SSC Previoius Year Solved Question Paper Art and Culture 1995-2025 Free PDF Download
UPSC Prelims – Art & Culture / Indian Architecture
Questions with Options and Answers Only (No Explanations)
Q.1 With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements: [2023]
1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin.
2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics.
3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None of the above
Answer: (b)
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Q.2 Consider the following pairs: [2022]
Site of Ashoka’s major rock edicts Site of Ashoka’s major rock
edicts
1. Dhauli Dhauli
2. Erragudi Erragudi
3. Jaugada Jaugada
4. Kalsi Kalsi
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs (d) All four pairs
Answer: (b)
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Q.3 The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at
Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple? [2022]
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present-day temple) was
done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
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Q.4 Which one of the following statements is correct? [2021]
(a) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of the Waghora River.
(b) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of the Chambal River.
(c) Pandu-Lena Cave Shrines lie in the gorge of the Narmada River.
(d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of the Godavari River.
Answer: (a)
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Q.5 With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following statements: [2018]
1. White marble was used in making Buland Darwaza and Khankah at Fatehpur Sikri.
2. Red sandstone and marble were used in making Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza
at Lucknow.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (d)
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Q.6 What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram?
[2016]
1. Both were built in the same period.
2. Both belong to the same religious denomination.
3. Both have rock-cut monuments.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the statements given above is correct
Answer: (b)
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Q.7 With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs. [2014]
Famous works of sculpture Site
A grand image of Buddha's
Mahaparinirvana with numerous
celestial musicians above and the
sorrowful figures of his followers below
Ajanta
A grand image of Buddha's
Mahaparinirvana with numerous
celestial musicians above and the
sorrowful figures of his followers below
Mount Abu
"Arjuna's Penance"/ "Descent of Ganga"
sculpted on the surface of huge
boulders
Mamallapuram
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.8 Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was: [2014]
(a) The mosque for the use of the Royal Family.
(b) Akbar's private prayer chamber.
(c) The hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions.
(d) The room in which the nobles belonging to different religions gathered to discuss
religious affairs.
Answer: (c)
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Q.9 With reference to the history of Indian Rock-cut architecture, consider the following
statements: [2013]
1. The caves at Badami are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India.
2. The Barabar rock-cut caves were originally made for Ajivikas by Emperor
Chandragupta Maurya.
3. At Ellora, caves were made for different faiths.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.10 With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following
statements: [2021]
1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of the Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
2. It is the only circular temple built in India.
3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the
Indian Parliament building.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c)
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Q.11 Building ‘Kalyana Mandapam’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the
kingdom of [2019]
(a) Chalukya (b) Chandela
(c) Rashtrakuta (d) Vijayanagara
Answer: (d)
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Q.12 Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples? [2017]
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarkantak
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
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Q.13 With reference to the art and archaeological history of India, which one among the
following was made earliest? [2015]
(a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
(b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
(c) Rock-cut Monuments Mahabalipuram
(d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri
Answer: (b)
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Q.14 With reference to the cultural history of India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to: [2014]
(a) An assembly of village elders (b) A religious sect
(c) A style of temple construction (d) An administrative functionary
Answer: (c)
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Q.15 The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the: [2012]
(a) Three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent.
(b) Three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified.
(c) Three main styles of Indian Temple Architecture.
(d) Three main musical gharanas were prevalent in India.
Answer: (c)
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Q.16 The well-known painting "Bani Thani" belongs to the [2018]
(a) Bundi school (b) Jaipur school
(c) Kangra school (d) Kishangarh school
Answer: (d)
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Q.17 The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous illustrated paintings at:
[2017]
(a) Ajanta (b) Badami
(c) Bagh (d) Ellora
Answer: (a)
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Q.18 Kalamkari painting refers to: [2015]
(a) A hand-painted cotton textile in South India
(b) A handmade drawing on bamboo handicrafts in North East India
(c) A block-painted woolen cloth in the Western Himalayan region of India
(d) A hand-painted decorative silk cloth in North-Western India
Answer: (a)
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Q.19 With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following
pairs: [2014]
Famous Shrine Location
1. Tabo monastery and temple complex : Spiti Valley
2. Lhotsava Lhakhang : Zanskar Valley
3. Alchi Temple Complex : Ladakh
Which of the above pairs given is/are correctly matched ?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.20 Consider the following historical places: [2013]
1. Ajanta Caves
2. Lepakshi Temple
3. Sanchi Stupa
Which of the above places is/are also known for mural paintings?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None
Answer: (b)
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Q.21 There are only two known examples of cave paintings of the Gupta period in ancient India.
One of these is paintings of Ajanta caves. Where is the other surviving example of Gupta
paintings? [2010]
(a) Bagh caves (b) Ellora caves
(c) Lomas Rishi cave (d) Nasik caves
Answer: (a)
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Q.22 With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following statements: [2018]
1. Most of the Tyagaraja Kritis are devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna.
2. Tyagaraja created several new ragas.
3. Annamacharya and Tyagaraja are contemporaries.
4. Annamacharya Keertanas are devotional songs in praise of Lord Venkateshwara.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b)
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Q.23 With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major traditions of India that has been kept alive for
centuries, Which of the following statements are correct? [2012]
1. Dhrupad originated and developed in the Rajput kingdoms during the Mughal period
2. Dhrupad is primarily a devotional and spiritual music
3. Dhrupad alap uses Sanskrit syllables from Mantras.
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 is correct.
Answer: (b)
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Q.24 With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: [2017]
1. It is a song and dance performance.
2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only
Answer: (b)
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Q.25 With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements [2014]
1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama.
2. It is a centuries old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam.
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas,
Kabir and Mirabai.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.26 Consider the following pairs: [2014]
1. Garba: Gujarat
2. Mohiniattam: Odisha
3. Yakshagana: Karnataka
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.27 In the context of the cultural history of India, a pose in dance and dramatics called
‘Tribhanga’ has been a favorite of Indian artists from ancient times till today. [2013]
Which one of the following statements best describes this pose?
(a) One leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved at the waist and neck
(b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and make-up are combined to symbolize certain
epic or historic characters
(c) Movements of body, face and hands are used to express oneself or to tell a story
(d) A little smile, slightly curved waist and certain hand gestures are emphasized to
express the feelings of love or eroticism
Answer: (a)
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Q.28 How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances? [2012]
1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in
Bharatnatyam
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of
Bharatnatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2
Answer: (a)
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Q.29 With reference to India's culture and tradition, what is 'Kalaripayattu'? [2014]
(a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India.
(b) It is an ancient style bronze and brass work still found in the southern part of the
Coromandel area.
(c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of
Malabar.
(d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India.
Answer: (d)
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Q.30 Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:
[2024]
1. Shantiniketan
2. Rani-ki-Vav
3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya
How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) Only three (d) All four
Answer: (b)
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Q.31 Consider the following pairs: [2023]
Site Well known for
1. Besnagar Shaivite cave shrine
2. Bhaja Buddhist cave shrine
3. Sittanavasal Jain cave shrine
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None
Answer: (b)
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Q.32 Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is
correct? [2022]
(a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
(b) The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.
(c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethics.
(d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
Answer: (b)
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Q.33 “Yoga Vasistha” was translated into Persian by Nizamuddin Panipati during the reign of:
[2022]
(a) Akbar (b) Humayun
(c) Shahjahan (d) Aurangzeb
Answer: (a)
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Q.34 With reference to India, the terms 'Halbi, Ho and Kui' pertain to: [2021]
(a) Dance forms of Northwest India (b) Musical instruments
(c) Prehistoric cave paintings (d) Tribal languages
Answer: (d)
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Q.35 With reference to the history of India, consider the following pairs: [2020]
Famous Place: Present State
1. Bhilsa: Madhya Pradesh
2. Dwarasamudra : Maharashtra
3. Girinagar : Gujarat
4. Sthanesvara: Uttar Pradesh
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 2 and 4 only
Answer: (a)
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Q.36 Consider the following pairs: [2018]
Tradition : State
1. Chapchar Kut festival - Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba Ballad - Manipur
3. Thang-Ta dance - Sikkim
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2
(c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.37 Consider the following pairs: [2017]
Traditions : Communities
1. Chaliha Sahib Festival – Sindhis
2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra – Gonds
3. Wari -Warkari - Santhals
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the above
Answer: (a)
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Q.38 Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the
founder of the Shunga dynasty? [2016]
(a) Swapnavasavadatta (b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota (d) Ratnavali
Answer: (b)
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Q.39 In Medieval India, the designations 'Mahattara' and 'Pattakila' were used for [2014]
(a) Military officers (b) Village officers
(c) Specialists in Vedic rituals (d) Chiefs of craft guilds
Answer: (b)
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Q.40 Every year, a month-long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which
certain communities/tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are
such communities/tribes? [2014]
(a) Bhutia and Lepcha (b) Gond and Korku
(c) Irula and Toda (d) Sahariya and Agariya
Answer: (b)
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Q.41 Chaitra, one of the national calendars based on the Saka Era, corresponds to which one
of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days? [2014]
(a) 22nd March (or 21st March) (b) 15th May (or 16th May)
(c) 21st March (or 30th March) (d) 21st April (or 20th April)
Answer: (a)
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Q.42 Consider the following statements : [2014]
1. 'Bijak' is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal.
2. The Philosophy of PushtiMarg was propounded by Madhvacharya.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (d)
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Q.43 A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their [2014]
(a) Martial arts in North-East India
(b) Musical tradition in North-West India.
(c) Classical vocal music in South India.
(d) Pietra dura tradition in Central India
Answer: (b)
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Q.44 Consider the following languages: [2014]
1. Gujarati
2. Kannada
3. Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as 'Classical Language/Languages' by the
Government?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.45 Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian
Philosophy? [2014]
(a) Mimamsa and Vedanta (b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
(c) Lokayata and Kapalika (d) Sankhya and Yoga
Answer: (c)
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Q.46 The national motto of India, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ inscribed below the Emblem of India is
taken from: [2014]
(a) Katha Upanishad (b) Chandogya Upanishad
(c) Aitareya Upanishad (d) Mundaka Upanishad
Answer: (d)
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Q.47 Consider the following Bhakti Saints : [2013]
1. Dadu Dayal
2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja
Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took
over?
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 (d) 1 and 2
Answer: (b)
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Q.48 With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consider the following
statements regarding Sankhya school: [2013]
1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of the soul.
2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-knowledge that leads to liberation and not any
exterior influence or agent.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
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Q.49 According to Mimamsa system of philosophy, liberation is possible by means of: [1995]
(a) Jnana (b) Bhakti
(c) Yoga (d) Karma
Answer: (d)
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Q.50 Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhasa? [2024]
(a) Kavyalankara (b) Natyashastra
(c) Madhyama-vyayoga (d) Mahabhashya
Answer: (c)
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Q.51 Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth
century AD, was the author of a commentary on: [2024]
(a) Prajnaparamita Sutra (b) Visuddhimagga
(c) Sarvastivada Vinaya (d) Lalitavistara
Answer: (c)
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Q.52 With reference to ancient Indian History, consider the following pairs: [2023]
Literary work Author
1. Devichandragupta Bilhana
2. Hammira-Mahakavya Nayachandra Suri
3. Milinda-panha Nagarjuna
4. Nitivakyamrita Somadeva Suri
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) Only three (d) All four
Answer: (b)
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Q.53 Mrichchhakatika an ancient Indian book written by Shudraka deals with: [2003]
(a) the love affair of a rich merchant with the daughter of a courtesan
(b) the victory of Chandragupta II over the Shaka Kshatrapas of western India
(c) the military expeditions and exploits of Samudragupta
(d) the love affairs between a Gupta king and a princess of Kamarupa
Answer: (a)
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Q.54 The ancient Indian play Mudrarakshasa of Visakhadutt has its subject on: [2002]
(a) a conflict between Gods and Demons of ancient Hindu lore
(b) a romantic story of an Aryan prince and a tribal woman
(c) the story of the power struggle between two Aryan
(d) the court intrigues at the time of Chandragupta
Answer: (d)
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Q.55 Assertion (A): The Aham and Puram poems of the Padinen Kilukanakku group formed a
continuation of the Sangam composition. [2000]
Reason (R): They were included under the post-Sangam works as against the Sangam
works proper.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Answer: (a)
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Q.56 The concept of the Eightfold Path forms the theme of: [1998]
(a) Dipavamsa (b) Divyavadana
(c) Mahaparinibbana Sutta (d) Dharma Chakra Pravartana Sutta
Answer: (d)
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Q.57 Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? [1998]
1. Mrichchakatikam – Shudraka
2. Buddhacharita – Vasuvandhu
3. Mudrarakshasa – Vishakadatta
4. Harshacharita – Banabhatta
Select the correct answer using the codes:
(a) 1, 2, 3, and 4 (b) 1, 3, and 4
(c) 1 and 4 (d) 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.58 Match List-I (Author) with List-II (Text) and select the correct answer using the codes given
below the lists: [1997]
List-I List-II
A. Varahamihira 1. Prabandha Chintamani
B. Vishakhadatta 2. Mrichchakatikam
C. Sudraka 3. Brihat-Samhita
D. Bilhana 4. Devi-Chandraguptam
5. Vikramankadeva-Charita
Codes:
(a) A-3; B-4; C-5; D-2 (b) A-3; B-4; C-2; D-5
(c) A-5; B-3; C-4; D-1 (d) A-1; B-3; C-5; D-2
Answer: (b)
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Q.59 Which one of the following scripts of ancient India was written from right to left? [1997]
(a) Brahmi (b) Nandnagari
(c) Sharada (d) Kharosthi
Answer: (d)
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Q.60 The famous dialogue between Nachiketa and Yama is mentioned in the: [1997]
(a) Chhandogyopanishad (b) Mundakopanishad
(c) Kathopanishad (d) Kenopanishad
Answer: (c)
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Q.61 Milindapanho is in the form of a dialogue between the King Menander and Buddhist monk:
[1997]
(a) Nagasena (b) Nagarjuna
(c) Nagabhatta (d) Kumarila Bhatta
Answer: (a)
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Q.62 Which one of the following texts of ancient India allows divorce to a wife deserted by her
husband? [1996]
(a) Kamasutra (b) Manava Dharma Shastra
(c) Sukra Nitisara (d) Arthashastra
Answer: (d)
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Q.63 With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the
following epithets? [2024]
1. Nayaputta
2. Shakyamuni
3. Tathagata
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the above are epithets of Gautama Buddha
Answer: (b)
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Q.64 In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka, which flourished as a prominent
Buddhist centre under the Mahasanghikas, located? [2023]
(a) Andhra (b) Gandhara
(c) Kalinga (d) Magadha
Answer: (a)
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Q.65 “Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water
and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects.” The above
statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of
ancient India? [2023]
(a) Buddhism (b) Jainism
(c) Shaivism (d) Vaishnavism
Answer: (b)
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Q.66 With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts: [2022]
1. Nettipakarana
2. Parishishta Parvan
3. Avadanasataka
4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana
Which of the above are Jaina texts?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b)
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Q.67 With reference to Indian history, consider the following pairs: [2022]
Historical person - Known as
1. Aryadeva Jaina scholar
2. Dignaga Buddhist scholar
3. Nathamuni Vaishnavite scholar
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) None of the pairs (b) Only one pair
(c) Only two pairs (d) All three pairs
Answer: (c)
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Q.68 With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct
description of the term Paramitas? [2020]
(a) The earliest Dharmashastra texts written in aphoristic (sutra) style.
(b) Philosophical schools that did not accept the authority of Vedas.
(c) Perfections whose attainment led to the Bodhisattva path.
(d) Powerful merchant guilds of early Medieval South India.
Answer: (c)
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Q.69 With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: [2020]
1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of the Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.70 With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs: [2020]
1. Parivrajaka : Renunciant and Wanderer
2. Shramana : Priest with a high status
3. Upasaka : Lay follower of Buddhism
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.71 Consider the following statements: [2019]
1. Deification of the Buddha
2. Trading the path of Bodhisattvas
3. Image worship and rituals
Which of the above is/are the features/features of Mahayana Buddhism?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
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Q.72 Which reference to the religious practices in India, the "Sthanakvasi" sect belongs to [2018]
(a) Buddhism (b) Jainism
(c) Vaishnavism (d) Shaivism
Answer: (b)
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Q.73 Which reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to
come to save the world? [2018]
(a) Avalokiteshvara (b) Lokesvara
(c) Maitreya (d) Padmapani
Answer: (c)
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Q.74 With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: [2017]
1. Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism.
2. Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary,
but existed forever in a latent form.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
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Q.75 With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: [2016]
1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their
path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.76 Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha? [2014, 2015]
1. Avanti
2. Gandhara
3. Kosala
4. Magadha
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 3 and 4 only
Answer: (d)
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Q.77 With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following
pairs: [2014]
Famous Shrine : Location
1. Tabo monastery and temple complex : Spiti Valley
2. Lhotsava Lhakhang : Zanskar Valley
3. Alchi Temple Complex : Ladakh
Which of the above pairs given is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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Q.78 Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas.
What is the difference between the two? [2013]
(a) Vihara is a place of worship, while Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks.
(b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks.
(c) Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial to it
(d) There is no material difference between the two.
Answer: (b)
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Q.79 Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism? [2013]
(a) The extinction of the flame of desire
(b) The complete annihilation of self
(c) A state of bliss and rest
(d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension
Answer: (a)
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Q.80 Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine? [2013]
1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance.
2. Every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul.
3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
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Q.81 With reference to the history of Ancient India, which of the following was/were common to
both Buddhism and Jainism? [2012]
1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
2. Indifference to the authority of Vedas
3. Denial of the efficacy of rituals
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2 and 3
Answer: (b)
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Q.82 Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called “Bhumisparsha
mudra”. It symbolizes : [2012]
(a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from
disturbing his meditation
(b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the
temptations of Mara
(c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from Earth and finally dissolve
into the Earth, and thus this life is transitory.
(d) Both statements (a) and (b) are correct in this context.
Answer: (b)
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Q.83 The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by: [2011]
(a) Universal law (b) Universal Truth
(c) Universal Faith (d) Universal Soul
Answer: (a)
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Q.84 Anekantavada is a core theory and philosophy of which one of the following? [2009]
(a) Buddhism (b) Jainism
(c) Sikhism (d) Vaishnavism
Answer: (b)
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Q.85 With reference to ancient Jainism, which one of the following statements is correct? [2004]
(a) Jainism was spread in South India under the leadership of Sthalabahu.
(b) The Jainas who remained under the leadership of Bhadrabahu were called
Shvetambaras after the council held at Pataliputra.
(c) Jainism enjoyed the patronage of the Kalinga king Kharavela in the first century BC.
(d) In the initial stage of Jainism, the Jainas worshiped images, unlike the Buddhists.
Answer: (c)
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Q.86 Which one of the following statements is not correct? [2002]
(a) The statue of Gomateshwara at ShravanaBelagola represents the last Tirthankara of
Jains.
(b) India's largest Buddhist monastery is in Arunachal Pradesh.
(c) Khajuraho temples were built under Chandela kings.
(d) Hoysaleswara temple is dedicated to Siva.
Answer: (a)
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Q.87 In ancient Indian Buddhist monasteries, a ceremony called Pavarana used to be held. It
was the: [2002]
(a) occasion to elect the Sanghparinayaka and two speakers, one on Dhamma and the
other on Vinaya
(b) confession by monks of their offenses committed during their stay in the
monasteries during the rainy season
(c) ceremony of initiation of a new person into the Buddhist Sangha in which the head is
shaved and yellow robes are offered
(d) gathering of Buddhist monks on the next day to the full-moon day of Ashadha when
they take up a fixed abode for the next four months of the rainy season
Answer: (b)
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Q88 Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of
Kanishka at Kashmir? [2001]
(a) Parsva (b) Nagarjuna
(c) Sudraka (d) Vasumitra
Answer: (d)
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Q.89 Assertion (A): The emphasis of Jainism on non-violence (ahimsa) prevented
agriculturalists from embracing Jainism.
Reason (R): Cultivation involved killing of insects and pests. [2000]
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false
(d) A is false, but R is true
Answer: (a)
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Q.90 In Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was also known as: [1997]
(a) Vajrapani (b) Manjusri
(c) Padmapani (d) Maitreya
Answer: (c)
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Q.91 Which of the following were common to both Buddhism and Jainism? [1996]
1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
3. Denial of efficacy of rituals
4. Non-injury to animal life
Select the correct answer using the codes:
(a) 1, 2, 3, and 4 (b) 2, 3, and 4
(c) 1, 3, and 4 (d) 1 and 2
Answer: (b)
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Q.92 Which one of the following is not a part of early Jaina literature? [1996]
(a) Therigatha (b) Acarangasutra
(c) Sutrakritanga (d) Brihatkalpasutra
Answer: (a)
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Q.93 The concept of Anuvrata was advocated by: [1995]
(a) Mahayana Buddhism (b) Hinayana Buddhism
(c) Jainism (d) The Lokayata School
Answer: (c)
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Q.94 What does the Baudhayan theorem (Baudhayana Sulva Sutras) relate to? [2008]
(a) Lengths of sides of a right-angled triangle
(b) Calculation of the value of pi
(c) Logarithmic calculations
(d) Normal distribution curve
Answer: (a)
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Q.95 Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer: [1996]
List-I: List-II:
A. Vishakhadatta 1. Medicine
B. Varahamihira 2. Drama
C. Charaka 3. Astronomy
D. Brahmagupta 4. Mathematics
Codes:
(a) A – 1; B – 3; C – 4; D – 2 (b) A – 2; B – 1; C – 3; D – 4
(c) A – 2; B – 3; C – 1; D – 4 (d) A – 3; B – 4; C – 1; D – 2
Answer: (c)
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Q.96 Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period?
[1996]
(a) Saumilla (b) Sudraka
(c) Shaunaka (d) Susrutha
Answer: (d)
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Q.97 Which one of the following Sculptures invariably used green schist as the medium? [1996]
(a) Maurya Sculptures
(b) Mathura Sculptures
(c) Bharhut Sculptures
(d) Gandhara Sculptures
Answer: (d)
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Q.98 Bronze icons of Nataraja cast during the Chola period invariably show the deity with: [1995]
(a) Eight hands (b) Six hands
(c) Four hands (d) Two hands
Answer: (c)
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Q.99 Consider the following pairs : [2018]
Craft Heritage of
1. Puthukkuli shawls - Tamil Nadu
2. Sujni embroidery - Maharashtra
3. Uppada Jamdani saris - Karnataka
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2
(c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
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