Set 4” of our “Indian History – UPSC MCQ Series”! This set covers the fascinating period immediately following the Gupta era, delving into the rise of various regional powers across India, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Pallavas, and the Imperial Cholas. We also explore the early Islamic incursions, the rich cultural developments in art and architecture, and the profound impact of the Bhakti Movement. Prepare to test your knowledge on these crucial aspects of early medieval Indian history.
Set 4
151. Which dynasty is credited with the revival of Brahmanism after the fall of the Guptas?
A. Rashtrakutas
B. Harshavardhana’s Pushyabhutis
C. Maitrakas of Vallabhi
D. Vardhanas of Thanesar
Answer: B
Explanation: While the post-Gupta period saw a general resurgence of regional kingdoms, many of which patronized Brahmanism, Emperor Harshavardhana’s Pushyabhuti dynasty (also known as Vardhanas of Thanesar) played a crucial role in establishing political stability after the Gupta decline. Although Harsha himself later embraced Buddhism, his lineage and court continued to maintain and respect Brahmanical traditions, contributing to their continued prominence in society.
152. The Chinese traveler I-Tsing visited India primarily to study:
A. Hindu temples
B. Indian astrology
C. Buddhist texts and practices
D. Jain philosophy
Answer: C
Explanation: I-Tsing (Yijing) was a Chinese Buddhist monk who visited India in the late 7th century CE (671-695 CE). His primary objective was to study Buddhist texts and practices, particularly the Vinaya (monastic rules), and to collect Buddhist scriptures, much like his predecessors Fa-Hien and Hiuen Tsang.
153. The Chalukyas of Badami were founded by:
A. Pulakesin I
B. Kirtivarman I
C. Mangalesa
D. Pulakesin II
Answer: A
Explanation: The Western Chalukya dynasty of Badami (Vatapi) was founded by Pulakesin I in the mid-6th century CE. He established his capital at Badami (in modern Karnataka) and performed the Ashvamedha sacrifice to assert his sovereignty.
154. The most famous ruler of the Chalukyas of Badami was:
A. Kirtivarman I
B. Pulakesin II
C. Vikramaditya I
D. Mangalesa
Answer: B
Explanation: Pulakesin II was the most illustrious and powerful ruler of the Chalukyas of Badami. His reign (c. 610-642 CE) saw significant expansion of the Chalukya empire, including his famous victory over Emperor Harshavardhana on the banks of the Narmada River.
155. Pulakesin II defeated Harshavardhana on the banks of:
A. Ganges
B. Yamuna
C. Narmada
D. Krishna
Answer: C
Explanation: The decisive battle between the Chalukya king Pulakesin II and the North Indian emperor Harshavardhana took place on the banks of the Narmada River. Pulakesin II successfully halted Harsha’s southward expansion.
156. The Aihole inscription of Pulakesin II was composed by:
A. Ravikirti
B. Banabhatta
C. Dandin
D. Kalidasa
Answer: A
Explanation: The celebrated Aihole inscription, a significant historical record detailing the achievements of Pulakesin II, including his victory over Harsha, was composed by his court poet Ravikirti.
157. The capital of the Eastern Chalukyas was:
A. Kalyani
B. Badami
C. Vengi
D. Nasik
Answer: C
Explanation: The Chalukyas, after their bifurcation, had a branch known as the Eastern Chalukyas. Their capital was located at Vengi, in the modern-day Andhra Pradesh region. The Western Chalukyas of Kalyani succeeded the Chalukyas of Badami.
158. The Rashtrakutas emerged as a dominant power after defeating:
A. Pratiharas
B. Chalukyas of Badami
C. Pallavas
D. Cholas
Answer: B
Explanation: The Rashtrakutas rose to prominence in the Deccan by overthrowing the Chalukyas of Badami. Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, defeated Kirtivarman II, the last Chalukya ruler of Badami, in the mid-8th century CE.
159. Who was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty?
A. Govinda III
B. Dantidurga
C. Amoghavarsha I
D. Krishna I
Answer: B
Explanation: Dantidurga is recognized as the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He established the independent kingdom in the Deccan after defeating the Chalukyas of Badami around 753 CE.
160. The famous Kailasanatha temple at Ellora was built by:
A. Amoghavarsha
B. Krishna I
C. Dantidurga
D. Govinda III
Answer: B
Explanation: The magnificent monolithic Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora, a stunning example of rock-cut architecture dedicated to Shiva, was commissioned and built by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I (c. 756-773 CE).
161. The greatest ruler of the Pratihara dynasty was:
A. Bhoja I
B. Mihira Bhoja
C. Nagabhata I
D. Vatsaraja
Answer: B
Explanation: Mihira Bhoja (often referred to simply as Bhoja I) was undoubtedly the greatest and most powerful ruler of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. His long reign (c. 836-885 CE) saw the Pratihara empire reach its zenith, consolidating control over Kanauj and much of North India.
162. The Tripartite Struggle was mainly fought over control of:
A. Varanasi
B. Kanauj
C. Delhi
D. Mathura
Answer: B
Explanation: The “Tripartite Struggle” was a protracted conflict among three major powers—the Palas (from the east), the Gurjara-Pratiharas (from the west), and the Rashtrakutas (from the south)—primarily to gain control over the city of Kanauj, which had become the symbol of imperial power in North India after Harsha.
163. The earliest reference to the Rajputs is found in the:
A. Prithviraj Raso
B. Rajatarangini
C. Bardic legends
D. Arab records
Answer: D
Explanation: While Rajput clans have ancient origins, the earliest explicit references to distinct “Rajput” groups and their rulers in a significant political context are often found in Arab records from the 8th century CE onwards, which documented their encounters with these powerful warrior clans in Western India.
164. The famous Arab traveler who visited Sind during the rule of the Arabs was:
A. Al-Masudi
B. Al-Biruni
C. Ibn Battuta
D. Sulaiman
Answer: A
Explanation: Al-Masudi was a prominent Arab historian and geographer who visited Sind during the Arab rule in the early 10th century CE (around 915-916 CE). His work provides valuable insights into the political and social conditions of the region.
165. The Arab conquest of Sind took place in:
A. 632 CE
B. 641 CE
C. 712 CE
D. 750 CE
Answer: C
Explanation: The Arab conquest of Sind, led by Muhammad bin Qasim, was a significant event in Indian history, marking the first successful and lasting Islamic incursion. It took place in 712 CE, when the Arab forces defeated the Brahmin ruler Dahir of Sind.
166. The Arab general who led the conquest of Sind was:
A. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
B. Al-Masudi
C. Muhammad bin Qasim
D. Qutb al-Din Aibak
Answer: C
Explanation: The Arab invasion and conquest of Sind in 712 CE was famously led by the Umayyad general Muhammad bin Qasim, under the orders of Hajjaj bin Yusuf, the governor of Iraq.
167. The capital of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty was:
A. Ujjain
B. Ajmer
C. Kanauj
D. Jodhpur
Answer: C
Explanation: While the early capital of the Gurjara-Pratiharas was around Ujjain/Avanti, after their decisive victories in the Tripartite Struggle, they established their imperial capital at Kanauj (Kanyakubja) in the heart of the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.
168. Which South Indian dynasty ruled the longest duration in Indian history?
A. Pallavas
B. Cholas
C. Cheras
D. Pandyas
Answer: B
Explanation: The Chola dynasty of South India has one of the longest continuous ruling histories among all Indian dynasties. Originating in the Sangam period, they rose to prominence as an imperial power from the 9th to the 13th centuries CE, making them the longest-ruling major South Indian dynasty.
169. Who was the founder of the Chola Empire in the 9th century?
A. Rajendra I
B. Rajaraja I
C. Vijayalaya Chola
D. Aditya I
Answer: C
Explanation: The medieval Chola Empire, which ushered in a period of great imperial power and cultural flourishing, was founded by Vijayalaya Chola in the mid-9th century CE. He captured Tanjore and revived the ancient Chola line.
170. The famous Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore was built by:
A. Aditya I
B. Vijayalaya
C. Rajaraja I
D. Rajendra I
Answer: C
Explanation: The magnificent Brihadeshwara Temple (also known as Rajarajeshvaram) at Thanjavur (Tanjore), a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture, was built by the great Chola emperor Rajaraja I around 1010 CE.
171. The naval expedition of Rajendra Chola I reached:
A. Arabia
B. Sri Lanka
C. Bengal
D. Southeast Asia
Answer: D
Explanation: Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja I, was known for his ambitious military campaigns, including a remarkable naval expedition. His fleet successfully reached and conquered parts of Southeast Asia, including the Srivijaya Empire in Sumatra and parts of the Malay Peninsula.
172. The Chola king who conquered the Andaman and Nicobar Islands was:
A. Rajaraja I
B. Aditya I
C. Rajendra I
D. Kulottunga I
Answer: C
Explanation: The Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I (c. 1014-1044 CE) is credited with extensive naval conquests, which included the annexation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, crucial strategic points for controlling trade routes in the Bay of Bengal.
173. The Sabha system in Chola administration refers to:
A. Royal court
B. Merchant guilds
C. Village assemblies
D. Feudal lords
Answer: C
Explanation: The Chola administration was renowned for its highly organized local self-governance. The Sabha was a sophisticated village assembly, primarily found in brahmadeya (Brahmin-settled) villages, responsible for local administration, justice, and taxation.
174. Which inscription gives detailed information about Chola village administration?
A. Junagadh Rock Inscription
B. Uttaramerur Inscription
C. Hathigumpha Inscription
D. Aihole Inscription
Answer: B
Explanation: The Uttaramerur Inscription (dated 920 CE) from Kanchipuram district provides remarkably detailed information about the Chola village administration, including the method of election to the village assemblies (Sabha and Ur) and the qualifications required for candidates.
175. The Chola land tax was called:
A. Bhaga
B. Kadamai
C. Vishti
D. Hiranya
Answer: B
Explanation: During the Chola period, the primary land tax, which was a significant source of revenue for the state, was known as Kadamai. It was typically collected in kind or cash.
176. The famous mathematician Bhaskaracharya was associated with which period?
A. Gupta
B. Harsha
C. Post-Gupta
D. Early Medieval
Answer: D
Explanation: There were two prominent mathematicians named Bhaskaracharya. Bhaskara I lived in the 7th century CE (Post-Gupta/Harsha era), and Bhaskara II lived in the 12th century CE (Early Medieval period). Given the general options, “Early Medieval” best encompasses both periods and the era of significant mathematical developments after the Gupta period.
177. Al-Biruni came to India with:
A. Ghori
B. Mahmud of Ghazni
C. Iltutmish
D. Timur
Answer: B
Explanation: The famous Persian polymath Al-Biruni accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni on his invasions of India in the early 11th century CE. He spent many years in India, studying its languages, sciences, religion, and philosophy, which he documented in his seminal work.
178. The famous book Tahqiq-i-Hind was written by:
A. Amir Khusrau
B. Al-Biruni
C. Ibn Battuta
D. Firishta
Answer: B
Explanation: The renowned book Tahqiq-i-Hind (meaning “Researches on India”), also known as Kitab-ul-Hind, is a comprehensive treatise on Indian society, science, religion, and culture. It was authored by Al-Biruni, based on his observations during his stay in India.
179. The Kashmir chronicle Rajatarangini was composed by:
A. Kalhana
B. Bilhana
C. Kshemendra
D. Bana
Answer: A
Explanation: The Rajatarangini (meaning “River of Kings”) is a historical chronicle of the kings of Kashmir, renowned for its attempt at systematic history writing in ancient India. It was composed by the Kashmiri Brahmin historian Kalhana in the 12th century CE.
180. The earliest reference to the Bhakti Movement is found in:
A. Rig Veda
B. Bhagavad Gita
C. Brahmanas
D. Upanishads
Answer: B
Explanation: While elements of devotion (bhakti) can be traced in earlier Vedic texts, the concept of a direct, loving, and personal devotion to a supreme deity as a path to salvation finds its earliest and most explicit philosophical articulation in the Bhagavad Gita. The Gita emphasizes bhakti as one of the primary paths, alongside karma and jnana.
181. Which philosopher is credited with the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta?
A. Patanjali
B. Ramanuja
C. Shankaracharya
D. Kapila
Answer: C
Explanation: Adi Shankaracharya (c. 8th century CE) is the most influential exponent and systematizer of the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. His philosophy emphasizes the non-duality (Advaita) of the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).
182. Shankaracharya advocated which path to salvation?
A. Bhakti
B. Karma
C. Jnana (Knowledge)
D. Yoga
Answer: C
Explanation: Shankaracharya’s Advaita Vedanta primarily advocates the path of Jnana (Knowledge) as the means to salvation (moksha). According to him, liberation is achieved through the realization of the true nature of the self (Atman) as identical with Brahman, leading to the dissolution of ignorance (avidya).
183. The early Bhakti saints were mostly from:
A. Royal backgrounds
B. Brahmin caste
C. Lower castes and women
D. Merchants
Answer: C
Explanation: The early Bhakti Movement, particularly in South India (Alvars and Nayanars), was characterized by its inclusive nature. Many of its prominent saints and followers came from diverse social backgrounds, including lower castes and women, transcending traditional caste barriers by emphasizing personal devotion over ritual and birth.
184. The Alvars and Nayanars were associated with which region?
A. Maharashtra
B. Bengal
C. Tamil Nadu
D. Karnataka
Answer: C
Explanation: The Alvars (Vaishnava poet-saints) and Nayanars (Shaiva poet-saints) were influential figures in the early Bhakti Movement in South India. They hailed from the Tamil Nadu region, composing devotional hymns in Tamil.
185. The Bhakti saint who composed the Tiruvachakam was:
A. Appar
B. Manikkavachakar
C. Sambandar
D. Alavandar
Answer: B
Explanation: Manikkavachakar was one of the prominent Nayanar (Shaiva) saints from Tamil Nadu. He is celebrated for his deeply emotional and philosophical collection of hymns known as the Tiruvachakam (Sacred Utterances).
186. The temple architectural style developed under Cholas was:
A. Nagara
B. Dravida
C. Vesara
D. Indo-Islamic
Answer: B
Explanation: The Cholas were master builders and developed the Dravida style of temple architecture to its zenith. Their temples, characterized by multi-storied pyramidal vimanas (towers over the sanctum), elaborate sculptures, and large courtyards, are best exemplified by the Brihadeshwara Temple.
187. The Vesara style was a fusion of:
A. Nagara and Buddhist
B. Dravida and Indo-Persian
C. Nagara and Dravida
D. Gupta and Chalukya
Answer: C
Explanation: The Vesara style of temple architecture, which developed in the Deccan region, particularly under the Western Chalukyas and Hoysalas, is a distinctive hybrid style that represents a harmonious fusion of the North Indian Nagara style and the South Indian Dravida style.
188. Which temple is an example of early Vesara style?
A. Lingaraja
B. Kailasa at Ellora
C. Pattadakal
D. Brihadeshwara
Answer: C
Explanation: The temple complex at Pattadakal (Karnataka), a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases both Nagara and Dravida styles side by side. Several temples here, particularly those built by the early Chalukyas, exhibit characteristics of an early Vesara style, showing a blend of features.
189. The famous Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram was built by:
A. Mahendravarman I
B. Narasimhavarman II
C. Nandivarman
D. Rajaraja I
Answer: B
Explanation: The Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchipuram, a grand stone temple dedicated to Shiva and a significant example of early Dravidian architecture, was built by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (also known as Rajasimha) in the late 7th to early 8th century CE.
190. The Bhakti poet-saint Andal was associated with:
A. Vaishnavism
B. Shaivism
C. Jainism
D. Buddhism
Answer: A
Explanation: Andal was the only female among the 12 Alvars, the great Vaishnava poet-saints of Tamil Nadu. She was a fervent devotee of Lord Vishnu (Krishna) and her devotional hymns (Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi) are central to the Vaishnavism tradition in South India.
191. Which early medieval text details temple rituals and iconography?
A. Natya Shastra
B. Silpa Shastra
C. Agama Shastra
D. Arthashastra
Answer: C
Explanation: The Agama Shastras are a vast body of early medieval Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain scriptures that primarily deal with temple construction (Silpa Shastras), deity installation, worship methods (Pooja Vidhi), rituals, and detailed rules for iconography and devotional practices.
192. Which language saw a significant literary growth in early medieval Tamil Nadu?
A. Sanskrit
B. Tamil
C. Prakrit
D. Kannada
Answer: B
Explanation: The early medieval period in Tamil Nadu, under the Pallavas and particularly the Cholas, was a golden age for Tamil literature. This era saw the flourishing of devotional literature (Alvar and Nayanar hymns), epics, and grammatical works in the Tamil language.
193. The term Ayagapatas is associated with:
A. Buddhist stupas
B. Jain worship
C. Hindu temples
D. Coins
Answer: B
Explanation: Ayagapatas are decorated stone slabs, often found at ancient Jain sites, particularly associated with the Mathura school of art. They were used for making offerings, installing images, or as objects of reverence in Jain worship, featuring depictions of Jain symbols or Tirthankaras.
194. The early Islamic invader Mahmud of Ghazni raided India:
A. 10 times
B. 17 times
C. 20 times
D. 25 times
Answer: B
Explanation: Mahmud of Ghazni, the Turkic ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire, conducted a total of 17 raids into the Indian subcontinent between 1000 CE and 1027 CE. His expeditions were primarily aimed at plundering the wealth of temples and kingdoms.
195. The temple town of Khajuraho was built by:
A. Paramaras
B. Chandellas
C. Chalukyas
D. Pratiharas
Answer: B
Explanation: The famous group of temples at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, renowned for their intricate sculptures and unique architectural style, were built by the Chandella dynasty between the 9th and 11th centuries CE.
196. The famous Sun Temple at Konark was built in:
A. 11th century
B. 12th century
C. 13th century
D. 14th century
Answer: C
Explanation: The iconic Sun Temple at Konark (Odisha), designed as a giant chariot, is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. It was built by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 13th century CE (around 1250 CE).
197. The founder of the Pala dynasty was:
A. Dharmapala
B. Gopala
C. Devapala
D. Mahipala
Answer: B
Explanation: The Pala dynasty, which ruled Bengal and Bihar for several centuries, was founded by Gopala in the mid-8th century CE. He was reportedly elected by the people to bring an end to a period of anarchy.
198. Which dynasty patronized the Vikramashila University?
A. Senas
B. Palas
C. Pratiharas
D. Chalukyas
Answer: B
Explanation: The famous Buddhist monastic university of Vikramashila was founded by the Pala emperor Dharmapala (c. 781-821 CE). It became a prominent center for Tantric Buddhism and learning under the patronage of the Pala dynasty.
199. The poet Jayadeva, author of Gita Govinda, belonged to:
A. Odisha
B. Karnataka
C. Bengal
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: A
Explanation: The illustrious Sanskrit poet Jayadeva, celebrated for his lyrical devotional poem Gita Govinda, which depicts the love between Radha and Krishna, hailed from Kenduli Sasan in Odisha in the 12th century CE.
200. The philosophical school of Vishishtadvaita was founded by:
A. Madhvacharya
B. Shankaracharya
C. Ramanujacharya
D. Vallabhacharya
Answer: C
Explanation: The philosophical school of Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism), a significant branch of Vedanta, was systematically expounded by the great philosopher-saint Ramanujacharya (c. 11th-12th century CE). It posits that Brahman is one, but contains within it distinctions (individual souls and matter).