Mauryan & Gupta — Set 2
Indian History · मौर्य और गुप्त · Questions 11–20 of 100
Which Greek ambassador visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya?
Correct Answer: A. Megasthenes
Megasthenes was the Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. He wrote the book 'Indica', which describes Mauryan society and administration. His accounts provide valuable insights into the city of Pataliputra.
The 'Eran Inscription' of Bhanugupta is historically significant for the first epigraphic evidence of what practice?
Correct Answer: D. Sati
The Eran Inscription, dated 510 CE, provides the first epigraphic evidence of the practice of Sati. It records that the wife of a general named Goparaja immolated herself on his funeral pyre. This finding helps historians trace social customs of the later Gupta period.
Which Mauryan pillar features four lions standing back to back?
Correct Answer: A. Sarnath
The Sarnath Lion Capital features four lions standing back to back on an abacus. This sculpture was adopted as the National Emblem of India. It originally surmounted an Ashokan pillar at the site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Who was the court physician associated with the Gupta period?
Correct Answer: B. Dhanvantari
Dhanvantari is traditionally considered one of the 'Navratnas' (Nine Gems) in the court of Chandragupta II. He is revered as a great physician and associated with the Ayurveda tradition. Although specific texts by him are debated, his legacy in Gupta medicine is significant.
The term 'Vishti' in the Gupta period referred to:
Correct Answer: A. Forced labor
Vishti referred to forced labor extracted by the state or local landlords during the Gupta period. It was considered a source of income for the state, paid in labor rather than cash. This practice indicates the changing socio-economic conditions of the time.
Which Mauryan ruler was also known as 'Amitraghata' (Slayer of Foes)?
Correct Answer: B. Bindusara
Bindusara, the son of Chandragupta Maurya, was known by the title Amitraghata. Greek sources refer to him as Amitrochates, meaning the slayer of enemies. He expanded the Mauryan empire further south into the peninsular region.
Who authored the 'Brihat Samhita', an encyclopedic work on astronomy, botany, and natural history?
Correct Answer: C. Varahamihira
Varahamihira authored the Brihat Samhita during the Gupta period. It is an encyclopedic text covering diverse topics like astronomy, planetary movements, architecture, and clouds. He was one of the gems in the court of Chandragupta II.
Which Ashokan edict mentions the Kalinga War and Ashoka's remorse?
Correct Answer: C. Major Rock Edict XIII
Major Rock Edict XIII contains the description of the Kalinga War and Ashoka's subsequent remorse. It mentions the massive loss of life which led Ashoka to embrace Dhamma. This edict provides a personal insight into his transformation.
The paintings of Ajanta Caves primarily depict stories from:
Correct Answer: D. Jataka Tales
The Ajanta Caves paintings primarily depict scenes from the Jataka Tales, which are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. These caves date from the 2nd century BCE to roughly 480 CE, covering both Satavahana and Gupta periods. The art is renowned for its expression and color.
What was the main function of 'Rajukas' in Ashoka's administration?
Correct Answer: D. Justice and surveying
Rajukas were officers responsible for land measurement and judicial functions in rural areas. Ashoka granted them independence in judgment to ensure impartial justice. Their role evolved from revenue assessment to maintaining law and order.