Ancient History — Set 3
Bihar GK · प्राचीन इतिहास · Questions 21–30 of 80
In which year did Ashoka fight the Kalinga War?
Correct Answer: A. 261 BC
Ashoka fought the Kalinga War in 261 BC, which was the 8th year of his coronation. The massive bloodshed in this war deeply moved him. Consequently, he renounced violence and embraced Buddhism.
Who presided over the Third Buddhist Council held at Pataliputra?
Correct Answer: B. Moggaliputta Tissa
Moggaliputta Tissa presided over the Third Buddhist Council. This council was convened by Emperor Ashoka at Pataliputra around 250 BC. The objective was to purify the Buddhist Sangha and dispatch missionaries.
Which ancient site in Patna has yielded remains of a massive wooden pillared hall?
Correct Answer: C. Kumhrar
Excavations at Kumhrar in Patna have revealed the remains of an 80-pillared hall. This structure is believed to be part of the Mauryan palace described by Megasthenes. The pillars and floor were made of wood, showcasing advanced carpentry.
The famous 'Didarganj Yakshini' statue belongs to which period?
Correct Answer: D. Mauryan Period
The 'Didarganj Yakshini' is a masterpiece of Mauryan art. It is a life-size statue made of polished sandstone, renowned for its 'Mauryan Polish'. It was discovered at Didarganj in Patna.
Who donated the Barabar Caves to the Ajivika sect?
Correct Answer: A. Ashoka
Emperor Ashoka donated caves in the Barabar Hills to the monks of the Ajivika sect. These rock-cut caves are famous for their polished interiors and echo effects. They represent some of the earliest examples of rock-cut architecture in India.
The Nagarjuni Hill caves were donated by which Mauryan ruler?
Correct Answer: B. Dasharatha
The Nagarjuni Hill caves were donated by Dasharatha, the grandson of Ashoka. Like his grandfather, he dedicated these caves to the Ajivika ascetics. Inscriptions in the caves confirm this donation.
Who was the last ruler of the Mauryan Dynasty?
Correct Answer: C. Brihadratha
Brihadratha was the last ruler of the Mauryan Dynasty. He was assassinated by his own commander-in-chief during a military parade. This event marked the end of the Mauryan Empire and the rise of the Sunga dynasty.
Who founded the Sunga Dynasty in Magadha?
Correct Answer: D. Pushyamitra
Pushyamitra Sunga founded the Sunga Dynasty after killing the last Mauryan king. He was a Brahmin general who revived Vedic rituals, including the Ashvamedha Yajna. His rule marked a resurgence of Brahmanical influence in Magadha.
The Kanva dynasty was founded by whom?
Correct Answer: A. Vasudeva
Vasudeva founded the Kanva dynasty in Magadha around 73 BC. He established the dynasty after the assassination of the last Sunga king, Devabhuti. The Kanvas ruled for a short period before being overthrown.
Large hoards of copper coins belonging to the Kushan period have been found in?
Correct Answer: B. Buxar
A significant hoard of Kushan copper coins was discovered in Buxar, Bihar. This suggests that the Kushan influence or trade network extended into the region. Similar coins have also been found in excavations at Pataliputra.