Ancient Books — Set 3
Arts & Culture · प्राचीन पुस्तकें · Questions 21–30 of 60
Which ancient Indian text deals with the design and construction of buildings and cities?
Correct Answer: C. Manasara
Manasara is one of the most exhaustive ancient treatises on architecture and sculpture (Vastu Shastra). It provides detailed measurements and rules for building temples, houses, and village layouts. Such texts ensured the structural and aesthetic consistency of ancient Indian urban planning.
Who wrote 'Priyadarsika' and 'Ratnavali', two famous Sanskrit plays?
Correct Answer: D. Harshavardhana
King Harshavardhana of Kannauj was not only a great ruler but also a talented author of Sanskrit dramas. He is credited with three plays: Ratnavali, Priyadarsika, and Nagananda. His literary contributions reflect the flourishing of arts during his reign.
The 'Milinda Panha' is a famous Buddhist text written in the form of a dialogue between King Milinda and?
Correct Answer: A. Nagasena
Nagasena was a Buddhist monk who answered the philosophical questions posed by the Indo-Greek King Menander (Milinda). The text is highly regarded for its logical clarity in explaining Buddhist doctrines. It is written in the Pali language and is important for both religious and historical studies.
The 'Brihat-Samhita', an encyclopedia of various sciences, was written by?
Correct Answer: B. Varahamihira
Varahamihira was an ancient polymath who covered topics ranging from astronomy to gems and architecture in this work. He was a prominent figure in the court of the Gupta Empire. The text is a valuable source for understanding the scientific knowledge of ancient India.
Who authored the Tamil epic 'Silappatikaram'?
Correct Answer: D. Ilango Adigal
Ilango Adigal, who was reportedly a Chera prince turned monk, wrote this first epic of Tamil literature. It tells the tragic story of Kannagi and her husband Kovalan. It is one of the Five Great Epics of Sangam literature.
The 'Tirukkural', a masterpiece on ethics and morality, was written by?
Correct Answer: A. Tiruvalluvar
Tiruvalluvar composed this work consisting of 1,330 couplets divided into three sections: Virtue, Wealth, and Love. It is considered a universal book of ethics and is highly revered in Tamil culture. Its teachings are non-religious and remain relevant across different societies.
Who wrote 'Ratnashastra', a treatise on the science of gems?
Correct Answer: B. Buddhabhatta
Buddhabhatta is credited with writing the Ratnapariksha, one of the earliest systematic works on gemology. It discusses the origin, characteristics, and value of various precious stones. Knowledge of gems was an advanced science in ancient India due to its vibrant jewelry trade.
The philosophical work 'Yoga Sutras' is attributed to?
Correct Answer: A. Patanjali
Patanjali compiled these 196 aphorisms to provide a systematic foundation for the practice of Yoga. He is also often identified with the grammarian who wrote the Mahabhashya. The Yoga Sutras are the foundational text for classical Yoga philosophy.
The 'Kathasaritsagara', a massive collection of legends and fairy tales, was written by?
Correct Answer: B. Somadeva
Somadeva was a Kashmiri poet who composed this work in the 11th century to entertain the queen of Kashmir. It is a Sanskrit version of the even older, lost work called 'Brihatkatha'. The title translates to 'The Ocean of the Streams of Stories'.
Who authored the play 'Malavikagnimitram'?
Correct Answer: D. Kalidasa
Kalidasa wrote this romantic comedy, which was his first play, about King Agnimitra and Malavika. Agnimitra was a historical king of the Shunga dynasty. This work showcases Kalidasa's early mastery of poetic and dramatic techniques.