India Ancient History MCQ

Ancient India MCQs with Explanations

1. The 'Dharmachakrapravartana' refers to:
a) The birth of Gautama Buddha
b) The attainment of Nirvana by Buddha
c) The first sermon delivered by Buddha at Sarnath
d) The death of Buddha

Answer: c) The first sermon delivered by Buddha at Sarnath

Explanation:  'Dharmachakrapravartana' literally means "Turning the Wheel of Law." After attaining enlightenment, the Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath to his five former companions. In this sermon, he laid out the core teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

2. Which of the following Harappan sites is located in present-day Gujarat and was a major center for bead-making?
a) Mohenjo-Daro
b) Harappa
c) Chanhudaro
d) Lothal

Answer: d) Lothal

Explanation:  Lothal, located in Gujarat, was one of the southernmost cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. It was a vital port and a major center for crafts, especially bead-making and metallurgy. A large bead-making factory was discovered here.

3. Who among the following rulers was instrumental in the spread of Buddhism to Sri Lanka?
a) Ashoka
b) Kanishka
c) Harshavardhana
d) Samudragupta

Answer: a) Ashoka

Explanation:  Emperor Ashoka, after the deadly Kalinga war, renounced violence and embraced Buddhism. He sent his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra as missionaries to Sri Lanka to spread the teachings of Buddha, which led to the establishment of Buddhism there.

4. The 'Manusmriti', a foundational text of ancient Indian law, primarily deals with:
a) Principles of statecraft and economics
b) Rituals and sacrifices
c) Duties and ethical codes for different varnas (social classes)
d) The life and teachings of a sage

Answer: c) Duties and ethical codes for different varnas (social classes)

Explanation:  The Manusmriti, or "Laws of Manu," is one of the most important Dharmashastras. It is not a book of law in the modern sense but a compilation of social norms, duties, and ethical codes governing the various varnas (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras) and stages of life.

5. The Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription) is a valuable source of information for the reign of:
a) Chandragupta II
b) Skandagupta
c) Samudragupta
d) Chandragupta Maurya

Answer: c) Samudragupta

Explanation:  The Prayag Prashasti was composed by the court poet Harishena. It is inscribed on an Ashokan pillar at Allahabad and provides a detailed account of the military campaigns, conquests, and personality of the Gupta Emperor Samudragupta, often called the 'Napoleon of India'.

6. The 'Sangam Literature' is associated with the history of:
a) Bengal
b) Kashmir
c) Maharashtra
d) Tamilakam (Southern India)

Answer: d) Tamilakam (Southern India)