Which of the following is known as the 'Cradle of Indian Civilization'?
The Harrapan Civilization is often referred to as the 'Cradle of Indian Civilization' due to its early development in the Indus Valley.
Ancient Indian History Q&A
Ancient Indian history is the branch of history that studies the early civilizations, social structures, political systems, economic frameworks, cultural heritage, religious traditions, and scientific achievements of India. It covers events, empires, rulers, and the evolution of society from the Stone Age to the beginning of the medieval period.
It includes the Indus Valley Civilization, the Vedic Age, Mahajanapadas, the rise and fall of dynasties like the Maurya and Gupta Empires, the emergence of Buddhism and Jainism, the development of art and literature, and advancements in ancient Indian science and technology.
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Who was the founder of the Maurya Empire?
Chandragupta Maurya founded the Maurya Empire in ancient India around 321 BCE.
Which empire is known for its extensive trade networks and cultural exchange?
The Maurya Empire is known for its extensive trade networks and cultural exchange with other regions.
Which ancient Indian text is considered the first comprehensive grammar?
Ashtadhyayi, written by Panini, is considered the first comprehensive grammar of Sanskrit.
Who was known as the 'Napoleon of India'?
Samudragupta is often referred to as the 'Napoleon of India' for his military conquests and empire expansion.
Which ruler converted to Buddhism and spread its teachings?
Ashoka, after the Kalinga War, converted to Buddhism and worked to spread its teachings across Asia.
What is the oldest known civilization in India?
The Indus Valley Civilization is recognized as the oldest known civilization in India.
Which dynasty is known for its contributions to art and architecture, especially the construction of temples?
The Chola Dynasty is renowned for its significant contributions to art and architecture, especially temple construction.
Which Indian king is famous for his rock edicts?
Ashoka is well-known for his rock edicts, which were inscriptions that conveyed his policies and philosophies.
What was the capital of the Maurya Empire?
Pataliputra served as the capital of the Maurya Empire and was an important political and cultural center.
Which text is considered the earliest work of Indian literature?
The Rigveda is considered the earliest work of Indian literature, composed around 1500 BCE.
Who was the last ruler of the Maurya Empire?
Brihadratha was the last ruler of the Maurya Empire, eventually assassinated by his general Pushyamitra Shunga.
Which ancient university was located in India?
Nalanda University was a renowned ancient university in India, attracting students from various countries.
Which ruler is known for the golden age of Indian history?
Chandragupta II is known for the golden age of Indian history during the Gupta period, marked by advancements in arts and sciences.
Who composed the famous text 'Kamasutra'?
Vatsyayana is credited with composing the famous text 'Kamasutra', which explores various aspects of love and relationships.
Which empire succeeded the Maurya Empire in India?
The Shunga Dynasty succeeded the Maurya Empire after its decline, ruling parts of northern India.
Which ruler is associated with the spread of Buddhism in India?
Ashoka is known for his efforts in promoting Buddhism and establishing its presence across Asia.
What was the primary language of the Vedic texts?
Sanskrit was the primary language of the Vedic texts, which form the foundation of Hindu literature.
Who is known as the 'Father of Indian History'?
Herodotus, while not Indian, is often referred to as the 'Father of History' for his work on ancient civilizations, including those in India.
Which ancient text is known as the 'Book of the Dead' in Hindu tradition?
The Garuda Purana is often referred to as the 'Book of the Dead' in Hindu tradition, detailing rituals related to death and the afterlife.
Which dynasty is famous for its bronze and iron metallurgy?
The Chola Dynasty is famous for its advancements in bronze and iron metallurgy, particularly in creating intricate bronze sculptures.
Who wrote the epic 'Mahabharata'?
Vyasa is traditionally credited with composing the epic 'Mahabharata', one of the longest poems in world literature.
Which ruler is associated with the spread of Jainism in India?
Mahavira is known as the 24th Tirthankara and is associated with the propagation of Jainism in ancient India.
Which ancient Indian text is a famous treatise on architecture?
Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian text that serves as a treatise on architecture and design.
Which ancient city is known for its advanced drainage system?
Mohenjo-Daro is famous for its advanced drainage system, reflecting the engineering skills of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Which king is known for his patronage of art and literature during the Gupta period?
Chandragupta II is known for his patronage of art and literature, leading to a flourishing of cultural activities during the Gupta period.
Which ancient Indian ruler is credited with the construction of the famous Iron Pillar of Delhi?
The Iron Pillar of Delhi, known for its rust-resistant composition, is attributed to the reign of Chandragupta II.
Which ancient Indian festival celebrates the harvest and is related to the agrarian cycle?
Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu, marking the end of the winter solstice.
What was the main feature of the Indus Valley Civilization's urban planning?
The Indus Valley Civilization is noted for its grid layout and sophisticated drainage systems in urban planning.
Which epic is primarily focused on the Kurukshetra War?
The Mahabharata primarily narrates the events of the Kurukshetra War between the Pandavas and Kauravas.