Ancient Books — Set 5
Arts & Culture · प्राचीन पुस्तकें · Questions 41–50 of 60
Which ancient work is the longest epic poem in the world?
Correct Answer: A. Mahabharata
The Mahabharata contains about 100,000 shlokas, making it several times longer than any Western epic. It is traditionally attributed to the sage Vyasa. It is a vast storehouse of history, mythology, ethics, and philosophy.
The 'Rigveda', the oldest of the four Vedas, is primarily a collection of?
Correct Answer: B. Hymns to deities
The Rigveda consists of 1,028 hymns (Suktas) dedicated to various Vedic gods like Agni, Indra, and Varuna. It is the most ancient and important source for the Indo-Aryan civilization. It was preserved through a highly sophisticated oral tradition for centuries.
Which ancient text is known as the 'Adi Kavya' (The First Epic)?
Correct Answer: D. Ramayana
The Ramayana, written by Valmiki, is called the Adi Kavya because it is considered the first work of literature in the Sanskrit kavya style. It narrates the life journey of Lord Rama. The epic has profoundly influenced the culture and art of South and Southeast Asia.
The 'Srimad Bhagavad Gita' is a part of which book of the Mahabharata?
Correct Answer: A. Bhishma Parva
The Gita is found in the Bhishma Parva and consists of the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It contains 700 verses and is considered one of the most important philosophical texts of Hinduism. It teaches the concepts of Dharma, Yoga, and Karma.
How many main 'Puranas' are there in ancient Indian literature?
Correct Answer: B. 18
There are 18 Maha-Puranas that cover the creation of the universe, genealogies of gods and kings, and descriptions of cosmology. They were written to simplify the complex Vedic teachings for common people through stories. The Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana are among the most famous.
The 'Upunishads' are primarily texts focused on?
Correct Answer: B. Philosophy and Mysticism
The correct answer is 'Philosophy and Mysticism'. The Upanishads form the concluding part of the Vedas (Vedanta) and explore the nature of the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman). There are over 100 Upanishads, with 13 considered as major or 'Mukhya'. They represent the peak of ancient Indian philosophical thought.
Which Veda is the foundation of Indian classical music?
Correct Answer: C. Samaveda
The Samaveda consists of verses from the Rigveda set to musical notations for chanting during sacrifices. It is the earliest recorded work of musical theory in India. The priest who chanted these hymns was known as the 'Udgatri'.
The 'Dharmasutras' and 'Smritis' are ancient Indian texts related to?
Correct Answer: B. Law and Conduct
The correct answer is 'Law and Conduct'. These texts provide a detailed code of laws and social duties for individuals and society. While Sutras are more concise, Smritis are later expanded versions in verse. They were the basis for civil and criminal law in ancient India.
The 'Tripitaka', the primary sacred scriptures of Buddhism, are written in which language?
Correct Answer: D. Pali
The Tripitaka (Three Baskets) consist of the Vinaya, Sutta, and Abhidhamma Pitakas. They were compiled in the Pali language, which was commonly spoken during the time of the Buddha. They are the authoritative scriptures for the Theravada school of Buddhism.
The 'Kalpa Sutra', an important text for the Jaina community, was written by?
Correct Answer: B. Bhadrabahu
Bhadrabahu, a 4th-century BC Jaina monk, authored this work which contains the biographies of the Tirthankaras. It is particularly revered by the Digambara and Svetambara sects. The text is regularly recited during the Paryushana festival.