IKS/ BKS/BGP MCQs – Semester III
UNIT I: Chapter 1
An Introduction to Indian Literature
1. What is considered the main form of Indian knowledge in its verbal form?
a) Upanishads
b) Puranas
c) Vedas
d) Shastras
Answer: c) Vedas
2. How many main Vedas are there?
a) Two
b) Three
c) Four
d) Six
Answer: c) Four
3. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a component needed to understand the Vedas?
a) Shiksha
b) Kalpa
c) Tantra
d) Jyotisha
Answer: c) Tantra
4. Which of the following statements about Indian philosophical schools is most accurate?
a) All six astika philosophies reject Vedic authority
b) Charvaka, Jain, and Buddhist philosophies are considered astika
c) Mimamsa Shastra primarily focuses on refuting arguments
d) Vedanta encompasses diverse theories explaining concepts like soul, world, and God
Answer: d) Vedanta encompasses diverse theories explaining concepts like soul, world, and God
Explanation: While options a) and b) are incorrect (astika philosophies accept Vedic authority, and Charvaka, Jain, and Buddhist philosophies are nastika), options c) and d) require more careful consideration. Mimamsa Shastra helps understand Vedic sentences, while Nyaya Shastra is for refuting arguments. On the other hand, Vedanta is described as encompassing various theories about soul, world, God, maya, and atma.
5. How many shlokas does the Mahabharata contain?
a) 24,000
b) 50,000
c) 75,000
d) 100,000
Answer: d) 100,000
6. Which of the following is NOT one of the six astika (orthodox) philosophies?
a) Sankhya
b) Yoga
c) Charvaka
d) Nyaya
Answer: c) Charvaka
7. What is the primary purpose of Nyaya Shastra?
a) Understanding Vedic sentences
b) Describing the nature of deities
c) Refuting arguments and establishing truth
d) Explaining soul and world
Answer: c) Refuting arguments and establishing truth
8. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a part of Tantra-Agama?
a) Shaivagama
b) Shaktagama
c) Vaishnavagama
d) Buddhagama
Answer: d) Buddhagama
9. How many main Puranas are mentioned in the text?
a) 6
b) 12
c) 18
d) 24
Answer: c) 18
10. Which branch of Indian literature includes both predictive and mathematical aspects?
a) Ayurveda
b) Jyotisha Shastra
c) Dharma Shastra
d) Mimamsa Shastra
Answer: b) Jyotisha Shastra
11. Which of the following combinations correctly matches the components of Indian literature with their primary functions or characteristics?
I. Shiksha - Sound and word knowledge of Vedas
II. Grihya-sutras - Expansion of Vedic mantras
III. Dharma-sutras - Rules and prohibitions according to Vedic dharma
IV. Jyotisha - Only predictive aspects of astrology
V. Ayurveda - Both ancient and modern medical principles
a) I, II, and III only
b) I, III, and V only
c) II, III, and IV only
d) I, III, IV, and V only
Answer: b) I, III, and V only
Explanation: I is correct: The text states that each Veda has a 'Shiksha' text for its sound and word knowledge.
II is incorrect: Grihya-sutras are mentioned as part of the expansion of Vedic mantras, but they are not the only or primary form of this expansion.
III is correct: Dharma-sutras describe 'rules and prohibitions' according to Vedic dharma.
IV is incorrect: Jyotisha Shastra is said to include both predictive and mathematical aspects, not only predictive.
V is correct: The text explicitly states that Ayurveda encompasses both ancient and modern principles.
Therefore, only statements I, III, and V are correct.
12. Which of the following statements about the Vedas and their associated texts is most accurate?
a) Rigveda has the most Upanishads among all Vedas
b) Yajurveda has an equal number of Upanishads in both its main types
c) Samaveda has more mantras in its Uttararchika than in its Purvarchika
d) Atharvaveda has fewer Kandas but more Suktas than Rigveda
Answer: c) Samaveda has more mantras in its Uttararchika than in its Purvarchika
Explanation: This question requires careful analysis of each Veda. Rigveda has 2 Upanishads, Yajurveda has 2 in Shukla and 4 in Krishna (not equal), Samaveda's Uttararchika has 1225 mantras while Purvarchika has 650 (making c correct), and Atharvaveda has 20 Kandas and 731 Suktas compared to Rigveda's 10 Mandalas and 1028 Suktas.
13. Who compiled the Vedic mantras into what is known as 'Adi Veda'?
a) Rishi Paila
b) Veda Vyasa
c) Rishis in deep meditation
d) Atharvaveda sages
Answer: b) Veda Vyasa
14. Which of the following comparisons is most accurate?
a) Rigveda has more Suktas than Atharvaveda, but fewer Mantras
b) Yajurveda has more branches than Samaveda has total Mantras
c) The number of Upanishads mentioned for Yajurveda is equal to the sum of those mentioned for all other Vedas
d) Atharvaveda has more Kandas than Rigveda has Mandalas, but fewer Mantras than Samaveda
Answer: a) Rigveda has more Suktas than Atharvaveda, but fewer Mantras
Explanation: - Rigveda has 1028 Suktas and 10,552 Mantras
- Atharvaveda has 731 Suktas and 5987 Mantras
- Yajurveda has 100 branches total (15 + 85), which is less than Samaveda's 1875 Mantras
- Yajurveda has 6 Upanishads mentioned (2+4), while the others total 6 (2+2+2)
- Atharvaveda has 20 Kandas, more than Rigveda's 10 Mandalas, but 5987 Mantras, which is more than Samaveda's 1875
Therefore, only option a) is correct.
15. Which of the following is NOT one of the six Vedangas mentioned?
a) Shiksha
b) Nirukta
c) Mimamsa
d) Kalpa
Answer: c) Mimamsa
16. How many total fields of knowledge are included in Ashtadasha?
a) 4
b) 6
c) 18
d) 28
Answer: c) 18
17. Which Veda is considered the primary Veda in terms of antiquity?
a) Yajurveda
b) Samaveda
c) Rigveda
d) Atharvaveda
Answer: c) Rigveda
18. Consider the following statements about the classification of knowledge in ancient Indian tradition:
I. The Ashtadasha includes four Vedas, six Vedangas, four Shastras, and four Upavedas.
II. All six schools of Indian philosophy are included in the Ashtadasha.
III. Sthapatyashastra is considered an alternative to Arthashastra as an Upaveda.
IV. Nyaya Darshana is both a Shastra and one of the six schools of philosophy.
Which of the above statements are correct?
a) I and II only
b) I, III, and IV only
c) II and IV only
d) I, II, III, and IV
Answer: b) I, III, and IV only
Explanation: Statement I is correct as it accurately summarizes the components of Ashtadasha. Statement II is incorrect because only two of the six schools (Mimamsa and Nyaya) are explicitly mentioned as part of the Ashtadasha. Statement III is correct as the text mentions "Arthashastra / Sthapatyashastra" as an alternative. Statement IV is correct as Nyaya Darshana is listed both as a Shastra and as one of the six schools of philosophy.
19. What are the two main types of Yajurveda?
a) Purvarchika and Uttararchika
b) Shukla and Krishna
c) Aitareya and Kaushitaki
d) Purvamimamsa and Uttaramimamsa
Answer: b) Shukla and Krishna
20. What is the total number of mantras in Samaveda according to the text?
a) 650
b) 1225
c) 1875
d) 5987
Answer: c) 1875
21. Which Veda is described as an encyclopedia of knowledge encompassing Vedic-era civilization, culture, knowledge, and science?
a) Rigveda
b) Yajurveda
c) Samaveda
d) Atharvaveda
Answer: d) Atharvaveda
22. How many types of Vedangas are there?
a) Four
b) Five
c) Six
d) Eight
Answer: c) Six
23. Which Vedanga is considered the "mouth of the Veda Purusha"?
a) Shiksha
b) Vyakarana
c) Nirukta
d) Chhanda
Answer: b) Vyakarana
24. How many types of Kalpa are mentioned in the text?
a) Two
b) Three
c) Four
d) Five
Answer: c) Four
25. According to the text, how many Puranas are there?
a) 12
b) 16
c) 18
d) 24
Answer: c) 18
26. Who is credited with composing the Puranas?
a) Yaska Acharya
b) Maharishi Vyasa
c) Maharishi Gautama
d) Rishi Jaimini
Answer: b) Maharishi Vyasa
27. Which philosophy is divided into Purva and Uttara?
a) Nyaya
b) Mimamsa
c) Vedanta
d) Sankhya
Answer: b) Mimamsa
28. What is the primary aim of Indian Vedic culture according to the text?
a) To expound the dharma
b) To teach rituals
c) To explain creation
d) To promote astrology
Answer: a) To expound dharma
29. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a Dharmashastra in the text?
a) Manu Smriti
b) Yajnavalkya Smriti
c) Harita Smriti
d) Bhagavad Gita
Answer: d) Bhagavad Gita
30. According to Shukraniti, of which Veda is Dhanurveda an Upaveda?
a) Rigveda
b) Yajurveda
c) Samaveda
d) Atharvaveda
Answer: c) Samaveda
31. Who is considered the founder of Vastu in North India?
a) Mayan
b) Vishwakarma
c) Kautilya
d) Bharatamuni
Answer: b) Vishwakarma
32. Which Vedanga is described as the "eyes of the Veda Purusha"?
a) Shiksha
b) Kalpa
c) Nirukta
d) Jyotisha
Answer: d) Jyotisha
33. Who is considered the founder of Nyaya philosophy?
a) Vatsyayana
b) Maharishi Gautama
c) Rishi Jaimini
d) Chanakya
Answer: b) Maharishi Gautama
34. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the five special characteristics of Puranas?
a) Description of creation process
b) Description of four types of destructions
c) Description of 14 Manvantaras
d) Description of philosophical debates
Answer: d) Description of philosophical debates
35. In Ayurveda, who are considered the original teachers of this science?
a) Indra and Dhanvantari
b) Chyavana and Janaka
c) The Ashvini Kumars
d) Sushruta and Charaka
Answer: c) The Ashvini Kumars
36. What is the primary focus of Arthashastra?
a) General economic principles
b) Personal wealth accumulation
c) Political science for kings
d) Religious rituals for prosperity
Answer: c) Political science for kings
UNIT I: Chapter 2
Oral Tradition
1. What is the primary characteristic of oral tradition or oral culture?
a) It transmits knowledge through written texts
b) It passes knowledge from one generation to another orally
c) It is limited to a specific time period
d) It is attributed to a single person's knowledge
Answer: b) It passes knowledge from one generation to another orally
2. Which texts in Indian literature are considered the most ancient and are called Shruti texts?
a) Puranas
b) Vedas
c) Upanishads
d) Epics
Answer: b) Vedas
3. What does "Shruti" mean in the context of Vedic texts?
a) That which is written
b) That which is seen
c) That which is heard
d) That which is memorized
Answer: c) That which is heard
4. How many arts are mentioned in Indian culture?
a) 16
b) 32
c) 64
d) 108
Answer: c) 64
5. What is cited as an example of the resilience of Indian knowledge despite attempts to destroy it?
a) The survival of Nalanda University
b) The preservation of knowledge despite the burning of books at Nalanda
c) The discovery of new manuscripts
d) The translation of texts into multiple languages
Answer: b) The preservation of knowledge despite the burning of books at Nalanda
6. How many traditional life-cycle rituals or sacraments (sanskaras) are typically observed in Indian culture?
a) 8
b) 12
c) 16
d) 24
Answer: c) 16
7. What does the proverb "Distant mountains look beautiful" teach?
a) To appreciate nature
b) To travel more
c) Not to trust appearances from afar
d) To climb mountains
Answer: c) Not to trust appearances from afar
8. Why is the oral tradition considered effective even in the modern age?
a) Because it's easier than reading
b) Because it's more entertaining
c) Because of the impact of how and by whom something is said
d) Because it's cheaper than books
Answer: c) Because of the impact of how and by whom something is said
9. According to the text, what is a key characteristic of oral tradition knowledge?
a) It is limited to a specific era
b) It progresses forward according to time and circumstance
c) It remains unchanged over time
d) It is only relevant to ancient societies
Answer: b) It progresses forward according to time and circumstance
UNIT I: Chapter 3
The Global Need for Indian Knowledge Tradition
1. What is emphasized as the best foundation for humanity in the Indian knowledge tradition?
- A) Material wealth
- B) Knowledge
- C) Power
- D) Political influence
Answer: B) Knowledge
2. Which Indian philosophical schools focus on logic and epistemology?
- A) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
- B) Sankhya and Yoga
- C) Mimamsa and Vedanta
- D) Yoga and Vedanta
Answer: A) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
3. What concept from Indian Shruti and Smriti texts helps counteract terrorism and fosters a sense of global unity?
- A) Dharma
- B) Karma
- C) Moksha
- D) Artha
Answer: A) Dharma
4. What was the significant contribution of Aryabhata in ancient Indian mathematics?
- A) Development of calculus
- B) Introduction of zero
- C) Heliocentric model of the solar system
- D) Invention of the abacus
Answer: C) Heliocentric model of the solar system
5. In the context of family dissolution, how does the Indian perspective differ from Western perspectives?
- A) It focuses on individuality and personal success.
- B) It emphasizes the interests of the family, society, and the world.
- C) It promotes separation and individualism.
- D) It disregards the importance of family in personal development.
Answer: B) It emphasizes the interests of the family, society, and the world.
6. What is a key component of the Indian knowledge system that addresses mental stress?
- A) Western psychotherapy techniques
- B) Yoga philosophy
- C) Modern pharmacology
- D) Self-help books
Answer: B) Yoga philosophy
7. Which global issue is primarily caused by uncontrolled industrialization and urbanization?
- A) Family dissolution
- B) Mental stress
- C) Pollution and global warming
- D) Poverty
Answer: C) Pollution and global warming
8. What is considered a major disadvantage of modern Western education according to the text?
- A) It emphasizes collective progress over individual success.
- B) It results in rapid economic development but increases loneliness and mental distress.
- C) It fosters a strong sense of community and interconnectedness.
- D) It integrates traditional values with modern science effectively.
Answer: B) It results in rapid economic development but increases loneliness and mental distress.
9. What was a characteristic of the Vedic era in terms of prosperity?
- A) Inflation and economic instability
- B) Abundance of food and general happiness
- C) High levels of pollution
- D) Severe imbalance between human life and nature
Answer: B) Abundance of food and general happiness
10. Which philosophical systems are mentioned as foundational for Indian philosophical thought?
- A) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
- B) Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta
- C) Buddhism and Jainism
- D) Confucianism and Taoism
Answer: B) Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta
Unit I: Chapter 4
Causes of Decline and Revival of Indian Knowledge Tradition
1. What was one of the main reasons foreign invaders were attracted to India during its period of political instability?
- A) The desire for political power
- B) The rich treasuries, metals, and mineral reserves
- C) The advanced military technology
- D) The extensive naval power
Answer: B) The rich treasuries, metals, and mineral reserves
2. Which of the following invaders occupied India for the longest period?
- A) Greeks
- B) Mughals
- C) Portuguese
- D) British
Answer: B) Mughals
3. What was a primary target of the Mughal invaders in India?
- A) Agricultural land
- B) Indian art and crafts
- C) Temples and Vedic culture
- D) Indian textiles
Answer: C) Temples and Vedic culture
4. What was destroyed by the Mughal invaders that severely impacted the Indian knowledge tradition?
- A) Indian trade routes
- B) Indian ports and shipping industry
- C) Libraries and educational institutions like Nalanda
- D) Indian agricultural systems
Answer: C) Libraries and educational institutions like Nalanda
5. How did the British impact India's economy during their rule?
- A) By boosting India's global trade
- B) By reducing India's economic output from 27% to less than 3% of the world's economy
- C) By enhancing Indian textile and shipbuilding industries
- D) By promoting Indian cultural heritage
Answer: B) By reducing India's economic output from 27% to less than 3% of the world's economy
6. What was one of the British strategies to control Indian industries and businesses?
- A) Promoting Indian textiles and shipbuilding globally
- B) Imposing heavy taxes and restrictions on Indian goods
- C) Encouraging competition between Indian and British goods
- D) Investing in Indian agricultural development
Answer: B) Imposing heavy taxes and restrictions on Indian goods
7. Which Indian industry was particularly noted for its global excellence before British rule?
- A) Shipbuilding
- B) Agriculture
- C) Textile production
- D) Iron ore mining
Answer: C) Textile production
8. What was one of the effects of British taxation policies on Indian agriculture?
- A) Increased agricultural exports
- B) Prosperity and reduced farmer debt
- C) Burdening farmers with debt and forcing them to sell their children
- D) Enhancement of domestic agricultural markets
Answer: C) Burdening farmers with debt and forcing them to sell their children
9. What was one of the British objectives during their colonial rule in India?
- A) To support the development of Indian industries
- B) To gain control over India's natural resources and markets
- C) To promote cultural exchange between India and Britain
- D) To improve the living conditions of Indian citizens
Answer: B) To gain control over India's natural resources and markets
10. What role did Indian temples play in the Indian knowledge tradition before the foreign invasions?
- A) Centers for agricultural development
- B) Knowledge centers and educational institutions
- C) Trade and business hubs
- D) Centers for political administration
Answer: B) Knowledge centers and educational institutions
UNIT II: Chapter 1
Social Systems and Arts in Indian Knowledge Tradition
1. What does the term "all-encompassing culture" refer to?
- A) A culture focused solely on art and music
- B) A culture that addresses all aspects of the human mind and society
- C) A culture limited to technological advancements
- D) A culture that only values historical artifacts
Answer: B) A culture that addresses all aspects of the human mind and society
2. Which example is used to illustrate India's advanced cultural practices compared to modern examples in America?
- A) The use of drive-in facilities
- B) The creation of cubicles in markets for people on horseback
- C) The development of modern architecture
- D) The establishment of early universities
Answer: B) The creation of cubicles in markets for people on horseback
3. Which Indian deity is associated with music and the veena?
- A) Lakshmi
- B) Durga
- C) Saraswati
- D) Parvati
Answer: C) Saraswati
4. What is the historical significance of the veena?
- A) It is a recent invention from the 20th century.
- B) It dates back to ancient times and is associated with Goddess Saraswati.
- C) It was introduced during the Mughal period.
- D) It was a modern addition to Indian music in the 19th century.
Answer: B) It dates back to ancient times and is associated with Goddess Saraswati.
5. According to Bharatmuni’s Natyashastra, what are the two main types of veenas mentioned?
- A) Chitra and Vipanchi
- B) Kachchhapi and Ghosha
- C) Vana and Veena
- D) Dundubhi and Gargara
Answer: A) Chitra and Vipanchi
6. Which Vedic text mentions music?
- A) Yajurveda
- B) Samaveda
- C) Rigveda
- D) Atharvaveda
Answer: B) Samaveda
7. What does the 'Sama' in Samaveda refer to?
- A) A type of musical instrument
- B) The movement of musical notes
- C) The structure of ancient architecture
- D) A form of dance
Answer: B) The movement of musical notes
8. What is the significance of Bharatmuni's Natyashastra?
- A) It focuses on ancient Indian dance only.
- B) It provides evidence that Indian music art was based on scientific principles and was fully developed.
- C) It describes modern musical instruments.
- D) It outlines Western musical scales.
Answer: B) It provides evidence that Indian music art was based on scientific principles and was fully developed.
9. How old is the veena described in the text?
- A) 1000 years old
- B) 2000 years old
- C) At least 4000 years old
- D) 500 years old
Answer: C) At least 4000 years old
10. What was the main purpose of the cubicles built in Raigad according to the text?
- A) To serve as storage spaces
- B) To provide market facilities for people on horseback
- C) To house ancient manuscripts
- D) To function as military barracks
Answer: B) To provide market facilities for people on horseback
11. What is the oldest known musical instrument?
- A) Trumpet-like instrument from Denmark
- B) Flute from Egypt
- C) Veena from India
- D) Drum from Mesopotamia
Answer: B) Flute from Egypt
12. Which historical figure is credited with introducing a specific series of notes (a scale) to the Western world?
- A) Plato
- B) Aristotle
- C) Pythagoras
- D) Socrates
Answer: C) Pythagoras
13. How old is Indian music based on references in the Rigveda and Samaveda?
- A) At least 1000 years old
- B) At least 2500 years old
- C) At least 5000 years old
- D) At least 3000 years old
Answer: C) At least 5000 years old
14. Which text is considered to be related to Vedic rituals but also contains songs and music?
- A) Rigveda
- B) Samaveda
- C) Katyayana's Shrautasutra
- D) Atharvaveda
Answer: C) Katyayana's Shrautasutra
15. What does the text suggest about the Indian music system compared to Western music?
- A) Western music developed earlier than Indian music.
- B) Indian music was developed scientifically thousands of years ago, predating Western music.
- C) Indian music is a recent development influenced by Western music.
- D) Indian music has no historical significance compared to Western music.
Answer: B) Indian music was developed scientifically thousands of years ago, predating Western music.
16. What is the significance of the Sitabengra Caves?
- A) They are the first known theater in the Asian continent.
- B) They are known for their ancient musical instruments.
- C) They contain the oldest known musical notation.
- D) They were the site of early scientific discoveries.
Answer: A) They are the first known theater in the Asian continent.
17. Which Indian poet is believed to have composed his epic 'Meghdoot' in the Sitabengra Caves?
- A) Kalidasa
- B) Valmiki
- C) Tulsidas
- D) Bhartrihari
Answer: A) Kalidasa
18. What was the primary purpose of the Sitabengra Cave’s main chamber?
- A) Storage of ancient manuscripts
- B) A seating area for spectators in a theater
- C) A space for ritualistic practices
- D) A residential area for artists
Answer: B) A seating area for spectators in a theater
19. Which other cave is mentioned alongside Sitabengra Cave for containing colored wall paintings from around 300 BCE?
- A) Ajanta Caves
- B) Jogi Mara Cave
- C) Elephanta Caves
- D) Ellora Caves
Answer: B) Jogi Mara Cave
20. What notable feature is mentioned about the main chamber of Sitabengra Cave?
- A) It has intricate carvings of deities.
- B) It is designed to prevent echoes with holes in the walls.
- C) It contains ancient musical instruments.
- D) It has a large water reservoir.
Answer: B) It is designed to prevent echoes with holes in the walls.
21. Why do some people disagree with the classification of Sitabengra Cave as a theater?
- A) The cave's structure does not match Bharata Muni's theater design.
- B) The cave does not contain any stage area.
- C) The cave was built after Bharata Muni's Natyashastra was written.
- D) The cave has been extensively damaged and lacks clear features.
Answer: A) The cave's structure does not match Bharata Muni's theater design.
22. Which feature of Greek theaters is mentioned as similar to the structure found in the Sitabengra Cave?
- A) The use of amphitheaters
- B) The circular space in the center of the stage area
- C) The tiered seating arrangements
- D) The use of natural light for performances
Answer: B) The circular space in the center of the stage area
23. What does the text suggest about the relationship between ancient Greek and Indian theatrical traditions?
- A) Greek theater was influenced by Indian theater.
- B) Indian theater was influenced by Greek theater.
- C) Both traditions developed independently with no influence from each other.
- D) Indian theater borrowed its concepts directly from Greek theater.
Answer: A) Greek theater was influenced by Indian theater.
24. Who was Alexander the Great and what role did he play in the context of Indian and Greek cultural exchanges?
- A) An Indian philosopher who documented Greek influences on India
- B) A Greek king whose interactions with India are evidence of early cross-cultural exchanges
- C) A Greek playwright who wrote about Indian dramas
- D) A historian who proved the existence of ancient Indian theaters
Answer: B) A Greek king whose interactions with India are evidence of early cross-cultural exchanges
25. According to the text, which ancient text is considered to contain detailed descriptions of drama characteristics such as invocation and prelude?
- A) Rigveda
- B) Samaveda
- C) Agni Purana
- D) Natyashastra
Answer: C) Agni Purana
26. How many chapters are said to be in Bharata Muni's Natyashastra according to some scholars?
- A) 30 chapters
- B) 36 chapters
- C) 37 chapters
- D) 40 chapters
Answer: C) 37 chapters
27. Which play is mentioned by Bharata Muni as the first play?
- A) Abhijnanasakuntalam
- B) Malavikagnimitram
- C) Samavakara Amrit Manthan
- D) Vikramorvasiyam
Answer: C) Samavakara Amrit Manthan
28. What are some of the characters described by Bharata Muni in his treatise Natyashastra?
- A) Narrator, hero, heroine, jester, and servant
- B) Poet, dancer, musician, and critic
- C) King, queen, merchant, and sage
- D) Storyteller, warrior, scholar, and artist
Answer: A) Narrator, hero, heroine, jester, and servant
29. What does the term 'anka' refer to in Bharata Muni's Natyashastra?
- A) A specific type of play
- B) A traditional term for a play's act
- C) A character in the drama
- D) A genre of music
Answer: B) A traditional term for a play's act
30. Who discovered Sanskrit plays written by Bhasa in Malayalam script on palm leaves in 1912?
a) Bharatmuni
b) Kalidasa
c) T. Ganapati Shastri
d) Krishnaji Laxman Soman
Answer: c) T. Ganapati Shastri
31. How many plays of Bhasa were found in the monastery in Travancore state?
a) 5
b) 10
c) 13
d) 20
Answer: c) 13
32. Which play currently staged is based on Bhasa's Sanskrit play 'Madhyamavyayoga'?
a) Samavakara Amrit Manthan
b) Urubhangam
c) Inferno
d) Mahabharata
Answer: b) Urubhangam
33. What are the five elements (Pancha Mahabhuta) in Hindu philosophy?
a) Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Space
b) Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water
c) Sun, Moon, Stars, Earth, Sky
d) Light, Sound, Touch, Taste, Smell
Answer: a) Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Space
34. What is the unique characteristic of three of the five-element temples?
a) They are all located in the same city
b) They were all built in the same year
c) They are located in a straight line despite being hundreds of kilometers apart
d) They are all dedicated to different gods
Answer: c) They are located in a straight line despite being hundreds of kilometers apart
35. Which of the following temples is NOT located on the same longitude (79.41 E)?
a) Sri Kalahasti Temple
b) Sri Ekambareshwar Temple
c) Sri Thillai Nataraja Temple
d) All of these temples are on the same longitude
Answer: d) All of these temples are on the same longitude
36. Which element does the Sri Kalahasti Temple represent?
a) Water
b) Air
c) Earth
d) Fire
Answer: b) Air
37. How old is the mango tree in the Sri Ekambareswar Temple, according to carbon dating?
a) 1000 years
b) 2000 years
c) 3000 years
d) 4000 years
Answer: c) 3000 years
38. What is unique about the Shiva Linga in the Sri Kalahasti Temple?
a) It is made of soil
b) It is never touched, even by priests
c) It is submerged in water
d) It changes color
Answer: b) It is never touched, even by priests
39. Which of the following is true about the Sri Ekambareswar Temple?
a) It represents the water element
b) It is located in Andhra Pradesh
c) Its Shiva Linga is made of soil
d) It was built in the 11th century
Answer: c) Its Shiva Linga is made of soil
40. Consider the following statements:
I. The Sri Kalahasti temple is known as "Southern Kailash" or "Southern Kashi".
II. The sanctum sanctorum of the Sri Kalahasti temple was built in the 5th century.
III. The Sri Ekambareswar Temple in Kanchipuram represents the space element.
IV. Adi Shankaracharya mentioned the Sri Kalahasti temple in "Shivananda Lahari".
V. The mango tree in the Sri Ekambareswar Temple is considered a symbol of the four Vedas.
Which of the above statements are correct?
a) I, II, IV, and V
b) I, II, III, and IV
c) II, III, IV, and V
d) I, II, and IV
Answer: a) I, II, IV, and V
Explanation:
- Statement I is correct: Sri Kalahasti temple has been known as "Southern Kailash" or "Southern Kashi" for thousands of years.
- Statement II is correct: The sanctum sanctorum part of the Sri Kalahasti temple was built in the 5th century.
- Statement III is incorrect: The Sri Ekambareswar Temple represents the earth element, not the space element.
- Statement IV is correct: Adi Shankaracharya has mentioned this temple in "Shivananda Lahari".
- Statement V is correct: The mango tree in the Sri Ekambareswar Temple is considered a symbol of the four Vedas.
41. Which of the following temples represents the sky element among the Pancha Mahabhuta?
a) Sri Kalahasti Temple
b) Sri Ekambareshwar Temple
c) Tillai Nataraja Temple
d) Jambukeswar Temple
Answer: c) Tillai Nataraja Temple
42. According to local belief, what represents the sky element in the Tillai Nataraja Temple?
a) A golden idol
b) A small empty space adorned with a gold garland
c) A red curtain
d) A carved stone pillar
Answer: b) A small empty space adorned with a gold garland
43. Which temple among the Pancha Mahabhuta represents the water element?
a) Arunachaleswar temple
b) Sri Ekambareshwar Temple
c) Jambukeswar Temple
d) Sri Kalahasti Temple
Answer: c) Jambukeswar Temple
44. What is unique about the Shiva Linga in the Jambukeswar Temple?
a) It is made of soil
b) It is never touched
c) It is always submerged in water
d) It represents the fire element
Answer: c) It is always submerged in water
45. Which of the following statements about the Arunachaleswar temple is correct?
a) It represents the earth element
b) It is located in Andhra Pradesh
c) Its gopuram is as tall as a 10-story building
d) It is built on a hill and represents the fire element
Answer: d) It is built on a hill and represents the fire element
Unit II: Chapter 2
Science and Technology in Ancient India Agricultural Science
1. According to the text, who is credited with starting the tradition of increasing soil fertility through crop rotation?
a) Kautilya
b) Farmers of the Vedic period
c) Megasthenes
d) Roxburgh
Answer: b) Farmers of the Vedic period
2. What does Parashara Rishi predict when the Moon rules a year?
a) Less rainfall and hardships
b) Rain, plant growth, and good health
c) Calamities everywhere
d) Drought conditions
Answer: b) Rain, plant growth, and good health
3. According to 'Krishi Parashara', how much rainwater is an 'Adhaka'?
a) The amount in an area 100 yojanas wide and 300 yojanas high
b) 4 Dronas
c) 6.4 cm
d) 1 finger width
Answer: a) The amount in an area 100 yojanas wide and 300 yojanas high
4. Which book describes two methods of grafting plants?
a) Arthashastra
b) Krishi Parashara
c) Brihat Samhita
d) Srimad Bhagavata Purana
Answer: c) Brihat Samhita
5. When was the method of sowing seeds in a row first used in England?
a) 1662
b) 1730
c) 1780
d) 1797
Answer: b) 1730
6. According to ancient Indian classification, how many main categories were animals broadly divided into?
a) Two
b) Three
c) Four
d) Five
Answer: b) Three (Jalchar, Bhuchar, and Khechar)
7. Which of the following is NOT one of the four types of species classification based on origin?
a) Jarayuj
b) Andaj
c) Swedaj
d) Khechar
Answer: d) Khechar
8. According to Charaka's classification, which category of animals includes the cheetah, deer, and sharabha?
a) Prasaha
b) Bhumishaya
c) Jangala Pashu
d) Vishkira Birds
Answer: c) Jangala Pashu
9. What is the name of the ancient Indian text on equine medicine?
a) Charaka Samhita
b) Shalihotra Samhita
c) Sushruta Samhita
d) Agni Purana
Answer: b) Shalihotra Samhita
10. Which Purana contains detailed descriptions of horse riding and equine medicine?
a) Garuda Purana
b) Vishnu Purana
c) Agni Purana
d) Bhagavata Purana
Answer: c) Agni Purana
11. What is the name of the world's oldest gold mine still in use, located in India?
a) Kolar
b) Hutti
c) Raichur
d) Hampi
Answer: b) Hutti
12. According to the text, how old is the Hutti gold mine based on carbon dating?
a) About 1000 years old
b) About 2000 years old
c) About 3000 years old
d) About 4000 years old
Answer: b) About 2000 years old
13. Which of the following is NOT one of the furnaces described by Vagbhata in 'Rasaratna Samucchaya'?
a) Mahagajaputa
b) Gajaputa
c) Varahaputa
d) Angar Koshti
Answer: d) Angar Koshti
14. Where is the oldest known zinc mine in history located?
a) Bristol, England
b) Khetri, Rajasthan
c) Zawar, near Udaipur
d) Mohenjo-daro, Pakistan
Answer: c) Zawar, near Udaipur
15. When did Europe gain knowledge about the mineral zinc and its production?
a) 1540 CE
b) 1640 CE
c) 1740 CE
d) 1840 CE
Answer: c) 1740 CE
16. Why is astronomy called the eye of the Vedas?
a) Because it helps in reading the Vedas
b) Because the knowledge of time comes from the movement of planets
c) Because it was discovered by Vedic sages
d) Because it's mentioned frequently in the Vedas
Answer: b) Because the knowledge of time comes from the movement of planets
17. Which of the following instruments is NOT mentioned as being described by Bhaskaracharya in 'Siddhanta Shiromani'?
a) Nadivalaya yantra
b) Ghati yantra
c) Chakra yantra
d) Telescope
Answer: d) Telescope
18. According to John Playfair's analysis, how old was the practice of astronomy in India?
a) About 2000 years before Christ
b) About 3000 years before Christ
c) About 4300 years before Christ
d) About 6000 years before Christ
Answer: c) About 4300 years before Christ
19. What surprising fact did John Playfair notice about the Siamese calendar?
a) It was based on the Gregorian calendar
b) It was more accurate than European calendars
c) Its Yamakotir line matched with the meridian of Benares
d) It was written in Sanskrit
Answer: c) Its Yamakotir line matched with the meridian of Benares
20. According to Sir Robert Barker's observations, how old were the instruments in the Varanasi observatory when he examined them in 1772?
a) About 200 years old
b) About 400 years old
c) About 600 years old
d) About 1000 years old
Answer: b) About 400 years old
21. Which ancient text is cited as evidence of the speed of light in the discussion between Mr. K. K. Shah and Prof. L. Shivappa?
a) Bhagavad Gita
b) Mahabharata
c) Rigveda
d) Manusmriti
Answer: c) Rigveda
22. According to the Rigveda verses discussed, what is the speed of light estimated to be in miles per second?
a) 29,900 miles per second
b) 186,000 miles per second
c) 200,000 miles per second
d) 188,767 miles per second
Answer: d) 188,767 miles per second
23. What concept does Bhaskaracharya use to explain why the Earth does not need to rest on anything?
a) Infinite regression
b) Self-sustaining power
c) Divine intervention
d) Cosmic balance
Answer: b) Self-sustaining power
24. How does Bhaskaracharya explain the roundness of the Earth to his daughter Lilavati?
a) By comparing it to a flat circle
b) By comparing a small segment of a large circle to a straight line
c) By citing astronomical observations
d) By using geometric proofs
Answer: b) By comparing a small segment of a large circle to a straight line
25. What was Aryabhata's significant contribution to understanding the Earth's rotation?
a) Describing the Earth’s rotation on its axis
b) Proving the Earth is stationary
c) Calculating the speed of light
d) Demonstrating gravitational pull
Answer: a) Describing the Earth’s rotation on its axis
26. What is the distance of the Milky Way galaxy according to modern science?
a) 50,000 light-years long and 5,000 light-years wide
b) 100,000 light-years long and 10,000 light-years wide
c) 200,000 light-years long and 20,000 light-years wide
d) 150,000 light-years long and 15,000 light-years wide
Answer: b) 100,000 light-years long and 10,000 light-years wide
27. According to Srimad Bhagavatam, how many layers of coverings are there around the universe?
a) Five
b) Seven
c) Nine
d) Ten
Answer: b) Seven
28. What name is used in Indian tradition to refer to the concept of the Lord of Infinite Universes?
a) Anant Koti Brahmandanayaka
b) Vishvarupa
c) Mahavishnu
d) Brahma
Answer: a) Anant Koti Brahmandanayaka
29. Who is credited with planting the first cotton plant and creating a wooden spindle for making thread?
a) King Parikshit
b) Sage Dadhyanch
c) Mahamuni Shukadeva
d) Vinoba Bhave
Answer: b) Sage Dadhyanch
30. What did Marco Polo say about the origin of the most beautiful cotton fabrics?
a) They came from Bengal
b) They came from the coasts of Coromandel and Masulipatnam
c) They were made in Greece
d) They originated in Egypt
Answer: b) They came from the coasts of Coromandel and Masulipatnam
31. How did the cotton fabrics from Bengal become famous?
a) For their vibrant colors
b) For their durability
c) As 'Dhaka muslin' in ancient Greece, Egypt, and Arab traders' markets
d) For their use in military uniforms
Answer: c) As 'Dhaka muslin' in ancient Greece, Egypt, and Arab traders' markets
32. What did French merchant Tavernier note about the muslin fabrics in India in the mid-17th century?
a) They were heavy and coarse
b) They were so light that they were barely felt in hand and almost transparent
c) They were made of silk
d) They were brightly colored
Answer: b) They were so light that they were barely felt in hand and almost transparent
33. What unique gift did a Persian ambassador present to his Sultan?
a) A diamond-studded fabric
b) A 30-yard-long roll of muslin hidden inside a coconut
c) A golden thread garment
d) An embroidered silk scarf
Answer: b) A 30-yard-long roll of muslin hidden inside a coconut
34. According to Sir Joseph Banks, how fine was the Dhaka muslin fabric he analyzed?
a) It had a count of 1000
b) It had a count of 2425
c) It had a count of 500
d) It had a count of 100
Answer: b) It had a count of 2425
35. What happened to the Indian textile industry after the British colonization?
a) It flourished and expanded
b) It was preserved and modernized
c) It was deliberately destroyed, and the skilled workers were oppressed
d) It was outsourced to other countries
Answer: c) It was deliberately destroyed, and the skilled workers were oppressed
36. According to Aryabhata, how does the rotation of the Earth affect the visibility of celestial objects?
a) It causes the Earth to move through the stars
b) It causes stationary stars to move from east to west
c) It causes stars to be stationary
d) It affects the brightness of celestial objects
Answer: b) It causes stationary stars to move from east to west
37. Which verse from Aryabhata describes the phenomenon of sunrise and sunset at different locations on Earth?
a) "When it's sunrise in Lanka, it's sunset in Siddhapura..."
b) "The Earth rotates once every prana time..."
c) "The Earth’s shadow causes lunar eclipses..."
d) "Planets are balanced in the sky..."
Answer: a) "When it's sunrise in Lanka, it's sunset in Siddhapura..."
38. What is the closest modern measurement to Aryabhata's estimate for the distance of Mars from the Sun?
a) 1.538 AU
b) 1.523 AU
c) 1.500 AU
d) 1.600 AU
Answer: b) 1.523 AU
39. How accurate was Aryabhata’s measurement of the distance of Jupiter from the Sun compared to modern measurements?
a) 5.16 AU, which is very close to 5.20 AU
b) 5.00 AU, which is quite far from 5.20 AU
c) 5.50 AU, which is much less accurate
d) 5.10 AU, which is slightly less accurate
Answer: a) 5.16 AU, which is very close to 5.20 AU
40. In the context of ancient astronomy, what does the term "half nimesa" refer to?
a) A unit of time used to calculate the speed of light
b) A unit of distance for measuring astronomical bodies
c) A celestial coordinate system
d) A specific star in the Rigveda
Answer: a) A unit of time used to calculate the speed of light
Unit II: Chapter 3
Kautilya's Arthashastra
1. Which of the following names refers to the author of the Arthashastra?
a) Chanakya
b) Vishnugupta
c) Kautilya
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
2. What are the four disciplines included in the Arthashastra according to the text?
a) Philosophy, History, Mathematics, and Political Science
b) Philosophy, the three Vedas, Economics, and Political Science
c) Philosophy, Geography, Economics, and Law
d) Philosophy, Political Science, Astronomy, and Economics
Answer: b) Philosophy, the three Vedas, Economics, and Political Science
3. By what other names is Kautilya known?
a) Vishnugupta and Chanakya
b) Chandragupta and Chanakya
c) Vishnugupta and Chandragupta
d) Kautilya and Vishnugupta
Answer: a) Vishnugupta and Chanakya
4. In the context of governance, what did Kautilya's Arthashastra emphasize?
a) Democratic principles
b) Monarchy, territorial protection, and expansion through conquest
c) Peaceful coexistence and trade
d) Republic structures and citizen participation
Answer: b) Monarchy, territorial protection, and expansion through conquest
5. Which of the following is NOT included in the 'Principle of Public Administration' as described by Kautilya?
a) Discipline
b) Value-based administration
c) Centralization of authority
d) Isolation of individual interests
Answer: d) Isolation of individual interests
6. What does the principle of Saptanga include?
a) Ruler, Ministers, Territory and People, Fort, Treasury, Army, and Allies
b) Ruler, Fort, Treasury, Trade, Diplomacy, Army, and Citizens
c) Ruler, Ministers, Territory, Economy, Religion, Culture, and Allies
d) Ministers, Territory, Treasury, Education, Trade, Army, and Diplomacy
Answer: a) Ruler, Ministers, Territory and People, Fort, Treasury, Army, and Allies
7. What aspect of administration does Kautilya address in his work aside from public administration?
a) Art and culture
b) Personnel administration and financial administration
c) Education and public health
d) Urban planning and infrastructure
Answer: b) Personnel administration and financial administration
8. What is the focus of Kautilya's principle of Mandala?
a) Internal state governance
b) The economic system of the state
c) Inter-state relations and diplomacy
d) Legal principles within the state
Answer: c) Inter-state relations and diplomacy
9. Which of the following is NOT a part of the administrative system described by Kautilya?
a) King
b) Institutions
c) Departments
d) Private sector organizations
Answer: d) Private sector organizations
10. In Kautilya's Arthashastra, what elements are considered in financial administration?
a) Budget, Accounts, and Auditing
b) Budget, Taxation, and Public Spending
c) Accounts, Trade, and Investment
d) Financial Planning, Revenue Generation, and Public Works
Answer: a) Budget, Accounts, and Auditing
