Ancient History & Harappan — Set 6
Gujarat GK · प्राचीन इतिहास और हड़प्पा · Questions 51–60 of 200
Kumarpal, a later Solanki ruler of Gujarat, was a great patron of which religion?
Correct Answer: C. Jainism
Kumarpal (1143-1172 CE) was a great patron of Jainism and came under the influence of the Jain philosopher Hemachandra. He is credited with building and renovating many Jain temples across Gujarat. During his reign, the slaughter of animals was reportedly banned in his kingdom.
Hemachandra was a famous Jain scholar who lived during which Solanki ruler's reign?
Correct Answer: C. Siddhraj Jaysinh and Kumarpal
Hemachandra (1089-1172 CE) was a renowned Jain polymath and scholar who flourished under the patronage of Solanki rulers Siddhraj Jaysinh and Kumarpal. He wrote extensively on grammar, poetry, yoga, and Jain philosophy. The Hemachandra Acharya University in Patan is named after him.
The ancient city of Vadnagar in Gujarat was an important center during which historical period?
Correct Answer: B. Mauryan to medieval period
Vadnagar in Mehsana district was an important cultural and trade center from the Mauryan period through the medieval age. Archaeological excavations reveal continuous habitation for over 2,500 years. The city was known for its magnificent fortifications, temples, and trade activities.
The Girnar mountain near Junagadh is sacred to which religions?
Correct Answer: C. Both Jainism and Hinduism
Girnar near Junagadh is sacred to both Jains and Hindus, making it a unique multi-religious pilgrimage site. Jains venerate it as the location where Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara, attained liberation. Hindus worship the goddess Ambaji and other deities enshrined on Girnar's peaks.
What type of script was used in Ashoka's edicts at Junagadh?
Correct Answer: C. Brahmi
Ashoka's edicts at Junagadh (Girnar) are written in the Brahmi script using the Prakrit language. Brahmi is the ancestor of most South Asian scripts including Devanagari. The Girnar edicts are important for the study of early Indian epigraphy and the development of writing in India.
Which early historical period saw Gujarat emerge as a major center of maritime trade?
Correct Answer: B. Early Historic period (200 BCE - 300 CE)
Gujarat emerged as a major center of maritime trade during the Early Historic period from about 200 BCE to 300 CE. The port of Bharuch (Barygaza) and other coastal sites flourished as international trading hubs. Roman coins found across Gujarat testify to the extent of this ancient sea trade.
The Harappan civilization is also called which other name?
Correct Answer: B. Indus Valley Civilization
The Harappan civilization is also called the Indus Valley Civilization, named after the Indus River valley where it was first discovered. It is now more accurately called the Harappan civilization after the first excavated site at Harappa. Many sites, including those in Gujarat, are far from the Indus River.
The discovery of Lothal Harappan site was significant because it provided evidence of trade with which ancient civilization?
Correct Answer: B. Mesopotamian civilization
Lothal's excavation provided important evidence of trade with Mesopotamian civilization (modern Iraq). Persian Gulf seals, typical Mesopotamian designs, and goods found at Lothal confirm this ancient trade connection. Conversely, Harappan goods have been found at Mesopotamian sites.
The Solanki king Bhimdev I is associated with which famous event involving Mahmud of Ghazni?
Correct Answer: C. Mahmud's raid on Somnath happened during his reign
Mahmud of Ghazni's famous raid on the Somnath temple in 1025-26 CE occurred during the reign of Bhimdev I (Bhima I) of the Solanki dynasty. Bhimdev fled before Mahmud's attack and could not defend the temple. After Mahmud left, Bhimdev rebuilt the temple.
Roman gold coins found across Gujarat provide evidence of which ancient activity?
Correct Answer: B. Trade between Gujarat and Roman Empire
Roman gold coins (aurei) found across Gujarat, particularly at Bharuch and other coastal sites, provide direct evidence of extensive trade between Gujarat and the Roman Empire. Gujarat exported cotton, spices, precious stones, and pepper in exchange for Roman gold. The volume of Roman coins found indicates a persistent trade surplus in Gujarat's favor.