Ancient History & Harappan — Set 14
Gujarat GK · प्राचीन इतिहास और हड़प्पा · Questions 131–140 of 200
The Solanki period in Gujarat is significant for developing which architectural style?
Correct Answer: B. Solanki or Maru-Gurjara architectural style
The Solanki period is significant for the development of the Maru-Gurjara (or Solanki) architectural style, which is a regional variant of Nagara architecture. This style features intricate stone carvings, ornate pillars, and elaborately decorated exterior walls. The Sun Temple at Modhera and Rani ki Vav are masterpieces of this style.
What archaeological evidence at Dholavira suggests advanced civic amenities?
Correct Answer: B. Paved streets, drainage, public spaces, and water reservoirs
Dholavira provides archaeological evidence of advanced civic amenities including paved streets, an elaborate drainage system, large public spaces, and an extensive water reservoir system. The 10-symbol inscription suggests a literate administration. These features demonstrate a highly organized civic society.
Which texts provide the earliest known reference to Gujarat under the name Gurjaratra?
Correct Answer: C. Medieval Sanskrit texts and copper plate grants
Medieval Sanskrit texts and copper plate grants from around the 6th-7th century CE refer to the region as Gurjaratra or Gujarat, after the Gurjara people who settled there. The name Gujarat is derived from Gurjara-rashtra meaning land of the Gurjaras. This name came into common use during the medieval period.
Which significant Harappan artifact type has NOT been found in significant numbers at Gujarat sites?
Correct Answer: D. Large royal palace remains
Large royal palace remains have NOT been found at Harappan sites including those in Gujarat, which is consistent with the absence of clear royal architecture across the entire civilization. The lack of obvious palaces suggests a different type of political or social organization from contemporary Mesopotamia and Egypt. This absence is one of the enduring mysteries of Harappan archaeology.
Dholavira is sometimes called the Indus Valley metropolis because it shows?
Correct Answer: C. The most complete features of Harappan urban planning
Dholavira shows an exceptionally complete example of Harappan urban planning with its three-part city structure, water management system, paved streets, and public spaces. It is one of the five largest Harappan sites. Its exceptional preservation makes it invaluable for understanding Harappan urbanism.
Surkotada is notable for revealing which rarely seen aspect of Harappan culture?
Correct Answer: A. Horse bones and a fortified settlement
Surkotada is notable for revealing both horse bones (a rare and controversial find) and evidence of a fortified settlement with bastioned walls. The combination of horse bones and fortifications makes Surkotada particularly significant for understanding late Harappan culture. The fortification pattern at Surkotada is distinctive among Harappan sites.
The port city of Bharuch (Broach) is located at the mouth of which river?
Correct Answer: C. Narmada
Bharuch (ancient Barygaza) is located at the mouth of the Narmada River where it meets the Gulf of Khambhat. This strategic location made it an ideal natural harbor accessible from both inland routes and the sea. The Narmada River connected Bharuch to the interior of the Indian subcontinent, facilitating trade.
Jain philosopher Hemachandra wrote which major grammatical work in Gujarat?
Correct Answer: B. Siddhahemachandram
Hemachandra wrote the Siddhahemachandram, a comprehensive grammar of Sanskrit and Apabhramsha (old Gujarati), under the patronage of Solanki rulers. This work is enormously important for understanding the development of the Gujarati language. Hemachandra also wrote the Trishashti-shalaka-purusha-charitra, a major Jain encyclopedic text.
What was the approximate population of Dholavira at its peak?
Correct Answer: B. 5,000-10,000 people
Estimates suggest Dholavira had a population of approximately 5,000-10,000 people at its peak during the mature Harappan phase. The city covered about 100 hectares including outer fortification walls. This population size made it a significant urban center for the Bronze Age.
The Solanki dynasty came to an end primarily due to which factor?
Correct Answer: C. Raids by Delhi Sultanate forces weakening the dynasty
The Solanki dynasty weakened progressively due to raids by Delhi Sultanate forces, internal conflicts, and the devastating attack by Alauddin Khilji's general in 1298-1299 CE. The dynasty had already been weakened by the Vaghela chiefs before the final Turkish conquest. The last nominal Solanki power ended with the Turkish raids.