Mauryan & Gupta — Set 7
Indian History · मौर्य और गुप्त · Questions 61–70 of 100
Which text is a grammar written by Patanjali?
Correct Answer: D. Mahabhasya
Patanjali wrote the Mahabhasya, which is a commentary on Panini's Ashtadhyayi. He is associated with the Sunga period, immediately following the Mauryas. His work is a cornerstone of Sanskrit grammar and linguistics.
In the Gupta administration, the 'Sandhivigrahika' was the Minister of:
Correct Answer: A. Peace and War
The Sandhivigrahika was the Minister of Peace and War (Foreign Minister) in the Gupta administration. Harisena, the composer of the Prayag Prasasti, held this title. This official was responsible for drafting treaties and managing alliances.
Which pillar edict of Ashoka was moved to Delhi by Firoz Shah Tughlaq?
Correct Answer: A. Topra Pillar
The Topra Pillar (and the Meerut Pillar) was moved to Delhi by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century. It was originally located in Topra, Haryana. This demonstrates the enduring fascination with Ashokan pillars throughout history.
The 'Navratnas' (Nine Gems) adorned the court of:
Correct Answer: B. Chandragupta II
The Navratnas were a group of nine distinguished scholars and artists in the court of Chandragupta II. They included luminaries like Kalidasa, Varahamihira, and Amara Simha. This group symbolized the cultural zenith of the Gupta Golden Age.
Which inscription mentions the repair of Sudarshana Lake by Rudradaman I?
Correct Answer: D. Junagadh Inscription
The Junagadh Rock Inscription records the repair of Sudarshana Lake by the Saka ruler Rudradaman I. It also mentions the lake's original construction by Chandragupta Maurya's governor. Later, it records repairs by Skandagupta, linking three eras.
Who was the Greek ambassador sent to the court of Bindusara?
Correct Answer: C. Deimachus
Deimachus was the Greek ambassador sent by the Syrian king Antiochus I to the court of Bindusara. He succeeded Megasthenes as the envoy to the Mauryan court. His writings have been lost, but he is cited by later Greek historians.
The Gupta era is generally believed to have started in:
Correct Answer: B. 319-320 CE
The Gupta era is believed to have started in 319-320 CE. This date marks the accession of Chandragupta I. It was used for dating inscriptions in the Gupta empire and surrounding regions.
The book 'Indica', which is now lost but quoted by later writers, was written in which language?
Correct Answer: B. Greek
Indica was written in Greek by Megasthenes. Although the original text is lost, fragments survive in the works of Arrian, Strabo, and Diodorus. It provided the Western world with its first detailed account of India.
Which Gupta ruler defeated the Shakas (Western Satraps) and ended their rule?
Correct Answer: B. Chandragupta II
Chandragupta II defeated the Shakas of Western India, ending their long domination. This victory gave the Guptas access to the western ports and trade routes. He assumed the title 'Sakari' (Conqueror of Shakas) after this feat.
The concept of 'Zero' and the decimal system were developed during which period?
Correct Answer: C. Gupta Period
The concept of Zero and the decimal place-value system were fully developed during the Gupta Period. Mathematicians like Aryabhatta made significant contributions to this field. This mathematical revolution is a key reason why this era is called the Golden Age.