Ancient History & Harappan — Set 18

Correct Answer: B. 13 hectares

Lothal covers an area of approximately 13 hectares, making it a medium-sized Harappan urban center. Despite its modest size compared to Mohenjodaro, Lothal had extraordinary economic significance due to its dockyard. The compact but well-organized layout of Lothal reflects efficient Harappan urban design.

Correct Answer: B. Rudramal Temple (now partly standing as Muslim structure)

Sidhpur is famous for the Rudramal Temple complex built by Siddhraj Jaysinh, which was one of the most magnificent temple complexes of medieval India. The temple was largely destroyed by Alauddin Khilji's forces. The remaining pillared structure was converted into a mosque, and parts of the original temple remain visible today.

Correct Answer: C. A large open public space between the citadel and lower town

Dholavira has a large open area between the citadel and the middle town that may have served as a public space or stadium for large gatherings. This feature, covering about 900 square meters with stone seating, is unique among Harappan sites. Its purpose could have been civic assemblies, religious ceremonies, or public events.

Correct Answer: B. White gypsum inlaid letters on wood backing

The Dholavira signboard consists of large white gypsum letters/symbols inlaid on what appears to have been a wooden backing. The letters are cut into the gypsum and would have been clearly visible from a distance due to the white-on-dark contrast. This sophisticated technique of creating large legible public inscriptions is remarkable for 2500 BCE.

Correct Answer: B. Brahmi (Prakrit) and Kharosthi

The Western Kshatrapas issued bilingual coins with legends in both Brahmi script (Prakrit) and Kharosthi script, reflecting their Central Asian origins and Hellenistic influence. Their coins are important numismatic evidence for dating events and rulers of this period. The silver coins typically show a royal portrait on one side.

Correct Answer: C. Dholavira's reservoirs served similar ritual-purification functions as the Great Bath

While Gujarat sites do not have exact replicas of the famous Great Bath at Mohenjodaro, Dholavira's large water reservoirs and step structures may have served similar ritual purification functions. Water was clearly central to Harappan religious and civic life. The emphasis on water management at Dholavira parallels the importance of the Great Bath at Mohenjodaro.

Correct Answer: B. Dhow (traditional boat) building from medieval period

Mandvi in Kutch has been an important port town from the medieval period, famous for its dhow (traditional wooden boat) building industry. Ships built at Mandvi sailed across the Indian Ocean to Arabia and East Africa. The dhow building tradition continues today, representing an unbroken maritime heritage from the medieval period.

Correct Answer: C. Chudasamas

The Solankis and their successors subdued the Chudasama dynasty which had controlled parts of Saurashtra/Kathiawar before the Solanki expansion. The Chudasamas were local Rajput rulers of Saurashtra who submitted to Solanki overlordship. Control of Kathiawar was crucial because it contained important ports and fertile agricultural land.

Correct Answer: B. The transition from Harappan to post-Harappan culture

Rangpur in Surendranagar is particularly significant for showing the stratigraphic transition from the mature Harappan phase to the late/post-Harappan Painted Red Ware culture. This transition is visible in the pottery sequence and other material culture. The site provides crucial evidence for understanding how the Harappan civilization declined in Gujarat.

Correct Answer: C. 1,600 km

Gujarat has approximately 1,600 km of coastline, the longest of any Indian state. This extensive coastline provided numerous natural harbors and anchorage points for maritime trade from ancient times. The multiple ports along Gujarat's coast allowed trade from different geographic zones simultaneously.