Ancient History Previous Year Questions (PYQs) for Prelims

27-03-2025

UPSC Prelims Ancient History Questions: The Ancient History of India holds a separate space in the UPSC Civil Services exam. Every year, 5 to 10 Questions on architecture, literature, dynasties, etc. are asked as a part of Ancient History as well as Art and Culture which is why these two sections are often studied simultaneously.

Therefore, to perform well in this section, candidates should adopt a structured approach to their studies. One of the key strategies is to solve the previous year's UPSC Prelims Ancient History questions. Keep reading for UPSC Prelims Ancient History Questions PYQs and analysis.

Importance of Ancient History in UPSC Prelims 2025

Ancient History is important for the UPSC Prelims 2025 because it forms a key part of the exam syllabus. Questions about ancient dynasties, architecture, literature, and cultural developments appear every year. Some of the popular themes in this subject are Buddhism, Jainism, the Ashokan era, the Gupta age, etc., and the Indus Valley Civilization.

Ancient History questions in UPSC Prelims are usually straightforward with a variety of formats, like matching pairs. Referring to old NCERTs, Nitin Singhania’s Art and Culture, and sufficient for this section, as these resources provide a clear overview of key concepts and events. By focusing on these materials, candidates can build a solid foundation in Ancient History, which not only aids in answering questions effectively in Prelims but also enriches their understanding for Mains exam.

UPSC Prelims Ancient History Questions with Answers

To score well in the Ancient History section of the UPSC Prelims exam, candidates should ensure that they have memorized the all-important facts and events. Candidates can learn history as a story from the pre-historic era to the later Gupta phase focusing on the socio-economic and cultural aspects. As you read a particular topic, solve related questions from the previous years and read detailed explanations. You can refer to History Booklets for this which will help you expand your knowledge and revise effectively.

Trends of UPSC Prelims Ancient History Previous Year Questions

In the past few years, it has been noticed that Ancient History questions in UPSC Prelims have fluctuated until 2019 and increased in 2020. Chapters like the Indus Valley Civilization, Mahajanapadas, Post-Mauryan Era, Ancient Literature, etc. have been asked multiple times in the past year making these high-yield topics. Go through the trend of the past 10 years of Ancient History questions in UPSC Prelims to observe the evolution of patterns of themes recently:

Ancient History Questions in UPSC Prelims

1.Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct? [2022]

(a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.

(b) The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.

(d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.

Solution: (b)

Option b is the correct answer: Sangam literature are the earliest writings in the Tamil language, thought to have been produced in three chankams, or literary academies, in Madurai, India, from the 1st to the 4th century CE. The social classification of varna was known to Sangam poets. There is mention of the Arashar (kings), Vaishiyar (traders), and Velalar (farmers). The Brahmanas are also mentioned, some of them closely associated with the courts of kings and patronized by ruling elites. However, the fourfold varna classification had little application to ancient Tamil society. The jati system was not a feature of this society either.

2.Who among the following rulers advised his subjects through this inscription?

"Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely” [2020]

(a) Ashoka

(b) Samudraguptag

(d) Krishna Deva Raya

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: In 12th rock edict, Ashoka proclaimed that Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely.

3.Which one of the following is not a Harappan site? [2019]

(a) Chanhudaro

(b) Kot Diji

(d) Desalpur

Solution (c)

Option c is the correct answer: Sohgaura is not a harappan site. It is a village on the banks of the Rapti River, in the Gorakhpur District, Uttar Pradesh. The earliest known copper-plate, known as the Sohgaura copper-plate, is a Mauryan record that mentions famine relief efforts.

4.With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct? [2017]

1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them.

2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron.

3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (c)

Statement 1 is correct: The Rig Vedic charioteers used varma (coats of mail) and sipra/sironastra (helmets). They were also equipped with asi (swords), hanas (arrows) and ilhianus (bows). But in Indus Valley civilization there is no proof of this.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Harappan men and women wore ornaments made of gold, silver, copper, bronze and semi-precious stones. Harappans did not know iron.

Statement 3 is correct: There are many prayers in the Rigveda for cattle, children (especially sons), and horses. Horses were yoked to chariots that were used in battles, which were fought to capture cattle. Whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of a horse.

POST MAURYAN TO POST GUPTAS

1. In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka, which flourished as a prominent Buddhist centre under the Mahasanghikas, located? [2023]

(a) Andhra

(b) Gandhara

(d) Magadha

Solution: (a)

Option a is the correct answer: Dharanikota is a town near Amaravati in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh in India. It is the site of the ancient Dhanyakataka which was the capital of the Satavahana kingdom, also known as Andhras which ruled in the Deccan around the 1st to 3rd centuries A.D.

2. With reference to ancient South India, Kotkai, Poompuha:r and Muchiri were well known as: [2023]

(a) capital cities

(b) ports

(d) shrines of Jain Tirthankaras

Solution: (b)

Option b the correct answer: Korkai, Poompuhar (also known as Kaveripattinam), and Muchiri are ancient port cities in the southern region of present-day Tamil Nadu, India. These cities are known for their historical significance and connections to maritime trade and commerce.

3. Which one of the following explains the practice of "Vattakirutal" as mentioned in Sangam poems? [2023]

(a) Kings employing women bodyguards

(b) Learned persons assembling in royal courts to discuss religious and philosophical matters

(d) A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death.

Solution: (d)

Option d is the correct answer: Vatakkiruttal, also Vadakiruthal and vadakiruttal, was a Tamil ritual of fasting till death. It was especially widespread during the Sangam age. The Tamil kings, in order to save their honour, and prestige, were prepared to meet their death facing North ('Vatakkiruttal') and never would they turn their back in battle.

4. From the decline of Guptas until the rise of Harshavardhana in the early seventh century, which of the following kingdoms were holding power in Northern India? [2021]

1. The Guptas of Magadha

2. The Paramaras of Malwa

3. The Pushyabhutis of Thanesar

4. The Maukharis of Kanauj

5. The Yadavas of Devagiri

6. The Maitrakas of Valabhi

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 5 (b) 1, 3, 4 and 6

Solution: (b)

Option b is the correct answer: From the decline of Guptas until the rise of Harshvardhanas, new ruling dynasties emerged in different part of Northern India. The most prominent ones were- The Pushyabhutis of Thaneshwar, Maukharies of Kannauj, Maitrakas of Vallabhi, etc.

The Maitrakas were tributary chiefs of the Guptas, who established an independent kingdom in western India. Dhruvasena II was the most important ruler of the Maitrakas. He was a contemporary of Harshavardhana and was married to his daughter.

The Maukharies ruled over Kanauj, a city in western Uttar Pradesh, which gradually replaced Pataliputra as a political center of north India. Maukharies were also the subordinate rulers of the Guptas and used the title of samanta.

An important ruling family to gain prominence after the fall of the Gupta was that of the Pushyabhutis who had their capital at Thanesar (Thanesvara in Kurukshetra). The dynasty became influential with the accession of Prabhakarvardhana, who was able to defeat the Hunas and strengthen his position in the regions of Punjab and Haryana.

5.Consider the following events in the history of India: [2020]

1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja

2. Establishment of Pallava ,power under Mahendravarman-I

3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka-1

4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala

What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time? (a) 2 - 1 - 4 - 3 (b) 3 - 1 - 4 - 2

Solution (c)

Option c is the correct answer: 600-630 CE: Establishment of Pallava Power under Mahendravarman- I, 750-770 CE: Foundation of Pala Dynasty in Bihar and Bengal region 836-885 CE: Rise of Pratiharas under King Mihir Bhoja, 907-955 CE: Establishment of Chola Power under Reign of Parantaka-I

6. With reference to the history of India, consider the following pairs: [2020]

Famous place Present State

1. Bhilsa Madhya Pradesh

2. Dwarasamudra Maharashtra

3. Girinagar Gujarat

4. Sthanesvara Uttar Pradesh

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1 and 4 only

Solution (a)

Pair 1 is correct: Bhilsa(Vidisha) is located in Madhya Pradesh.

Pair 2 is incorrect: Dwarasamudra is situated in Karnataka, it was one of the capitals of the Hoysalas.

Pair 3 is correct: Girinagar is located in Gujarat.

Pair 4 is incorrect. Sthanesvara is located in Haryana.

7. With reference to the period of Gupta dynasty in ancient India, the towns Ghantasala, Kadura and Chaui were known as: [2020]

(a) ports handling foreign trade

(b) capitals of powerful kingdoms

(d) important of Buddhist pilgrimage centres

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: During Gupta period, there was a flourishing external and internal trade. In the Southern region, the ports were Kadura and Ghantasala, Kaveripattanam (Puhar) and Thondi were the ports of the Pandya region.

8. With reference to the history of India, the terms 'kulyavapa' and 'dronavapa' denote; [2020]

(a) measurement of land

(b) coins of different monetary value

(d) religious rituals

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: These are different terms for measuring land during the Gupta period. The Kulyavapa, Dronavapa, Adhavapa are the terms related to land measurements mainly mentioned in the copper plate inscriptions of Gupta era that were found in Bengal. Kulyavapa Iand must have been equal to around 160 bighas of land. A Dronavapa must be 16-20 bighas and Adhvapa which appears to be the smallest must be around 4-5 bighas of land.

9. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during, the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct? [2019]

(a) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people.

(b) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.

(d) The eldest son of the labourer was sent as the forced labourer.

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: In the Gupta period vishti - forced labour became a source of state income and was looked upon as a sort of taxation paid by the people. So it finds frequent mention along with other taxes in the Gupta inscriptions. The donees were not only provided with land and villages along with right to various taxes, they were also given the right to forced labour. This shows that forced labour was probably more common than in the earlier period.

10. Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom? [2017]

(a) Kakinada

(b) Motupalli

(d) Nellum

Solution (b)

Option bis the correct answer: Motupalli port thrived as an international port in the Kakatiya kingdom. It is located in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. A 15th Century inscription, issued by the Vijayanagara Emperor Deva Raya - II was unearthed in Motupalli in 2021.

ART AND CULTURE

1. Consider the following pairs: [2023]

Site Well known for

1. Besnagar Shaivite cave shrine

2. Bhaja Buddhist cave shrine

3. Sittanavasal Jain cave shrine

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one (b) Only two

Solution (b)

Pair 1 is incorrect: Besnagar also known as Vidisha is a town located in modern Madhya Pradesh. On the outskirts of Besnagar (Vidisha), stands the quaint Heliodorus Pillar dedicated to the God Vishnu, set up by a Greek named Heliodorus who is said to have adopted Hinduism and became a disciple of Lord Vishnu. Today, the pillar is worshipped by the locals as "Khamba Baba" and so the Besnagar site is well known for Vaishnavite sect not Shaivite sect.

Pair 2 is correct: Bhaja Caves is a group of 22 rock cut caves built during the 2nd century BC. This cave is also known as Bhaje caves and is located in Pune district, near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The Caves belong to the Hinayana Buddhism sect in Maharashtra. The cave consists of numerous stupas and the most prominent excavation is chaitya griha- cave XII.

Pair 3 is correct: Sithannavasal caves located in Pudukottai District of modern Tamil Nadu belong to Jainism. In ancient days the Jain Monks used to live in caves and hillocks so as to perform their ascetic life. They polished the hill for the purpose of poojas and penance in the open shelter.

2. With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements: [2023]

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 of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one (b) Only two

Solution (b)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Stupa is a pre-Buddhist mound in which sramanas were buded in a seated position called chaitya. The term "stupa" comes from the Sanskrit word "stupa;' which means "heap" or "pile." Originally, stupas were simple mounds of earth or stones that served as commemorative markers for important events or burial sites.

Statement 2 is correct: One of the primary functions of a stupa is to serve as a repository of relics. Relics are objects associated with the Buddha, such as his physical remains, personal belongings, or items used by him. They are considered sacred and hold great spiritual significance in Buddhism.

Statement 3 is correct: Stupas are also associated with votive and commemorative purposes. Stupas are often built as acts of devotion and as offerings to the Buddha or other enlightened beings. Stupas are also constructed to commemorate significant events, individuals, or historical sites. For example, stupas might be built to mark the birthplace, enlightenment site, or the site of the Buddha's parinirvana (passing away) .

3.Consider the following pairs: [2022]

Site of ashokas major rock edicts Location in the state of

1. Dhauli Odisha

2. Erragudi Andhra Pradesh

3. Jaugada Madhya Pradesh

4. Kalsi Karnataka

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one (b) Only two

Solution (b)

Pair I is correctly matched: Dhauli Rock edict is located in dhauli hills, close to 10 kms from Bhubneshwar in Odisha. The edicts are engraved on a large piece of rock, written in Pali. The rock edict is located near the historical sight of the Kalinga war which is said to transfo rm Samrat Ashok.

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Erragudi or Yerragudi rock edict is located in Kurnool district in Andhra Prndesh. The inscriptions were one of the important treasures of Mouryan king Ashoka (269-231 BCE) falling under major and minor rock inscriptions.

Pair 3 is incorrectly matched: Jaugada is the second place in Odisha where there is a major Ashokan rock edict. Ashoka's inscription in Jaugada is on a rock face about 30 feet long and 15 feet high. The rock edict inscriptions, engraved in Prakrit language in Brahmi script, have information about the better administrative policies based on Ashoka's humanitarian consideration.

Pair 4 is incorrectly matched: Kalsi is a small town located in between Chakrata and Dehradun on the banks of Yamuna River in Uttarakhand. The site of Ashoka's inscriptions at Kalsi is singularly unique as it is the only place in North India where the great Mauryan emperor has inscribed the set of the 14 rock edicts.

4. The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somanath Temple at Verval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple? [2022]

1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.

2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.

3. Pran Pratistha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present-day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution: (a)

Statement l is correct: Located at Veraval in the western coast of Gujarat, the Somnath Temple is believed to be the first among the 12 jyotirlinga shrine of Shiva. The site, which was part of the erstwhile princely state of Junagadh, was also connected to Lord Krishna. The political history of the shrine is traced back to a thousand years when in l 024 CE, during the reign of the Chalukya king Bhima I it was attacked by Turkik ruler Mahmud of Ghazni.

Statement 2 is correct: A description of the temple by Al-Biruni, an Arab traveller, was so glowing that it prompted a visit in 1024 by Mahmud of Ghazni.

Statement 3 is incorrect: The later sources of history account for several desecrations by Muslims invaders during eleventh to eighteen century A.D. The temple was rebuilt every time with the reconstructive spirit of the people. The modern temple was reconstructed with the resolve of Sardar Patel who visited the ruins of Somnath temple on November 13 1947. Then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, did the Pran-Pratistha at the existing temple on 11 May 1951.

5.With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements: [2021]

1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.

2. It is the only circular temple built in India.

3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.

4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (c)

Statement I is correct: According to an inscription dated to 1323 CE (Vikram Samvat 1383), the temple was built by the Kachchhapaghata king Devapala (1055 - 1075 CE). It is said that the temple was the venue of providing education in astrology and mathematics based on the transit of the Sun.

Statement 2 is incorrect: This circular temple is one among the very few such temples in India. It is not the only circular temple built in India.

Statement 3 is incorrect: It is, also known as Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple because of the presence of multitude of shivalingas inside its cells. So it promote Shaivite cult in the region not vaislmavite culture.

Statement 4 is correct: Many of these curious visitors have compared this temple with the Indian parliament building (Sansad Bhawan) as both are circular in style. So, many have drawn conclusions that this temple was the inspiration behind the Parliament building.

6.Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs? [2021]

(a) Dholavira

(b) Kalibangan

(d) Ropar

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: The ancient city of Dholavira is one of the most remarkable and well-preserved urban settlements in South Asia dating from the 3rd to mid-2nd millennium BCE (Before Common Era). Discovered in 1968, the site is set apart by its unique characteristics, such as its water management system, multilayered defensive mechanisms, extensive use of stone in construction and special burial structures. It has a complex system for collecting and storing rain water within several reservoirs. Planners in the ancient city of Dholavira had conceptualised an amazing system of drains, dams and tanks to manage water.

7.Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of [2019]

(a) Chalukya

(b) Chandela

(d) Vijayanagara

Solution (d)

Option d is the correct answer: The chief characteristics of the Vijayanagara architecture were the construction of tall Raya Gopurams or gateways and the Kalyaana Mandapas with carved pillars in the temple premises. Kalyaana Mandapas were halls used for marriage or other ceremonies.

8. In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is 'Ranyo Ashoka' (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka? [2019]

(a) Kanganahalli

(b) Sanchi

(d) Sohgaura

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: Kanaganahalli in Karnataka is the site with an inscription in Brahmi script reading Ranyo Ashoka and a sculpture of King Ashoka. It is the only site with stone portrait of King Ashoka.

9.The well-known painting "Bani Thani" belongs to the [2018]

(a) Bundi school

(b) Jaipur school

(d) Kishangarh school

Solution (d)

Option d is the correct answer: Bani Thani is an miniature painting of Kishangarh school painted by Nihal Chand. It portrays a woman who is elegant and graceful. The Kishangarh province in Rajas than is known for its Bani Thani paintings. Kishangarh school is known for highly exaggerated features like long necks, large, almond shaped eyes, and long fingers.

10. The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at [2017]

(a) Ajanta

(b) Badami

(d) Ellora

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: This mural painting is preserved in the interior of the rock cut Buddhist monastery of Ajanta Cave I.

11. Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples? [2017]

1. Arasavalli

2. Amarkantak

3. Omkareshwar

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (a)

Option a is the correct answer: The Ancient Hindu Temple of Sun God - "Lord Suryanaryana Swamy Temple" located at Arasavalli in Srikakulam Town, Andhra Pradesh, India. There is no Sun Temple in Amarkantak. Sri Omkareshwar Temple in Mysore is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

INDIAN LITERATURE AND PERFORMING ARTS

1. According to Kautilya's Arthashastra, consider the following statements: [2022]

1. A person could be a slave as a result of a judicial punishment.

2. If a female slave bore her master a son, she was legally free.

3. If a son born to a female slave was fathered by her master, the son was entitled to the legal status of the master's son.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (b)

Statement I is incorrect: As per the official answer key this statement is incorrect. Note: Though as per Kautilya's Arthashastra, it talks about a person could be slave as a result of judicial punishment but the official answer key marks this statement as incorrect.

Statement 2 is correct: There was a variety of protection offered to the slaves, especially to the women slaves. As per the Arthashastra, when a female slave gives birth to a child of her master then both the child and the mother will be considered free.

Statement 3 is correct: According to the Arthashastra, if a son born to a female slave was fathered by her master, the son was entitled to the legal status of the master's son.

2. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following statements is/ are correct? [2021]

1. Mitakshara was the civil law for upper castes and Dayabhaga was the civil law for lower castes.

2. In the Mitakshara system, the sons can claim right to the property during the lifetime of the father, whereas in the Dayabhaga system, it is only after the death of the father that the sons can claim right to the property.

3. The Mitakshara system deals with the matters related to the property held by male members only of a family, whereas the Dayabhaga system deals with the matters related to the property held by both male and female members of a family.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only

Solution (b)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Mitakshara is the oldest schools of Hindu law and is practiced in India except in the state of West Bengal and Assam. Dayabhaga is also important schools of Hindu law mainly practiced in Assam & West Bengal. Both law deals with upper and lower castes.

Statement 2 is correct: In the Mitakshara school of inheritance, property is inherited by the successors (coparceners) only when they were born in the family of the property holder thus when a son is born, he receives right in the property. So he can inherit during the lifetime of a father. In the case of Dayabhaga school of inheritance, property is inherited by the successors (coparceners) only when the holder of the property is dead.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Both Mitakshara and Dayabhaga deals with male and female property rights. Mitakshara school is orthodox school. It is biased against women & gave them very less right to inherit property. Dayabhaga is also biased, but it is a liberal school and it gives more rights to women to inherit property compared to Mitakshara.

3. With reference to the scholars/litterateurs of ancient India, consider the following statements: [2020]

1. Panini is associated with Pushyamitra.

2. Amarasimha is associated with Harshavardhana.

3. Kalidasa is associated with Chandra Gupta-II.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (c)

Option c is the correct answer: Amarasimha and Kalidasa were one of the Navratnas in the court of Chandra Gupta-II. Panini was a revered scholar belonging to 5th - 6th Century, whereas Pushyamitra Shunga reigned in 2nd BCE.

4. With reference to culture history of India, consider the following statements: [2018]

1. Most of the Tyagaraja Kritis are devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna.

2. Tyagaraja created several new ragas.

3. Annamacharya and Tyagaraja are contemporaries.

4. Annamacharya kirtnas are devotional songs in praise of Lord Venkateshwara.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only

Solution (b)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Tyagaraja composed thousands of devotional compositions in praise of Lord Ram, not Lord Krishna.

Statement 2 is correct: Tyagaraja adopted composing in new ragas as one of the aims of his musical career. The (approximately) 700 known kritis of Tyagaraja feature 212 ragas; 121 of these ragas have only one kriti in them. He was the first to compose kritis in "about 66 ragas". His enthusiasm for such ragas can be seen from the fact that even among the last few kritis that he is believed to have composed, three are in new ragas: Vagadeeswari (paramatmudu), Ganavaridhi (daya juchutakidira) and Manohari (paritapamu ganiyadina).

Statement 3 is incorrect: Annamacharaya was a 15th Century Hindu saint, he composed songs in praise of Lord Venkateshwara. Tyagaraja was born in 1767.

Statement 4 is correct: Annamacharya composed 32,000 keertanas (devotional songs) in praise of Lord Venkateswara.

5. Consider the following pairs: [2018]

Tradition State

1. Chapchar Kut Festival Mizoram

2. Khongjom Parba ballad Manipur

3. Thang-Ta Dance Sikkim

Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 oniy (b) 1 and 2 only

Solution (b)

Pair I is correctly matched: The Chapchar Kut is a spring festival of Mizoram, India.

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Khongjom Parva is an important folk music from the state of Manipur.

Pair 3 is incorrectly matched: Thang Ta is the exclusive martial dance form of Manipur.

6. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: [2017]

1. It is a song and dance performance.

2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.

3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only

Solution (b)

Statement I is correct: Manipuri Sankirtana is a traditional form of performing art that involves ritual singing, drumming and dancing in the temples and domestic spaces of Manipur. It is practiced by the Vaishnava people of the Manipur plains, who worship Lord Krishna.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The cymbals are not the only musical instruments used in the performance. Other instruments include Kartal (cymbals), Pung (drum), Flute, Harmonium and Violin.

Statement 3 is correct: Manipuri Sankirtana is practiced primarily by the Meitei Hindus (primarily Vaishnavas) in Manipur and by the Vaishnava Manipuri population settled in the neighbouring States of Tripura and Assam. The theology and lore of Krishna is central to these performances, but they assimilate in their rendering formal features carried over from music and dance in Manipur's pre-Vaishnavite past. The main repertoire consists of Nata Pala, which is performed all over the Manipur valley.

PHILOSOPHIES

1. "Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects?” The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India? [2023]

(a) Buddhism

(b) Jainism

(d) Vaishnavism

Solution: (b)

Option b is the correct answer: Jain religion believes in reincarnation. This cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is determined by one's karma. Jains believe bad karma is caused by harming living things. To avoid bad karma, Jains must practice ahimsa, a strict code of nonviolence. Jains believe plants, animals, and even some non-living things (like air and water) have souls, just as humans do. The principle of non-violence includes doing no harm to humans, plants, animals, and nature.

2. The world's second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja? [2022]

(a) The best means of salvation was devotion.

(b) Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative.

(d) Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.

Solution: (a)

Option a is the correct answer: Ramanuja was deeply influenced by the Alvars. He firmly believed that intense devotion to Vishnu was the best means to attain salvation. He propounded the doctrine of Vishisht-advaita. The outdoor 216-ft Statue of Equality will be the world's second tallest statue featuring a sitting posture. It is composed of 'panchaloha', a combination of five metals comprising gold, silver, copper, brass, and zinc . Born in 1017 in Sri Perumbud.ur, Tamil Nadu, Sri Ramanujacharya liberated millions from social, cultural, gender, educational and economic discrimination with the foundational conviction that every human is equal regardless of nationality, gender, race, caste, or creed.

3.With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts: [2022]

1. Nettipakarana

2. Parishishtaparvan

3. Avadanashataka

4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana

Which of the above are Jaina texts?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 only

Solution: (b)

Option l is incorrect: The Nettipakarana is a Buddhist scripture contains methods were taught by the Buddha's disciple Kaccana as approved· by the Buddha and that it was recited at the First Buddhist Council.

Option 2 is correct: The Padshishtaparvan also known as the Sthaviravalicharitra is a 12th-century Sanskrit mahakavya by Hemachandra which details the histories of the earliest Jain teachers.

Option 3 is incorrect: The Avadiinasataka (A Hundred Glorious Deeds) are Jataka Stories (Buddhist tales). The stories are thematically organized into ten "books" that portray the truth of the doctrine of karma (action) and the power of religious dana (giving), faith, and devotion.

Option 4 is correct: Trishashthilkshana Mahapurana is a major Jain text composed largely by Acharya Jinasena duri11g the rule of Rashtrakutas.

4. With reference to Indian history, consider the following pairs: [2022]

Historical person Known as

1. Aryadeva Jaina scholar

2. Dignaga Buddhist scholar

3. Nathamuni Vaishnava scholar.

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) None of the pairs (b) Only one pair

Solution: (c)

Pair 1 is incorrect: Aryadeva (3rd century), a disciple of Nagarjuna, is a central figure in the development of early Indian Madhyamaka philosophy. The Madhyamaka school of Buddhism, the followers of which are called Madhyamikas, was one of the two principal schools of Mahayana Buddhism

Pair 2 is correct: Dignaga, (born c. 480 CE-died c. 540), was a Buddhist logician and author of the Pramanasamuccaya ("Compendium of the Means of True Knowledge»), a work that laid the foundations of Buddhist logic.

Pair 3 is correct: Nathamuni founded a Sanskrit-Tamil school at Srirangam (Tamil Nadu state), which continues to be a great Vaishnavite centre in South India.

5. With reference to the history of ancient India, Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla and Kshemeshvara were famous: [2021]

(a) Jain monks

(b) playwrights

(d) philosophers

Solution: (b)

Option b is the correct answer: Bhavabhuti was an 8th-century scholar of india noted for his plays and poetry, written in Sanskrit. The works attributed to poet Bhavabhuti were Mahaviracharita (depicting the early life of Rama), Malatimadhava a play based on the romance of Malti and Madhava and Uttararamacharita ( depicts Rama's coronation, the abandonment of Sita and their reunion). Hastimalla was 13th century Kannada poet and writer in Hoysala Empire. He wrote Purvapurana. Kshemeshvara (990 - c. 1070 CE) was an 11th-century Sanskrit poet from Kashmir in India. One of the important work attributed to him is Dasavatar Charita.

6. With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct description of the term 'paramitas'? [2020]

(a) The earliest Dharmashastra texts written in aphoristic (sutra) style.

(b) Philosophical schools that did not accept the authority of Vedas.

(d) Powerful merchant guilds of early medieval South India.

Solution (c)

Option c is the correct answer: Paramita in Mahayana Buddhism are perfections or virtues towards attainment of enlightenment .

7. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: [2020]

1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.

2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.

3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution (b)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Fourth Council resulted into division of Buddhists into 2 major sects: Sarvastivadins and Mahasanghikas. Sthaviravadins formed part of Hinayanas.

Statement 2 is correct: The Mahasanghikas gave rise to the following sects: Ekavyaharikas, Lokottaravadins, Kukkutikas, Bahusrutiyas, Prajnapativadins, Chaitya-sailas, Apara -sailas, Uttara-sailas.

Statement 3 is correct: The Mahasanghikas believed in a plurality of buddhas who are supramundane (lokottara) and held that what passed for Gautama Buddha in his earthly existence was only an apparition. The Mahayana sect arose out from the Mahasanghikas worshipped idols of Buddha and his deity.

8. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs: [2020]

1. Parivrajaka Renunciant and Wanderer

2. Shramana Priest with a high status

3. Upasaka Lay follower of Buddhism

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only

Solution (b)

Pair I is correctly matched: The literal meaning of Parivarjaka means "wandering". In Indian tradition, Hamsa (swan) symbolizes the "migrating soul" or reincarnating soul. These words are prefixed to the Upanishad, connoting knowledge about the "wandering supreme soul (swan)".

Pair 2 is incorrectly matched: Shramana tradition was opposed to Varna and Jati system of Vedic Age. It was antiVedic and anti-Brahamanic.

Pair 3 is correctly matched: Upasaka, lay devotee of the Gautama Buddha.

9.Consider the following statements: [2019]

1. Saint Nimbarka was a contemporary of Akbar.

2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only

Solution (d)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Nimbarka was a 12th-13th century yogi, philosopher whereas Akbar's reigned during 16th-17th century.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Saint Kabir was 15th century poet whereas Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi was born in 1564 after death of Kabir.

10. Consider the following: [2019]

1. Deification of the Buddha.

2. Treading the path of Bodhisattvas.

3. Image worship and rituals.

Which of the above is/are the feature/ features of Mahayana Buddhism?

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only

Solution (d)

Option d is the correct answer: The Mahayana followers believe in idol or image worship of Buddha. Bodhisattva is an ideal in Mahayana Buddhism and thus treading the path of Bodhisattvas is promoted in Mahayana Buddhism.

11. With reference to the Indian History, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world? [2018]

(a) Avalokiteshvara

(b) Lokesvara

(d) Padmapani

Solution (c)

Option c is the correct answer: Maitreya, is considered as the future Buddha, who will descend to earth to preach anew the dharma when the teachings of Gautama Buddha have completely decayed.

12. With reference to the religious practices in India, the "Sthanakvasi" sect belongs to [2018]

(a) Buddhism

(b) Jainism

(d) Shaivism

Solution (b)

Option b is the correct answer: Sthanakavasi is a modern subsect of the Shvetambara sect of Jainism. It believes that idol worship is not essential in the path of soul purification and attainment of Nirvana/Moksha.

13.With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: [2017]

1. Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism.

2. Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary, but existed forever in a latent form.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only

Solution (b)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Sautrantika and Sammitiya are sects of Buddhism.

Statement 2 is correct: Sarvastivadin sect of Buddhism believes that all things exist, and exist continuously, in the past and the future as well as in the present. Sarvastivada also called Vaibhashika, a school of early Buddhism. A fundamental concept in Buddhist metaphysics is the assumption of the existence of dharmas, cosmic factors and events that combine momentarily under the influence of a person's past deeds to form a person's life flux, which he considers his personality and career.

MISCELLANEOUS

1. With reference to ancient Indian History, consider the following pairs: [2023]

Literary work Author

1.Devi-chandraguptam Bilhana

2. Hammira- Nayachandra Mahakavya Suri

3. Milinda-panha Nagarjuna

4. Nitivakyamrita Somadeva Suri

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(d) All four

Solution: (c)

Pair 1 is incorrectly matched: Devi-Chandraguptam is the Sanskrit play of Vishakhadeva (Vishakhadatta). Its the story of Gupta King Ramagupta who decides to surrender his queen Dhruvadevi to a Shaka invader but his younger brother Chandragupta enters the enemy camp disguised as queen and kills the enemy.

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Hammira Mahakavya is a 15th-century Indian Sanskrit epic poem written by the Jain scholar Nayachandra Suri. It is a legendary biography of the 13th century Chahamana king Hammira.

Pair 3 is correctly matched: The "Milincla Panha" (also known as the "Questions of King Milinda" or "The Debate of King Milinda") is a famous Pali Buddhist text written by Nagasena (also known as Nagarjuna) that is considered part of the Theravada Buddhist tradition. It is a dialogue between the Indo-Greek king Menander I (known as Milinda in Pali) and the Buddhist monk Nagasena.

Pair 4 is correctly matched: Somadeva Suri was a south Indian Jain monk of the 10th century CE. Somadeva Suri also wrote the Nitivakyamrtam "Nectar of the Science of Polity", a treatise on statecraft. The text of the Nitivakyamrtam mentions that Somadeva was also the author of a literary work called Yashastilaka

2. Consider the following pairs: [2021]

Historical Place Well known for

I. Burzahom Rock-cut shrines

2. Chandra-Ketugarh Terracotta art

3. Ganeshwar Copper artefacts

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and2

(d) 2 and 3

Solution: (d)

Pair 1 is incorrectly matched: It can be eliminated as Burzahom site (Jammu and Kashmir) is a Neolithic site. Rock cut shrines were not found in Neolithic period.

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Chandraketugah is a site in West Bengal near Kolkata. According to historians, the place dates back to the 3rd century, which is pre-Mauryan era . The place has always generate curiosity among the archaeologists and various excavations have taken place here and a number of terracotta artworks has been unearthed.

Pair 3 is correctly matched: Ganeshwar is a famous site in Khetri belt in Rajasthan. Ganeshwar complex sites have yielded more than 5000 copper objects, with some typical Harappan types like thin blades, arrow-heads etc .

3.Consider the following statements: [2021]

1. St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.

2. St. Francis Xavier died in Goa and a church is dedicated to him there.

3. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa each year.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Solution: (c)

Statement l is correct: St. Francis Xavier was one of the founders of the Jesuit order. He was a Spanish saint.

Statement 2 is incorrect: He died on the island of Sancian (now Shang-ch'uan Tao, off the Chinese coast) while trying to gain entrance to China , which was then closed to foreigners.

Statement 3 is correct: Every year the feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa on 31 of December.

4. Which one of the following statements is correct? [UPSC CSE Pre 2021]

(a) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of Waghora river.

(b) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of Chambal river.

(d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of Godavari river.

Solution: (a)

Option a is correct: The rock-cut caves of Ajanta lie in Waghora river valley near Ajanta village in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra.

Option b is incorrect: Sanchi lies in an upland plateau region just west of the Betwa River.

Option c is incorrect: Pandu-lena caves is ancient rockcut sculptures complex located at Gomai River. Pandu-leni cave is also known as Nasik Caves, Tirthankar Leni, Panch Pandav or Pandav Leni Jain cave . The "Pandavleni" name sometimes given to the Nasik Caves has nothing to do with the characters Pandavas, characters in the Mahabharata epic.

Option d is incorrect: Amravati stupa is located in the gorges of Krishna river.

UPSC Prelims 2025 Answer Key Out, Download PDF

Ancient History Previous Year Questions (PYQs) for Prelims

UPSC MAINS EXAM 2024 QUESTION PAPER: [Paper-A : Indian Language- Hindi ]

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