UPSC 1996 Ancient History Questions with Answers

Explanation

Kula, Vamsa, and Gotra were terms associated with the social and family structure of ancient Indian society, particularly in relation to lineage and ancestry. In contrast, Kosa referred to the treasury and was a key element in state administration. Mentioned in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, Kosa was one of the seven components of Kautilya’s Saptanga policy, which included Swamin (Ruler), Amatya (Ministers), Janapada (Territory), Durg (Forts), Kosa (Treasury), Bala (Army), and Mitra (Friend or Ally).

Explanation

Vedic literature consists of the Vedas, which are the oldest religious texts of India, comprising hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings. It includes four Vedas--Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda--and their associated texts like the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads. The river most mentioned in early Vedic literature is the Sindhu. It is mentioned over 150 times in the Rig Veda, the oldest known Hindu text. The Sindhu is identical to the Indus River and is considered to be a sacred river associated with fertility, abundance and prosperity. Other rivers that are mentioned in early Vedic literature include the Saraswati, Yamuna and Ganges. Saraswati is called naditama or the best of the rivers in the Rig Veda.

Explanation

The four yugas--Krita (Satya), Treta, Dvapara, and Kali--form a cyclical model in Hindu cosmology, depicting a gradual decline in virtue and dharma over time. A full Yuga cycle lasts 4,320,000 years (12,000 divine years), and a Kalpa, or epoch, consists of a thousand such cycles.

Option (c) is correct: Based on Yuga Duration Table given below:

Yuga Duration (in years) Krita (Satya) 1,728,000 years (4,800 divine years) Treta 1,296,000 years (3,600 divine years) Dvapara 864,000 years (2,400 divine years) Kali 432,000 years (1,200 divine years)

Explanation

The Jagannath Puri Temple, located in Odisha, is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. It is famous for its annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival), attracting millions of devotees. The Devadasi system involved dedicating women to serve deities through rituals and dance, often leading to social exploitation. The Jagannath Puri Temple in Odisha is historically associated with this tradition, where Devadasis were committed to temple service, showcasing both devotion and the cultural acceptance of the practice in temple life. Over time, this system drew criticism due to its exploitative aspects, prompting reforms. The association of Devadasis with the Jagannath Temple highlights Odisha’s rich religious culture and complex socio-religious customs.