Art and Culture Practice Question Paper

1. Consider the following statements with reference to Harappa civilization:

  • 1. The people of Harappa used sea-faring ships for trade
  • 2. Across all cities of Harappa, there is uniformity in town planning
  • 3. Harappa people know how to use copper, iron, lead and tin

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. With the discovery of a dock in Lothal, Gujarat it came to light that Harappa people used ships for trade through the Arabian Sea.
Statement 2 is also correct. The remarkable feature of harappan Civilization is the uniformity of town planning across all its cities.
Statement 3 is wrong. Iron was not yet discovered during the time of Hrappan civilization.

2. Which of the following is/are correctly paired?

Site      Significance
1. Kalibangan : World’s earliest known ploughed field ever to be excavated
2. Dholavira : An artificially constructed dockyard of Indus valley civilisation is found here
3. Harappa : The famous bronze figurine of a dancing girl was found here

Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 3
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1 and 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation: An artificially constructed dockyard is in Lothal and the dancing girl figurine was found in Mohenjodaro, not in Harappa.

3. Which of the following statements is/are correct with reference to Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)?

  • 1. The people of IVC produced rice, cotton, sesamum, wheat and barley
  • 2. The IVC people are well-versed in bead-making and a bead-making factory is found in Rakhigarhi

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: A bead-making factory of IVC people is found in Lothal, Gujarat.

4. Consider the following statements with reference to architectural structures of Indus Valley Civilization (IVC):

  • 1. Fire altars are found in Lothal and Kalibangan
  • 2. Granaries were a common part of an IVC city
  • 3. The significance of IVC is the presence of an elaborate system of open drainage in all its urban centres

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 1, 2 and 3
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: D

Explanation: statement 3 is wrong as the drainage system of IVC is closed with stone slabs covering the drains.

5. Which of the following statements is/are correct with reference to Hrappan culture?

  • 1. Toys made of terracotta were used by Harappan people
  • 2. The Harappan people worshiped trees and animals

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation: Both the statements are correct.

6. Consider the following pairs

Festival       Place
1. Saga Darwa - Sikkim
2. Kharchi Puja - Assam
3. Cheiraoba - Manipur

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. Only 3
  • D. Only 3

Answer: B

Explanation: Karchi Puja is a festival of Tripura.

7. Match the following:

1. Bhoramdeo Festival     I. Manipur
2. Gangaur Festival     II. Chhattisgarh
3. Kang Chingba     III. Rajasthan

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A. 1-III, 2-I, 3-II
  • B. 1-II, 2-I, 3-III
  • C. 1-II, 2-III, 3-I
  • D. 1-III, 2-II, 3-I

Answer: C

8. Tarnetar Fair is held annually in

  • A. Rajasthan
  • B. Maharashtra
  • C. Gujarat
  • D. Madhya Pradesh

Answer: C

Explanation: Tarnetar Fair is one of the largest tribal fair in India. It is held annually in Gujarat. The fair is famous for swayamvars. Tribal men flock to the fair eloquently dressed and with a beautifully crafted umbrella. The women folk choose their husband based on the umbrella which they like.

9. Gangasagar Mela is a religious fair held annually in which state?

  • A. Uttar Pradesh
  • B. Bihar
  • C. West Bengal
  • D. Jharkhand

Answer: C

10. Which of the following temple festivals and the places where they are celebrated is/are correctly paired?

Temple Festival       Place
1. Devidhura Temple Festival - Himachal Pradesh
2. Attuvela Mahotsavam - Tamil Nadu
3. Kaila Devi Fair - Assam

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. Only 3
  • C. Only 2
  • D. None of the above

Answer: D

11. Which of the following tribes and their origin states is/are correctly paired?

Tribes       States
1. Singpho - Arunachal Pradesh
2. Gadabas - Manipur
3. Shompens - Nagaland

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. Only 1

Answer: D

Explanation: Gadabas are from Andhra Pradesh and Shompens are from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

12. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Gonds’:

  • 1. They are the largest tribal group in India found only in Madhya Pradesh
  • 2. Gonds have their own script called ‘Gunjala Lipi’ for their language

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: Gonds are the largest tribal group in India. They are found across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

13. Consider the following statements with reference to the Chalcolithic Farming Cultures:

  • 1. The Chalcolithic people know how to use bronze.
  • 2. Black-and-red ware pottery was most commonly used by Chalcolithic people.
  • 3. The craft of spinning and weaving was known to Chalcolithic people.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 1
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

14. Which among the following are the unique features of Megalith people of South India?

  • 1. The graves of megalith people are encircled by large boulders
  • 2. They believed in life after death
  • 3. Megalith people practised agriculture extensively

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 2
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: The burying of goods along with the diseased in the graves show that Megaliths believed in life after death and these goods might be of use to the dead in the other world. Megaliths are not extensive agriculturalists.

15. Consider the following pairs:

Literary Work          Author
1. Harshacharita - Banabhatta
2. Ramacharita - Atula
3. Vikramanakadeva Charita - Bilhana

Which of the above pairs is/are not correctly paired?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1 and 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation: Ramacharita was written by Sandhyakara Nandi

16. Which among the following are significant works of literature in Sanskrit?

  • 1. Raghuvamsa
  • 2. Kiratarjuniyam
  • 3. Shishupala Vadha

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

17. In which of the following literary works, the account of Harsha introducing long coats as attire befitting a king was written?

  • A. Rajatarangini
  • B. Abhignanashakuntalam
  • C. Harshacharita
  • D. Silapadikaram

Answer: A

18. Consider the following statements with reference to Sangam literature:

  • 1. It is a historical source of the rule of Cholas and Pandyas only
  • 2. Manimekkalai and Tirukurral are a part of Sangam literature
  • 3. Sangam literature are texts that only glorified the kings

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. Only 2

Answer: D

Explanation: Sangam literature is a historical source of the rule of Cholas, Pandyas and Cheras of ancient Tamil country. The Sangam literature apart from glorifying kings, also have devotional and secular texts.

19. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Gaha Sattasai’:

  • 1. It is a collection of poems written in Prakrit language
  • 2. It poems are about devotion to gods

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: The poems of Gaha Sattasai are about love and love’s joy.

20. Which among the following were the literary works written during the period of Mauryans?

  • 1. Manusmriti
  • 2. Arthashastra
  • 3. Mudrarakshaka

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C

Explanation: Manusmriti is an ancient legal text which dates back to around 1500BC.

21. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Ain-I-Akbari’:

  • 1. It is a part of Akbarnama or Book on Akbar.
  • 2. It details the reign of Akbar till 1602
  • 3. It was written by Abdul Fazal

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. Only 1
  • D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation: Ain-I-Akbari is the third volume of Akbarnama written by Abdul Fazal, the court historian of Akbar.

22. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Avadanas’:

  • 1. These are Buddhist texts composed in Pali language
  • 2. The objectives of these texts is to spread Hinayana Buddhism
  • 3. Mahavastu and Divyavadana are the two important Avavdana texts

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: C

Explanation: Avadanas are Buddhist texts written in Buddhist-hybrid Sanskrit. The objective of these texts is to spread Mahayana Buddhism.

23. Which of the following texts tell us about the craftsmen of post-Mauryan age?

  • 1. Mahavastu
  • 2. Indika
  • 3. Digha Nikaya

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. Only 1

Answer: C

24. Consider the following statements with reference to Buddhist canonical text Vinaya Pitaka:

  • 1. The text is written entirely in Pali
  • 2. The text deals with ethics, psychology or theory of knowledge

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: Vinaya Pitaka contains the monastic rules of the Order of Buddhist monks. Whereas, the Abhidhamma Pitaka, elucidates the various topics dealing with ethics, psychology or theory of knowledge.

25. Rapid foot work, elaborate costumes and the performance is based on stories represents which of the following dance form?

  • A. Bharatanatyam
  • B. Odissi
  • C. Manipuri
  • D. Kathak

Answer: D

26. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Kathakali’:

  • 1. The tribhanga posture is key ingredient in this dance form
  • 2. The dance performance ends with the dancer performing intricate movements while standing on the edges of a brass plate
  • 3. The dance form draws its themes from the stories narrated in epics and puranas

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: C

Explanation: The tribhanga posture is intricate to the Odissi dance form. Statement 2 represents a feature of Kuchipudi.

27. Which among the following are the features of Bharatnatyam?

  • 1. Alarippu
  • 2. Thillana
  • 3. Jala chitra natyam

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: Jala chitra natyam is a feature of Kuchipudi

28. Consider the following pairs:

Dance forms       Region
1. Kalbelia : Rajasthan
2. Paika : Odisha
3. Bihu : West Bengal

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly paired?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. Only 1
  • C. Only 3
  • D. None of the above

Answer: B

Explanation: Paika is a martial folk dance form of Bihar. Bihu is a dance form of Assam.

29. Consider the following statements:

  • 1. Gatka is a martial dance form
  • 2. Singhi Chham is a popular dance form of Ladakh
  • 3. Cheraw Kan is the popular dance form of Nagaland

Which of the above statements is/are not correct?

  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. Only 3

Answer: B

Explanation: Singhi Chham is a famous dance form of Sikkim.

30. Consider the following pairs:

GI Products        State
1. Joha Rice : West Bengal
2. Ilkal Sarees : Bihar
3. Nirmal Paintings : Telangana

Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

31. Recently, which among the following products are given a Geographical Indication tag?

  • 1. Jhabua Kadaknath black chicken
  • 2. Nilambur Teak
  • 3. Boka Chaul

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1, 2 and 3
  • D. None of the above

Answer: C

32. The court of Sri Krishna Deva Raya consisted of eight prominent poets called ‘Ashtadiggajas’. Which among the following are Ashtadiggajas?

  • 1. Dhurjaty
  • 2. Nandi Thimanna
  • 3. Annamayya
  • 4. Ramarajabhushanudu

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A. 1, 2 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 4 only
  • C. 1, 2 and 4 only
  • D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: C

33. Which among the following were the women poets of Bhakti movement in India?

  • 1. Lopamudra
  • 2. Andal
  • 3. Meera Bai

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Explanation: Lopamudra was a women philosopher whose name was mentioned in the vedic texts.

34. In ancient India, the term ‘Panchajana’ refers to

  • A. The confluence of five holy rivers
  • B. The five tribes of early Aryans
  • C. A five headed god
  • D. None of the above

Answer: A

35. Which of the following statement is correct regarding ‘nigamas’?

  • A. It is a professional body of craftsmen for a particular craft in ancient India
  • B. It is an organisation of merchants and artisans that acted like a chamber of commerce and industry in ancient India
  • C. Both a) and b)
  • D. None of the above

Answer: B

Explanation: In ancient India, a professional body of craftsmen for a particular craft was known as Shreni.

36. Match the following:

Monuments        Places
1. The Bara Imambara   I. Bijapur
2. The Gol Gumbaz    II. Lucknow
3. Panch Mahal     III. Fatepur Sikri

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A. 1-II, 2-I, 3-III
  • B. 1-III, 2-II, 3-I
  • C. 1-II, 2-III, 3-I
  • D. 1-III, 2-I, 3-II

Answer: A

37. The ornamental arched gateway of a Buddhist stupa is known as

  • A. Harmika
  • B. Andola
  • C. Torana
  • D. Mandapa

Answer: C

38. Consider the following statements with reference to Jain Temple architecture:

  • 1. The pillars in Jain temples have intricate carvings
  • 2. In a Jain temple, the place where the main deity is placed is known as Gambhara
  • 3. One can find both domes and Shikaras in a Jain temple

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

39. Consider the following statements with reference to Mauryan Pillars:

  • 1. All the Mauryan pillars have a capital figure on the top portion
  • 2. All the mauryan pillars have a circular abacus on which a lotus is carved

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: The Mauryan pillars have either square or circular abacuses.

40. Which of the following statements is/are correct with reference to Lomus Rishi Cave?

  • 1. It is a Buddhist cave located in Barabar hills of Bihar
  • 2. The cave was built during the Ashokan period

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: It was a cave for Ajivika sect.

41. In which of the following places one can find Buddhist Stupas?

  • 1. Allakappa
  • 2. Kushinagar
  • 3. Pava
  • 4. Kapilavastu
  • 5. Avanti

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1, 2, 3 and 5
  • B. 2, 3 and 4
  • C. 1, 3 and 5
  • D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Answer: D

42. Consider the following statements with reference to Buddha sculptures of Mathura school:

  • 1. Sculptures produced here have smiling faces
  • 2. The halo around the Buddha is profusely decorated
  • 3. Under the school, the eyes of the meditative Buddha sculpture are half open

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 3
  • B. Only 1
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: C

Explanation: Statement 3 depicts the Gandhara style of Buddhist sculpture.

43. In the ancient Indian temple architecture the term ‘sarvatobhadra’ represents

  • A. The one which has no pradhakshinapatha
  • B. The one with pradhakshinapatha
  • C. The one which can be accessed from all sides
  • D. The one which has gods installed on all the sides

44. Consider the following statements with reference to Amaravati Stupa:

  • 1. The life of Buddha and jataka stories are extensively depicted on the stupa
  • 2. All the sculptures on the stupa are shown in tribhanga posture
  • 3. Unlike Sanchi stupa, the Amaravati stupa is devoid of pradhakshinapatha

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. Only 1
  • C. 1, 2 and 3
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: D

45. Consider the following statements with reference to Chaityas of Buddhist architecture:

  • 1. These are places where Buddhist monks reside
  • 2. All Chaityas have a stupa in it
  • 3. Chaityas are not allowed to be decorated with sculptures and paintings

Which of the above statements is/are not correct?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. Only 3

Answer: B

46. Consider the following statements with reference to Ellora caves:

  • 1. All the three important religions of ancient India have their presence here
  • 2. The Ellora caves are unique as it has a three-storey cave
  • 3. All the caves of Ellora are extensively painted

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Explanation: Ellora caves are extensively painted but much of it is not visible now.

47. Consider the following statements with reference to prehistoric rock painting in India:

  • 1. In India, the rock paintings are made by people from upper Palaeolithic age
  • 2. The rock paintings in India are mostly about human figures, human activities, geometric designs and symbols
  • 3. Lakhudiyar is one of the important sites for prehistoric art in the country.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

48. Which among the following are the important features of Mughal School of Paintings?

  • 1. They made only miniature paintings
  • 2. All the paintings depict the ruler or court related events
  • 3. They introduced the principles of foreshortening

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

49. In India, mural paintings are found at

  • 1. Ellora Caves
  • 2. Sittanavasal
  • 3. Ravan Chhaya rock shelter
  • 4. Jogimara caves

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1, 2 and 4 only
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3 only

Answer: D

Explanation: Jogimara caves are famous for rock paintings of Chalcolithic era

50. Consider the following pairs:

Mural Paintings        Place where they are found
1. Ladies attending Parvarti : Lepakshi
2. Shiva as bhikshatana murti : Ajanta
3. Krishna playing flute, accompanied by Gopikas : Triprayar

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 3
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. Only 2

Answer: A

Explanation: Shiva as bhikshatana murti is found in Chidambara, Tamil Nadu. The mural painting of Krishna playing flute, accompanied by Gopikas is found at Krishna Temple, Pundareekapuram.

51. Consider the following statements with reference to Rajasthani Paintings:

  • 1. These are democratic paintings depicting everyday life of people and their devotion to god
  • 2. Lord Krishna dominated the Rajasthani paintings

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

52. Consider the following statements with reference to Kamagari art:

  • 1. It is an art form which began in the 18th century India
  • 2. This art form involves painting themes of Ramayana and Krishna leela on a cotton fabric
  • 3. It is originated in Gujarat

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: Kamagari art began in the 18th century India. It involves elaborate wall paintings on the themes of Ramayana, Krishna Leela, British Soldiers, etc. It originated in Kutch, Gujarat. The art form is also known as Kamangari Bhint Chitro.

53. Which among the following were a part of Akbar’s nine jewels?

  • 1. Raja Todar Mal
  • 2. Kabir
  • 3. Birbal
  • 3. Tansen

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 1, 2 and 4 only
  • C. 1, 3 and 4 only
  • D. 2 and 4 only

Answer: C

54. The tower over the sanctum sanctorum of a Nagara style of temple architecture is known as

  • A. Harmika
  • B. Garbhagriha
  • C. Shikhara
  • D. Vimana

Answer: C

55. Which of the following are the features of Dravidian style of temple architecture?

  • 1. Dvarapalas
  • 2. Amalaka
  • 3. Mandapa
  • 3. Chawadis

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1, 2 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 4 only
  • C. 1, 3 and 4 only
  • D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: C

Explanation: Amalaka is a feature of Nagara style.

56. Which of the following is/are correctly paired:

Famous Ancient Temples       Places
1. Dashavatara Vishnu Temple : Udaigiri
2. Vishwanatha Temple : Khajuraho
3. Shore Temple : Kanyakumari

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: B

Explanation: Dashavatara Vishnu Temple is located in Deogarh and Shore temple is in Mahabalipuram.

57. The term mithun in the context of sculptures of ancient Indian temples represents

  • A. The rain god
  • B. An embracing couple
  • C. The floating Brahma
  • D. Lord Vishnu in a sleeping mode

Answer: B

58. Which among the following are the places where Chalukyan temples of Vesara style can be found?

  • 1. Pattadakal
  • 2. Mahakuta
  • 3. Aihole

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

59. Kiratarjuniya, the poetic work of Bharvi was sculpted onto a rock in which of the following places?

  • A. Kailashnath Temple
  • B. Khajuraho
  • C. Mahabalipuram
  • D. Rock-cut caves of Aihole

Answer: C

60. ‘Maheshmurti’ image is found in which of the following rock-cut cave?

  • A. Elephanta
  • B. Ajanta
  • C. Ellora
  • D. Guntapalle

Answer: A

61. Which of the following is/are part of Jain Doctrine?

  • 1. Do not commit violence
  • 2. Do not acquire property
  • 3. Do not speak a lie

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. Only 1
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C

62. Which of the following statements is/are correct about Ashokan inscriptions?

  • 1. They were royal orders and decisions taken
  • 2. They were directed only towards officials
  • 3. All the inscriptions were religious in nature

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Only 3
  • D. All of the above

Answer: A

63. The ‘Shatapatha Brahmana’ details at length about

  • A. Burial rituals
  • B. Ploughing rituals
  • C. War initiation rituals
  • D. None of the above

Answer: B

64. Which among the following was a Hindi Bhakti poet?

  • A. Pampa
  • B. Jayadeva
  • C. Chandidas
  • D. Namdev

Answer: D

65. The great Gupta King Harsha was the author of which of the following:

  • A. Priyadarshika
  • B. Saundarananda
  • C. Mricchakatika
  • D. Vajrasuchi

Answer: A

66. Consider the following statements with reference to religious history of ancient India:

  • 1. Bhagavatism preached the doctrine of incarnation
  • 2. Bhagavatism and Mahayana Buddhism were contemporary religions

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

67. Consider the following statements with reference to the importance of Gupta empire in India’s cultural history:

  • 1. It is in the times of Gupta empire that the play Mrichchhakatika was written
  • 2. Guptas produced largest number of gold coins in India
  • 3. The Gupta king Chandragupta II was an exponent of Vina

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 2
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: The Gupta King Samudragupta was an exponent of vina.

68. Consider the following statements with reference to the ‘Nath Panthi Movement’:

  • 1. It challenged the dominance of brahmanas
  • 2. Naths worshipped lord Shiva

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

69. The religious musical tradition of ‘Kirtan’ in medieval India was popularised by

  • A. Narsinha Mehta
  • B. Meera
  • C. Chaitanya
  • D. Surdas

Answer: C

70. Mitakshara of Vijnaneshwar was a literary work of 12th century India. which of the following statements is/are correct about it?

  • 1. It was written in Hindi
  • 2. It is a commentary to the Dharmashastras

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: It was written in Sanskrit.

71. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Sarangi’

  • 1. It is a string musical instrument
  • 2. It was introduced to India by the Turks

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

72. Consider the following pairs:

Puppetry         State of Origin
1. Pavakoothu : Karnataka
2. Ravanachhaya : Kerala
3. Bommalattam : Andhra Pradesh

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

  • A. Only 2
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. Only 3
  • D. None

Answer: D

73. Consider the following statements:

  • 1. Kundhei is the famous rod puppetry of Odisha
  • 2. Yampuri is the traditional rod puppetry of Bihar

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: Kundehi is the famous string puppetry of Odisha.

74. Consider the following statements with reference to traditional Indian theatre forms:

  • 1. Bhand Pater is a traditional theatre of Jammu & Kashmir
  • 2. The initial plays for Rasleela, a traditional theatre form, was written by Nand Das

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

75. Consider the following pairs of theatre form and their state of origin:

Theatre Form        State of Origin
1. Bhavai : Gujarat
2. Swang : Haryana
3. Maach : Rajasthan

Which of the above is/are correctly paired?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

76. Yakshagaana is a traditional theatre form. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding this?

  • 1. It is a traditional theatre form from Kerala
  • 2. It is based on the mythological stories and puranas

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: It is from the state of Karnataka

77. Which among the following are the membranophone musical instruments of India?

  • 1. Ghatam
  • 2. Khol
  • 3. Chenda

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. Only 3
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: D

Explanation: Ghatam is a percussion instrument used in Carnatic music.

78. Sangeeta Ratnakara, the classical text on music was written by

  • A. Bharata
  • B. Sarangadeva
  • C. Ramamatya
  • D. None of the above

Answer: B

79. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Thumri’:

  • 1. Songs in this musical style revolves around the girl’s love for Krishna
  • 2. The Thumri singers are always female

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: The Thumri singers are not always female but are usually female.

80. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Kuttu Varisai’:

  • 1. It is a dance drama with its origin in Tamil Nadu
  • 2. It was first mentioned in the Sangam literature

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: It is a martial art form found across south India. It was first mentioned in the Sangam literature.

81. Consider the following statements with reference to Sufism:

  • 1. Sufi mystics practised penance and fasting
  • 2. They laid emphasis on deep love towards god
  • 3. The musical recitation carried out by Sufis is known as Sama

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. Only 3
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

82. Consider the following statements with reference to Jainism:

  • 1. Right livelihood is one of the asthangika marga to conquer desire as per Jainism
  • 2. It puts emphasis on penance and asceticism

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: Statement 1 belongs to Buddhism

83. Which of the following were the reasons for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism in ancient India?

  • 1. Tensions generated by the varna-divided society
  • 2. Kshatriyas reaction against the domination of the priestly class
  • 3. Impatience on the part of Vaishyas to follow Dharmasutras laid down by the Brahmanas of ancient India

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. All of these

Answer: D

84. Which of the following terms are associated with Sufism in India?

  • 1. Khanqah
  • 2. Silsilahs
  • 3. Mazars

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

85. Consider the following statements:

  • 1. The essence of Bakthi movement was the disregard for caste system
  • 2. Bakthi movement emphasised oneness of gods

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

86. Consider the following pairs:

Bakthi Saint        God they Worshipped
1. Surdas : Lord Rama
2. Rashkan : Lord Krishna
3. Mirabai : Lord Krishna

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. 1 and 2 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. Only 3

Answer: C

Explanation: Surdas was a devotee of Lord Krishna. Rashkan, though was a Muslim, he worshipped Lord Krishna. Miscellaneous

87. Which of the following are incorrectly paired?

1. Vikrama Samvat : 78 AD
2. Gupta Era : 319 AD
3. Shaka samvat : 57 AD

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C

Explanation: Vikrama Samvat – 57 AD and Shaka Samvat – 78 AD

88. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Puranas?

  • 1. The four ages – krita, treat, dvapara and kali – are mentioned in the Puranas
  • 2. Puranas are considered as a part of Vedas

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. dfgNeither 1 nor 2dfgfdg

Answer: C

89. Which among the following foreign literary works mention about trade with India and other countries?

  • 1. Indika
  • 2. The Periplus of the Erythrean Sea
  • 3. Naturalis Historia

Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. Only 2
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: C

Explanation: rade with other countries was not mentioned in Indika

90. Consider the following statements with reference to Rig Vedic texts:

  • 1. Accounts of women attending assemblies that exercised deliberative functions were mentioned in the texts
  • 2. As per the texts, Agni was the most important god

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation: Indra or Purandara was the most important god as per Rig Veda

91. Consider the following statements with respect to Palaeolithic sites in India:

  • 1. These are the known sites of hunter-gatherers of ancient India
  • 2. Bhimbetka, Kurnool caves and Hunsgi are examples of Palaeolithic sites
  • 3. People of Palaeolithic age made tools of stone and wood only

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 1
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: Statement 3 is wrong as people of Palaeolithic age made tools out of stone, wood and bones. Statement 1 and 2 are correct.

92. Consider the following pairs:

Traditional Embroidery     Place
a. Chikan Work : Lucknow
b. Kantha : Bengal
c. Patola : Punjab

Which of the above pairs is/are correct?

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation: Patola is from Odisha.

93. In ancient India, Kings performed which of the following sacrifices to establish their position?

  • 1. Ashvamedha
  • 2. Vajapeya
  • 3. Rajasuya

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

94. Various inscriptions found in India convey

  • 1. Records of land grants
  • 2. Religious orders
  • 3. Events of King’s life
  • 4. Victories and defeats in wars

Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

  • A. 1, 2 and 4
  • B. 1 and 4 only
  • C. 2 and 4 only
  • D. All of the above

Answer: D

95. Which of the following is/are correct regarding Hsuan Tsang’s visit to India:

  • 1. He came to India during the Gupta age
  • 2. He was robbed of his belonging during his stay in India
  • 3. He attended the grand assembly of Buddhist called by Harsha at Kannauj

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 2 and 3 only
  • C. Only 2
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

96. Which among the following is/are the chief characteristic features of Neolithic age?

  • 1. Usage of woollen clothes
  • 2. Usage of tiny stone tools
  • 3. Usage of wheels to make pottery

Select the correct answer from the code below.

  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. Only 3
  • C. 1 and 3 only
  • D. Only 1

Answer: C

Explanation: Usage of tiny stone tools called microliths was the characteristic feature of Mesolithic age but not Neolithic age.

97. Which of the following is/are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India?

  • 1. Pattadakal temples
  • 2. Mamallapuram
  • 3. Darasuram

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Only 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

98. Which among the following are classical languages?

  • 1. Tamil
  • 2. Kannada
  • 3. Pali
  • 4. Sanskrit

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  • A. 1, 3 and 4
  • B. 2, 3 and 4
  • C. 1, 2 and 4
  • D. 1 and 4 only

Answer: C

99. Ashtashyayi is a

  • A. Sanskrit poetry written by Kalidas
  • B. A treatise on the rigid rules of Sanskrit language
  • C. It is a book on the life and escapades of Lord Krishna
  • D. None of the above

Answer: B

100. Which of the following statements is/are correct with reference to Bhimbetka Rock paintings?

  • 1. The paintings at Bhimbetka are from the historical periods of upper paleolithic, Mesolithic and Chalcolithic only.
  • 2. Paintings of horse riders can be seen at Bhimbetka.

Select the correct answer using the given codes:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2
  • D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation: Apart from the mentioned periods, there is evidence of painting from later periods too at Bhimbetka.