Ancient Books — Set 1

Correct Answer: D. Kalidasa

Kalidasa is the legendary author of this world-famous drama about King Dushyanta and Shakuntala. He is widely regarded as the greatest poet and playwright in the Sanskrit language. The play is often cited as a masterpiece of ancient Indian literature.

Correct Answer: C. Vishnu Sharma

Vishnu Sharma composed the Panchatantra to teach political science and life lessons to young princes. It uses animal fables to convey complex moral and social principles. It is one of the most translated non-religious books in history.

Correct Answer: C. Arthashastra

The Arthashastra was written by Chanakya, who was the mentor of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. It provides detailed guidance on administration, law, and military strategy. This text remains a primary source for understanding ancient Indian governance.

Correct Answer: A. Medicine

Charaka Samhita is a foundational text of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. It discusses various diseases, their treatments, and the importance of diet and hygiene. Charaka is often called the Father of Indian Medicine.

Correct Answer: A. Aryabhata

Aryabhata wrote this text in the 5th century, covering both mathematics and astronomy. He correctly proposed that the Earth rotates on its axis and explained the cause of eclipses. The work introduced the concepts of sine and approximately calculated the value of Pi.

Correct Answer: A. Panini

Panini authored the Ashtadhyayi, which consists of eight chapters defining the rules of Sanskrit grammar. It is considered one of the earliest works on descriptive linguistics and formal logic. His systematic approach influenced linguistic studies for centuries.

Correct Answer: B. Megasthenes

Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. Although the original book is lost, fragments survive in the writings of later Greek historians. It provides a rare foreign perspective on the Mauryan administration and society.

Correct Answer: A. Ashvaghosha

Ashvaghosha was a philosopher and poet in the court of King Kanishka who wrote this Sanskrit epic. It narrates the life of the Buddha from his birth to his enlightenment. It is one of the most significant works of early Buddhist literature.

Correct Answer: C. Rajatarangini

Kalhana wrote the Rajatarangini in the 12th century, documenting the kings of Kashmir. Unlike many other ancient works, it attempts to follow a strictly chronological and historical method. It provides valuable insights into the regional politics and social life of medieval Kashmir.

Correct Answer: A. Bharata Muni

Bharata Muni is the traditional author of this foundational text on dance, music, and drama. It defines the concept of 'Rasa' and 'Bhava' which are central to Indian aesthetics. The work serves as the primary manual for all classical Indian dance forms.