UPSC 2001 Ancient History Questions with Answers

Explanation

The Harappan Civilization made extensive use of seals for administrative, commercial, and religious purposes. These seals were crafted from a variety of materials, including steatite, terracotta, agate, chert, and faience. Notable examples include the Pashupati Seal and the Unicorn Seal etc.

Option (a) is correct: The most common animal depicted on the seals was one horned bull. Other animals like Buffalo, Tiger, Rhinoceros and Elephant were also commonly used. However, cows, horses and camels were not depicted on the seals

Explanation

Assertion (A) is true: The Prayag Assembly was convened by Harshavardhana around AD 643. This assembly is a significant historical event where Harshavardhana gathered numerous scholars, monks, and dignitaries. Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang), was also present at the assembly and provided a detailed account of it. While it is true that Harshavardhana promoted Mahayana Buddhism during his reign, the assembly was not solely focused on promoting this form of Buddhism. Reason (R) is false: Harshavardhana organized the Prayag Assembly not just to promote Mahayana Buddhism but also to strengthen his rule and encourage religious discussions. The assembly was open to different beliefs.

Explanation

Rajendra I was a notable ruler of the Chola dynasty in South India. He succeeded his father, Rajaraja I, and further expanded the Chola Empire through extensive military campaigns.

Option (c) is correct: Among Rajendra I significant achievements was the invasion and annexation of Ceylon in the early 11th century. This conquest marked the incorporation of Ceylon into the Chola realm for a substantial period.

Option (a), (b) and (d) are incorrect:

Aditya I was son of Vijayalaya Chola, Aditya I maintained diplomatic relations with Cheras but did not conquer Ceylon. Rajaraja I expanded the Chola empire significantly but did not conquer Ceylon. His major conquests were in the South Indian subcontinent and the Indian Ocean region. Vijayalaya Chola founded the Chola dynasty in the 9th century but did not conquer Ceylon. He focused on establishing Chola power in Tamil Nadu, not Sri Lanka.

Explanation

Option (a) is incorrect: The Harappan civilization (c. 2600-1900 BCE) is known for red and black pottery, not Painted Grey Ware (PGW), which is associated with the later Vedic period (1200-600 BCE).

Option (b) is correct: The Kushans (1st-4th century AD) patronized the Gandhara School of Art, which blended Greek, Roman, and Indian artistic styles, primarily in Buddhist sculptures.

Option (c) is incorrect: The Ajanta Paintings belong to the Gupta period (5th-6th century CE), long before the Mughals (16th-18th century CE). The Mughals are known for miniature paintings rather than Ajanta murals.

Option (d) is incorrect: The Pahari School of Painting developed in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu during the Rajput period, not under the Marathas (17th-18th century CE), who were more associated with Deccan-style paintings.

Explanation

The Hoysala dynasty (10th-14th centuries CE) ruled over present-day Karnataka, known for their patronage of art and architecture. They played a key role in resisting northern invasions in South India.

Option (b) is correct: Hoysala architecture is renowned for its intricate detailing, evident in the temples at Halebid and Belur in Karnataka. These monuments reflect unique craftsmanship and religious art of the period.

Option (a), (c) and (d) are incorrect Hampi and Hosper relate to Vijayanagara architecture. Mysore and Bangalore are not prominent Hoysala sites. Sringeri and Dharwar are not primarily known for Hoysala temples.