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South Indian Kingdoms — UPSC Prelims Ancient & Medieval previous year questions

68 solved previous year questions on South Indian Kingdoms, papers from 1991 to 2021, drawn from UPPCS, UPSC CSE Prelims, State PCS. Each carries the printed answer key and the explanation from the source compilation.

1. #1UPSC CSE Prelims 2020
   Consider the following the history of India: 1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja 2. Establishment of Pallava,power under Mahendravarman-I 3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka-1 4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time?
   • A2 - 1 - 4 - 3
   • B3 - 1 - 4 - 2
   • C2 - 4 - 1 3
   • D3 - 4 - 1 - 2
   Answer: (C) 2 - 4 - 1 3
   Explanation

   Option c is the correct CE: Establishment of Pallava Power - CE: Foundation of Pala Dynasty in Bihar and CE: Rise of Pratiharas under King Mihir CE: Establishment of Chola Power under Reign

2. #2UPSC CSE Prelims 2016
   In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs:1 1. Eripatti Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank 14. 2. Taniyurs Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group of Brahmins 3. Ghatikas Colleges generally attached to the templesWhich of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
   • A1 and 2
   • B3 only
   • C2 and 3
   • D1 and 3
   Answer: (D) 1 and 3
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct 1 is correctly matched. Eripatti was a special during the rule of in South India. individuals, the revenue from this land was set apar t maintenance of the village 2 is matched. In Chola referred to a group of villages. Taniyur v,ras a big enough to he a Kurram by 3 is con-ectly matched. During ancient period, India, agraharas served as centers of learning and South Indian kingdoms also had other known as Ghatika and Brahmapuri. A a centre of learning including religion, was attached and was small in size

3. #3Previous year
   Which God is found depicted on Yaudheya coins? [. (Spl) (Mains) 2008)
   • AVasudeva
   • BShiva
   • CIndra
   • DKartikeya
   Answer: (D) Kartikeya
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct coins predominantly depicted Kartikeya, the god and son of Shiva, reflecting his significance as their (preferred deity). The coins were inscribed in and divided into distinctive classes by scholars dheyas' coinage also featured variations based on money. Notably, the association of Kartikeya coin imagery highlights his reverence within Yandheya was warrior tribes belonging to Punjab and Rajasthan

4. #4UPSC CSE Prelims 2003
   Consider the following statements: 1. The Cholas defeated Pandya and Chera rulers and established their domination over peninsular India in the early medieval times. 2. The Cholas sent an expedition against the Sailendra Empire of Southeast Asia and conquered some of the areasWhich of these statements is/are correct?
   • AOnly 1
   • BOnly 2
   • CBoth 1 and 2
   • DNeither 1 nor 2
   Answer: (A) Only 1
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Order of the invasions in ancient Greek Invasion: The Greek invasion of India took place in 326 BCE under Aexander the Great when he crossed the river Indus and advanced into the Punjab. He then challenged king Porns ruler of the kingdom between the rivers Jhelum and Chenab Sakas Invasion: Inda-Greek rule lasted from about 180 BCE till about 55 BCE. The Sakas, alternatively known as Indo-Scythians, invaded northwest India in the first century BCE onwards. Around the 1st century CE, the Western Satraps, who were Saka rulers, established their rule in western and northwestern India. They were largely located in present-day Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra. Kushanas Invasion: The Kushanas, a Central Asian dynasty, invaded northern India in the 1st century CE. Led by Kujula Kadphises they established a powerful empire that spanned from Central Asia to northern India,

5. #5UPSC CSE Prelims 1995
   Who among the following was not a famous jurists of medieval India? (UPSC CSE Pre 1995] The route indicated on the map was foll.owed, during the course of his military exploits, by
   • AChandragupta-II
   • BHarshavardhana
   • CRajendra Chola
   • DMalik Kafur
   Answer: (C) Rajendra Chola
   Explanation

   Option c is the correct Hemadri, and Jimutavahana were jurists of medieval India whereas Rajashekhara 10th century scholar who wrote extensively on a variety including grammar, poetics, and music. He was jurist. Important Tips Vijnaneshwara, a notable jurist of 12th-century India, authored the Mitakshara, a significant legal work on Hindu inheritance. Born in Masimadu near Basavakalyan, Karnataka, he thrived under King Vikramaditya VI of the Western Chalukya Empire (1076-1126) Hemadri also known as was a versatile figure and prime minister (1259- 1274 CE) under Kings Mahadev and Ramachandra of the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty in India. A polymath, jurist, diplomat, administrator, architect, poet, and theologian, he played a pivotal role during the zenith of the Yadav kingdom. Hemadri's significant contribution lies in his creation of Hemadpanti architecture and the juristic work "Chaturvarga-

6. #6UPPCS 2007
   Which of the following frequently assigned to the ladies high ranking positions in administration?
   • AChola I
   • BChalukya
   • CPala
   • DSena
   Answer: (B) Chalukya
   Explanation

   Option bis the correct Chalukya dynasty frequently assigned the ladies positions in administration. During became increasingly sophisticated. The status was varied. Some royal women were involved matters as shown in contemporary Queen Urnadevi's administration of the absence of Veera Ballala during hi s long in northern territories

7. #7Previous year
   The capital of Kadamba Kings was- (U.P.P. C.S. (Mains) 2005
   • ATanjore
   • BVanavasi
   • CKanchi
   • DBadami
   Answer: (B) Vanavasi
   Explanation

   Option bis the correct answer. The capital of the Kadamba kings was Vanavasi. The Kadamba dynasty was a royal family that ruled over Karnataka and Goa from the 4th to the 6th They were founded by Mayurasharma, who the Pallava rule and established his own were known for their architecture, art, literature, They were later conquered by the Rashtrakutas

8. #8UPPCS 1991
   Where was the capital of Chalukyas located?
   • AVatapi
   • BShravasti
   • CKanchi
   • DKannauj
   Answer: (A) Vatapi
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct capital of Chalukyas was Vatapi or Badami., which in the modern state of Karnataka. The were a powerful dynasty that ruled over large parts of victory was significant as it thwarted Ghori's invasion of and central India from the 6th to the 12th Chaulukya kingdom of Gujrat ( solanki rajputs). Bhima They had different branches and capitals, such as along with his mother Naikidevi, played a crucial role in Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Western Chalukyas triumph. In CE, an army led by Aibak, Kalyani. Aihole, another city in Karnataka, was the first deputy, invaded again, but Bhima defeated Aibak of the Chalukyas and is known as the birthplace of and adorned himself as Abhinav Siddharaj Indian architecture 120. Solution (d) i

9. #9UPPCS 1991
   Which slave of Muhammad Ghori conquered Bengal and Bihar?
   • AQutbudin Aybak
   • BIltutmish
   • CBakhtiyar Khalji
   • DYaldauj
   Answer: (C) Bakhtiyar Khalji
   Explanation

   Coins were issued under Qutbuddin Aybak's rule Option c is the correct answer. various metals-gold, silver, billon, and copper. Khalji, a Turko-Afghan military general and notably stopped the practice of inscribing the name slave under Muhammad Ghori, conquered Bengal the Abbasid caliph on these Bihar. He led the Ghurid Empire's military force Qntbuddin Aybak supported scholars such as Fakhr to conquer eastern India in the late 12th and early 13th ud-Din, the author of Tarikh-1-Mubarak-Shahi, Bakhtiyar Khalji's campaigns resulted in the Hasan Nizami, who wrote Tajul-Ma'asir-the of Bihar and the establishment of his rule in official history of the Delhi Bakhtiyar Khalji is known for founding the of Bengal, which ruled from 1203 to 1227 CE. His He met his demise in 1210 in Lahore due to an had significant impacts on the region, leading to while playing chaugan, a horseback polo -like displ

10. #10State PCS 2010
    Which River was the lifeline of Pandya state?
    • AGodavari
    • BKrishna
    • CTungabhadra
    • DVengi
    Answer: (D) Vengi
    Explanation

    Option dis the correct river that was the lifeline of th,e Pandya stat.e_. River. i 1 Ti 0 The also known as the Vaigai, a river that flows through the Madurai and Sivaganga (listricts of Tamil Nadu. The Vengi was the main source of water, irrigation, and transportation for the Pandyas, who ruled over the southern tip of India from the 6th century BCE to the 16th century CE. The Vengi was also associated with the religious an d cultural life cf the Pandyas, as it was considered sacred by the Hindus and Buddhists. The Vengi witness ed many historical events and legends, such as the coronation of the Pandya kings, the marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar, and the visit of Agastya

11. #11State PCS 2002
    Which were the three dynasties who were engaged in a Tripartite struggle for Kannauj? 1. Chola 2. Pala 3. Gurjara 4. RashtrakutaChoose the correct answer from the codes given below
    • A1, 2, 3
    • B1, 2, 4
    • C2, 3, 4
    • D1, 3, 4
    Answer: (C) 2, 3, 4
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Tripartite Struggle for Kannauj was a lasting over two centuries among the Pala Gurjara-Pratihara Empire, and the The strife centered around gaining control strategic and economically prosperous Kannauj area's strategic location facilitated trade military movements, while its economic from its fertile lands and commercial the Gurjara-Pratiharas prevailed, established Kannauj as their Solution Option c is the correct first Muslim invader in India was Muhammad He was an Arab military commander serving Caliphate. In 711 CE, he led the Muslim Siudh (part of modern-day Pakistan), marking of Muslim rule in South Asia. He defeated the ruler of the Sindhi Brahman dynasty, military campaigns Muhammad bin Qasim's the Islamic province of Sindh, and he served governor until his death in 715 CE

12. #12State PCS 2002
    The first Muslim who studied Puranas was
    • AAbul Fazal
    • BAbdul Qadir Badayuni
    • CAl-Biruni
    • DDara Shikoh
    Answer: (C) Al-Biruni
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct first Muslim who studied Puranas was Al-Biruni. runi, a renowned Persian scholar and polymath, contributions to various fields, including of religions. During his time in India, he Indian culture, philosophy, and religious the Puranas. He sought to understand and texts from an academic and comparative perspective, hl ht tl h r mg mg s 1 a 1 Hind. In his book Tahqiq-i-Hind., he d escribed 1 c s religious and economic account he highlights choice ts of Patanjali, Purnnas, the fou r Vedas, (by Nagarjuna, Aryabhata, et rekti.ng stories mythology to make his point. Important Tips Alberuni [AD 973- AD 1048]: Birth and Early Life: Born in 973 AD in Khiza, the capital of Khware zm's Afrighid dynasty in Central Asia (Uzbekistan), Alberuni's formative years were spent there. He engaged in an extensive study of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, grammar, mathematics, astronomy

13. #13UKPSC 2021
    Which of the following dynasty is associated with the female king Rudrma Devi?
    • AEastern Ganga
    • BHoyasala
    • CKakatiya
    • DWestern Chalukya
    Answer: (C) Kakatiya
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Devi, a Kakatiya queen, ruled Andhra (c. 1262-1289). Successful she faced revolts, regained lost territories and repulsed invasions. The reign saw the rise of i l non-aristocratic warriors, and she fortified Warangal inner and outer walls and a moat. Notably, Marco visited India around 1293, praised Ru astute governance and her natural Important Tips Kakatiya dynasty: The Kakatiya dynasty, spanning the 12th to 14th centuries, ruled over the eastern Deccan including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, parts of Karnataka, and Odisha. Orugallu, now Warangal, served as their capital. Originating as Rashtrakuta and Western Chalukya feudatories, they gained independence undretr Prataparudra I (1163 C Ganapati Deva (1199-1262) expnnded S with around the Godavari and Kr is hn a river Rudramma Devi (1262- 1289 gn noted by Italian traveller Marco Polo nc reign. Kakatiya literature f

14. #14UKPSC 2010
    The famous historian who visited India with Mahmud of Ghazni was
    • AFerishta
    • BAI-Beruni
    • CAfif
    • DIbn Battuta
    Answer: (B) AI-Beruni
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct famous historian who visited India with Ghazni was Al-Beruni. Al-Biruni, also known as Muhammad ibn Ahmad Al-Bil'uni, was a scholar, historian, and polymath. He of Ghazni during his invasions into India in century. Al-Biruni made significant contributions understanding of Indian culture, religion, and his extensive observations and writings, famous work "Tahqiq-i-Hind". Important Tips Firishta (1570-1620) was a Persian historian active in the Deccan Sultanate's court, notably Ibrahim Adil Shah II. His work "Tarikh-i-Firishta" encompasses Indian history, focusing on dynasties and regions. Although his Ottoman origin claim for Yusuf Adil Shah is debated, his account remains valuable. Firishta's extensive historical work holds insights into India's past, contributing significantly to historical understanding. Shams-i-Siraj Afif, a prominent poet in Firoz Tughlaq's co

15. #15UPPCS 2014
    The Battle of Talikota was fought between
    • AAkbar and Sultan of Malwa
    • BVijayanagara and the Bahmani Kingdom
    • CVijayanagara and combined forces of Bijapur, Ahmadnagar and Golconda
    • DSher Shah and Humayun
    Answer: (C) Vijayanagara and combined forces of Bijapur, Ahmadnagar and Golconda
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Battle of Talikota (23 January 1565) was a battle fought between the Vijayanagara an alliance of the Deccan sultanates, which Ahmednagar, Golconda, and Bidar, led Adilshah. The defeat of Aliya Rama Raya, who in the war, resulted in the eventual the polity and reshaped Deccan politics. This battle, as the battle of the Rakkasa Tangadi or to the fall of Vijayanagara. The confrontations forces of Vijayanagara and the Bahmani sultans three different areas: in the Tungabhadra doab, in Cachar, and in the Marathwada region. Important Tips Battle of Raichur- The Battle took place in 1520 in Raichnr, India, between the Vijayanagara Empire and the Bijapur Sultanate. The Vijayanagara forces won, defeating the Bijapur ruler and forcing them back over the Krishna River Battle of Toppur- The Battle stood as one of India's significant historical clashes, notable for introducing

16. #16UPPCS 2008
    Ruins of which of the following represent the old capital of Vijayanagara?
    • AAhmadnagar
    • BBijapur
    • CGolconda
    • DHampi
    Answer: (A) Ahmadnagar
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Chalukyas: The Chalukya dynasty was a royal family that ruled over large parts of southern and central India from the 6th to the 12th century CE. They had different branches and capitals, such as the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani. They were known for their patronage of art, literature, and religion. One of their capitals was Badami in Karnataka, where they built rock-cut caves and temples with intricate carvings and Pallava: The Pallava dynasty was a powerful kingdom that ruled over parts of southern India from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. They were influential in spreading Indian culture and civilization to Southeast Asia. They were also pioneers of Dravidian architecture and sculpture, especially in stone and rock-cut temples. Their capital was Kanchipuram or Kanchi, which is located in Tamil Nadu. Kanchi was a major center of

17. #17UPSC CDS 2016
    Which of the following about the Vijayanagara empire is/are true? 1. The kings claimed to rule on behalf of the God Virupaksha. 2. Rulers used the title 'Hindu Suratrana' to indicate their close links with Gods. 3. All royal orders were signed in Kannada, Sanskrit and Tamil. 4. Royal portrait sculpture was now displayed in temples.Select the correct answer using the codes given below
    • A4 only
    • B1 and 2 only
    • C1, 2 and 3
    • D1, 2 and 4
    Answer: (D) 1, 2 and 4
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct I is correct- The kings of the claimed to rule on behalf of the God religious association was a significant aspect of and they sought to legitimize their authority connection with the deity '_:; Statement 2 is correct- Rulers of the Vijayanagara the title 'Hindu Suratrana: which translates of Hindu Kings." This title emphasized links with Hindu gods and symbolized their role of the Hindu 3 is incorrect- Royal oders of court in were issued primarily in 4 is correct- Royal portrait sculpture was in temples during the Vijayanagara empire. reflects the close association between the and religious institutions, as well as the royal patronage of the arts

18. #18UPSC CDS 2014
    The ruins of the Vijayanagara at Hampi were brought to light in 1800 by
    • AColonel Colin Mackenzie
    • BSir John Shore
    • CAndrew Fraser
    • DJohn Marshall
    Answer: (A) Colonel Colin Mackenzie
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Colin Mackenzie, a British army officer and a crucial role in the discovery and the ruins of the Vijayanagarn Empire at Hampi. appointed as the first Surveyor General of India by East India he came across the ruins of Hampi, the capital the Vijayanagara Empire, which h,ad been abandoned to history

19. #19State PCS 2017
    The remains of Vijayanagara empire are found in
    • ABijapur
    • BGolconda
    • CHampi
    • DBaroda (e) None of the above/More than one of the above
    Answer: (C) Hampi
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct ruins are a reflection of the Vijayanagara in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I. fell in the Battle of Talikota in 1565. The bringing Hampi's ruins to light in 1800 goes to Mackenzie, an engineer and antiquarian working English East India Company

20. #20Previous year
    Hoysala monuments are found in: [UPSC CSE l
    • AHampi and Hospet
    • BHalebid and Belur
    • CMysore and Bangalore
    • DSringeri and Dharwar
    Answer: (B) Halebid and Belur
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct monuments are found in Halebicl and and Belur in Karnatakn, India, were capitals Hoysala dynasty (12th-13th centuries). Halebidu for the Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to with intricate stone carvings. Belur's dedicated to Lord Vishnu, features and detailed carvings. Both towns Hoysala architecture, representing South temple Important T ips Hoysala Dynasty: Hoysala dynasty, in India from about 1006 to about 1346 ce in the southern Deccan and for a time in the Kaveri (Cauvery) River valley. The Hoysalas were vassals of the Chalukyas of Kalyana. Their capital was Dwarasamudra (Halebeedu). Founded by Sala, the dynasty was succeeded by Vinayaditya and Balalla The Hoysala dynasty's zenith was marked by Vishnuvardhana (Bittideva), who famously expelled the Cholas from Gangavadi in the Battle of Talakadu, earning the title Talkadugonda. In celebration, he erected the Kir

21. #21UPPCS 2020
    Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion and other as Reason Assertion (A): We have much more information about Cholas than their predecessors. Reason The Chola rulers adopted the practice of having inscriptions written on the walls of temples giving a historical narrative of their victories. Select the correct answer from the codes given below
    • ABoth (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
    • BBoth (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
    • C(A) is true but (R) is false
    • D(A) is false but (R) is true
    Answer: (B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct and (R) are true, and (R) is not the correct is correct: Many Sanskrit works on music into Persian during the medieval period, the patronage of Emperor Akbar (1556 - 1605), a great lover of literature and art. Some of the that were translated into Persian were: Sangeet Ratnakar by Sharngadeva, translated by Mulla Abdul Qadir Badauni under the title of Miftah-ul-Sarood. ] / - 1 _. Sangeet Parijat by Ahobal Pandit, translated by Mirza Raushan Zamir under the title of Tarjuma-i-Parijat is correct: The early Chishti Sufis were fond assemblies called 'sama', which means 'listening' Sama was a form of devotional music that playing instruments, and dancing as a way with God. The Chishti Sufis believed that induce a state of ecstasy (wajd) in which the experience the divine is not the correct explanation of (A). statements are true independently, there is no relationship

22. #22Previous year
    From the excavations of which ancient site, information has been gathered regarding brisk trade relations between India and Rome, during the early centuries of Christian era: [. (Pre) 2003)
    • AMadurai
    • BTamralipti
    • CTondi
    • DArikamedu
    Answer: (D) Arikamedu
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct ancient site from which information has been brisk trade relations between India and the early centuries of the Christian era, is Arikamedu. Important Tips Arikamedu: Arikamedu is an archaeological site located on the banks of the Ariyankuppam River in Puducherry. It was a major port and trading center that had contacts with the Roman Empire, as well as other regions such as Egypt, Greece, Persia, and China. The site wa s excavated by various scholars, such as Mortimer Wheeler, Vimala Begley, and Jean-Marie Casal, who found evidence of Roman amphorae (jars), coins, pottery, beads, glassware, terracotta figurines, and other artifacts

23. #23UPSC CSE Prelims 2014
    A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their
    • Amartial arts in North-East India
    • Bmusical tradition in North-West India
    • Cclassical vocal music in South India
    • Dpietra dura tradition in Central India
    Answer: (B) musical tradition in North-West India
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct also known as Dantivarman II, laid of the Rashtrakuta Empire. He reigned from 756 CE and was the founder of the Rashtrakuta capital was based in the Gulbarga region of defeated the Chalukyas, took titles like Rajadhiraja and extended his kingdom's boundaries various regions, including Madhya Pradesh Gujarat. Important Tips Famous Rashtrakuta Kings: Dantidurga (c. 733-756 CE): Feudatory of Chalukya king Kirtivarman II, later founded Rashtrakuta kingdom. Ascended throne in CE. Helped father-in-law Pallava King Nandivarman regain Kanchi, defeated Gurjaras, rulers of Kalinga, Kosala, and Srisailam. Krishna I (c. 756-774 CE): Extended Rashtrakuta empire, controlled Karnataka and Konkan. I i Built rock-cut Kailash.natha Temple at Ellora dedicated to Lord Shiva. Defeated Pallavas. Dhruva (c. 780-'793 CE): Expanded empire from Kaveri River to Central India. Conquered Kann

24. #24UPSC CDS 2021
    Which one of the following scholars of Akbar's court translated Bhaskaracharya's Lilavati into Persian?
    • AAbul Fazl
    • BFaizi
    • CFathullah Shirazi
    • DAtaullah Rashidi
    Answer: (B) Faizi
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct a renowned poet and scholar in the court of translated Bhaskaracharya's Lilavati into a mathematical treatise written in Sanskrit, arithmetic and algebra. Faizi's expertise in and literature enabled him to make the to a wider audience in the Mughal court

25. #25UPSC CDS 2017
    Which twelfth century Sanskrit scholar was first responsible for the compilation of 'Nibandhas' or digests of epic and Puranic texts?
    • AHarsha
    • BGovindachandra
    • CLakshmidhara
    • DKalidasa
    Answer: (C) Lakshmidhara
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct refers to digests or concise epic and Puranic texts. These digests were created a twelfth-century Sanskrit scholar, as to summarize and present the essential these extensive literary works in a more accessible form

26. #26Practice set
    Sangam is urnain source of history of andent South India. In this reference, Consider the following sources: 1. Pattinappalai 2. Ettutogai / 3. Mattavilasa Prahasana 4. PeriyapuranamHow many of them given above are sources of Sangam age?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option bis the correct corpus of Sangam literature includes Pattuppattu, Pathinenkilkanakku and the Silappathigaram and I is correct: Pattinappalai is a Tamil poem in Sangam literature. It contains 301 lines, of lines are about the port city of Kaveripoompattinam, Chola kingdom and the Chola king 2 is correct: The Eight Anthologies, Ettuttokai or "Eight Collections" in the literature, classical Tamil poetic work of Sangam Literature. Anthologies called Ettuthokai namely Aganaooru, Purananooru, Kuruntogai, 3 is incorrect: The Pallavas were of both the Sanskrit and Tamil languages. Kan capital, had remained an important centre for Mahendravarman I, the Pallava monarch, Mattavilasa Prahasana. Pallava Dynasty emerged end of Sangam 4 is incorrect: Periyapuranam is a Tamil depicting the of the 63 Nayanars. It during the 12th century by Sekkilhar. It of trade with West Asia. Whereas Sangam duri

27. #27Practice set
    Consider the following statements with reference to the ancient Chera Dynasty of South India: 1. The Pugalur inscription is related to the Chera dynasty. 2. Important seaports of Cheras were Puhar and Korkai. 3. Bow and arrow are engraved on most of the coins of Ch eras. 4. Uraiyur was the capital of the Chera dynasty.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Cheras ruled over parts of modern Kerala. was Vanji. Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan, Imayavaramban Ned um Cheralathan and were the famous rulers of this 1 is correct: The Pugalur inscription three generations of Chera rulers, on Chera atement 2 is incorrect: The important seaports of Tondi a nd Musiri. While Puhar was the famous Cholas and Korkai. was the capital, principal center and important port of the Early Pandyan e nt 3 is correct: Most of the coins of Cheras had engraved on them, which was the emblem of heras Statement 4 is incorrect: Initially, the capital of the Urniyur. Later it was shifted to Puhar. While capital was Vanji or As many as 11 hailed from this place. It can be identified with the banks of the Amaravati river (a tributary of ), Ln Tiruchirapalli district

28. #28Practice set
    Consider the following pairs with reference to the famous kings of different dynasties during Sangam period: 1. Chola dynasty Simha Vishnu 2. Chera dynasty Senguttuvan 3. Pandya Arya Padai dynasty NeduncheliyanHow many pairs given above are correctly matched?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct India was ruled by three dynasties the Ch eras, during the Sangam 1 is incorrect: Simha Vishnu was a ruler of the 2 i.s correct: (Red Chera) was Chern ruler. He established the Kannagi Cult. Kannagi became object of worship. He was King from South India to send an ambassador to 3 is correct: King Arya Padai Nedun.cheliyan was ruler of the Pandyas. There were two 1st was Al'ya Padai Kadantha Neduncheliyan Kova lan. It is said that the curse of the was th e wife of Kovalan, is the reason Madurai and destroyed

29. #29Practice set
    Consider the following statements with reference to the Kingdom of Pandyas during Sangam Age: 1. Vanji was the capital city of the kingdom of Pandyas. 2. The Pandyan Kings patronized Tamil Sangams. 3. Karikalan, is considered as the greatest Pandyan King of the Sangam age.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (A) Only one
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct t 1 is incorrect: Vanji was the capital of s (not Pandyas). The Pandyas ruled from the ty of Madur ai. Korkai was their main port, located confluence of Thampraparani with the Bay of was famous for pearl fishery and chank diving. Korkai to in the Periplus as 2 is corre ct: The Pandyan kings Tamil Sangams and facilitated the compilation of atement 3 is incorrect: Karikalan, son of portrayed as the Chola King (not Pandya the Sangam age. Pattinappalai gives a vivid account reign. Karikalan's foremost military achievement was of the Cheras and Pandyas, supported by as many Velir chieftains at Important Tips Sangam Polity and Administration During the Sangam period hereditary monarchy was the form of government. Each of the dynasties of Sangam age had a royal emblem - tiger for the Cholas, carp/Fish for the Pandyas, and bow for the Cheras. The king was assisted by a wi

30. #30Practice set
    The ter m 'Muvendar' is often mentioned in the Sangam Literature. Which of the following best describes the term Muvendar?
    • AThey were the crowned kings of Chola, Pandya and Chera kingdoms of Sangam era
    • BThey were high-ranked officials in the Chola kingdom during Sangam era
    • CMuvendar were the titles given to the poets in the Sangam era
    • DThis is the term used for a class of people who belonged to the lower strata of society during Sangam era
    Answer: (A) They were the crowned kings of Chola, Pandya and Chera kingdoms of Sangam era
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct were the 'crowned kings'. The Cheras, Pandyas were the Muvendars or three major controlled large territories and ruled was the most powerful political authority Tamizhakam. Next to them was the of velir. The main concern of all the three Cholas, and Pandyas was the velir chiefs who were next in importance, Muvendar such subj ugated chiefs as their subordinates in plunder 72. Solution: Option b is the correct three principal chiefdoms of the Sangam age i.e., Cholas, and Pandyas had their strongholds both interior as well as on the sea coast. The major seaports three kingdoms are mentioned 1 is correct: The Cholas had the Uraiyur port River and Puhar on the coromandel coast as Uraiyur was also the capital of Cholas. also known as 2 is incorrect: The Cheras had Karm: port in and Muchiris the well-known ancient port, west coast. Uraiyur port belonged to Cholas. So, is

31. #31Practice set
    Which one of the following statements is incorrect with reference to the social class in ancient southern states?
    • AThe practice of Vedic sacrifices was abandoned by the kings in Sangam age
    • BRich peasant enjoyed both civil and military positions in kingdoms
    • CLong-distance trade constituted an important source of royal revenue
    • DThe Sangam age witnessed sharp social inequalities
    Answer: (A) The practice of Vedic sacrifices was abandoned by the kings in Sangam age
    Explanation

    Option a is correct a is incorrect: The brahmanas first appear Tamil land in the Sangam age. An ideal king was never hurt the brahmanas. The kings performed the brahmanas, who were the followers of conducted b is correct: Civil and military offices were both the Cholas and Pandyas by vellalas or c is correct: Trade, both local and an important source of revenue. Spoils of added to royal income. Though the real war and polity lay in regular income from d is correct: Sharp social ineq_ualities in the Sangam age. The rich lived-in houses and mortar, and the poor in huts and In the cities rich merchants lived in the of their houses. It is not however clear whether religion were used to maintain soc ial inequalities The emergence of the brahmanas and the ruiing caste but the acute caste distinctions oflater times did in the early Sangai'n age

32. #32Practice set
    Which one of the following option is incorrect with respect to Sangam age?
    • AThe Brahmanical influence was confined to only the upper levels of Tamil society
    • BThere was some matriarchal influence in Pandyan society
    • CThe ruling class was called as enadi
    • DUraiyar was noted for its cotton trade
    Answer: (C) The ruling class was called as enadi
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct a is correct: The Brahmanical influence to small part of the Tamil territory and only to levels of Tamil b is correct: The Pandyas are first mentioned who says that their kingdom was pearls. He also speaks of its being ruled by a may suggest some matriarchal influence in c is incorrect: The ruling class was called not enadi). Captains of the army were given the d is correct: During sangam age, chief centre power of Cholas lay at Uraiyar which was noted cotton trade One of the main sources of the wealth of was trade in cotton cloth

33. #33Practice set
    Kingdom was famous for pearls. They had trade relations with Roman Empire. Maduraikkanji written by Mangudi Maruthanar describes the socio-economic conditions of this kingdom. This kingdom was mentioned by Megasthenes in his book Indica wherein he refers that it was ruled by a woman. Which of the following kingdoms best fits the description given above?
    • ACheras
    • BPandyas
    • CCholas
    • DVakatakas
    Answer: (B) Pandyas
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Pandyas territory occupied the southernmost and portion of the Indian peninsula. The first mentioned by Megasthenes in his Indica, refers to a Pandyas Kingdom famous for pearls and a woman (which may suggest some matriarchal the Pandyas Sangam Literature describ es the Pandyas wealthy and prosperous. The Pandyas kings trade with Roman Empire and even sent the Roman emperor Augustus. Maduraikkanji Mangudi Marnthanar describes the of the Pandyas country including the of Korkai

34. #34Practice set
    In addition to the Sangam literature, which of the following provides information about the three Southern kingdoms of Ch.era, Chola and Pandya's of the Sangam age?' 1. Nanaghat inscription 2. Ashokan inscription 3. Hathigumpha inscriptionSelect the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B2 and 3 only
    • C3 only
    • D2 only
    Answer: (B) 2 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is Nanaghat inscription, written scl'i.pt have been dated between the 2nd and the BCE, and attributed to the Satavahana dynasty records the governance and prowess of third Satkarni I. Information about the kingdoms of Pandya's of the Sangam age were not 2 is correct. The Ashokan inscldptious Chera, Chola and Pandya rulers on the south of 3 is correct. The Hathigumpha inscdption of Kalinga also mentions about Tamil Chola and Pandya rulers)

35. #35Practice set
    Consider the following statements about Sangam period: 1. The Chems, Cholas and Pandyas were known as Muvendars. 2. The institution of gift-giving was integral to the practice of booty redistribution during the Sangam age. 3. The Vedar who were the headman of small villages did the obligatory services to bigger chiefs like Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas in their campaigns.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is correct: The Cheras, Cholas and the three principal ruling houses of the biggest chiefs. They were known as Muvendar - the three 2 is correct: All chiefs, big and small, had to plunder raids for satisfying the needs of their people. redistributed the booty among their warriors, medicants besides their own kinsmen. The institution gift-giving (Kodai) was integral to the practice of 3 is incorrect: There were three of chiefdoms in Tamilaham. They were of the chiefs), velir (bigger chiefs) and vedar (the categories of chiefs. The Kizar were headmen villages (Ur), generally bound by kinship. are mentioned in the poems. They are referred to prefixed with the name of their respective or may be cited as of them were subjugated by the bigger chiefs and had them in their campaigns. Poems refer to Kizar (obligatory services) to bigger chiefs like and Pandyas in their c

36. #36Practice set
    With reference to the society and polity during the Sangam period, consider the following statements: 1. Tamilakam region was ruled by the Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas dynasty. 2. Tamilakam society during early Sangam age was divided on the basis of Varna System.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    • A1 Only
    • B2 Only
    • CBoth 1 and 2
    • DNeither 1 and 2
    Answer: (A) 1 Only
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct 1 is correct. Tamilakam or Deep South region of Tamil Nadu and Kerala during the It is the region between the hills of Venkatam It was under the political control of the powers, the Cheras, the Cholas and the Pandyas These were only chiefdoms and not kingdoms. This a combination of diverse eco-zones of hills surrounded undulating terrain, wetlands, long sea coast, arid 2 is incorrect. Tamilakam society of the was essentially tribal, characterized by Important to Tolkappiyam, the earliest Tamil grammar text, the Varna system entered into Tamilham during course Earlier traders and merchant class were given the status of Vaisyas. The chieftains of the Maruttam regfon started from Suryavamsa or Chandravamsa. Further, the amalgamation of old tribal practice and Brahmanical ideas in the agrarian zones. I P

37. #37Practice set
    With reference to the Chalukyan empire, consider the following statements: 1. Chalukyas established their capital at Vatapi that is part of modern Telangana. 2. Pulakesin defeated Harshavardhana on the banks of Narmada in 630 AD.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    • A1 only
    • B2 only
    • CBoth 1 and 2
    • DNeither 1 or 2
    Answer: (B) 2 only
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct I is incorrect: Chalukyas established their Vatapi (modern Badami in the Bijapur district) a part of 2 is correct: Pulakesin (609 - 642 CE) greatest king of the Chalukya of Badami. His was his victory over Harsha on the banks Narmada in 630 CE. Thus the river Narmada border line between the two empires. This fact has in the Aihole Prasasti and also in the writings Tsang. The present day Maharashtra, West coast, of Andhra and Gujarat were included in his empire

38. #38Practice set
    Which of the following sources reveal the victory of Narasimhavarman-I over Pulakesin-IH
    • AAihole inscription
    • BMandagappattu inscriptions
    • CKuram copper plates
    • DAccount of Hsuan Tsang
    Answer: (C) Kuram copper plates
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct copper plates mentioned the victory over Pulakesin-II in the battle near Kanchi. Records say that the Narasimhavarman I, wanted to ave nge the defeat of Mahendravarman I at the hands of the Chalukyas. a powerful army when Pulikesin led a fresh wave attacks and defe ated the Chalukyas

39. #39Practice set
    Consider the following pairs: 1. Pandharpur Chandrabhaga 2. Tiruchirappalli Cauvery 3. Hampi MalaprabhaHow many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is correctly matched. Pandharpur is a located on the banks of Chandrabhaga River district of 2 is correctly matched. Tiruchirappalli is situated banks of the Cauvery River. Woraiyur, a part of present day Tiruchirappalli, was the capital city of Cholas from 3 is incorrectly matched. Ham pi is a UNESCO Site located in Karnataka. Hampi was the capital Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. It is located banks of river Tungabhadra

40. #40Practice set
    Consider the statements. 1. The main reason for conflict between the Pallavas and Chalukyas was supremacy over the Raichur doab. 2. The main reason for conflict between Cholas and Chalukyas was the desire to control the land under chalukyas of Kalyani.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    • A1 only
    • B2 only
    • CBoth 1 and 2
    • DNeither 1 nor 2
    Answer: (A) 1 only
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct 1 is correct. The main reason for Pallavas and Chalukyas was supremacy over doab i.e fertile land lying between the Krishna 2 is inco,-rect. The original Chalukya dynasty into two parts, Chalukyas of Kalyani and Vengi. i.e. Western and Eastern Chalukyas. The getting closer to the Eastern Chalukyas of were much weaker than their Western chalukyas Vengi was a fertile land and a strategic point Eastern Coast. Thus the reason for conflict chalukya and Chola was to gain supremacy Chalukya of Vengi region not the Kalyani region

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