Full Length Test-5 (Art & Culture, Ancient & Medieval History) (Date : 10-04-2022)

Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Phiroz shah tughlaq obtained Ashok’s two pillar inscriptions in the fourteenth century in Meerut (U.P) and Topra (Haryana). Phiroz shah tughlaq brought them to Delhi but failed in reading or understanding them. Hence, option (d) is correct.
• These inscriptions were first time successfully deciphered by James Prinsep in 1837.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• 'Gopuram’ specifies the entry gate of the Temple as per Ancient Indian Architecture. It is a rectangular quadrangle, sometimes even square also. Gopuram is related to south Indian temples.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Most of the mahajanapadas in ancient period were ruled by kings, some, known as ganas or sanghas, were oligarchies where power was shared by a number of men, often collectively called rajas. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Both Mahavira and the Buddha belonged to such ganas. The Buddha belonged to a small gana known as the Sakya gana and Lord Mahavira belonged to Vajji which corresponds to modern-day Vaishali. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• In some instances, as in the case of the Vajji sangha, the rajas probably controlled resources such as land collectively. Although their histories are often difficult to reconstruct due to the lack of sources, some of these states lasted for nearly a thousand years.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The complexity in the social and political structure of the later Vedic period is duly reflected in the enlarged entourage of the state. We hear of new officials such as suta (charioteer), sangrahitri (treasurer), bhagadugha (collector of taxes), gramini (head of the village), sthapati (chief judge), takshan (carpenter), kshatri (chamberlain) and several others whose exact function cannot be ascertained. Everything indicates that the administrative machinery was highly organised and became an efficient instrument for ruling over a large kingdom. Hence, pair 2 is correctly matched.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Guru Ravidas was a mystic poet saint of the Bhakti Movement from the 15^th and 16^th centuries, and founded the Ravidassia religion. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • He gained prominence due to his belief in one God and his unbiased religious poems and dedicated his whole life to the abolition of the caste system and openly despised the notion of a Brahminical society.
  • His devotional songs made an instant impact on the Bhakti Movement and around 41 of his poems were included in ‘Guru Granth Sahib’, the religious text of the Sikhs.
• The Ravidassias are a Dalit community and Dera Sachkhand Ballan is their largest dera with 20 lakh followers worldwide (founded in the early 20^th century by Baba Sant Pipal Das).
  
  • Once closely connected with Sikhism, the dera severed these decades-old ties in 2010, and announced they would follow the Ravidassia religion.
  • From 2010, the Dera Sachkhand Ballan started replacing the Guru Granth Sahib with its own Granth, Amritbani, carrying 200 hymns of Guru Ravidas, in Ravidassia temples and gurdwaras. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The prehistoric period in the early development of human beings is commonly known as the Old Stone Age or the Palaeolithic Age. We do not really know if Lower Palaeolithic people ever produced any art objects. But by the Upper Palaeolithic times, we see a proliferation of artistic activities. Around the world, the walls of many caves of this time are full of finely carved and painted pictures of animals which the cave-dwellers hunted. In India, the earliest paintings have been reported from the Upper Palaeolithic times. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Remnants of rock paintings have been found on the walls of the caves situated in several districts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Bihar. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Some paintings have been reported from the Kumaon hills in Uttarakhand also. From Kashmir, two slabs with engravings have been reported. The granite rocks of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh provided suitable canvases to the Neolithic man for his paintings. There are several such sites but more famous among them are Kupgallu, Piklihal and Tekkalkota.
• The artists of Bhimbetka used many colours, including various shades of white, yellow, orange, red ochre, purple, brown, green and black. But white and red were their favourite colours. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Aryans possessed chariots driven by horses and introduced them for the first time into West Asia and India.
• Aryan soldiers were probably equipped with coats of mail (varman) which was a type of jacket armour. Hence, option B is correct.
• Samudra was related to the ocean and it is doubtful whether Aryans were acquainted with the ocean or not.
• The king did not maintain any regular or standing army, but in terms of war he mustered a militia whose military functions were performed by different tribal groups called vrata, Gana, grama, sardha.
• The Aryans were engaged in two types of conflicts: first they fought with the pre-Aryans, and secondly, they fought amongst themselves. Intra-tribal conflicts rocked the Aryan communities for a long time. Divided into five tribes called panchajana, the Aryans fought amongst themselves and sometimes enlisted the support of the non-Aryan people for the purpose.
• During the Rig Vedic Period, the soldiers were organised into units known as Sardha, Vrata and gana

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The early Buddhist and Jain literature presents a list of Mahajanapadas with the minor variation of names in different works.
• Though the number is the same, the names in the lists differ. Perhaps they show the political conditions at different times and the geographical nearness or knowledge of the author.
• According to Anguttara Nikaya, there were following Mahajanapadas:
  
  • Anga
  • Assaka (or Asmaka)
  • Avanti
  • Chedi
  • Gandhara
  • Kashi
  • Kamboja
  • Kosala
  • Kuru
  • Magadha
  • Malla
  • Machcha (or Matsya)
  • Panchala
  • Surasena
  • Vriji
  • Vatsa (or Vamsa)
• The Digha Nikaya, mentions only twelve Mahajanapadas from the above list and omits four of them (Assaka, Avanti, Gandhara, and Kamboja).
  
  • The Buddhist Nikayas mention the five-fold division of India into Uttarapatha north -western), Madhyadesha (central), Prachi (eastern), Dakshinapatha (south), and Apranta (western), which confirms that the geographical unity of India had been visualised much before the sixth century B.C.
• The lists of Janapadas are preserved in the Jain texts Bhagavati Sutra, and Sutrakritanga, great Grammarian Panini's Ashtadhyayi (sixth century B. C.), Baudhayana Dharmasutra (seventh century B.C.).
  
  • In Ashtadhyayi, Janapada stands for country and Janapadin for its citizenry.
• Hence, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Mainly three types of buildings have been found in the excavation sites in Indus Valley civilisation: dwelling houses, public buildings and public baths.
• The cities were divided into two parts - an upraised citadel and the lower part of the city.
• The upraised citadel in the western part was used for constructing buildings of large dimensions, such as granaries, administrative building, pillared halls and courtyard.
• In the lower part of the city, small one-roomed houses have been found which might have been used as quarters by the working-class people. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• Archaeologists have found numerous seals of different shapes and sizes all across the excavation sites.
• While most seals are square, it was found that triangular, rectangular and circular seals were also used. Steatite was the most common material used to make seals but agate, chert, copper, faience and terracotta seals have also been found.
• Most seals have inscriptions in a pictographic script that is yet to be deciphered.
• The script was written mostly from right to left, but, bi- directional writing style i.e. right to left on one line and left to right on another line has also been found. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• The common animal motifs were unicorn, humped bull, rhinoceros, tiger, elephant, buffalo, bison, goat, markour, ibex, crocodile, etc.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• During later Vedic period, in the princely families, the right of primogeniture got stronger. Male ancestors came to be worshipped. Women were generally given a lower position.
• Although some women theologians took part in philosophical discussions and some queens participated in coronation rituals, ordinarily women were thought to be inferior and subordinate to men.
• The later Vedic society came to be divided into four varnas called the brahmanas, rajanyas or Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras. The growing cult of sacrifice enormously added to the power of the brahmanas.
• Administration at the lower level was the responsibility of the village assemblies, and these village assemblies may have been controlled by the chiefs of the dominant tribes. Hence, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The Persian invasion provided an impetus to the growth of Indo-Iranian commerce. Also, it prepared the ground for Alexander’s invasion. The use of the Kharosthi script, a form of Iranian writing became popular in northwestern India and some of Asoka’s edicts were written in that script.
• Influence of Persian art on the art of the Mauryas can be clearly seen, particularly the monolithic pillars of Asoka and the sculptures found on them. The very idea of issuing edicts by Asoka and the wording used in the edicts are traced to Iranian influence. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The first coins to bear the names and images of rulers were issued by the Indo-Greeks, who established control over the north-western part of the subcontinent in the second century BCE. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• And the first gold coins were issued in the first century CE by the Kushanas. These were virtually identical in weight with those issued by contemporary Roman emperors and the Parthian rulers of Iran, and have been found from several sites in north India and Central Asia. The widespread use of gold coins indicates the enormous value of the transactions that were taking place.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• The ‘Deep South’ or ‘Tip of Peninsula’ were also known as ‘Tamizkhamb’. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Three early kingdoms that ruled Southern India during ancient period were Chera, Chola and Pandyas.
• Pandyas were a matrilineal society. Sangam literature also refers to Pandyan rulers. Pandyan kings had flourishing trade with the Romans, brahmanas enjoyed considerable influence and Pandyan kings performed Vedic sacrifices. Major city- Madurai.
• Cholas: Major city- Uraiyur, cotton trade. Another city Puhar (Kaveripattinam), centre of commerce and trade, it had a large dock. They maintained an efficient navy (presence- the mouth of the Ganges, Irrawaddy and Malayan peninsula).
• Cheras: They occupied the narrow strip of land between the Arabian sea and the western ghats (modern state of Kerala). Trade with Romans (the Romans set up two regiments at Muziris).
• These kingdoms were immensely rich(spices trade, ivory, pearls, precious stones, muslin, silk. Trade- internal and external was the major source of revenue.
• Important terms–
  
  • Enadi - Captain of the army
  • Vallalas- Rich peasants
  • Arasar- Ruling castes
  • Kadaisiyar - Lower castes
  • Pulaiyans- Low-class artisans
• The tip of the peninsula and the adjacent regions were extremely fertile. The land produced paddy, ragi and sugarcane.
• Pottery present at that time were:
  
  • Redware
  • Black and Redware
• Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• In the later Rig Vedic period, prayers continued to be recited but they ceased to be the dominant mode of placating the gods.
• Sacrifices became far more important and they assumed both public and domestic character.
• Public sacrifices involved the king and the whole of the community which was still in many cases identical with the tribes.
• Sacrifices involved the killing of animals on a large scale and especially the destruction of cattle wealth.
• The guest was known as goghna or one who was fed on cattle. Hence, option A is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Sites of Chalcolithic culture have been excavated near the hills, and at the same time, it is important to note that many Chalcolithic sites have also been unearthed in and around riverine tracts.
• In the later phase of Chalcolithic culture, houses having five rooms have also been found. This shows that large families were present during the Chalcolithic period. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Settlements became stable and widespread in this phase.
• People of the Chalcolithic phase used to put pots and copper objects with the dead as they believed in the next world where the dead person will use these things. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Chalcolithic people worshipped mother goddess. Some unbaked nude clay figurines were also used for worship.
• This phase also saw the beginning of social inequalities.
• People of the Chalcolithic phase used microliths and other stone tools supplemented by a little use of copper tools.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• In Sanskrit the word Araghatta has been used in the ancient texts to describe the water wheel. The word ‘Araghatta’ comes from the combination of the words ‘Ara’ meaning spoke and ‘Ghatta’ meaning pot. It was used to lift water from wells for irrigation purposes.
• Hence, option C is the correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The corpus of Sangam literature includes Tolkappiyam,Ettutogai, Pattuppattu, Pathinenkilkanakku, and the two epics– Silappathikaram and Manimegalai. Tolkappiyam authored by Tolkappiyar is the earliest of the Tamil literature. It is a work on Tamil grammar but it provides information on the political and socio- economic conditions of the Sangam period. Hence, pair 1 is correct.
• The Ettutogai or EightAnthologies consist of eight works – Aingurunooru, Narrinai,Aganaooru, Purananooru, Kuruntogai, Kalittogai, Paripadaland Padirruppattu.
• The Pattuppattu or Ten Idylls consist of ten works – Thirumurugarruppadai, Porunararruppadai, Sirupanarruppadai, Perumpanarruppadai, Mullaippattu, Nedunalvadai, Madurai Kanji, Kurinjippatttu, Pattinappalaiand Malaipadukadam. Both Ettutogai and Pattuppattu were divided into two main groups –Aham (love) and Puram (valour). Thirukkural (Philosophy). Hence, pair 2 is correct.
• Pathinenkilkanakku contains eighteen works mostly dealing with ethics and morals. The most important among them is Tirukkural authored by Thiruvalluvar. Silapathikaram written by Ilango Adiga l, is a love story of Kovalan, Madhavi and kannagi and Manimegalai by Seethalai Sathanar also provides valuable information on the Sangam polity and society. Hence, pair 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• In the Gupta empire, the king maintained close contact with the provincial administration through a class of officials called Kumaramatyas and Ayuktas. Provinces in the Gupta Empire were known as Bhuktis. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Provincial governors were called Uparikas and were mostly chosen from among the princes. Bhuktis were subdivided into Vishayas or districts. They were governed by Vishyapatis. Nagara Sreshtis were the officers looking after the city administration. The villages in the district were under the control of Gramikas. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Fahien’s account on the Gupta administration provides useful information. He characterises the Gupta administration as mild and benevolent. There were no restrictions on people’s movements and they enjoyed a large degree of personal freedom.
• There was no state interference in the individual’s life. Punishments were not severe. Imposing a fine was a common punishment. There was no spy system. The administration was so efficient that the roads were kept safe for travellers, and there was no fear of thieves. He mentioned that people were generally prosperous and the crimes were negligible

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) was a Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, traveller, and translator who visited India during the reign of Harsha.
• His objective was to secure authentic Buddhist scriptures and visit places of Buddhist interest. Hiuen Tsang visited Kashmir, Punjab, Kapilavastu, Bodh-Gaya, Sarnath, and Kusinagara. He studied at the University of Nalanda.
• Huein Tsang’s Observations
  
  • Kingdoms were well-governed and free from revolts.
  • Offenders were given physical punishments and were tortured. Traitors were given death sentences or turned out of the kingdom.
  • Ordeals by which the innocence or guilt of an accused was determined included water, fire, and poison. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  • Prayag was an important city while the importance of Pataliputra was replaced by Kannauj.
  • Nalanda and Valabhi were the centres of Buddhist learning.
  • Main source of income of the State was land revenue, which formed 1/6th of the produce.
  • Harsha divided income as one part of it was spent on administrative routine of the State, the second part of it was distributed among government employees, the third of it was given to scholars, and the fourth part of it was given in charity to the Brahamanas and the Buddhist monks.
  • The Army of Harsha consisted of 60,000 war-elephants, 50,000 strong cavalry chariots and 1,00,000 strong infantry.
  • The roads and river-routes were not completely immune from robbery. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
  • The caste-system was rigid. There was no Purdah-system and women were provided education. Practice of Sati prevailed. Education was religious and was provided orally. Texts were put in writing and their script was Sanskrit.
  • Harsha was a devotee of Buddha. Hinduism was more widely popular in India at that time as compared to Buddhism.
  • Harsha used to spend 3/4^th of the state-income for religious purposes.
  • Taxes were light during that time and tradesmen used to go to and fro bartering their produce and merchandise after paying light duties at ferries and barrier stations. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• There was remarkable progress in the fields of trade and industry during the Satavahana rule. Merchants organized guilds to increase their activities. The craft guilds organized by different craftsmen such as potters, weavers and oil pressers also came into existence.
• Silver coins called Karshapanas were used for trade. The Satavahana period also witnessed overseas commercial activity. Hence, option (c) is correct.
• Ptolemy mentions many ports in the Deccan. The greatest port of the Satavahanas was Kalyani on the western Deccan coast. Gandakasela and Ganjam on the east coast were the other important seaports.
• Satavahana coins carry symbols, motifs, portraits and legends. The portraits and legends have direct significance whereas the symbols and motifs are ambiguous in nature and may convey different meanings.
• However, they feature two important characteristics:
  
  • They depict symbols and motifs used during an earlier time in that particular territory. E.g. coins of king Satakarni issued in Vidisha region bear the symbols of punch-marked coins available from that region.
  • The symbols have particular religious meaning to them.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Ajanta caves are quite popular for their exquisite mural paintings. These caves were completed under the Mauryans, Shungas and Guptas. The walls of the caves have both murals and fresco paintings (painted on wet plaster). They use tempera style, i.e. use of pigments. The paintings portray human values and social fabric along with styles, costumes and ornaments of that period. The emotions are expressed through hand gestures. Hence, statement 1 and 2 are correct.
• The unique feature of the paintings is that each female figure has a unique hairstyle. Even animals and birds are shown with emotions. Hence statement 3 is correct.
• The common themes of these paintings range from Jataka stories to life of Buddha to elaborate decorative patterns of flora and fauna.
• Some important paintings at Ajanta are:
  
  • Paintings of various Bodhisattvas in tribhanga pose- Vajrapani (protector and guide, a symbol of Buddha’s power), Manjusri (manifestation of Buddha’s wisdom) and Padmapani (Avalokitesvara) (symbol of Buddha’s compassion).
  • The Dying Princess
    
    • Scene of Shibi Jataka, where King Shibi offered his own flesh to save the pigeon.
    • Scene of Matri-Poshaka Jataka
• JATAKA STORIES
  
  • The Jataka tales relate to the previous births of Gautama Buddha in both human and animal form. The future Buddha may appear as a king, an outcast, a god, an elephant—but, in whatever form, he exhibits some virtue that the tale thereby inculcates.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

Post Mauryan Art

• After the decline of the Mauryan Empire in the 2nd century BC, small dynasties sprang up in various parts of India.
• Among them, Shungas, Kanvas, Kushanas and Shakas in the north and Satvahanas, Ikshavakus, Abhiras and Vakatakas in Southern and Western India gained prominence.
• The architecture of this period in the form of rock-cut caves and stupas continued, with each dynasty introducing some unique features of their own.

Rock-cut Caves

• This period saw the development of two types of rock caves – Chaitya and Vihar.
• Vihars were residential halls for the Buddhist and Jain monks and were developed during the time of the Mauryan Empire.
• Chaitya halls were developed during this time. They were mainly quadrangular chambers with flat roofs and used as prayer halls.
• The caves also had open courtyards and stone screen walls to shield from rain. They were also decorated with human and animal figures.
• Caves were made under the Kalinga King Kharavela in 1st-2nd century BC near modern-day Bhubaneswar.
• The cave complex has both man-made and natural caves. They were possibly carved out for residence of Jain monks.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Francois Bernier, a Frenchman, was a doctor, political philosopher and historian. Like many others, he came to the Mughal Empire in search of opportunities.
  
  • He was in India for twelve years, from 1656 to 1668, and was closely associated with the Mughal court, as a physician to Prince Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, and later as an intellectual and scientist, with Danishmand Khan, an Armenian noble in the Mughal court.
• Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (1605-1689) was a French explorer and merchant. He was the first European to describe the diamond mines in India. In 1676, Tavernier published an account of his six journeys to India and Persia from 1631 to 1668 in Les Six Voyages de Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (translated into English in 1678 as The Six Voyages of John Baptista Tavernier).
• Jean de Thevenot (1633-1667) was a French traveller who came to India during Aurangzeb’s reign. He had set sail from Balsora in the ship ‘Hopewell’, on 6th November 1665 AD and reached Surat on 10th January 1666.
  
  • He was an accomplished polyglot, skilled in Turkish, Arabic and Persian, and a diligent observer. Skilled in natural sciences, especially in botany, he collected vast corpus of samples from India.
• Abbe Barthelemy Carre (born around 1636) was a French traveller and an employee of French East India Company who was sent by French Finance Minister Jean-Baptiste Colbert to India for the cause of the expansion of the French empire in the East.
  
  • His travelogue presents rich accounts of the Sultanates of Bijapur and Golconda, English and Dutch operations in the sub-continent and their hostilities with French, especially the siege of St. Thome by the Golconda army.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Harappan people used spindle whorls, wheel carts and practised sowing of seeds, but they did not use metallic money. The system of barter was used for the purpose of trade. Hence, option D is correct.
• Mature phase of the Harappan culture has been found at the coastal cities of Sutkagendor and Surkotada.
• The remarkable feature of the Harappan town planning was that it was based on-grid system.
• Granaries have also been found at Harappan sites, indicating that people used to store grains in these places.
• Baking bricks were also used to construct the buildings of Harappan culture.
• The most important public place in Mohenjo Daro is ‘Great Bath’ comprising the tank which is situated in the citadel mound.
• In Mohenjodaro, the largest building is Granary but in Harappa, we found as many as 6 granaries.
• Because of Urbanization, town planning was started.
• The street drains were equipped with manholes.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The Mauryan period saw the emergence of rock-cut cave architectures. During the Mauryan period, these caves were generally used as viharas, i.e. living quarters, by the Jain and Buddhist monks.
• While the early caves were used by the Ajivika sect, later, they became popular as Buddhist monasteries.
• The caves during the Mauryan period were marked by a highly polished finish of the interior walls and decorative gateways. Hence, option (d) is correct.
• The palace of Chandragupta Maurya was inspired by the Achaemenid palaces at Persepolis in Iran. Wood was the principal building material.
• During the time of Ashoka, the inscription of pillars - as a symbol of the state or to commemorate battle victories.
• Ashoka also used pillars to propagate imperial sermons as well.
• Pillars of Mauryan time were usually made of chunar sandstone.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The greatest ruler of the Satavahana dynasty was Gautamiputra Satakarni. He ruled for a period of 24 years from 106 to 130 A.D. He captured the whole of Deccan and expanded his empire. His victory over Nagapana, the ruler of Malwa was remarkable.
• He called himself the only Brahmin who defeated the Sakas and destroyed many kshatriya rulers and is considered the real founder of Satavahanas dynasty. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Vashishti Putra Pulamayi (son of Gautamiputra Satakarni) extended the Satavahana power up to the mouth of the Krishna river. He issued coins on which the image of ships was inscribed.
• Images on coins reveal the naval power and maritime trade of the Satavahanas overseas. Silver coins called Karshapanas were used for trade. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Satavahanas patronized Buddhism and Brahmanism as:
  
  • They built chaityas and viharas.
  • They also made grants of villages and lands to Buddhist monks.
  • Vashishtaputra Pulamayi repaired the old Amaravathi stupa.
  • Brahmanism was revived by the Satavahanas along with the performance of asvamedha and rajasuya sacrifices.
  • Satavahanas were the first to make land grants to the brahmins.
  • They also patronized the Prakrit language and literature. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
• They knew the art of paddy transplantation (Krishna Godavari delta).
• The Satavahanas shows traces of Matrilineal society. Basically the Satavahanas family was patriarchal because the succession to the throne passed to the male member.
• Architecture- Karle chaitya, Nasik Chaitya, Amaravati and Nagarjunakonda stupa.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The Ajanta caves were inscribed by the Buddhist monks, under the patronage of the Vakataka kings – Harishena being a prominent one.
• Of the 29 caves, 5 were developed during the Hinayana phase while the remaining 24 were developed during the Mahayana phase of Buddhism. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Reference of the Ajanta caves can be found in the travel accounts of Chinese Buddhist travellers Fa Hien and Hieun Tsang.
• Ellora caves are located nearly 100 km away from Ajanta caves in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra.
• It is a group of 34 caves – 17 Brahmanical, 12 Buddhist and 5 Jain.
• Cave No. 16 is Kailash temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was developed under the patronage of Rashtrakuta king Krishna I and was carved out of a monolith, and even has a courtyard. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The Vaisheshika school believes in the physicality of the Universe and is considered to be the realistic and objective philosophy that governs the universe.
• The Kanada who also wrote the basic text governing the Vaisheshika philosophy is often considered the founder of this school.
• They argue that everything in the universe was created by the five main elements: fire, air, water, earth and ether (sky). These material elements are also called Dravya.
• This school also developed the atomic theory, i.e. all material objects are made of atoms. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• On the subject of god, even though they argue for scientific thinking, they believe in God and consider him the guiding principle. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• They also believe that the laws of karma guide this universe, i.e. everything is based on the actions of human beings. The school believes in pluralistic realism.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• The Tamil country was ruled by three dynasties namely the Chera, Chola and Pandyas during the Sangam Age. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Hereditary monarchy was the form of government during the Sangam period. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Land revenue was the chief source of state’s income while custom duty was also imposed on foreign trade. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
• The Hero Stone or Nadu Kal worship was significant in the Sangam period. The Hero Stone was erected in memory of the bravery shown by the warrior in battle.
• Agriculture was the chief occupation. Rice was the common crop. Ragi, sugarcane, cotton, pepper, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon and a variety of fruits were the other crops.
• Jackfruit and pepper were famous in the Chera country. Paddy was the chief crop in the Chola and Pandya country.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The founder of the Chola Empire was Vijayalaya. He captured Tanjore from Muttaraiyars in 815 A.D. and built a temple for Durga.
• Rajaraja I
  
  • The extent of the Chola empire under Rajaraja I included the Pandya, Chera, Madurai. He also invaded Sri Lanka and annexed its northern part to his empire. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
  • He completed the construction of the famous Rajarajeswara temple or Brihadeeswara temple at Tanjore in 1010 A.D.
• Rajendra I
  
  • He marched across Kalinga to Bengal the Chola Armies crossed the river Ganga, and defeated two local kings. This expedition took the same route which the great conquered Samudragupta had followed. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
  • In Chola Dynasty, Province called “Mandalam” and districts called “Valanadu/ Nadu”.
  • Guilds were used to trade with South-East Asia.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

Pallava Art and Architecture

• The Pallavas introduced the art of excavating temples from the rock. In fact, the Dravidian style of temple architecture began with the Pallava rule. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• A gradual evolution starting from the cave temples to monolithic rathas culminated in structural temples.
• Mahendravarman I introduced the rock-cut temples. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• This style of Pallava temples are seen at places like Mandagappattu, Mahendravadi, Mamandur, Dalavanur, Tiruchirappalli, Vallam, Seeyamangalam and Tirukalukundram.
• The Chalukyas were great patrons of art. They developed the Vesara style in the building of structural temples. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
• However, the Vesara style reached its culmination only under the Rashtrakutas and the Hoysalas.
• The structural temples of the Chalukyas exist at Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal. Cave temple architecture was also famous under the Chalukyas.
• Their cave temples are found in Ajanta, Ellora and Nasik.
• The best specimens of Chalukya paintings can be seen in the Badami cave temple and in the Ajanta caves.
• The reception given to a Persian embassy by Pulakesin II is depicted in a painting at Ajanta.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Political Ideas and Organisation

• The Rashtrakuta Empire was divided into several provinces called Rashtras under the control of Rashtrapatis.
• They were further divided into Vishayas or districts governed by Vishayapatis.
• The next subdivision was Bhukti consisting of 50 to 70 villages under the control of Bhogapatis. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• These officers were directly appointed by the central government.
• The village administration was carried on by the village headmen.
• The Rashtrakutas widely patronized Sanskrit literature.
• The kings’ position was hereditary but the rules about succession were not rigidly fixed. The eldest son often succeeded, but there are many instances when the eldest son had to fight his younger brothers, and sometimes lost to them.
• There was a minister of correspondence which included foreign affairs, a Revenue Minister, Treasurer, Chief of the Armed Forces (Senapati), Chief Justice, and Purohita.
• All the Ministers, except Purohit, were expected to lead military campaigns when called upon to do so. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Jainism, like Buddhism, rejects the authority of the Vedas. In fact both these religions emerged as a counter to the vedic religion which had become heavily corrupted with elaborate and expensive ritual ceremonies. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• They believe that through three-jewel (fold) path of:
  
  • Right belief (samyak darshan),
  • Right knowledge (samyak jnana) and
  • Right conduct (samyak charitra), Moksha or Nirvana can be achieved.
  • Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Jains need to follow these five constraints in life:
  
  • Ahimsa (non-violence);
  • Satya (truthfulness);
  • Asteya (not stealing);
  • Aparigraha (non-acquisition) and
  • Brahmacharya (chaste living).
• Major Jain pilgrimages in India include Dilwara temple in Mount Abu (Rajasthan), Palitana temples (Gujarat), Girnar (Gujarat), Shikharji (Jharkhand) and Shravanabelagola (Karnataka).
• Jainism has two major ancient sub traditions:
  
  • Digambaras [Sub-sects include Mula Sangh (original community) and Terapanthi, Taranpathi and Bispanthi (these three are modern communities)].
  • Svetambaras (Sub-sects include Sthanakavasi and Murtipujaka). Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Gautam Buddha was born in Lumbini (in present-day Nepal) in 563 BC as Siddhartha Gautam.
• At the age of 35 on the same day of his birth, he attained enlightenment (Nirvana) and became the Buddha, the Enlightened One.
• After attaining Nirvana in Bodh Gaya, he gave his first sermon to his five companions at the Deer Park in Sarnath near Varanasi. This event was called Dharma- chakra-pravartana (Turning the Wheel of Law).
• Unlike Jainism, Buddhism rejects the authenticity of the Vedas, i.e. it does not accept it. It also rejects the concept of the existence of Soul (Atma). Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Shortly after the Buddha’ death, the first Buddhist Council was held at Sattapanni cave near Rajgirah, to compile the two Authoritative Pitakas. Dhamma (Religious Doctrine) and the Vinaya (Monastic Code).
• A century later the second Buddhist council was held at Vaishali as no agreement could be arrived at it led to the emergence of two groups the Sthaviras and Mahasamghikas.
• The third Buddhist council was held at Pataliputra during the reign of Ashoka under the leadership of Moggaliputta Tissa. This council accomplished two things. It reclassified the two Pitakas developed during the first council. This led to the emergence of Triptikas. The canonical literature was finalised and made division within the Buddhist church punishable.
• The fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir during the time of Kanishka. It led to the division of Buddhism into two sects Mahayana and Hinayana. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Mahayana Buddhism

• It means the greater vehicle.
• The ultimate goal under Mahayana is “spiritual upliftment”.
• The Mahayana followers believe in idol or image worship of Buddha.
• Mahayana is also called “Bodhisattva Yana”, or the “Bodhisattva Vehicle”.
• Prominent Mahayana texts include Lotus Sutra, Mahavamsa, etc. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

Ajivikas

• The school was founded by Makkhali Gosala in the 5th century BC.
• The school revolves around the Niyati (Fate) doctrine of absolute determinism. It believes that there is no free will and whatever has happened, is happening or will happen is entirely pre-ordained or pre-decided and is based on cosmic principles. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Hence there was no use of Karma. It is based on the theory of atoms and believes that everything is composed of atoms and the various qualities emerge from the aggregates of atoms which are predetermined.
• Ajivikas led a simple ascetic life, without clothes and any material possession. They opposed Buddhism and Jainism and were atheists. They don’t believe in Karma doctrine unlike Jainism and Buddhism. They consider Karma a fallacy. They also rejected the authority of Vedas like Buddhism and Jainism. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• However, they believed in the existence of soul (atman) in every living being like Jainism. But they believed in the existence of soul in material form whereas jainism propounds formless soul.
• Bindusara (4th Century BC) was one of its followers. Savathi (Sravasti) in Uttar Pradesh is believed to be the centre of Ajivikas. Ashoka’s 7th pillar edicts mention Ajivikas.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Temples of Vijayanagara, centred around Hampi, have the feature of ‘Kalyaana Mandapa’.
• One of the greatest monuments of the Vijayanagara period, which dates back to the 16th century, is the Vitthala Temple.
• The Vitthala Temple is built with a spacious courtyard within a walled enclosure with three massive gateways adorned by lofty Gopuras in the north, east and south. In the courtyard are located the main shrine, Devi shrine, Kalyaana Mandapa,Utsava Mandapa, a hundred pillared Mandapa and a stone Ratha.
• The Kalyaana Mandapa, an open pavilion, was used for ceremonies involving the symbolic marriage of the temple’s deity to his consort. Its interior is surrounded by impressive columns and contains a platform in the centre for the performance of sacred dances. Therefore, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Ajnanas

• The Ajnana sect believed in radical skepticism. It is also called as avidya.
• The school believed that it is impossible to attain knowledge about nature. Even if it is possible, it is useless for attaining salvation. Hence option (b) is not correct.
• This school was a major rival of Jainism and Buddhism.
• They specialized in refutation and were considered ignorant.
• They believed that “Ignorance is Best”.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The unique tenets of the Sikh polity are sangat (holy congregation), Guru Granth and Khalsa Panth (plural executive), the Gurmatta (collective will of the people) and the Sarbat khalsa (democratic and egalitarian polity). Hence, 2 and 3 are not correctly matched.
• The significant issues of the Sikh Panth relating to socio- religious and political problems were discussed in the Sarbat Khalsa which used to meet at Akal Takht on the occasion of Diwali and Baisakhi.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

Nyaya shastra

• The Nyaya School was founded by the sage Gotama, who is not to be confused with Gautama Buddha. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Nyaya means correct thinking with proper arguments and valid reasoning. Thus, Nyaya philosophy is known as tarkashastra (the science of reasoning), pramanashastra (the science of logic and epistemology), hetuvidya (the science of causes), vadavidya (the science of debate), and anviksiki (the science of critical study).
• The Nyaya philosophy as a practitioner and believer of realism seeks for acquiring knowledge of reality.
• The Nyaya school of thought is adhered to atomistic pluralism and logical realism. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• It is atomistic pluralism on the account that atom is the constituent of matter and there are not one but many entities, both material and spiritual, as the ultimate constituents of the universe.
• By holding pluralism standpoint it refutes materialistic and spiritualistic monism.
• On God:
  
  • According to the Nyaya Philosophy, God is the creator, sustainer and destroyer of the universe. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  • He is efficient, but not the material cause of the universe.
  • The material cause of this universe is the eternal atoms of earth, water, fire, and air.
  • He has real knowledge of all objects and occurrences. Thus, he is treated as an omnipresent and omniscient being.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Rashtrakutas

• The Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin and Kannada language was their mother tongue.
• Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• Amoghavarsha I (815- 880 A.D.) ruled for a long period of 64 years. His reign was popular for cultural development. He was a follower of Jainism. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Jinasena was his chief preceptor. He composed Parsvabhudaya, a biography of Parsva in verses
• He had also built the Rashtrakuta capital, the city of Malkhed or Manyakheda.
• The Rashtrakuta Empire was divided into several provinces called rashtras under the control of rashtrapati.
• They were further divided into vishayas or districts governed by vishayapatis.
• The next subdivision was bhukti consisting of 50 to 70 villages under the control of bhogapatis. These officers were directly appointed by the central government. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The Rashtrakutas widely patronized the Sanskrit literature.
• The Kannada literature saw its beginning during the period of the Rashtrakutas.
• Amogavarsha’s Kavirajamarga was the first poetic work in Kannada language.
• Pampa was the greatest of the Kannada poets. His famous work was Vikramasenavijaya. Ponna was another famous Kannada poet and he wrote Santipurana. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The famous Chinese pilgrim, Fahien visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Out of his nine years stay in India, he spent six years in the Gupta empire.
• He came to India by the land route through Khotan, Kashgar, Gandhara and Punjab. He visited Peshawar, Mathura, Kanauj, Sravasti, Kapilavastu, Kusinagara, Pataliputra, Kasi and Bodh Gaya among other places.
• He returned by the sea route, visiting on the way Ceylon and Java. The main purpose of his visit was to see the land of the Buddha and to collect Buddhist manuscripts from India. He stayed in Pataliputra for three years studying Sanskrit and copying Buddhist texts.
• Fahien provides valuable information on the religious, social and economic condition of the Gupta empire. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• According to him, Buddhism was in a flourishing condition in northwestern India but in the Gangetic valley it was in a state of neglect. He referred to the Gangetic valley as the ‘Land of Brahmanism’. Fahien mentions the unsatisfactory state of some of the Buddhist holy places like Kapilavastu and Kusinagara. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

Education, Art and Literature during Pallava Reign

• The capital of Pallavas, Kanchi was an ancient centre of learning. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• The Ghatika at Kanchi was popular and it attracted students from all parts of India and abroad.
• Bharavi, the great Sanskrit scholar lived in the time of Simhavishnu.
• Dandin, another Sanskrit writer, adorned the court of Narasimhavarman II.
• Mahendravaraman I composed the Sanskrit play Mattavilasa Prahasana.
• Tamil literature had also developed.
• The Nayanmars and Alwars composed religious hymns in Tamil.
• The Devaram composed by Nayanmars and the Nalayradivyaprabandam composed by Alwars represent the religious literature of the Pallava period.
• Perundevanar was patronized by Nandivarman II and he translated the Mahabharata as Bharathavenba in Tamil. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The Dravidian style of temple architecture began with the Pallava rule. It was a gradual evolution starting from the cave temples to monolithic rathas and culminated in structural temples. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The five rathas, popularly called as the Panchapandavar rathas, signifies five different styles of temple architecture.
• Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi and the Shore temple at Mamallapuram remain the finest examples of the early structural temples of the Pallavas.
• The Vaikundaperumal temple, Muktheeswara temple and Matagenswara temples at Kanchipuram belong to pallavas architecture.
• The Pallavas had also contributed to the development of sculpture.
• The Descent of the Ganges or the Penance of Arjuna is called a fresco painting in stone.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• The first Buddhist cave monuments at Ajanta date from the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. During the Gupta period (5th and 6th centuries AD), many more richly decorated caves were added to the original group.The paintings and sculptures of Ajanta, considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, have had a considerable artistic influence. The Parinirvana of the Buddha in Cave 17, with numerous celestial musicians above and the sorrowful figures of his followers below, is one of the grandest and yet most delicately expressive scenes made in stone. Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
• Udayagiri in Madhya Pradesh is famous for its 20 caves of Hindu and Jain pantheons embodying rock-cut caves and temples dating back to the Gupta period. King Chandragupta II commissioned the most famous carving, tall statue of Vishnu’s Boar Avatar, Varaha, (shown rescuing the Earth, which is hanging on his tusk), with the worshipful masses standing in homage by the sides in these rock-cut caves. Hence, pair 2 is not correctly matched
• Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings Mahendravarman I(600 −630 AD) and his son Narasimhavarman I (630 −668 AD). Two giant monolithic rock faces that have been sculpted with scenes from the Mahabharata and Puranas are known as the ‘Arjuna’s Penance’ or the ‘Descent of the Ganga’. It was sculpted to commemorate the victory of the Pallava ruler Narasimhavarman I over the Chalukyan King, Pulakesin II. Hence, pair 3 is correctly matched.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Kakatiya dynasty ruled around the present day Andhra region from about 12th to 14th century AD.
• Around 1289 AD, Marco Polo visited the Kakatiya kingdom under the reign of Rubramba. He recognized Kakatiya Kingdom as the kingdom of Mutfili – naming it after Motupalli, which was the most prosperous seaport of the Kakatiyas. Hence, option (b) is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Anvar-i-Suhaili – Collection of interrelated fables.
• Humzanama – Narrates the legendary exploits of Amir Humza, an uncle of Muhammad.
• Gulistan-e-Sadi is a Persian literary work.
• The Mughal paintings reached their zenith in the period of Jahangir. He was a naturalist by nature and preferred the paintings of flora and fauna. He emphasised bringing naturalism to portrait painting. One of the unique trends that developed in this period was of decorated margins the paintings themselves.
• One of the most famous artist from his period was Ustad Mansoor who was an expert in drawing the features of the most complex faces. An animal fable called Ayar-i-Danish (Touchstone of Knowledge) was illustrated during his reign. Hence, option (b) is correct.
• Akbar was responsible for the establishment of an entire department devoted to the paintings and scribing of his documents. During his time ‘Indian influence’ started in the Mughal paintings. The defining features of paintings in Akbar’s period are the use of 3-dimensional figures and the continued use of foreshortening. One of the distinguishing features of this period was the transformation of popular art to court art, i.e. the artist was more focused on depicting the scenes of court life than the life of the masses.
• Famous painters of this period include Daswant, Basawan and Kesu. Prominent illustrated manuscripts during Akbar’s reign are Tutinama, Hamzanama, Anvar-i-Suhaili and Gulistan -e-Sadi.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Lingayat was a movement in Karnataka, led by a Brahmana named Basavanna (1106-68) who was a minister in the court of a Kalachuri ruler. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• His followers were known as Virashaivas (heroes of Shiva) or Lingayats (wearers of the linga). They worship Shiva in his manifestation as a linga, and men usually wear a small linga in a silver case on a loop strung over the left shoulder.
• Lingayats believe that on death the devotee will be united with Shiva and will not return to this world. They also questioned the theory of rebirth. Therefore, they do not practise funerary rites such as cremation, prescribed in the Dharmashastras. Instead, they ceremonially bury their dead. Hence, statement 2 is NOT correct.
• The Lingayats challenged the idea of caste and the “pollution” attributed to certain groups by Brahmanas. The Lingayats also encouraged certain practices such as post-puberty marriage and remarriage of widows.
• The major source of Virashaiva tradition is derived from vachanas (literally, sayings) composed in Kannada by women and men who joined the movement. Hence, statement 3 is NOT correct.
• Ginan, on the other hand, is the mode of communication developed by Ismailis (a Shi’a sect). These included the ginan (derived from the Sanskrit jnana, meaning ‘knowledge’), devotional poems in Punjabi, Multani, Sindhi, Kachchi, Hindi and Gujarati.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The Amara-Nayaka system was a major political innovation of the Vijayanagara Empire. It had many similarities to the Iqta system of the Delhi Sultanate. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Amara-Nayakas were military commanders who were given territories to govern by Raya. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• They collected taxes and other dues from peasants, craftspersons and traders in the area. They retained part of the revenue for personal use and for maintaining a stipulated contingent of horses and elephants. Hence, statement 3 is NOT correct.
• These contingents provided the Vijayanagara kings with an effective fighting force with which they brought the entire southern peninsula under their control. Some of the revenue was also used for the maintenance of temples and irrigation works.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Between 1586 and 1598, Akbar lived at Lahore, watching the northwestern situation. During this period, affairs in the Deccan deteriorated.
• War between Deccan states was a frequent occurrence. The death of a ruler often led to factional fights among the nobles. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• There were many newcomers like Afaqis or Gharibs, within Deccani there were Habshis and Afghanis. These groups had little contact with the life and culture of people in the region, thus they commanded little loyalty from the people.
• Shiites were a suppressed sect for a long time, after coming to power they indulged in the persecution of their erstwhile opponents. In the Deccan states like Golconda, Bijapur and Ahmednagar they declared Shiism as a state creed. This resulted in heightened party strife.
• Akbar was concerned that bitter sectarian rivalries prevailing in the Deccan states would spill over into the Mughal Empire. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Akbar was also apprehensive of growing Portuguese power. Portuguese interfered in the pilgrim traffic to Mecca and carried out proselytizing (conversion) activities which Akbar disliked. The Portuguese also tried to take over Surat, which was thwarted by the timely arrival of a Mughal commander. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

The Sufi Movement

• Sufism is the mystical arm of Islam. Sufis represent the inner side of Islam creed (tasawwuf). It stresses on self-realisation, tolerance, righteousness and universal love for all.
• The essential characteristics of Sufism are:
  
  • Fana: Spiritual merger of the devotee with Allah
  • Insan-e-Kamil: Perfect human with all good virtues
  • Zikr-Tauba: the remembrance of god all the time (zikr)
  • Wahdatul-Wajood: one god for the entire universe; unity of god and being.
  • Sama: spiritual dance and music. Hence, option (c) is correct.

Characteristics

• The Sufis tried to purify their inner self by rigid introspection and mental struggle.
• Sufis emphasise that Islamic knowledge should be learned from teachers and not exclusively from books.
• The ultimate goal of Sufism is Union with God.
• According to Sufism, the Love of God meant the love of humanity, they believe service to humanity equals the service of God.
• Their religious outlook borrowed not only from Islam but Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism etc.
• They believed in the equality of all human beings and the universal brotherhood of man.
• It was a badge of honour for the Sufi to be known as the lover of god. They were even called ‘ahl-I dil or master of the heart’.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• On the day of Vaisakhi in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh organized Khalsa Panth in Anandpur during the reign of Aurangzeb. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Khalsa, (Punjabi: “the Pure”) the purified and reconstituted Sikh community instituted by Guru Gobind Singh on March 30, 1699. Hence, statement 2 is NOT correct.
• Khalsa is used to denote both the body of initiated Sikhs and the community of all Sikhs.

His declaration had three dimensions

• It redefined the concept of authority within the Sikh community;
• It introduced a new initiation ceremony and code of conduct;
• It provided the community with a new religious and political vision.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• In 1758, the Maratha forces under Raghunath Rao crossed into the Punjab and drove out Prince Timur, son of Ahmad Shah Abdali whom the latter had left as the governor of the Punjab, and appointed Adina Beg Khan as its governor. Abdali took up the Maratha’s expansion as a challenge to his authority.
• As a result, the Third Battle of Panipat was fought between Marathas and Ahmad Shah in 1761, which resulted in Afghan victory and ceasure of Maratha’s dream of unifying India under their rule.Therefore, option A is the correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Shivaji was a great administrator. He laid the foundations of a sound system of administration. The king was the pivot of the government. He was assisted by a council of ministers called Ashtapradhan.
• However, each minister was directly responsible to Shivaji.
  
  1. Peshwa – Finance and general administration. Later he became the prime minister.
  2. Sar-i-Naubat or Senapati – Military commander, a honorary post.
  3. Amatya – Accountant General.
  4. Waqenavis – Intelligence, posts and household affairs.
  5. Sachiv – Correspondence.
  6. Sumanta – Master of ceremonies.
  7. Nyayadish – Justice.
  8. Panditrao – Charities and religious administration.
• Hence, option (b) is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

The two Schools of Bhakti: The Bhakti saints were divided into two schools depending on the way they imagined God.

• Nirguna School:
  
  • This school of thought imagined God as formless with no attributes or quality. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  • They are more focused on acquiring knowledge.
  • They rejected the scriptures and condemned every form of idol worship.
  • The prominent figures of this school of thought were Kabir, Guru Nanak and Dadu Dayal. Hence, statement 2 is NOT correct.
• Saguna School:
  
  • Saguna School thought of God as having a definite form, quality and positive attributes and the god manifest himself in incarnations such as Rama and Krishna.
  • His spirit is to be found in the idols and images worshipped at home and in temples.
  • The Saguna School emphasizes on love and devotion.
  • They accept the spiritual authority of the Vedas and the need for a human Guru as a mediator between God and his devotee. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
  • Ramanuja, Ramananda and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu belonged to this school of thought.
• In the northern part of the subcontinent, the Bhakti Movement became heavily influenced by the Vaishnavite movement, which saw ‘Krishna’ as the focal point of devotion.
• They concentrated on his early childhood and younger follies that became part of the Bhagavata Purana.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah

• Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah was the founder of Bahmani Kingdom, he was descendent from the Persian ruling family of Kakuyds of the Iranian dynasty of Bahmani and Isfandar, leading right up to Bahman Gaur. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Alauddin Hasan migrated to India from Ghaznah, then a province of Khurasan, in Iran, where Alauddin Hasan established a new dynasty , on the disintegration of the Tughluq empire, on 1357, he adopted Iranian dynastic title of “Bahman” and hence his sobriquet “Bahman Shah”, and consequently the dynasty was called Bahmani.
• Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah selected Gulbarga as his capital. He adorned the capital with a number of fine buildings Hence, statement 2 is NOT correct.
• He put the administration of the country on a sound basis by dividing it into four provinces called Tarafs, each under a governor. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• Bahmani Kingdom had two powerful neighbours- Warangal and Vijaynagara. The proximity of these two Kingdoms was the cause of the chronic warfare of the next hundred years that characterized the history of the Deccan.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

The Vijayanagar Empire 

• The administration under the Vijayanagar Empire was well organized. The king enjoyed absolute authority in executive, judicial and legislative matters. He was the highest court of appeal. The succession to the throne was on the principle of hereditary. Sometimes usurpation to the throne took place as Saluva Narasimha came to power by ending the Sangama dynasty.
• The Empire was divided into different administrative units called Mandalams, Nadus, sthalas and finally into gramas. The governor of Mandalam was called Mandaleswara or Nayak. Vijayanagar rulers gave full powers to the local authorities in the administration. Besides land revenue, tributes and gifts from vassals and feudal chiefs, customs collected at the ports, taxes on various professions were other sources of income to the government. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Land revenue was generally fixed at one sixth of the produce. The expenditure of the government included personal expenses of king and the charities given by him and military expenditure. In the matter of justice, harsh punishments such as mutilation and throwing to elephants were followed.
• The Vijayanagar army was well-organized and efficient. It consisted of cavalry, infantry, artillery and elephants. High-breed horses were procured from foreign traders. The top-grade officers of the army were known as Nayaks or Poligars. They were granted land in lieu of their services. These lands were called Amaram. Ordinary soldiers were usually paid in cash. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Muhammad Bin Tughluq became the first Sultan to attempt to formulate an agricultural policy for promoting agriculture.
• He introduced the practice of giving agricultural loans named Sondhar for increasing the area under the plough and for digging wells for irrigation.
• Barani says that 70 lakhs Tankas were given till 1346-7 in sondhar. But, according to Afif, 2 crore Tankas were given till that time as sondhar. Hence, option (b) is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The Mongol invasion of India in the 13^th century introduced gunpowder technology in India from China.
  
  • ‘Tarikh-i-Firishta’, a 17^th century chronicle, records that in 1258 AD, the envoy of the Mongol ruler Hulegu Khan was accompanied with a dazzling pyrotechnics (fireworks) display upon his arrival in Delhi. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Mamluk Sultans first introduced arches and domes in the Indian subcontinent as evident from Qutb Complex in Delhi. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• The Mughal Empire was founded by Babur (1526– 1530), who descended from the Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur (the founder of the TimuridEmpire). Thus, he established the Timurid dynasty in the region. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Phad painting is found in Rajasthan and is a scroll-type art. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• It is religious in nature and comprises of drawings of local deities, Pabuji and Devnarayan. They are painted with vegetable colours on a long piece of cloth called phad, they are 15 feet or 30 feet long.
• The subjects have large eyes and round faces. They are of pompous and joyful narrative and scenes of processions are a common feature. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are both correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Theatre in India began as a narrative art form, which encompassed a concoction of music, dance and acting. The Sanskrit word ‘nataka’ was derived from the root word ‘nata’ which actually meant a dancer.
• Sariputraprakarana by Ashvaghosh, an eminent philosopher, is considered the first example of classical Sanskrit drama. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Kalidasa is perhaps the most popular among the Sanskrit playwrights. His three works –Malavikagnimitra, Vikramorvashi and Shakuntalam – are some of the finest examples of classical Sanskrit drama.
• Sanskrit theatre was more urban-oriented and sophisticated in its treatment of the play, the folk theatre had rural roots and the rustic flavour was reflected in the dramatic style involved.

Indian folk theatre can be broadly classified into three categories as follows

Ritual Theatre	Theatre of Entertainment	South Indian Theatre
Ankia Nat (Assam)	Jatra (Eastern India)	Yakshagana (A.P. and Karnataka)
Kala (Vaishnavite)	Oja-Pali (Assam)	Burra Katha (A.P.)
Ramlila (U.P.)	Kariyila (Himachal Pradesh)	Pagati Veshaalu (Telangana)
Raslila (Gujarat)	Villu Pattu (Deccan)	Bayalata (Karnataka)
Bhutan (Karnataka)	Tamasha (Maharashtra)	Tal-Maddale
Ramman (Uttarakhand)	Bhavai (Guj. And Raj.)	Krishna Attam (Kerala)

Hence, statement 2 is correct.

• The term ‘Villu Pattu’ means bow-song. It is a form of musical theatre popular in the Deccan, in which stories of Ramayana are narrated using bow-shaped instruments. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
• Oja-Pali is a unique narrative theatre form of Assam, primarily associated with the festival of Manasa or the serpent goddess.
• When Sanskrit classical theatre started to decline in North India around the period of 8^th century A.D., it gained popularity in the southern parts of India.
• Rabindranath Tagore was a celebrated playwright. He wrote his first play,” Valmiki Pratibha”.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• The traditional art of talamaddale, is a variant of Yakshagana theatre. Hence, option (c) is correct.
• In the conventional ‘talamaddale,’ the artists sit across in a place without any costumes and engage in testing their oratory skills based on the episode chosen.
• It has only spoken words without any dance or costumes. Hence, it is Yakshagana minus dance, costumes and stage conventions.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

Theatre Forms	State	Theme
Bhavai	Gujarat	Subtle social criticism laced with humour. Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
Jatra	West Bengal/Orissa and eastern Bihar	Originated in Bengal as a result of the Bhakti movement. Initially known as Krishna jatra due to Chaitanya’s (spiritual founder of Gaudiya Vaishnavism) influence. Hence, pair 2 is correctly matched.
Koodiyattam	Kerala	Oldest traditional theatre forms of India, it follows the performative principles of the ancient tradition of Sanskrit theatre. In 2001, Koodiyattam was officially recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Hence, pair 3 is not correctly matched.
Yakshagana	Karnataka	Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form of Karnataka. It is a temple art form that depicts mythological stories and Puranas. Hence, pair 4 is not correctly matched.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Chaliha Sahib is the festival of the Sindhis. This festival, in which devotees fast for 40 days, originated in Sindh (now in Pakistan). People pay offerings and prayers to Lord Jhulelal. Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
• Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra can be traced back to the 15th century and is considered among the toughest pilgrimages. Held every 12 years, it involves a nearly 280km trek through terrains challenging at several different levels – from dense forests to glaciers and steep ridges.
  
  • The pilgrimage is conducted on a tight 19-day schedule at the end of which pilgrims return to the starting point. It is a festival celebrated by the people of Garhwal and Kumauon regions of Uttarakhand. Held during ‘Bhadrapad’ (months of August-September), the Yatra is meant to celebrate the Nanda Devi’s journey from her maternal home to her husband’s abode.
  • While, the Gonds are the tribal community which is mostly found in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Odisha and part of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Hence, pair 2 is not correctly matched.
• Wari is an annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur – the seat of the Hindu God Vithoba in Maharashtra, in honour of the deity. Palakhis carrying the Paduka (foot prints) of various saints – most notably Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram – from the Warkari sect, are taken from their respective shrines to Pandharpur. The tradition is more than 700-800 years old.
  
  • Whereas, Santhals are spread over eastern States of Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha. Hence, pair 3 is not correctly matched.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

Madhubani Paintings

• Traditionally done by the women of villages around Madhubani town, it is also called Mithila paintings.
• The art extends to the adjoining parts of Terai region in Nepal.
• The paintings have a common theme and are usually drawn from religious motifs of the Hindus, including Krishna, Rama, Durga, Lakshmi and Shiva.
• The figures in the painting are symbolic, for example, fish depicts good luck and fertility.
• The paintings are also made depicting auspicious occasions like birth, marriage and festivals. Flowers, trees, animals, etc. are used to fill any gaps in the painting.
• Traditionally, these were painted on walls using rice paste and vegetable colours on a base of cow dung and mud. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• With time, the base changed to handmade paper, clothes and canvas, still the natural colours were used.
• Since there is no shading, the paintings are two- dimensional.
• Some of the common features of these paintings include double line border, bold use of colours, ornate floral patterns and exaggerated facial features.
• The origin of Madhubani paintings is believed to be during the period of Ramayana, when the king of Mithila told people of his kingdom to paint walls and floors of their houses on the marriage of Sita and Rama.

Pattachitra

• A traditional painting of Odisha, the name Pattachitra comes from a Sanskrit word patta, which means canvas/ cloth and chitra means picture. Hence, statement 2 is NOT correct.
• Pattachitra is known for its storytelling — from myths, Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Radha-Krishna tales, and, over the years, from tribal art, too.
• The base of the painting is treated cloth while the colours used comes from natural sources including burnt coconut shells, Hingula, Ramaraja and lamp black.
• The themes of these paintings are inspired from Jagannath and Vaishnava cult, sometimes from Shakti and Shaiva cults.
• Raghurajpur in Odisha is known for this art form.
• Pattachitra on palm leaf is known as talapattachitra.
• The hard dried leaves of palm trees are sewn together as a canvas on which images are drawn using white or black ink.
• Recently, it was in the news. As a result of the Fani cyclone, which hit Odisha, this art form has been severely affected. The cyclone damaged pattachitra worth crores of rupees.

Paitkar Painting

• Practiced by the tribal people of Jharkhand, Paitkar paintings or scroll paintings are considered one of the ancient schools of painting in the country.
• This old form of painting has cultural association with Ma Mansa, one of the most popular goddesses in tribal households.
• These paintings are linked to the social and religious customs including giving alms and holding yajnas.
• The common theme of Paitkar paintings is ‘What happens to human life post death’. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Bhaona is a mythology-based theatrical performance created by Sankardeva.
• It is associated with the state of Assam. Hence, option (c) is correct.
• It was the creation of saint-reformer Srimanta Sankardeva (a Vaishnava saint born in 1449 A.D. in Nagaon district of Assam.
• He started the neo-Vaishnavite movement). Initially, he wrote his prose in Sanskrit but later used Assamese and Brajavali (a literary language limited to theatrical usage, in which Sankardeva wrote his songs and plays) to develop the following artforms:
  
  • Borgeet- a new form of spiritual music,
  • Bhaona- a mythology-based theatrical performance,
• The plays of bhaona are popularly known as Ankiya Nats and their staging is known as bhaona.Assam’s Department of Culture has taken initiative to popularize Bhaona across the world in English language.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

Jagannath Temple

• The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 12^th century by King Anatavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• Jagannath Puri temple is called ‘Yamanika Tirtha’ where, according to the Hindu beliefs, the power of ‘Yama’, the god of death has been nullified in Puri due to the presence of Lord Jagannath.
• This temple was called the “White Pagoda” and is a part of Char Dham pilgrimages (Badrinath, Dwaraka, Puri, Rameswaram). Hence statement 2 is not correct.
  
  • The Sun Temple of Konark was once called the Black Pagoda by the sailors because it was supposed to draw ships into the shore and cause shipwrecks.
• There are four gates to the temple- Eastern ‘Singhdwara’ which is the main gate with two crouching lions, Southern ‘Ashwadwara’, Western 'Vyaghra Dwara' and Northern ‘Hastidwara’. There is a carving of each form at each gate.
• In front of the entrance stands the Aruna stambha or sun pillar, which was originally at the Sun Temple in Konark.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Ancient Civilizations and their Locations

• Maya Civilization- Mexico. Hence option B is Correct.
• The Incan Civilization- Ecuador, Peru, and Chile
• The Aztec Civilization- Mexico
• The Roman Civilization- Rome
• The Persian Civilization- Iran
• The Ancient Greek Civilization- Greece
• The Chinese Civilization- China
• The Ancient Egyptian Civilization- Egypt
• The Indus Valley Civilization- Northeast Afghanistan to Pakistan and northwest India
• The Mesopotamian Civilization- Iraq, Syria, and Turkey

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

Kathak

• The word Kathak has been derived from the word Katha which means a story. It is primarily performed in Northern India.
• It was primarily a temple or village performance wherein the dancers narrated stories from ancient scriptures. It is one of the classical dances of India. Hence Statement 1 is correct.
• Kathak began evolving into a distinct mode of dance in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries with the spread of the Bhakti movement. Hence Statement 2 is correct.
  
  • The legends of Radha-Krishna were enacted in folk plays called rasa lila, which combined folk dance with the basic gestures of the kathak story-tellers.
  • Under the Mughal emperors and their nobles, Kathak was performed in the court, where it acquired its present features and developed into a form of dance with a distinctive style.
  • Under the patronage of Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, it grew into a major art form.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The Anglo-Mysore Wars was a series of four military confrontations in India between the British and the rulers of Mysore.
  
  • The British saw Haidar and Tipu as ambitious, arrogant and dangerous – rulers who had to be controlled and crushed.
• Four wars were fought with Mysore.
  
  • 1767-69: Treaty of Madras.
  • 1780-84: Treaty of Mangalore. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
  • 1790-92: Treaty of Seringapatam.
  • 1799: Subsidiary Alliance.
• Only in the last – the Battle of Seringapatam – did the Company ultimately win a victory. Tipu Sultan was killed defending his capital Seringapatam. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Mysore was placed under the former ruling dynasty of the Wodeyars and a subsidiary alliance was imposed on the state.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Hindi got its name from the Persian word Hind, meaning 'land of the Indus River'. Turk invaders in the early 11th century named the language of the region Hindi, 'language of the land of the Indus River'.
  
  • It is the official language of India, English being the other official language.
• Hindi is also spoken in some countries outside India, such as in Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago and Nepal.
• Hindi in its present form emerged through different stages, during which it was known by other names. The earliest form of old Hindi was Apabhramsa.
• In 400 AD Kalidas wrote a romantic play in Apabhramsa called Vikramorvashiyam.
• The modern Devanagari script came into existence in the 11th century.
• Hence option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Hoysala architecture is the building style developed under the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 11^th and 14^th centuries, mostly concentrated in southern Karnataka.
• Hoysala temples are sometimes called hybrid or vesara as their unique style seems neither completely Dravida nor Nagara, but somewhere in between.
  
  • The Hoysala temples have a basic Darvidian morphology but show strong influences of the Bhumija mode widely used in Central India, the Nagara traditions of northern and western India, and the Karntata Dravida modes favored by the Kalyani Chalukyas. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Hoysala temples, instead of consisting of a simple inner chamber with its pillared hall, contain multiple shrines grouped around a central pillared hall and laid out in the shape of an intricately-designed star (stellate-plan). Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Ramanujacharya was born in 1017 in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu. He is revered as a Vedic philosopher and social reformer. Hence, statement 1 is correct
• He travelled across India, advocating equality and social justice.
• He revived the Bhakti movement, and his preachings inspired other Bhakti schools of thought. He is considered to be the inspiration for poets like Annamacharya, Bhakta Ramdas, Thyagaraja, Kabir, and Meerabai. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• He is famous as the chief proponent of Vishishtadvaita subschool of Vedanta. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born on 19^th February, 1630 at Shivneri Fort in District Pune in the present-day state of Maharashtra.
• Early Life:
  
  • He displayed his military zeal for the first time in 1645 when as a teenager, he successfully got control of the Torna Fort which was under Bijapur.
  • He also acquired the Kondana Fort. Both these forts were under Adil Shah of Bijapur. Hence, option C is not correct.
• Important Battles:
  
  • The Battle of Sangamner, 1679 fought between the Mughals and Marathas was the last battle in which the Maratha King Shivaji fought. Hence, option A is not correct.
    
    • Battle of Sinhagad, 1670 was fought between Tanaji Malusare, a commander of Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj and Udaybhan Rathod, fortkeeper under Jai Singh I who was a Mughal Army Chief.
• Important Treaty:
  
  • In June 1665, the Treaty of Purandar was signed between Shivaji and Raja Jai Singh I (representing Aurangzeb). Hence, option B is not correct.
    
    • As per this treaty, many forts were relinquished to the Mughals and it was agreed that Shivaji would meet Aurangzeb at Agra. Shivaji also agreed to send his son Sambhaji as well.
• Granted Title:
  
  • He took on the titles of Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. Hence, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Recently, Durga Puja in Kolkata has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.
  
  • It is the first festival in Asia to achieve recognition as UNESCO ICH of Humanity.
• Durga Puja is a five-day festival which begins on the fifth night of the nine-day Navratri festival and ends on the tenth day, which is Dashami.
  
  • During this time, people collectively worship and invoke Goddess Durga, who is regarded as the feminine energy of the cosmos, also known as ‘Shakti’.
  • It is one of the largest cultural carnivals and street art festivals of the country.
• Hence, option A is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Animal Sports in India

• Jallikattu: Jallikattu, also known as 'eruthazhuvuthal', is a bull-taming sport played in Tamil Nadu as part of the Pongal harvest festival. Hence, Pair 1 is not correctly matched.
• Kambala: Kambala is a traditional buffalo race in paddy fields filled with slush and mud which generally takes place in coastal Karnataka (Udupi and Dakshina Kannada) from November to March. Hence, Pair 2 is correctly matched.
• Camel Race: The race is all about Camels, in which people ride and participate in the race.
  
  • It is also a part of many fairs and festivals in Rajasthan, India such as Pushkar Fair, Bikaner Camel Festival, etc.
• Bulbul Fights: It is organised in the state of Assam during Bihu (harvest festival) in the Hayagriva-Madhava Temple in Hajo near Guwahati, Assam. Hence, Pair 3 is correctly matched.
  
  • Often bulbuls are fed intoxicants to make them aggressive.
• Cock-fights: Cockfight or the Rooster fight is not indigenous to India. It is a sport that exists across the world. In India, cock-fight is not just a sport but a gambling game.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Recently, the Minister of State for Education, released the Hindi translation of Tolkāppiyam and the Kannada translations of 9 books of Classical Tamil literature.
• Tamil literature goes back to the Sangam Era, named after the assembly (sangam) of poets.
• The period roughly between the 3^rd century B.C. and 3rd century A.D. in South India (the area lying to the south of river Krishna and Tungabhadra) is known as Sangam Period.
  
  • It has been named after the Sangam academies held during that period that flourished under the royal patronage of the Pandya kings of Madurai. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Sangam literature includes Tolkappiyam, Ettutogai, Pattuppattu, Pathinenkilkanakku, and two epics named – Silappathikaram and Manimegalai .
  
  • Tolkappiyam was authored by Tolkappiyar and is considered the earliest of Tamil literary work.
    
    • Though it is a work on Tamil grammar, it also provides insights on the political and socio-economic conditions of the time. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
    • It is a unique work on grammar and poetics, in its three parts of nine sections each, deals with Ezhuttu(letter), Col (word) and Porul (subject matter).
    • Almost all levels of the human language from the spoken to the most poetic lie within the purview of Tolkappiyar’s analysis as he treats in exquisitely poetic and epigrammatic statements on phonology, morphology, syntax, rhetoric, prosody and poetics.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

Sangam Period

• The period roughly between the 3rd century B.C. and 3^rd century A.D. in South India (the area lying to the south of river Krishna and Tungabhadra) is known as Sangam Period.
• It has been named after the Sangam academies held during that period that flourished under the royal patronage of the Pandya kings of Madurai.
  
  • At the sangams, eminent scholars assembled and functioned as the board of censors and the choicest literature was rendered in the nature of anthologies.
• These literary works were the earliest specimens of Dravidian literature.
• South India, during the Sangam Age, was ruled by three dynasties-the Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas.
• Hence, option C is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• According to Sikh tradition, Sikhism was established by Guru Nanak (1469–1539) and subsequently led by a succession of nine other Gurus.
• The development of Sikhism was influenced by the Bhakti movement and Vaishnava Hinduism. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Sikhs call their faith Gurmat (Punjabi: “the Way of the Guru”).
  
  • The Khalsa upholds the highest Sikh virtues of commitment, dedication and a social conscience.
  • The Khalsa are men and women who have undergone the Sikh baptism ceremony and who strictly follow the Sikh Code of Conduct and Conventions. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• Sikhism condemns blind rituals such as fasting, visiting places of pilgrimage, superstitions, worship of the dead, idol worship etc. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
  
  • It preaches that people of different races, religions, or sex are all equal in the eyes of God.
• The Adi Granth is believed by Sikhs to be the abode of the eternal Guru, and for that reason it is known to all Sikhs as the Guru Granth Sahib.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

Matrilineal System of Inheritance

• The three tribes of Meghalaya — Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos — practise a matrilineal system of inheritance. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • In this system, lineage and descent are traced through the mother’s clan.
• In other words, children take the mother’s surname, the husband moves into his wife’s house, and the youngest daughter (khatduh) of the family is entrusted the full share of the ancestral - or the clan’s - property. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  
  • The khatduh becomes the “custodian” of the land, and assumes all responsibility associated with the land, including taking care of aged parents, unmarried or destitute siblings.
• This inheritance tradition applies only to ancestral or clan/community property, which has been with the family for years. The self-acquired property can be distributed equally among siblings.
• In this traditional set-up, if a couple does not have any daughters, then the property goes to the wife’s elder sister, and her daughters. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
  
  • If the wife does not have sisters, then the clan usually takes over the property.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Recently, the Prime Minister has unveiled a 12-foot statue of Adi Shankaracharya at Kedarnath (Uttarakhand).
• Adi Shankaracharya, also known as Adi Shankara, was born in 788 AD, at Kaladi near Kochi, Kerala. He took Samadhi at the age of 33, at Kedar tirth.
  
  • He was a devotee of Shiva.
  • Propounded the Doctrine of Advaita (Monism) and wrote many commentaries on the Vedic canon (Upanishads, Brahma Sutras and Bhagavad Gita) in Sanskrit. Hence, statement 1 is correct
  • He was opposed to Buddhist philosophers. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• Major Work:
  
  • Brahmasutrabhasya (Bhashya or commentary on the Brahma Sutra).
  • Bhajagovinda Stotra. Hence, statement 4 is correct.
  • Nirvana Shatakam.
  • Prakaran Granths.
• Other Contributions:
  
  • Was responsible for reviving Hinduism in India to a great extent when Buddhism was gaining popularity.
  • Established four Mathas in the four corners of India at Shingeri, Puri, Dwaraka and Badrinath– for propagation of Sanathana Dharma. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Alexander Invasion of India

• In 326 BC, Alexander invaded India, after crossing the river Indus he advanced towards Taxila.
• He then challenged king Porus, ruler of the kingdom between the rivers Jhelum and Chenab. The Indians were defeated in the fierce battle (Battle of Hydaspes).
  
  • Alexander captured Porus and, like the other local rulers he had defeated, allowed him to continue to govern his territory.
  • Alexander remained in India for 19 months (326-325 B.C.), which were full of fighting in July 325 BC Alexander and his army returned westward for home.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• There is evidence of the existence of proto forms of democracy and republicanism in ancient India. The Vedas describe at least two forms of republican governance:
  
  • Monarchy: The first would consist of elected kings. This has always been seen as an early form of democracy.
  • Republics: The second form is that of rule without a monarch, with power vested in a council or sabha.
    
    • The membership of such sabhas was not always determined by birth, but they often comprised people who had distinguished themselves by their actions.
    • There is even a hint of the modern bicameral system of legislatures, with the sabha often sharing power with the samiti, which was made up of common people.
    • The vidhaata, or the assembly of people for debating policy, military matters and important issues impacting all, has been mentioned more than a hundred times in the Rig Veda. Both women and men took part in these deliberations.
    • Hence, both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The ‘Buddha Path’ also refers to the Eight Great Places of Buddhist Heritage (referred in Pali as Atthamahathanani). They are:
  
  • Lumbini (Nepal)- Buddha was born.
  • Bodh Gaya (Bihar)- Attained enlightenment.
  • Sarnath (Varanasi, U.P.)- First sermon.
  • Kushinagar (Gorakhpur, U.P.)- Buddha died.
  • Rajgir (Bihar)- Where the Lord tamed a mad elephant.
  • Vaishali (Bihar)- Where a monkey offered honey to him.
  • Sravasti (U.P)- The Lord took his seat on a thousand petaled lotus and created multiple representations of himself.
  • Sankasya (Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh)- He descended from heaven.
• Hence, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Buddhist and Jain texts list 16 powerful states or mahajanapadas of ancient India.
  
  • Mahajanapadas: Anga, Assaka, Avanti, Chedi, Gandhara, Kamboja, Kashi, Kosala, Kuru, Magadha, Malla, Matsya, Panchala, Surasena, Vajji and Vatsa or Vamsa.
  • Hence, option A is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Gaudiya Vaishnavism is a Vaishnava Hindu religious movement inspired by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • Here, “Gaudiya” refers to the Gaura or Gauḍa region of Bengal with Vaishnavism meaning “the worship of Vishnu”.
• The focus of Gaudiya Vaishnavism is the devotional worship (known as bhakti-yoga) of Radha and Krishna, and their many divine incarnations as the supreme forms of God, Svayam Bhagavan. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• Most popularly, this worship takes the form of singing Radha and Krishna’s holy names, such as “Hare”, “Krishna” and “Rama”, most commonly in the form of the Hare Krishna (mantra) also known as kirtan and dancing along with it.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Shankhalipi Script, also called “shell-script” , is found in inscriptions across north-central India and dates to between the 4^th and 8^th centuries.
  
  • Both Shankhalipi and Brahmi are stylised scripts used primarily for names and signatures.
  • The inscriptions consist of a small number of characters, suggesting that the shell inscriptions are names or auspicious symbols or a combination of the two.
• It was discovered in 1836 on a brass trident in Uttarakhand’s Barahat by English scholar James Prinsep. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • Prominent sites with shell inscriptions: Mundeshwari Temple (Bihar), the Udayagiri Caves (Madhya Pradesh), Mansar (Maharashtra) and some of the cave sites of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
    
    • These inscriptions are also reported in Indonesia’s Java and Borneo. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

Lord Nataraja Idol

• Nataraja (Lord of the Dance), the Hindu god Shiva in his form as the cosmic dancer, is represented in metal or stone in many Shaivite temples, particularly in South India.
  
  • It is an important piece of Chola sculpture.
• The matted and flowing locks of Shiva represent the flow of river Ganges. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• A snake is twisted around the arm of Shiva. The snake symbolises the kundalini power, which resides in the human spine in the dormant stage. If aroused, one can attain true consciousness. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The Nataraja is surrounded by a nimbus of glowing lights which symbolises the vast unending cycles of time. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Dravidian languages, a family of some 70 languages spoken primarily in South Asia. They are spoken by more than 215 million people in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• The Dravidian languages with the most speakers are (in descending order of number of speakers) Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam, all of which have long literary traditions.
  
  • Smaller literary languages are Tulu and Kodava.
• There are also a number of Dravidian-speaking Scheduled Tribes, such as the Kurukh in Eastern India and Gondi in Central India. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  • Kurukh , also spelt Oraon, are a Dravidian ethnic group inhabiting the Indian states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
• Dravidian place names along the Arabian Sea coasts and Dravidian grammatical influence such as clusivity in the Indo-Aryan languages, namely, Marathi, Gujarati, Marwari, and Sindhi, suggest that Dravidian languages were once spoken more widely across the Indian subcontinent.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The site of Hampi comprises mainly the remnants of the capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire (14^th-16^th century CE), the last great Hindu Kingdom.
• It encompasses an area of 4187, 24 hectares, located in the Tungabhadra basin in Bellary District, Central Karnataka.
  
  • Hampi’s spectacular setting is dominated by river Tungabhadra, craggy hill ranges and open plains with widespread physical remains.
• One of the unique features of temples at Hampi is the wide chariot streets flanked by the row of pillared mandapas.
  
  • Its Famous places include Krishna temple complex, Narasimha, Ganesa, Hemakuta group of temples, Achyutaraya temple complex, Vitthala temple complex, Pattabhirama temple complex, Lotus Mahal complex, etc.
• The old city of Hampi was a prosperous, wealthy and grand city.
  
  • By 1500 CE, Hampi-Vijayanagara was the world’s second-largest medieval-era city after Beijing, and probably India’s richest at that time, attracting traders from Persia and Portugal.
• The Vijayanagara Empire was defeated by a coalition of sultanates, its capital was conquered, pillaged and destroyed by sultanate armies in 1565 (Battle of Talikota), after which Hampi remained in ruins.
• Hence, option D is correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• Kalbeliya dances are an expression of the Kalbelia community’s traditional way of life.
  
  • It is associated with a Rajasthani tribe of the same name. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• It was included in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO) list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in 2010. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The dance form consists of swirling; graceful movements that make this dance a treat to behold.
  
  • The movements associated with the Kalbelia also make it one of the most sensuous forms of folk dance in India.
• It is generally performed for any joyous celebration and is considered to be an integral part of the Kalbeliya culture.
  
  • Another unique aspect of the Kalbelia dance is that it is only performed by women while the men play the instruments and provide the music. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• Silambam is an ancient weapon-based martial art that emerged in Tamilakam, which is now Tamil Nadu region of India. It is one of the oldest martial arts in the world. Hence, pair 1 is not correctly matched.
• Kalaripayattu is practiced in Kerala. Hence, pair 2 is correctly matched.
• Mardani Khel is a martial art form of Maharashtra. Hence, pair 3 is not correctly matched.
• Thag Ta is a martial art form of Manipur state. Hence, pair 4 is not correctly matched.
• Other Martial arts and state they belong:
  
  • Gatka- Punjab
  • Paika- Odisha
  • Choliya- Uttarakhand
  • Pang Lhabsol- Sikkim
  • Musti Yudha- Uttar Pradesh
  • Pari Khanda- Bihar

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The ancient city of Dholavira is an archaeological site at Kachchh District, in the state of Gujarat, which dates from the 3rd to mid-2nd millennium BCE.
  
  • After Mohen-jo-Daro, Ganweriwala and Harappa in Pakistan and Rakhigarhi in Haryana of India, Dholavira is the fifth largest metropolis of Indus Valley Civilization (IVC). Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• Dholavira’s location is on the Tropic of Cancer. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Recently, UNESCO has announced the Harappan city of Dholavira in Gujarat as India’s 40^th world heritage site.
  
  • It is the first site of Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC) in India to be included on the coveted list. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Traditionally, the Kanjeevaram is a sari that is usually handwoven in mulberry silk and has pure gold or silver zari that renders it a festive quality.
• Originating from the village ‘Kanchipuram’ in Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram is considered the queen of silk sarees.
• The temple architecture of South India and especially around Kanchipuram has historically served as a mood board for design inspiration for the traditional Kanjeevaram motifs.
  
  • One can spot motifs such as the mythical creature called the Yali (an elephant-lion fusion), the Ganda Berunda (a two-headed majestic mythical bird) and the ubiquitous temple border called reku.
• Tracing its long and rich history from the Chola Dynasty, Kanchipuram sarees today are considered as one of the oldest and rich legacies of the Indian textile industry.
• Kanchipuram silk has also received Geographical indication (GI Tag) in 2005-06.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The Kesaria Buddha stupa is said to be the tallest and the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • It is located in Kesariya, at a distance of 110 kilometers from Patna, in the East Champaran district of Bihar.
• The first construction of the Stupa is dated to the 3rd century BCE. The original Kesaria stupa probably dates to the time of Ashoka (circa 250 BCE), as the remains of a capital of a Pillar of Ashoka were discovered there. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  • The current stupa dates to the Gupta Dynasty between 200 AD and 750 AD and may have been associated with the 4th century ruler Raja Chakravarti.
• In ancient times, Kesaria was under the rule of the Mauryas and the Licchavis.
• Two great foreign travelers, Faxian (Fahien) and Xuan Zang (Hsuan Tsang), had visited this place in ancient times and have left interesting and informative accounts of their travels.

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• The Mughal Architecture flourished in northern and central India under the patronage of the Mughal emperors from the mid-16th to the late 17th century.
  
  • It was a blend of Indian, Persian, and Turkish architectural style. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• It contains diverse forms of architecture including different types of buildings, such as majestic gates (entrances), forts, mausoleums, palaces, mosques, sarais, etc.
• Mostly, red sandstone and white marble were used for building this style of architecture. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Special features of the Mughal Architecture include the Charbagh style of the mausoleums, pronounced bulbous domes, slender turrets at the corners, broad gateways, beautiful calligraphy, arabesque, and geometric patterns on pillars and walls, and palace halls supported on pillars. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• Sant Kabir Das was born in the city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. He was a 15^th century mystic poet, saint and social reformer and a proponent of the Bhakti Movement.
  
  • Kabir's legacy is still going on through a sect known as Panth of Kabir, a religious community that considers him as the founder.
• His early life was in a Muslim family, but he was strongly influenced by his teacher, the Hindu bhakti leader Ramananda.
• Kabir Das' writings had a great influence on the Bhakti movement and includes titles like Kabir Granthawali, Anurag Sagar, Bijak, and Sakhi Granth. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  
  • His verses are found in Sikhism's scripture Guru Granth Sahib.
  • The major part of his work was collected by the fifth Sikh guru, Guru Arjan Dev. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  • He was best known for his two-line couplets, known as 'Kabir Ke Dohe'.
• Kabir's works were written in the Hindi language which was easy to comprehend. He used to write in couplets to enlighten people.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Humayun’s Tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent.
  
  • It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
• It was built under the patronage of Humayun’s son, the great Emperor Akbar.
• It is also called the ‘dormitory of the Mughals’ as in the cells are buried over 150 Mughal family members.
• It is an example of the charbagh (a four quadrant garden with the four rivers of Quranic paradise represented), with pools joined by channels.
• The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recognized it as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
• Hence, option B is correct.

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• Begum Sultan Jahan was the last Begum of Bhopal. Ruled from 1909 to 1926 after which she was succeeded by her son.
  
  • Fourth female ruler of Bhopal. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• She was a Philanthropist, Prolific writer, Feminist, Symbol of Women Empowerment, First female Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University.
  
  • She set up the municipality system, introduced municipal elections and constructed a walled city and a palace for herself.
  • Took steps for improving public health, sanitation, and water supply in the walled city and implemented widespread vaccination drives for its residents.
• Begum Sultan Jahan authored 41 books, translated a number of English books into Urdu.
  
  • She authored a book, Dars-e-Hayat, about the education and parenting of young girls. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  • Started a nursing school called Lady Minto Nursing School.
  • She was the first women chancellor of AMU (Aligarh Muslim University).

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Correct Answer : B

Explanation

• The HakkiPikki tribes are semi nomadic tribal people, have four clans namely the Gujrathioa, Kaliwala, Mewara and Panwara.
  
  • It is a Scheduled Tribe in Karnataka (not Rajasthan). Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
  • The HakkiPikki, meaning “bird catchers” in Kannada.
• They speak many south Indian languages such as Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam along with Vagribooli which is similar to Guajarati.
• The origin of HakkiPikki tribal communities has a rich history and is said to be an ancestral relation with the legendary Ranapratap Singh.
  
  • The HakkiPikki tribal community are a Kshatriya or warrior tribal community who had to migrate to southern India after their defeat with Mughal kings. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

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Correct Answer : C

Explanation

• The word Jaina of Jainism comes from the term Jina, meaning conqueror.
  
  • Tirthankara is a Sanskrit word meaning 'Ford maker', i.e., one who is able to ford the river, to cross beyond the perpetual flow of earthly life.
• Jainism attaches utmost importance to ahimsa or non-violence. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• It preaches 5 mahavratas (the 5 great vows):
  
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence)
  • Satya (Truth)
  • Asteya or Acharya (Non-stealing)
  • Aparigraha (Non-attachment/Non-possession)
  • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity)
• Among these 5 teachings, the Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity) was added by Mahavira. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• Jainism is a religion of self-help.
  
  • There are no gods or spiritual beings that will help human beings.
  • It does not condemn the varna system. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

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Correct Answer : D

Explanation

• The Lingaraj Temple, built in the 11^th century AD, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered as the largest temple of the city Bhubaneswar (Odisha).
  
  • It is believed to have been built by the Somvanshi King Yayati I. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
• It is built in red stone and is a classic example of Kalinga style of architecture.
  
  • This style broadly comes under the Nagara style. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• 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).

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Correct Answer : A

Explanation

• There are eight Classical Dances of India: Bharatnatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (North India), Kathakali (Kerala), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Odisha), Sattriya (Assam) and Manipuri (Manipur). Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The Kalladikodan shailee is one among the three major styles of Kathakali. The other two are Vettathu and Kaplingadu. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  • The Kalladikodan style gives equal importance to the three aspects of nritta (the dance movements in their basic form), nritya (expressional component i.e. mudras or gestures) and natya (the dramatic element of the dance i.e. the imitation of characters).
• Guru Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair was a Kathakali maestro. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
  
  • He studied at Kalladikkodan school of Kathakali and was specialised in “Kalladikodan” style.

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