Post Mauryan Age MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Post Mauryan Age - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Kubernaga.

Key Points

• Chandragupta II, also known as Vikramaditya, married Princess Kubernaga after defeating the Saka king.
• Kubernaga was a Naga princess from the Naga dynasty, which was influential in central India during that era.
• This marriage strengthened Chandragupta II's political alliances and helped consolidate his power in the region.
• The defeat of the Saka rulers marked a significant milestone in the Gupta Empire's expansion and established its dominance in western India.
• Chandragupta II's reign is considered a golden age in Indian history due to advancements in art, culture, and science.

Additional Information

• Saka Dynasty:
  • The Sakas, also known as Scythians, were an ancient nomadic group who ruled parts of India before being defeated by the Gupta Empire.
  • The defeat of the Saka rulers by Chandragupta II marked the end of their influence in the region.
• Gupta Empire:
  • The Gupta Empire, which spanned from approximately 320 to 550 CE, is often referred to as the "Golden Age of India."
  • It is known for significant achievements in mathematics, astronomy, literature, and architecture.
• Naga Dynasty:
  • The Naga dynasty played a crucial role in regional politics during the Gupta period.
  • Alliances through marriage, such as Chandragupta II's union with Kubernaga, strengthened ties between the Guptas and Nagas.
• Chandragupta II:
  • He was one of the most powerful rulers of the Gupta dynasty and is credited with expanding the empire significantly.
  • His court was adorned with scholars like Kalidasa and Aryabhata, who contributed to India's cultural and scientific heritage.

The correct answer is Buddhism.

Key Points

• Kanishka, the Kushana ruler, was a prominent patron of Buddhism and played a significant role in its spread.
• His reign is marked by the convening of the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir, which helped systematize Buddhist teachings.
• Kanishka supported the development of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism, which emphasizes the concept of Bodhisattvas and the universality of salvation.
• Under Kanishka, Buddhist art and culture flourished, especially the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art.
• He is credited with promoting Buddhism beyond India to Central Asia and China.

Additional Information

• Kushana Empire: The Kushana dynasty ruled large parts of Central Asia and northern India during the 1st to 3rd century CE.
• Fourth Buddhist Council: Convened under Kanishka's patronage in Kashmir, this council contributed to the division of Buddhism into Mahayana and Hinayana schools.
• Gandhara Art: A fusion of Greek and Indian artistic traditions, Gandhara art developed under the Kushana empire and is characterized by Buddhist themes.
• Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emerged during Kanishka's reign, emphasizing compassion, Bodhisattvas, and the idea of universal salvation.
• Kanishka's Contributions: In addition to his religious patronage, Kanishka was a great military leader and expanded the Kushana empire to its zenith, influencing trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road.

The correct answer is The Yueh-chis.

Key Points

• The Yueh-chis were a nomadic tribe originally from the region of modern-day Central Asia (near the Tarim Basin).
• They defeated the Shakas (Scythians) before entering India and displaced them from their original territories.
• After their victory over the Shakas, the Yueh-chis migrated southward and established their dominance in regions near present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• The Yueh-chis later formed the Kushan Empire under their leader Kujula Kadphises, significantly influencing Indian history and culture.

Additional Information

• Shakas (Scythians):
  • The Shakas were a nomadic Indo-European group originating from Central Asia.
  • They are known for migrating into India and establishing kingdoms like the Western Kshatrapas.
  • The Shakas contributed to cultural exchanges between Central Asia and India, including art and architecture.
• Yueh-chis:
  • The Yueh-chis were displaced by the Xiongnu from their original homeland in Central Asia.
  • They migrated south and played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and political landscape of ancient India.
• Kushan Empire:
  • The Kushan Empire was founded by the Yueh-chis and reached its zenith under Emperor Kanishka.
  • It promoted Buddhism and played a crucial role in connecting the Silk Road trade network.
• Silk Road Connection:
  • The migration of nomadic tribes like the Yueh-chis contributed to the establishment of trade routes connecting India, Central Asia, and China.
  • The exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures along the Silk Road significantly influenced Indian history.

The Correct answer is Nanda Dynasty.

Key Points

• The Nanda Dynasty ruled over the northern part of India before being overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya around 321 BCE.
• The Nanda Dynasty was known for its wealth and military power, with a large and well-equipped army.
• This dynasty was established by Mahapadma Nanda, who is considered the first ruler of the Nanda lineage.
• Chandragupta Maurya defeated the last Nanda ruler, Dhana Nanda, with the assistance of his mentor and advisor, Chanakya (Kautilya).
• Chanakya played a crucial role in formulating strategies to overthrow the Nanda rule and establish the Mauryan Empire.
• The fall of the Nanda Dynasty marked the beginning of one of the most significant empires in Indian history, the Mauryan Empire, which was known for its administrative efficiency and centralized governance.
• The Mauryan Empire became a foundation for spreading Buddhism and other cultural advancements under rulers like Ashoka the Great.

 Additional Information

•  Gupta Dynasty
  • The Gupta Dynasty ruled India during the period known as the Golden Age of India (approximately 320–550 CE).
  • This dynasty is renowned for its scientific, artistic, and cultural achievements, including advancements in astronomy, mathematics (concept of zero), and literature.
  • Famous rulers of the Gupta Empire include Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, and Chandragupta II.
• Kushan Dynasty
  • The Kushan Dynasty flourished during the first three centuries CE, ruling territories in present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India.
  • They were known for their role in spreading Buddhism and facilitating trade along the Silk Road.
  • The most famous Kushan ruler was Kanishka the Great, who promoted Buddhism and was instrumental in the development of the Gandhara art style.
• Shunga Dynasty
  • The Shunga Dynasty came into power after the fall of the Mauryan Empire, ruling from approximately 185 BCE to 75 BCE.
  • Founded by Pushyamitra Shunga, the Shunga rulers are known for their patronage of art and architecture, particularly the development of Buddhist stupas like the one at Sanchi.
  • They were involved in various conflicts with neighboring kingdoms and tribes, including the Indo-Greeks.

The correct answer is Kanishka.

Key Points

• Ashvaghosha was a philosopher and poet who is considered India’s greatest poet before Kalidasa (5th century) and the father of Sanskrit drama.
• He popularized the style of Sanskrit poetry known as kavya.
• Ashvaghosha adorned the court of Kanishka.
• He was born in Saketa in northern India.
• Though Pali language literature was popular in Buddhism, Ashvaghosha wrote in Classical Sanskrit.
• Ashvaghosha spoke at length on Mahayana (Greater Vehicle) Buddhist doctrine at the fourth Buddhist council, which he helped organize.

• Buddhacharita wrote by Ashvaghosha is an epic on the life of the Buddha.
• He also wrote Saundarananda, with the theme of conversion of Nanda, Buddha's half-brother, so that he might reach salvation.
• He is also thought to be the author of the Sutralankara.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Kanishka.

Key Points 

• Ashvaghosha was a poet in the court of King Kanishka.
• Ashvaghosha and other Buddhist scholars from Kanishka's period (around 1900 years ago) began writing in Sanskrit.
• Earlier Buddha's teachings were in the common man's language (Prakrit) but later kings changed the practice gradually to the needs of the time.
• He was a Buddhist writer and was very famous among Buddhist writers.
• He wrote Buddhacharita which is the biography of Buddha.
  • It is written in the Sanskrit language.
• He also wrote Sutralankar.

Additional Information 

• Kanishka was the most famous Kushana ruler.
• He ruled around 1900 years ago.
• The fourth Buddhist council-
  • Held in 72 AD at Kundalvana, Kashmir.
  • It was presided over by Vasumitra.
  • Ashvaghosha was his deputy.
  • The council was held under the patronage of Kanishka.

The correct answer is Kushans.

• Kushans were the first kings to issue the largest hoards of gold coins in India.

Key Points

• Kushanas Coins:
  • Kushanas issued mostly gold coins and numerous copper coins which have been found in most parts of North India up to Bihar.
  • The Gold Dinara's or Suvarnas were based on the Roman denarius and were of 124 grains (8.04 grams).
    • Double and quarter Dinaras were also issued. The copper coins were large, from 26 to 28 Masas or 240 to 260 grains (15.55 to 16.85) grams.
  • The coins of Vima Kadphises bear the figure of Siva standing beside a bull.
  • In the legend on these coins, the king calls himself Maheshwara, i.e. devotee of Siva.
    • Kanishka, Huvishka and Vasudeva etc. all have this depiction on their coins.
  • Many Indian gods and goddesses are depicted on Kushana coins besides many Persian and Greek deities.

Additional Information

• Indo-Greek Coins:
  • The Indo-Greek coins show beautiful artistic features them.
  • The portrait or bust of the king on the obverse side appears to be a real portrait.
  • On the reverse, some deity is depicted.
  • We know that more than forty Indo-Greek rulers ruled in a small north-western region of India from these coins.
• Pre-Guptan and Guptan Coins:
  • Gupta kings issued the most Gold coins.
  • The Satavahanas issued coins of lead and potin (base silver).
  • Satavahanas’ copper coins with the Ujjain symbol bearing a ship were abundant in Avanti.
  • The gold coins of the Guptas (Dinara) originally approximated to the Kushana standard, but in the middle of the 5th century rose in weight to 144 grains, thus returning to the Indian standard of the copper Karsapana.

Mistake Points

• Gupta kings issued the most number of Gold coins whereas Kushans were the first kings to issue the largest hoards of gold coins in India.
• Solution Source:-  https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/lehs102.pdf  (Pg No. 44)

The correct answer is option 4 i.e., Mathura.

• The Kushan dynasty was administered from two capitals - Purushapura (Peshawar), and Mathura in northern India.
• In the 1st century CE, Kujula Kadphises (Kadphises - 1) founded the Kushan dynasty.
• The Kushans are considered to be one of the five branches of the Yuezhi tribe who lived in the Chinese frontier of Central Asia.
• Kanishka is considered as the greatest ruler of the Kushan dynasty. He was the son of Vima Kadphises.
  • He captured Patliputra and took away the Buddhist monk Asvaghosha with him to Peshawar.
  • Kanishka convened the fourth Buddhist Council at Kundalavana in Kashmir.
  • The Gandhara School of Art flourished under him.
  • The fourth Buddhist council was held in 72 AD at Kundalvana, Kashmir. It was presided over by Vasumitra, while Asvaghosa was his deputy. The council was held under the patronage of Kushan King Kanishka.

The correct answer is Charaka.

Key Points

• Charaka was a contributor to the subject of medicine in ancient India.
• He was the court physician of Kaniska.
• Charaka was one of the principal contributors to Ayurveda medicine in ancient India.
• He is best known for his work Charaka Samhita.
• Charaka Samhita:
  • It is also called Caraka-Samhita.
  • It is a detailed text on ancient Indian medicine attributed to Charaka, a practitioner of Ayurveda, India's traditional medical system.
  • Charaka-Samhita, also spelt Caraka-Samhita or Caraka- samhita, comprehensive text on ancient Indian medicine credited to Charaka.
  • He was a practitioner of the traditional system of Indian medicine known as Ayurveda.
  • Charaka is thought to have flourished sometime between the 2nd century BCE and the 2nd century CE. 
  • The Charaka-Samhita, in its current form, is believed to have originated in the first century CE.
  • According to ancient Indian medicine studies, the original text was written by Agnivesha.
  • One of six disciples of Ayurvedic scholar Punarvasu Atreya, many centuries ago,
    • (The other five disciples were Bhela, Jatukarna, Parashara, Harita, and Ksharapani).
  • Each of the disciples went on to write their own Samhitas, combining both Atreya's ideas and their own understanding of the subject.
  • The Agnivesha-Samhita, written by Agnivesha, was unlike any other in terms of depth and quality.
  • It came to be known as the Charaka-Samhita after Charaka refined and annotated it.
  • The treatise was divided into eight parts, or ashtanga sthanas, by Charaka:
    • sutra, nidana, vimana, sarira, endriya, chikitsa, Kalpa, and Siddha; each section had multiple chapters.

Additional Information

• Panini:
  • He was born in Shalatula on the Indus River in present-day Pakistan.
  • He was a Sanskrit grammarian and gave a comprehensive and scientific theory of phonetics, phonology, and morphology.
  • He is considered the founder of the language and literature of Sanskrit.
  • His major work involves a treatise called Astadhyayi (or Astaka). It consists of eight chapters, each subdivided into quarter chapters.
  • Under Astadhyayi, he distinguished between the language of sacred texts and the usual language of communication.
  • He gave formal production rules and definitions to describe Sanskrit grammar.
  • He gave about 1700 basic elements like nouns, verbs, vowels, and consonants he put them into classes.
  • Pushyamitra Shunga is a post-Mauryan king whereas the birth year of Panini is not known. Experts give dates of Panini in the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries which are all Pre-Mauryan.
  • Astadhyayi (or Astaka) is Panini's major work related to Sanskrit grammar.
• Harsha:
  • Harshavardhana ruled from 606-647 CE.
  • He lived from 590 to 647 CE and was the last ruler of the Vardhana Empire.
  • He was the king of the Vardhana dynasty and was the son of Prabhakarvardhana.
  • He took the title of sakal uttara patha natha (lord of northern India).His biography Harshacharita ("Deeds of Harsha") was written by Sanskrit poet Banabhatta.
  • He authored Nagananda, Ratnavali, Priyadarshika all written in the Sanskrit language.

The correct answer is Kanishka.

Key Points

• Ashvaghosha was a philosopher and poet who is considered India’s greatest poet before Kalidasa (5th century) and the father of Sanskrit drama.
• He popularized the style of Sanskrit poetry known as kavya.
• Ashvaghosha adorned the court of Kanishka.
• He was born in Saketa in northern India.
• Though Pali language literature was popular in Buddhism, Ashvaghosha wrote in Classical Sanskrit.
• Ashvaghosha spoke at length on Mahayana (Greater Vehicle) Buddhist doctrine at the fourth Buddhist council, which he helped organize.

• Buddhacharita wrote by Ashvaghosha is an epic on the life of the Buddha.
• He also wrote Saundarananda, with the theme of conversion of Nanda, Buddha's half-brother, so that he might reach salvation.
• He is also thought to be the author of the Sutralankara.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Bimbisara.

Key Points

• King Bimbisara is regarded as the Founder of the Haryanka Dynasty- the first major dynasty to rule Magadha region.
• He was the son of Bhattiya.
• He ruled approximately from 558 BC to 491 BC.
• He was the contemporary of Gautam Buddha and also considered as the admirer of the Mahavira.
• He made his capital at Rajgriha/Girivraja (Bihar) as it was surrounded by 5 hills during that time. This made Rajgriha practically impregnable.
• He was the first king who expanded his empire by the use of matrimonial alliances by marrying Kosaladevi(princess of Kosala and sister of Presanjit), Chellana (daughter of Licchavi prince of Vaishali), and Khema (princess of Madra, Punjab).
• He was the first king to have a Standing Army.
• He was initially, a rival of Avanti king Pradyota, but later did friendship with him and also, he sent his royal physician Jivaka to Ujjain, when Pradyota got infected with jaundice.
• He was imprisoned and eventually killed by his son Ajatshatru. 

Additional Information

•  The Mauryan Dynasty was founded by Chandragupta Maurya who defeated Dhana Nanda-last ruler of the Nanda Dynasty with the help of Chanakya.
• The chronological of the kings of the Mauryan Dynasty is shown in the table below:

  Name of the Ruler	Tenure of the Ruler
  Chandragupta Maurya	322-297 BC
  Bindusara	297-272/268 BC
  Ashoka	268/272-232 BC
  Dasharatha	232-224 BC
  Samprati	224-215 BC
  Shalisuka	215-202 BC
  Devvarman	202-195 BC
  Shatadhanvana	195-187 BC
  Brihadratha	187-180 BC

• The most famous kings of this dynasty were Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka, and Bindusara respectively.
• ​The first and the famous Greek Ambassador Megasthenes, who wrote the book "Indica" visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya.
• Chandragupta Maurya later became a follower of Jainism, with the help of saint Bhadrabahu and went to South India where he performed Sanllekhana or starvation to death.
• Ashoka was the most significant ruler of this dynasty who fought the famous Kalinga War and after the mass massacre, converted himself into Buddhism and adopted different measures for the promotion of Buddhism by building Stupas or sending Ambassadors to different countries.
• Ashoka was also the first Indian King to directly converse with his people through the use of Inscriptions.
• The scripts used in the Mauryan inscriptions were mainly Brahmi, Kharosthi (North-West India), and Aramaic & Greek( in Afghanistan) and the major language was Prakrit.
• The Mauryan rulers were one of the first and the most prominent rulers who conquered major parts of North India.
• The last Mauryan ruler Brihadratha was killed in 185 BC by his chief commander Pushyamitra Shunga.

The Correct Answer is ​Gautamiputra Satakarni.

Key Points

• Satavahana Dynasty (60 BC - 225 AD): 
  • Simukha was the founder of the Satavahana dynasty.
  • Dharanikota near Amaravati in Guntur district was the first capital of Simukha.
  • Later he shifted his capital to Pratishtana.
• Hala:
  • He was the 17th ruler of the Satavahana dynasty. 
  • Hala was the author of Gathasaptasati or Sattasai in Prakrit.
  • The text contains love lures.
• Gautamiputra Satakarni:
  • He was the 23rd ruler of the Satavahana dynasty.
  • His achievements have been mentioned in the Nasik Inscription, by his mother Gautami.
  • He defeated the Saka King Nahapana and revived the Satavahana power. Hence, Option 2 is correct.
• Pulumavi-III:
  • He was the 30th and last ruler of the Satavahana Dynasty.
  • Satavahanas was finally succeeded by the Ikshvakus in the 3rd century AD.

The correct answer is Sunga Dynasty.

Key Points

• "Vidisha" was made its capital by Pushyamitra, the ruler of the Sunga dynasty.
• The Sunga dynasty was founded by Pushyamitra Sunga in 185 BC.
• The information about the Satavahana dynasty is found in the "Article of Sanchi".
• The Satavahana dynasty was founded by "Simuk" and coins of Gautamiputra Shatakarni are obtained from "Ujjain".
• Gautamiputra Shatkarni ruled from Malwa to Maheshwar after defeating Saka King 'Nahapan'.
• In the first-century BC 'Ujjain' was the major commercial center of North India.
• Kanishka was the greatest ruler of the Kushan dynasty.

The correct answer is Satavahana.

• Ruler Gautamiputra Satkarni belonged to the Satavahana dynasty.

Key Points

• He is regarded as the best king of this dynasty.
• The fortune of this dynasty was restored under his reign.
• He was the only Brahma who defeated Shaka and other Kshatriya rulers also.
• His kingdom stretched from Krishna in the south to Malwa in the north and from Konkani in the west to Berar in the East.
• He was given the title of Rajaraja and Maharaja.
• He had a very big heart who donated land to the Buddhist monks.

Pushyamitra-Shunga dynasty.

Key Points

• The Shunga dynasty was established by Pushyamitra Shunga.
• He was the commander-in-chief of the last Maurya emperor, Brihadratha Maurya.

Additional Information

• Vima Kadphises was a Kushan emperor.
• Vasudeva was the founder of the Kanva dynasty.
• Srigupta was the founder of the Gupta dynasty.
• Pulakesin I was the ruler of the Chalukya dynasty.