Ancient & Classical — Set 1

Correct Answer: A. Kalidasa

Kalidasa is the renowned author of this masterpiece which tells the story of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala. He is often considered the greatest poet and dramatist of the Sanskrit language. His works generally date back to the Gupta period.

Correct Answer: C. Chanakya

Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, wrote this comprehensive manual on statecraft and economic policy. It provides detailed insights into ancient Indian administration and law. He was a strategic advisor to the first Maurya emperor.

Correct Answer: A. Hiuen Tsang

Hiuen Tsang, or Xuanzang, visited India during the reign of King Harshavardhana in the 7th century. His travelogue is a vital source for understanding the social and religious conditions of that era. He spent several years studying at the ancient Nalanda University.

Correct Answer: C. 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 historians. It is the first foreign account describing the administrative system of Pataliputra.

Correct Answer: C. Kalhana

Kalhana composed this work in the 12th century, making it one of the earliest systematic historical accounts in India. The title literally translates to 'The River of Kings'. It provides a detailed record of various dynasties that ruled the Kashmir region.

Correct Answer: A. Ashvaghosha

Ashvaghosha was a prominent Buddhist philosopher and poet who lived during the Kushan period. His work is considered a masterpiece of Sanskrit Kavya literature. He played a key role in the Fourth Buddhist Council held under Kanishka.

Correct Answer: C. Aryabhata

Aryabhata authored this text in the 5th century, covering advanced concepts in arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry. He was the first to propose that the Earth rotates on its own axis. The first Indian satellite was named in his honor.

Correct Answer: D. Charaka

Charaka is considered a principal contributor to Ayurveda and specialized in internal medicine. His Samhita is one of the foundational texts of traditional Indian medicine. It emphasizes a holistic approach to health through diet and lifestyle.

Correct Answer: A. Shudraka

Shudraka is the playwright of this famous 10-act drama set in the ancient city of Ujjain. It is unique for focusing on the lives of common people rather than royalty or gods. The play revolves around the love between a poor merchant and a courtesan.

Correct Answer: A. Vishnu Sharma

Vishnu Sharma is credited with compiling these stories to educate young princes in political wisdom. The fables use talking animals to convey moral and social lessons. It is one of the most widely translated non-religious books in the world.