Q.Which of the following scripts were deciphered by James Prinsep ? (A) Bengali and Devanagari (B) Sanskrit and Prakrit (C) Brahmi and Kharosthi (D) Greek and Indo-Greek

Showing the 12 most recent of 45 on this concept.

1. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Match the Column - I with Column - II and choose the correct option : Column - I (Harappan Sites) a. Manda b. Kalibangan c. Rakhigarhi d. Lothal Column - II (Present Location) 1. Haryana 2. Gujarat 3. Rajasthan 4. Jammu Options : (A) a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4 (B) a-3, b-4, c-2, d-1 (C) a-2, b-3, c-4, d-1 (D) a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The Harappan sites are spread across a vast geographical area from Jammu in the north to Gujarat in the west; matching them correctly: Manda (Jammu), Kalibangan (Rajasthan), Rakhigarhi (Haryana), Lothal (Gujarat).

   The Harappan Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban cultures, was not confined to a single river valley but stretched across an enormous expanse of the Indian subcontinent. Understanding the geographical distribution of its sites reveals the scale and reach of this Bronze Age society, which thrived roughly between 2600 BCE and 1900 BCE.

   Let me walk you through each site and its present-day location, drawing directly from what the NCERT textbook tells us about the spread of Harappan settlements.

   Manda sits at the northernmost edge of the Harappan world, located in Jammu (now in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Territory). This site marks the civilization's extension into the northern regions, far from the core areas along the Indus. Its discovery pushed our understanding of how far Harappan trade networks and cultural influence reached.

   Kalibangan, meaning "black bangles" in Hindi, lies in Rajasthan along the banks of the now-dry Ghaggar river (identified by many scholars with the ancient Sarasvati). The site is particularly significant because it revealed evidence of a ploughed field, fire altars, and a distinctive town planning pattern that helps us understand Harappan agricultural and ritual practices.

   Rakhigarhi is one of the largest Harappan sites, located in Haryana. Recent excavations have brought this site into prominence, and it rivals even Mohenjo-daro and Harappa in size. The NCERT textbook acknowledges it as among the biggest settlements of the civilization, underscoring the importance of the Ghaggar-Hakra region.

   Lothal, situated in Gujarat, represents the Harappan presence in the western coastal areas. This site is famous for what archaeologists interpret as a dockyard, suggesting maritime trade links. Lothal also yielded evidence of bead-making, shell-working, and other craft activities that point to its role as a trading and manufacturing center.

   Note

   The Harappan Civilization's sites span an area larger than ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia, covering parts of present-day Pakistan, India, and even Afghanistan. This vast distribution shows a remarkable cultural uniformity despite geographical distances.

   Now, matching these sites to their present locations:

   • a. Manda → 4. Jammu
   • b. Kalibangan → 3. Rajasthan
   • c. Rakhigarhi → 1. Haryana
   • d. Lothal → 2. Gujarat

   This gives us the combination: a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2.

   ✓Final answer

   The correct match is (D) a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2: Manda in Jammu, Kalibangan in Rajasthan, Rakhigarhi in Haryana, and Lothal in Gujarat — reflecting the Harappan Civilization's remarkable geographical spread across the subcontinent.

2. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Arrange the following in correct chronological order and choose the correct option : I. Chalcolithic Age II. Mesolithic Age III. Neolithic Age IV. Paleolithic Age Options : (A) I, IV, III, II (B) IV, II, III, I (C) II, III, I, IV (D) III, I, IV, II

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The correct chronological order of these prehistoric ages is Paleolithic → Mesolithic → Neolithic → Chalcolithic, which corresponds to option (B).

   The question asks you to arrange four prehistoric cultural stages in the correct sequence from earliest to latest. This is a straightforward test of the standard timeline of human prehistory, as taught in Indian history curricula. The key is to remember that the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age) is the oldest, followed by the Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), then the Neolithic (New Stone Age), and finally the Chalcolithic (Copper-Stone Age). Let's walk through each stage.

   1. Paleolithic Age (Old Stone Age) — This is the earliest and longest phase of human history, spanning from about 2.6 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE. Humans were hunter-gatherers using crude stone tools. In India, this age is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper Paleolithic periods. It comes first in any chronological list.

   2. Mesolithic Age (Middle Stone Age) — This transitional phase began around 10,000 BCE and lasted until about 8,000 BCE (or later in some regions). It is characterized by microliths (tiny stone tools) and the beginnings of settled life, but still primarily hunting and gathering. It follows the Paleolithic and precedes the Neolithic.

   3. Neolithic Age (New Stone Age) — Starting around 8,000 BCE in the Indian subcontinent (with sites like Mehrgarh), this age marks the shift to agriculture, domestication of animals, and polished stone tools. It is the first stage where humans began producing food rather than just collecting it. It comes after the Mesolithic.

   4. Chalcolithic Age (Copper-Stone Age) — This is the last of the four, beginning around 3000 BCE in India (e.g., the Indus Valley civilization's early phases and other copper-using cultures). It is characterized by the use of copper alongside stone tools, and often associated with early village settlements and trade. It follows the Neolithic.

   Watch out

   A common mistake is to place the Chalcolithic before the Neolithic, thinking that copper use came before polished stone. But the Neolithic (with agriculture and polished stone) is older than the widespread use of copper in the Chalcolithic. The correct sequence is always: Paleolithic → Mesolithic → Neolithic → Chalcolithic.

   Now, match this sequence to the options:

   • Option (A): I, IV, III, II → Chalcolithic, Paleolithic, Neolithic, Mesolithic — wrong.
   • Option (B): IV, II, III, I → Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic — correct.
   • Option (C): II, III, I, IV → Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Paleolithic — wrong.
   • Option (D): III, I, IV, II → Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Paleolithic, Mesolithic — wrong.

   Tip

   A quick mnemonic to remember the order: Paleolithic → Mesolithic → Neolithic → Chalcolithic. Think of the first letters: P-M-N-C — like "Prime Minister's New Car" (silly but effective).

   ✓Final answer

   The correct chronological order is Paleolithic → Mesolithic → Neolithic → Chalcolithic, which corresponds to option (B).

3. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Which of the following pairs is correctly matched ? (Ancient Dynasties) - (Lineage) (A) Kanvas - Successors of Mauryas (B) Mauryas - Successors of Mahapadmananda (C) Satvahanas - Successors of Kushanas (D) Shakas - Successors of Chalukyas

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The question tests chronological succession of ancient Indian dynasties. The Mauryas succeeded Mahapadmananda (the last Nanda king), making (B) the correct match.

   The key to this question is understanding the actual historical sequence of dynasties in ancient India, not just their names. Each option claims a succession relationship, so we need to verify which lineage claim is historically accurate.

   Let me examine each pair against the historical record:

   Option (A): Kanvas as successors of Mauryas

   The Mauryan empire ended around 185 BCE when the last Mauryan emperor Brihadratha was assassinated by his commander-in-chief Pushyamitra Shunga. This established the Shunga dynasty, not the Kanvas. The Kanvas did eventually succeed the Shungas (around 73 BCE), making them successors of the Shungas, not direct successors of the Mauryas. This is incorrect.

   Option (B): Mauryas as successors of Mahapadmananda

   Mahapadmananda (also called Mahapadma Nanda) was the founder of the Nanda dynasty and is often called "the destroyer of all Kshatriyas" in Puranic literature. The last Nanda king, Dhana Nanda, was overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya with the help of Chanakya around 322 BCE. This established the Mauryan dynasty. The succession is direct and well-documented in both Indian and Greek sources. This is correct.

   Option (C): Satavahanas as successors of Kushanas

   The Satavahanas (also called Andhras) rose to power in the Deccan around the 1st century BCE, possibly even earlier. The Kushanas, on the other hand, established their empire in northern India around the 1st century CE. Not only did the Satavahanas predate the Kushanas, but they also ruled in different geographical regions. The Satavahanas actually succeeded the Kanvas in parts of central India. This is incorrect.

   Option (D): Shakas as successors of Chalukyas

   The Shakas (Indo-Scythians) entered India around the 2nd century BCE and established kingdoms in western and northwestern India. The Chalukyas emerged much later — the early Chalukyas of Badami rose to prominence only in the 6th century CE. The chronology is completely reversed here; the Shakas came nearly 700-800 years before the Chalukyas. This is incorrect.

   Watch out

   A common confusion arises from mixing up geographical contemporaries with chronological successors. Just because two dynasties existed in overlapping time periods doesn't mean one succeeded the other.

   ✓Final answer

   The correct option is (B) — the Mauryas were indeed successors of Mahapadmananda (the Nanda dynasty).

4. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Fill in the blank with the appropriate option given below : In the ancient period, each city had a history of its own, _________ began as a village but in fifth century B.C.E the Magadhan rulers shifted their capital from Rajagaha to this settlement. Options : (A) Vidisha (B) Taxila (C) Ujjain (D) Patliputra

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The question describes a city that began as a village and became the Magadhan capital in the 5th century BCE after the capital was shifted from Rajagaha. The correct answer is Patliputra.

   The key to this question is not just memorising a list of ancient cities, but understanding the political geography of the Magadha empire. The Magadhan rulers were expanding their territory and needed a capital that was strategically located — defensible, yet well-connected for trade and administration. Rajagaha (modern Rajgir) was surrounded by hills, which made it secure but also cramped. The shift to a new capital was a deliberate move to accommodate a growing empire.

   Let’s trace the logic step by step.

   1. Identify the time frame and the event.

      The question says "in the fifth century B.C.E the Magadhan rulers shifted their capital from Rajagaha to this settlement." This is a specific, well-documented event in Indian history. The shift from Rajagaha to Pataliputra is attributed to either King Ajatashatru or his successor Udayin (depending on the source, but both fall in the 5th century BCE). The new city was built at the confluence of the Ganga and Son rivers.

   2. Examine each option against this fact.

      • (A) Vidisha: This was an important city in central India, but it was never the capital of Magadha. It became prominent later under the Shungas and Guptas.
      • (B) Taxila: This was a major centre of learning in the northwest (modern Pakistan), far from Magadha. It was never a Magadhan capital.
      • (C) Ujjain: This was the capital of the Avanti kingdom, not Magadha. It was conquered by Magadha later, but the capital was not shifted there.
      • (D) Patliputra: This is the ancient name for modern Patna. It was founded as a village (Pataligrama) and later fortified by Ajatashatru. By the time of the Nandas and Mauryas, it became the grand capital of the Magadhan empire.

   3. Confirm the "began as a village" detail.

      The question mentions that the city "began as a village." Patliputra’s original name was Pataligrama (literally "village of the Patali tree"). The Greek ambassador Megasthenes later described it as a sprawling city, but its humble origins are well-recorded in Buddhist texts. None of the other options started as a village in the Magadhan context — Taxila and Ujjain were already established urban centres, and Vidisha was a later development.

   Watch out

   A common mistake is to confuse Patliputra with Pataliputra (same place, different spelling) or to think that Ujjain was the capital because it was a major city. But the question specifically ties the shift to Magadha, and only Patliputra fits that timeline.

   Tip

   If you remember that the Mauryan emperor Chandragupta Maurya ruled from Patliputra, and that the Mauryas were the successors of the Magadhan kingdoms, the link becomes easier. The shift from Rajagaha to Patliputra was the foundation of the imperial capital that later housed the Mauryan court.

   ✓Final answer

   The correct option is (D) Patliputra.

5. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Identify the following structure from the options given below : [A photograph of a hemispherical stone monument with a gateway and staircase is printed with this question.] Options : (A) Amravati Stupa (B) Sanchi Stupa (C) Barhut Stupa (D) Sarnath Stupa [Visually Impaired alternative in lieu of Q.7: In which of the following modern states of India is Sanchi Stupa located ? (A) Maharashtra (B) Madhya Pradesh (C) Tamil Nadu (D) Uttar Pradesh]

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The visually impaired alternative asks for the location of Sanchi Stupa, which lies in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The answer is (B).

   ---

   The question offers an alternative for visually impaired candidates: instead of identifying a monument from a photograph, you are asked to recall the geographical location of the Sanchi Stupa within modern India. This tests your knowledge of important Buddhist archaeological sites and their states.

   Sanchi is one of the most celebrated Buddhist monuments in India, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its location is a standard fact in Indian history and culture syllabi. Let me walk you through why Madhya Pradesh is the correct answer.

   Why Madhya Pradesh?

   Sanchi Stupa is situated near the town of Sanchi in the Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh, about 46 km northeast of Bhopal, the state capital. The site was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and contains some of the oldest stone structures in India. The Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1) at Sanchi is hemispherical in shape, surrounded by a stone railing with four ornately carved gateways (toranas) that depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales.

   Let's eliminate the other options:

   1. Maharashtra (A): While Maharashtra is home to important Buddhist sites like the Ajanta and Ellora caves, and the Karla and Bhaja caves, Sanchi is not located here. The Amravati Stupa mentioned in the original question is actually in Andhra Pradesh (not Maharashtra), so this is not the answer.

   2. Tamil Nadu (C): Tamil Nadu has significant ancient temples and Dravidian architecture, but it does not house the Sanchi Stupa. Buddhist influence in Tamil Nadu is less prominent compared to central and northern India.

   3. Uttar Pradesh (D): Uttar Pradesh is home to Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, and other important Buddhist sites like Kushinagar (where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana). However, Sanchi is not in Uttar Pradesh.

   4. Madhya Pradesh (B): This is the correct state. Sanchi's stupas, monasteries, and pillars are iconic symbols of early Indian Buddhist art and architecture, and the site is firmly located in Madhya Pradesh.

   Tip

   A quick mnemonic: Sanchi sounds like "Sanchi in the center" — Madhya Pradesh is literally the central state of India (Madhya = middle).

   ✓Final answer

   Sanchi Stupa is located in Madhya Pradesh. The correct option is (B).

6. CBSE 2026Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
   Q.Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option : List of Women members in the Constituent Assembly Column - I (Women member) I. Sarojini Naidu II. Hansa Mehta III. Vijayalakshmi Pandit IV. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur Column - II (Constituency) a. Central Province b. Uttar Pradesh c. Bihar d. Bombay Options : (A) I-a, II-c, III-b, IV-d (B) I-c, II-d, III-b, IV-a (C) I-b, II-a, III-c, IV-d (D) I-d, II-b, III-a, IV-c

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The correct matching identifies Sarojini Naidu from Bihar, Hansa Mehta from Bombay, Vijayalakshmi Pandit from Uttar Pradesh, and Rajkumari Amrit Kaur from the Central Provinces.

   The Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting India's Constitution, was a diverse body representing various regions, communities, and ideologies. A significant aspect of its composition was the inclusion of women members, who played a crucial role in shaping the foundational document of independent India. Their presence underscored the commitment to gender equality and ensured that women's perspectives were integrated into the constitutional framework. While their numbers were relatively small, their contributions were profound, advocating for rights and principles that would empower women in the new nation.

   The NCERT textbook highlights the participation of several prominent women in the Constituent Assembly. These women were not merely symbolic figures; they were active participants in debates, committee meetings, and the overall process of constitution-making. Their constituencies reflected the geographical spread of their influence and representation.

   Let us match the prominent women members with their respective constituencies:

   • Sarojini Naidu: A celebrated poet, freedom fighter, and orator, Sarojini Naidu was a towering figure in the Indian independence movement. She brought her vast experience and eloquent voice to the Constituent Assembly, representing the province of Bihar. Her contributions often focused on issues of national unity and cultural heritage.

   • Hansa Mehta: A social reformer, educator, and feminist, Hansa Mehta was a strong advocate for women's rights and social justice. She played a key role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and was instrumental in ensuring that the Indian Constitution enshrined principles of equality. She represented the Bombay province in the Assembly.

   • Vijayalakshmi Pandit: Sister of Jawaharlal Nehru, Vijayalakshmi Pandit was a distinguished diplomat and politician. Her international experience and strong advocacy for human rights were valuable assets to the Constituent Assembly. She represented the Uttar Pradesh province.

   • Rajkumari Amrit Kaur: A dedicated social worker and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur was a staunch advocate for public health and education. She later became India's first Health Minister. In the Constituent Assembly, she represented the Central Provinces (which included Berar).

   Important

   The inclusion of women members in the Constituent Assembly was a progressive step, ensuring that the perspectives of half the population were considered in the drafting of the nation's foundational law. Their active participation helped shape a constitution committed to equality and justice for all.

   Based on these matches, the correct option is:

   • I. Sarojini Naidu - c. Bihar
   • II. Hansa Mehta - d. Bombay
   • III. Vijayalakshmi Pandit - b. Uttar Pradesh
   • IV. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur - a. Central Province

   This corresponds to option (B).

   ✓Final answer

   In short, the correct matching of women members to their Constituent Assembly constituencies is Sarojini Naidu (Bihar), Hansa Mehta (Bombay), Vijayalakshmi Pandit (Uttar Pradesh), and Rajkumari Amrit Kaur (Central Province), making (B) the correct option.

7. CBSE 2026Set 61/2/11 markMCQ
   Q.Read the following statements regarding Buddhism teaching and choose the correct options : I. The world is transient and constantly changing. II. It is soulless and there is nothing eternal in it. III. Sorrows and sufferings are intrinsic to human existence. IV. Renouncing the world is essential for living. Codes : (A) I, II, III are correct. (B) II, III, IV are correct. (C) I, III, IV are correct. (D) I, II, IV are correct.

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The Buddha taught that the world is transient (impermanent), soulless (without a permanent self), and that suffering is inherent to existence — but he did not insist that renouncing the world is essential for everyone; the middle path is the core teaching.

   To understand this question, you need to step into the worldview that the Buddha offered 2,500 years ago — a radical departure from the Vedic traditions of his time. The Buddha did not ask people to accept a creator god or an eternal soul. Instead, he asked them to look closely at the nature of reality.

   Statement I — "The world is transient and constantly changing" — is the very foundation of Buddhist thought. The Pali word is anicca (impermanence). Everything, from a mountain to a thought, arises, stays for a while, and then passes away. Nothing stays the same for two consecutive moments. The NCERT Class XII History textbook (Chapter 4, "Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings") explicitly states that the Buddha emphasised that the world is transient and constantly changing. So I is correct.

   Statement II — "It is soulless and there is nothing eternal in it" — follows directly from the first. If everything is changing, there can be no permanent, unchanging self or soul (anatta in Pali). The Buddha rejected the idea of an eternal atman (soul) that the Upanishadic thinkers spoke of. He argued that what we call the "self" is merely a bundle of five aggregates (form, sensation, perception, mental formations, consciousness), all of which are impermanent. Therefore, II is also correct.

   Statement III — "Sorrows and sufferings are intrinsic to human existence" — is the First Noble Truth (dukkha). The Buddha did not say life is only suffering, but that suffering — in the sense of dissatisfaction, impermanence, and the inability to hold onto what we love — is woven into the fabric of ordinary existence. Birth, aging, sickness, death, separation from what we like, and association with what we dislike — all these are dukkha. So III is correct.

   Statement IV — "Renouncing the world is essential for living" — is where the trap lies. The Buddha himself renounced his princely life, and many monks and nuns did the same. But the Buddha's teaching was not that everyone must renounce the world. In fact, he taught the Middle Path — avoiding both extreme indulgence and extreme asceticism. He gave advice to laypeople on how to live ethically as householders, earning a living without harming others. The NCERT textbook clearly notes that the Buddha's message was for both monks and lay followers. Renunciation was a path for those who chose the monastic life, but it was not presented as essential for all human beings. So IV is incorrect.

   Note

   The Buddha's own life illustrates this: after trying extreme asceticism (near-starvation), he abandoned it and accepted a meal of milk-rice from a village girl. He then sat under the Bodhi tree and attained enlightenment. The Middle Path was born from that experience.

   Therefore, statements I, II, and III are correct, while IV is not.

   ✓Final answer

   The correct option is (A) I, II, III are correct. The Buddha taught impermanence, soullessness, and the universality of suffering, but he advocated the Middle Path — not mandatory renunciation for everyone.

8. CBSE 2026Set 61/2/11 markMCQ
   Q.Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option : Column - I (Scholars) | Column - II (Work) a. Kautilya | i. Harshacharita b. Harishena | ii. Arthashastra c. Banabhatta | iii. Natyashastra d. Bharat | iv. Prayag Prashasti Options :

   (a)

   (b)

   (c)

   (d) (A) iii ii i iv (B) ii iii iv i (C) ii iv i iii (D) iii ii iv i

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The question asks to match prominent ancient Indian scholars with their seminal works, which are crucial historical and cultural texts.

   Ancient Indian history is richly documented through a diverse array of literary works, inscriptions, and treatises. These texts, often penned by scholars, poets, and administrators, provide invaluable insights into the political, economic, social, and cultural life of their times. Understanding the authorship of these works is fundamental to appreciating their context and significance. This question tests knowledge of some of the most important figures and their contributions to this literary heritage.

   Let us examine each pairing:

   • a. Kautilya and ii. Arthashastra: Kautilya, also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta, was a key figure in the Mauryan Empire, serving as chief minister to Chandragupta Maurya. His monumental work, the Arthashastra, is a treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. It offers detailed advice on how a king should rule, manage the economy, conduct foreign policy, and maintain law and order. The NCERT textbooks frequently refer to the Arthashastra as a primary source for understanding the administration and socio-economic conditions of the Mauryan period.

   • b. Harishena and iv. Prayag Prashasti: Harishena was a court poet and minister of the powerful Gupta emperor Samudragupta (c. 335-375 CE). He composed the Prayag Prashasti, also known as the Allahabad Pillar Inscription. This inscription is a eulogy (prashasti) written in highly ornate Sanskrit, detailing Samudragupta's military conquests, administrative policies, and personal qualities. It is an indispensable source for reconstructing the history of the Gupta Empire, particularly Samudragupta's reign, and is prominently discussed in NCERT texts.

   • c. Banabhatta and i. Harshacharita: Banabhatta was the court poet of King Harsha (c. 606-647 CE) of the Vardhana dynasty, who ruled from Kannauj. His most famous work, the Harshacharita, is a biography of King Harsha. Written in Sanskrit, it provides a detailed account of Harsha's early life, his accession to the throne, and his military campaigns. As one of the earliest historical biographies in Sanskrit, it offers a unique perspective on the political and social conditions of 7th-century India. NCERT textbooks highlight the Harshacharita as a significant literary source for the post-Gupta period.

   • d. Bharat and iii. Natyashastra: Bharat Muni, or simply Bharat, is traditionally credited with authoring the Natyashastra. This ancient Sanskrit treatise is a foundational text on the performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance, and music. It provides detailed instructions on dramaturgy, stage design, acting techniques, costumes, make-up, music, and various emotional expressions (rasas and bhavas). While the exact date of its composition is debated, it is generally placed between 200 BCE and 200 CE. The Natyashastra is a cornerstone of Indian aesthetics and performing arts, and its influence is widely acknowledged in discussions of ancient Indian culture.

   Important

   These works are not merely literary creations; they are primary historical sources that offer direct insights into the political, social, and cultural fabric of ancient India.

   Based on this analysis, the correct matching is:

   a. Kautilya - ii. Arthashastra

   b. Harishena - iv. Prayag Prashasti

   c. Banabhatta - i. Harshacharita

   d. Bharat - iii. Natyashastra

   This sequence corresponds to option (C).

   ✓Final answer

   The correct option is (C), matching Kautilya with Arthashastra, Harishena with Prayag Prashasti, Banabhatta with Harshacharita, and Bharat with Natyashastra.

9. CBSE 2026Set 61/2/11 markMCQ
   Q.Look at the given image and identify the ancient sculptural panel from the options : [Printed image: a large ancient open-air rock-cut sculptural panel carved on two boulders, with an elephant figure at the base] Options : (A) A sculpture in Brihideshwar (B) A sculpture from Mahabalipuram (C) A sculpture in Amravati (D) A sculpture in Sanchi Note : The following question is for the Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of Question No. 7 : In which of the following states Mahabalipuram temple is located ? (A) Madhya Pradesh (B) Maharashtra (C) Tamil Nadu (D) Kerala

   ›Reveal solutionSolution

   The image shows a large open-air rock-cut sculptural panel with an elephant at the base, carved on two boulders — this is the famous Descent of the Ganges (or Arjuna’s Penance) at Mahabalipuram, so the correct option is (B).

   The key here is recognising the distinctive features of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. The description — a large open-air panel carved on two boulders, with an elephant figure at the base — is a dead giveaway for one of the most celebrated monuments in India.

   Let’s break down why each option fits or doesn’t fit.

   1. What the image shows: The panel is not inside a temple or a cave. It’s an enormous relief carved directly onto the face of two adjacent granite boulders in the open. The elephant at the base is a prominent, life-sized figure. This matches exactly the Descent of the Ganges (also called Arjuna’s Penance) at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tamil Nadu. The panel is about 27 metres long and 9 metres high, filled with hundreds of figures of gods, sages, animals, and that famous elephant.

   2. Option (A) – Brihadeshwara: The Brihadeshwara Temple at Thanjavur is a magnificent Chola temple, but its sculptures are mostly on the walls of the temple structure itself — not an open-air rock-cut panel on boulders. The temple is built of granite, not carved out of a single rock face. So this doesn’t match.

   3. Option (B) – Mahabalipuram: This is the correct match. Mahabalipuram (also Mamallapuram) is famous for its rathas (chariot-shaped temples), mandapas (cave temples), and open-air reliefs. The Descent of the Ganges is the largest and most famous of these open-air panels. The elephant at the base is a signature element — it’s often shown in textbooks and exam questions.

   4. Option (C) – Amravati: The Amravati stupa in Andhra Pradesh is known for its exquisite marble sculptures, but these are mostly relief panels on the stupa itself — not a large open-air rock-cut panel on boulders. The style is also different (more delicate, with a lot of narrative scenes from the life of the Buddha).

   5. Option (D) – Sanchi: The Sanchi stupa in Madhya Pradesh is famous for its toranas (gateways) and railings with carved scenes. Again, these are structural elements, not a massive open-air rock-cut panel. The elephant at Sanchi appears on the capital of the Ashokan pillar nearby, not as part of a large boulder relief.

   Watch out

   A common mistake is to confuse the Descent of the Ganges at Mahabalipuram with the Elephant Cave (Ganesha Ratha) also at Mahabalipuram. The Ganesha Ratha is a small monolithic temple with an elephant carving inside, not the large open-air panel. The question specifically describes a panel on two boulders with an elephant at the base — that’s the Descent of the Ganges.

   Tip

   For visually impaired candidates, the alternate question is straightforward: Mahabalipuram is located in Tamil Nadu, on the Coromandel Coast near Chennai. So the answer to that version is (C) Tamil Nadu.

   ✓Final answer

   The correct option is (B) A sculpture from Mahabalipuram.

10. CBSE 2026Set 61/2/11 markMCQ
    Q.Arrange the following dynasties in chronological order and choose the correct option : I. Saluva dynasty II. Sangama dynasty III. Aravidu dynasty IV. Tuluva dynasty Options : (A) I, II, IV, III (B) II, I, III, IV (C) IV, III, I, II (D) II, I, IV, III

    ›Reveal solutionSolution

    The four dynasties of the Vijayanagara Empire followed a fixed succession: Sangama → Saluva → Tuluva → Aravidu. The correct chronological order is II, I, IV, III, which matches option (D).

    Concept and intuition

    This question tests your knowledge of the Vijayanagara Empire’s ruling houses. The empire lasted from 1336 to 1646 CE, and its history is divided into four distinct dynasties. The order is not arbitrary — each dynasty rose when the previous one weakened, often through a coup or succession crisis. Remembering the sequence is easier if you associate each dynasty with a key founder or event:

    • Sangama (founded by Harihara and Bukka) — the first and longest.
    • Saluva (started by Saluva Narasimha) — a short-lived usurper dynasty.
    • Tuluva (begun by Vira Narasimha) — the most famous, including Krishnadevaraya.
    • Aravidu (founded by Tirumala) — the last, presiding over the empire’s decline.

    The trick is to avoid mixing up Saluva and Tuluva, which sound similar. Saluva came first, Tuluva second.

    Step-by-step reasoning

    1. Identify the first dynasty. The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka I, who belonged to the Sangama dynasty. So Sangama (II) is the earliest.

    2. Identify the second dynasty. After the Sangama line ended (around 1485), a general named Saluva Narasimha seized power and founded the Saluva dynasty (I). This dynasty ruled for only about 20 years.

    3. Identify the third dynasty. The Saluva dynasty was followed by the Tuluva dynasty (IV), which began with Vira Narasimha in 1505. This is the most celebrated dynasty, especially under Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529).

    4. Identify the fourth and last dynasty. After the Tuluva line ended (around 1570), the empire was taken over by Tirumala, who started the Aravidu dynasty (III). This dynasty ruled until the empire’s final collapse in the mid-17th century.

    5. Arrange them in order. Sangama → Saluva → Tuluva → Aravidu. That is II, I, IV, III.

    6. Match with the options.

       • (A) I, II, IV, III — wrong (starts with Saluva)
       • (B) II, I, III, IV — wrong (Aravidu before Tuluva)
       • (C) IV, III, I, II — wrong (starts with Tuluva)
       • (D) II, I, IV, III — correct.

    Watch out

    A common mistake is to place Tuluva before Saluva because Tuluva is more famous. Remember: Saluva came first — it was a short bridge between Sangama and Tuluva.

    Tip

    To memorise the order, use the mnemonic Sangama → Saluva → Tuluva → Aravidu → STA. Or think of the first letters: S, S, T, A — like “SST” (a train) and then “A” for “arrives”.

    ✓Final answer

    The correct chronological order is II, I, IV, III, which corresponds to option (D).

11. CBSE 2025Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
    Q.Which of the following is correct regarding Harappan script ? (A) This script was alphabetical. (B) It was written from left to right. (C) This script has not been deciphered so far. (D) This script has a few signs or symbols.

    ›Reveal solutionSolution

    The Harappan script remains undeciphered despite numerous attempts, making (C) the correct statement about this ancient writing system.

    The Harappan (or Indus) script is one of archaeology's most tantalizing puzzles. Found on seals, pottery, and other artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 2600–1900 BCE), this writing system has resisted all efforts at decipherment for nearly a century. Understanding what we know—and crucially, what we don't—about it helps us evaluate each option.

    Let me work through each statement:

    1. Statement (A): "This script was alphabetical."

       An alphabetic script represents individual sounds (phonemes) with distinct symbols, like the Roman or Devanagari alphabets. The Harappan script, however, appears to use a large number of distinct signs—estimates range from 400 to 600 symbols. This count is far too high for an alphabet (which typically has 20–40 characters) but too low for a purely logographic system like Chinese (which uses thousands). Most scholars believe it was likely logo-syllabic, combining word-signs with syllabic elements, similar to Sumerian cuneiform or Egyptian hieroglyphs. Without decipherment, we cannot be certain, but it was definitely not alphabetical.

    2. Statement (B): "It was written from left to right."

       Analysis of the inscriptions shows the script was predominantly written right to left. Evidence comes from observing how signs are crowded or compressed: scribes typically began on the right and ran out of space toward the left edge. Some inscriptions show boustrophedon writing (alternating direction), but the dominant pattern is right-to-left, the opposite of this claim.

    3. Statement (C): "This script has not been deciphered so far."

       This is the unambiguous truth. Despite dozens of proposed decipherments over the decades—linking it to Dravidian languages, Sanskrit, Proto-Austroasiatic, and others—none has gained scholarly acceptance. The main obstacles are the brevity of inscriptions (most are just 4–5 signs), the absence of bilingual texts (no "Rosetta Stone" equivalent), and uncertainty about the underlying language. The script remains one of the great unsolved problems in archaeology.

    4. Statement (D): "This script has a few signs or symbols."

       As mentioned, the script contains several hundred distinct signs—somewhere between 400 and 600 depending on how variants are counted. This is not "a few" by any reasonable definition. The large inventory itself is part of what makes decipherment so challenging.

    Watch out

    A common misconception is that "undeciphered" means we know nothing about the script. We actually know quite a bit about its structure, direction, sign frequency, and context of use—we just cannot read what it says or identify the language it encodes.

    ✓Final answer

    The correct option is (C): the Harappan script has not been deciphered so far.

12. CBSE 2025Set 61/1/11 markMCQ
    Q.Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following : Column-I (Ancient Mahajanpadas) : a. Magadh | b. Avanti | c. Gandhara | d. Koshala Column-II (Present Region) : I. Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan) | II. Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) | III. Patna (Bihar) | IV. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) Options : (a, b, c, d) (A) III, II, I, IV (B) IV, II, I, III (C) III, IV, I, II (D) II, I, III, IV

    ›Reveal solutionSolution

    This question matches four ancient Mahajanapadas — Magadh, Avanti, Gandhara, and Koshala — with their present-day regions, and the correct sequence is III, IV, I, II.

    The Mahajanapadas were the sixteen great kingdoms and republics that flourished in northern India around the sixth century BCE, a period of intense political and economic change. The NCERT textbook for Class VI History (Our Pasts–I) introduces these states in the chapter on "Kingdoms, Kings and an Early Republic," and later references in higher classes reinforce their locations. To answer this matching question correctly, you need to connect each ancient name to a modern geographical area that the textbook explicitly identifies.

    Let us take each Mahajanapada in turn.

    Magadh was one of the most powerful and expansionist kingdoms of its time. Its early capital was Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha), but later the capital shifted to Pataliputra. The NCERT text clearly states that Pataliputra is located near modern-day Patna in Bihar. So Magadh corresponds to III. Patna (Bihar).

    Avanti was a major kingdom in western India, with its capital at Ujjain. The textbook mentions Ujjain as a prominent city in the Mahajanapada period, and it remains a well-known city in Madhya Pradesh today. Therefore, Avanti matches IV. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh).

    Gandhara was a kingdom in the far northwest of the Indian subcontinent, straddling parts of modern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan. Its capital was Taxila (Takshashila), but the NCERT textbook specifically notes that Gandhara included the region around Qandhar (also spelled Kandahar) in eastern Afghanistan. Hence, Gandhara corresponds to I. Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan).

    Koshala was a large kingdom in the eastern Gangetic plain, with its capital at Shravasti and another important city at Ayodhya. The textbook identifies Ayodhya as a key city of Koshala, and Ayodhya is located in present-day Uttar Pradesh. So Koshala matches II. Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh).

    Note

    Some older maps or non-NCERT sources might place Koshala's capital at Shravasti, but the NCERT explicitly links Ayodhya to Koshala in the context of the Ramayana and the Mahajanapada period. Always rely on the textbook's stated associations for exam questions.

    Now, arranging the matches in the order given in Column-I (a. Magadh, b. Avanti, c. Gandhara, d. Koshala), we get: III, IV, I, II.

    Important

    The order of options in the question is (a, b, c, d). So the correct sequence must list the Roman numerals in that exact order — first for Magadh, then Avanti, then Gandhara, then Koshala.

    Looking at the provided options:

    • (A) III, II, I, IV — This puts Koshala's number (II) in Avanti's place, and Avanti's number (IV) at the end. Incorrect.
    • (B) IV, II, I, III — This starts with Avanti's number (IV) for Magadh. Incorrect.
    • (C) III, IV, I, II — This matches exactly: III for Magadh, IV for Avanti, I for Gandhara, II for Koshala. Correct.
    • (D) II, I, III, IV — This starts with Koshala's number (II) for Magadh. Incorrect.

    ✓Final answer

    The correct option is (C) III, IV, I, II — Magadh is Patna (Bihar), Avanti is Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), Gandhara is Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan), and Koshala is Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh).