Question 1 of 5
Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: 1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene. 2. During this period, the people worshipped images of male deities only. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Why: The Indus Valley Civilization is characterized as predominantly secular with religious elements present but not dominant, as evidenced by limited religious artifacts compared to urban planning and trade focus. Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect because archaeological evidence from sites like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro shows worship of both male (Proto-Shiva) and female (Mother Goddess) deities, including terracotta figurines. Thus, option A (1 only) is correct.
Question 2 of 5
The “dharma” and “rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements: 1. Dharma was a conception of obligations and of the discharge of one’s duties to oneself and to others. 2. Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Why: In Vedic literature, 'Dharma' refers to the cosmic order and individual duties, encompassing moral, social, and religious obligations to maintain harmony. 'Rita' is the eternal law governing the universe, ensuring regularity in natural phenomena like seasons and moral conduct. Both statements accurately describe these concepts from Rigveda and other Vedic texts, making option C correct.
Question 3 of 5
Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhasa?
A
Kavyalankara
B
Natyashastra
C
Madhyama-vyayoga
D
Mahabhashya
Why: Bhasa was an ancient Sanskrit playwright known for his works in the Nataka style, predating Kalidasa. 'Madhyama-vyayoga' (The Middle Brother's Dilemma) is one of his 13 recognized plays, discovered in Kerala. Other options are incorrect: Kavyalankara by Mammata, Natyashastra by Bharata Muni, Mahabhashya by Patanjali. Thus, option C is correct.
Question 4 of 5
With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin. 2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics. 3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition. How many statements given above are correct?
A
None
B
One
C
Two
D
Three
Why: Stupas originated in Buddhism as hemispherical structures containing Buddha's relics or those of saints, serving as objects of worship (Statement 2). They commemorate events in Buddha's life and are votive (Statements 1 and 3). Examples include Sanchi and Bharhut stupas. All three statements are correct, so option D.
Question 5 of 5
On the basis of literary and inscriptional sources, give the description of types of land, land measures, and land tenure prevalent in ancient India.
Why: This answer covers literary (Arthashastra, epics) and epigraphic (Junagadh, Allahabad Pillar) sources comprehensively. It structures types, measures, and tenures with examples, meeting 200-300 word requirement for detailed mains response.
