UPSC 2001 Medieval History Questions with Answers

Explanation

Pair (a) is correctly matched: Firoz Shah Tughlaq (1351-1388) established the Diwan-i-Bandagan, a department for slaves, during the Tughlaq Dynasty. The officer in charge of the Diwan-i-Bandagan was the Wakil-i-dar. It oversaw the management of slaves and servants in the royal palace and administrative offices. Pair (b) is incorrectly matched: The Diwan-i-Mustakhraj was a department of the Delhi Sultanate that was created by Alauddin Khilji (1296-1316) to collect revenue arrears and to address corruption. It was responsible for investigating and collecting outstanding revenue from collectors. Pair (c) is incorrectly matched: The Diwan-i-Kohi was an agricultural department established by Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325-51) to improve agricultural productivity and food security in the Delhi Sultanate. He also developed a slew of measures to provide relief to famine victims. Pair (d) is incorrectly matched: The Diwan-i-Arz was the military department of the Delhi Sultanate and was established by Ghiyas ud din Balban (1266 to 1287). It was headed by Ariz-i-Mamalik.

Explanation

The establishment of Mughal rule in India began with Babur’s (1526 - 1530) victory over Sultan Ibrahim Lodiin the First Battle of Panipat (1526) and Rana Sanga in the Battle of Khanua(1527). These victories laid the foundation for the Mughal Empire, which was further consolidated by Akbar, who expanded and solidified Mughal authority across India. Assertion (A) is true: The Battle of Khanua was more decisive and significant than the First Battle of Panipat because it strengthened the Mughal rule in India, while the First Battle of Panipat only laid its foundation. Reason (R) is true: Rana Sanga was a skilled warrior and leader who had built a strong alliance of Rajput kingdoms. He was a more formidable adversary than Ibrahim Lodi. The Battle of Khanua was more significant because it neutralized the threat from the Rajputs and consolidated Babur’s authority. Thus, the Reason (R) is the correct explanation for the Assertion (A).

Explanation

Chengiz Khan (1162-1227) was a Mongol ruler who established one of the largest empires in history by uniting the Mongol tribes and launching successful military campaigns across Central Asia, China, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Iltutmish (reigned 1211-1236 AD) was the third Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate, and during his reign, the Mongols, under the leadership of Chengiz Khan, attempted several incursions into the Indian subcontinent. In 1221, after the Khwarezmian prince fled into northern India, Chengiz Khan’s forces reached the Indus River and attacked the northwestern frontier of India. He successfully repelled the Mongol invasions, though the Mongols continued to raid the northwestern regions sporadically for some years.

Explanation

Bhakti saints were spiritual reformers who emphasized devotion to a personal god, transcending caste and social hierarchies. They used vernacular languages like Hindi to spread their messages of love, equality, and devotion.

Option (b) is correct:

A is matched with 3: Namdev, from Maharashtra, was a tailor and emphasized devotion to Lord Vitthal. B is matched with 2: Kabir, a mystic poet and social reformer, was a weaver who criticized religious orthodoxy. C is matched with 4: Ravidas, a cobbler by profession, challenged caste discrimination and advocated spiritual equality. D is matched with 1: Sena, a barber, is remembered for his devotion to Lord Vishnu. These saints’ professions underline the Bhakti movement’s commitment to breaking caste barriers and highlighting the dignity of labor.

Explanation

The Babul Makka (Gate of Makka) was a symbolic and ceremonial term often associated with structures built or designated during the Mughal period that signified spiritual or geographical connections to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam.

Option (d) is correct: During the Mughal period, the port of Surat was referred to as Babul Makka due to its importance as a major trading port and its role in facilitating the pilgrimage to Makka.

Explanation

The Lingaraj Temple, located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is one of the most important and revered temples in eastern India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be built in the 11th century during the rule of King Jajati Keshari of Somavamshi dynasty (9th century C.E. to 11th century C.E.). It is an excellent example of Kalinga architecture, showcasing intricate carvings and an impressive structure.