WBCS Preliminary Question Paper – 2023
28. Name the king whose achievements were described in Nanaghat inscription.
(A) Satakarni I
(B) Gautamiputra Satakarni
(C) Vashishta Putra Pulamayi
(D) Yajnasri Satakarni
✅ Answer: (A) Satakarni I
Explanation: The Nanaghat inscription was issued by Queen Naganika and records the achievements of her husband Satakarni I. It describes his sacrifices, military strength, and donations. It is one of the earliest sources of Satavahana history.
34. Who was the first historical emperor of India?
(A) Dhanananda
(B) Chandragupta Maurya
(C) Bimbisara
(D) Bindusara
✅ Answer: (B) Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya was the first ruler to establish a large, historically documented pan-Indian empire. Greek accounts like Megasthenes’ Indica and various inscriptions support his reign. He unified North India after overthrowing the Nandas.
63. Name the Chalukya king who defeated Harshavardana.
(A) Pulakeshin I
(B) Pulakeshin II
(C) Mangalesh
(D) Kirtivarmana
✅ Answer: (B) Pulakeshin II
Explanation: Pulakeshin II defeated Harsha on the banks of the Narmada River. The Aihole inscription proudly records this victory. This stopped Harsha’s expansion into the Deccan.
80. Which Mahajanapada finally succeeded in founding an empire?
(A) Koshala
(B) Kashi
(C) Magadha
(D) Panchala
✅ Answer: (C) Magadha
Explanation: Magadha gradually rose to power due to its rich iron ore, strong army, and strategic location. It later produced powerful dynasties like the Nandas and Mauryas. This made it the first true imperial state of ancient India.
89. Name the Chola king who adopted the title ‘Gangaikonda’.
(A) Rajendra Chola I
(B) Rajaraj I
(C) Rajadhiraj Chola
(D) Rajendra Chola II
✅ Answer: (A) Rajendra Chola I
Explanation: Rajendra Chola I took the title “Gangaikonda” after his successful expedition up to the Ganga River. He later founded a new capital, Gangaikonda Cholapuram. His naval expeditions also expanded Chola influence overseas.
92. Who wrote ‘Kumarasambhavam’?
(A) Vishnusharma
(B) Dandin
(C) Kalidasa
(D) Somedeb
✅ Answer: (C) Kalidasa
Explanation: Kumarasambhavam is an epic poem written by Kalidasa. It narrates the love of Shiva–Parvati and the birth of Kartikeya. It is considered a masterpiece of classical Sanskrit literature.
98. Where did Chandragupta II establish his second capital?
(A) Bidisha
(B) Malava
(C) Valabhi
(D) Ujjayni
✅ Answer: (A) Bidisha
Explanation: Chandragupta II set up Bidisha (Vidisha) as his second capital. From here, he led campaigns that defeated the Western Kshatrapas. The city also served as an important cultural centre of the Gupta empire.
107. Who was Mihirkula/Mihirgula?
(A) Saka king
(B) Kushana king
(C) Huna king
(D) Pahlava king
✅ Answer: (C) Huna king
Explanation: Mihirkula was a powerful and harsh Huna ruler known for his cruelty. He attacked North India during the late Gupta period. His invasions weakened the Gupta empire significantly.
131. Where was the first Buddhist Council held?
(A) Vaisali
(B) Pataliputra
(C) Rajagriha
(D) Malava
✅ Answer: (C) Rajagriha
Explanation: The First Buddhist Council was held at Rajagriha soon after the Buddha’s death. King Ajatashatru supported the meeting. Teachings were recited and organized, forming the basis of the Pitakas.
177. Where was the capital of Kanishka?
(A) Purushpur
(B) Jalandhar
(C) Kashmir
(D) Pataliputra
✅ Answer: (A) Purushpur
Explanation: Kanishka’s capital was Purushpur, the modern city of Peshawar. From here, he expanded the Kushana empire into Central Asia. It became a major centre of Gandhara art and Mahayana Buddhism.
180. Under which emperor was Nalanda University founded?
(A) Samudragupta
(B) Chandragupta II
(C) Skandagupta
(D) Kumaragupta I
✅ Answer: (D) Kumaragupta I
Explanation: Nalanda University was founded during the reign of Kumaragupta I in the 5th century CE. It grew into the greatest Buddhist learning centre in Asia. Chinese traveller Xuanzang later described it in detail.
1. Who is the composer of Allahabad Prasasti?
(A) Harishena
(B) Bishakhdutta
(C) Kalidasa
(D) Shudrak
✅ Answer: (A) Harishena
Explanation: The Allahabad Prasasti was composed by Harishena, the court poet of Samudragupta. It records Samudragupta’s conquests and achievements. It is inscribed on the Ashokan pillar at Prayagraj.
2. Earliest fossil remains of archaic Homo sapiens has been found in
(A) Siwalik hills
(B) Narmada valley
(C) Nallamalai hills
(D) Chotanagpur Plateau
✅ Answer: (B) Narmada valley
Explanation: The Narmada Valley yielded the famous fossil skull discovered by Arun Sonakia in 1982. It is one of the oldest archaic Homo sapiens fossils in India. It dates to roughly 200,000 years ago.
3. Arrange the foreign travellers in chronological order:
(a) Xuanzang
(b) Itsing
(c) Fa Hien
(d) Megasthenes
(A) (a), (b), (c), (d)
(B) (a), (d), (b), (c)
(C) (d), (c), (a), (b)
(D) (d), (c), (b), (a)
✅ Answer: (C) (d), (c), (a), (b)
Explanation: Megasthenes (4th century BCE) came first, followed by Fa-Hien (5th century CE). Xuanzang came in the 7th century CE, and Itsing visited later in the late 7th century. Hence the order is d → c → a → b.
4. Match the following:
(a) Kot Diji — ?
(b) Harappa — ?
(c) Kalibangan — ?
(d) Mohenjodaro — ?
(A) (a-2), (b-3), (c-1), (d-4)
(B) (a-1), (b-3), (c-2), (d-4)
(C) (a-4), (b-1), (c-2), (d-3)
(D) (a-3), (b-2), (c-4), (d-1)
Correct matches:
- Kot Diji — F. A. Khan, G. S. Ghurye (2)
- Harappa — Daya Ram Sahani (3)
- Kalibangan — Luigi Pio Tessitori (1)
- Mohenjodaro — R. D. Banerji (4)
✅ Answer: (A) (a-2), (b-3), (c-1), (d-4)
Explanation: Harappa was first excavated by Daya Ram Sahani in 1921. Mohenjodaro was discovered by R. D. Banerji. Kot Diji and Kalibangan were explored by F.A. Khan and Tessitori respectively.
5. Who among the following stated that there was no slavery in India?
(A) Strabo
(B) Ptolemy
(C) Megasthenes
(D) Xuanzang
✅ Answer: (C) Megasthenes
Explanation: In Indica, Megasthenes wrote that India had no slavery resembling Greek slavery. However, later historians note that forms of servitude existed. His statement reflects differences between Greek and Indian social systems.
6. Earliest reference to ‘Sati’ is found in which inscription?
(A) Asokan inscription of Girnar
(B) Aihole inscription
(C) Eran inscription
(D) Damodarpur inscription
✅ Answer: (C) Eran inscription
Explanation: The Eran inscription (Madhya Pradesh) mentions a woman immolating herself on her husband’s pyre. It is the earliest inscriptional evidence of Sati (6th century CE). It relates to the Gupta period.
7. The Gupta King who destroyed the Sakas was
(A) Samudra Gupta
(B) Chandra Gupta-I
(C) Kumara Gupta
(D) Chandra Gupta-II
✅ Answer: (D) Chandra Gupta-II
Explanation: Chandragupta II defeated the Western Kshatrapas (Sakas) and ended their rule. This expanded Gupta power in western India. His victory is recorded in inscriptions and coins.
8. Earliest evidence of settled agriculture in the subcontinent comes from
(A) Utnur
(B) Burzahom
(C) Mehrgarh
(D) Bagor
✅ Answer: (C) Mehrgarh
Explanation: Mehrgarh (in present Pakistan) shows evidence of farming and domestication from 7000–5500 BCE. It is one of the world’s earliest Neolithic agricultural sites. Excavations revealed wheat, barley, and early village life.
9. The first sermon of Gautama Buddha is called
(A) Mahabhinishkraman
(B) Dharmachakra Pravartana
(C) Dhammaghos
(D) Mahaparinirvana
✅ Answer: (B) Dharmachakra Pravartana
Explanation: Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath to his five disciples. This event is known as “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.” It marks the beginning of the Buddhist Sangha.
10. Who was the Greek king of Syria mentioned in Asokan edict?
(A) Antiochus II Theos
(B) Ptolemy II
(C) Antigonus
(D) Alexander
✅ Answer: (A) Antiochus II Theos
Explanation: Ashoka’s edicts mention several Hellenistic kings, including Antiochus II of Syria. Ashoka refers to sending missionaries and dharma messages to them. This shows diplomatic ties between Mauryas and Greek states.
11. Match List–I with List–II
(a) Moriyas — 1. Pippalivana
(b) Videhas — 2. Mithila
(c) Licchavis — 3. Vaishali
(d) Mallas — 4. Kapilavastu
Which are not properly matched?
(A) (a-1), (b-2), (c-3)
(B) (d-4)
(C) (c-3), (d-4)
(D) All of the above
Correct matches:
- Moriyas — Pippalivana (correct)
- Videhas — Mithila (correct)
- Licchavis — Vaishali (correct)
- Mallas — Kushinagar
So mismatches = (B) d-4
✅ Answer: (B)
✅ WBCS Preliminary 2021
110. When did Śaka era (Śakabda) commence?
(A) 78 A.D.
(B) 78 B.C.E.
(C) 178 B.C.E.
(D) 178 A.D.
✅ Answer: (A) 78 A.D.
Explanation: The Śaka era began in 78 A.D. under King Kanishka of the Kushana dynasty. It is still used in the official Indian National Calendar. This era is widely seen in inscriptions and ancient texts.
126. Who is the author of the Allahabad Pillar Inscription?
(A) Rudradaman
(B) Harisena
(C) Samudragupta
(D) Banabhatta
✅ Answer: (B) Harisena
Explanation: The Allahabad Pillar inscription was composed by Harisena, the court poet of Samudragupta. It records Samudragupta’s military achievements and policies. It is engraved on an old Ashokan pillar.
✅ WBCS Preliminary 2020
56. Boghazkoi is important because—
(A) Trading centre
(B) Vedas composed there
(C) Inscription mentions Vedic gods
(D) None
✅ Answer: (C) Inscription mentioning Vedic gods
Explanation: Boghazkoi (in Turkey) produced Hittite inscriptions mentioning Vedic gods like Indra, Mitra, Varuna. This provides evidence of Indo-Aryan presence in West Asia. It is an important link in Indo-European studies.
78. Earliest evidence of agriculture in Indian subcontinent?
(A) Pratapgarh
(B) Mehrgarh
(C) Quetta
(D) Kalat
✅ Answer: (B) Mehrgarh
Explanation: Mehrgarh (7000–2000 BCE) gives the earliest proof of farming and domestication in South Asia. Excavations revealed wheat, barley, and early village life. It is a major Neolithic site in Baluchistan.
91. Who wrote The Wonder That Was India?
(A) A. L. Basham
(B) Alison Bashford
(C) R. C. Majumder
(D) Satish Chandra
✅ Answer: (A) A. L. Basham
Explanation: A. L. Basham was a British Indologist who authored The Wonder That Was India. The book surveys ancient Indian culture and civilization. It is widely used in historical studies.
99. Two assemblies of Early Vedic period?
(A) Samiti
(B) Sabha
(C) Samiti + Sangam
(D) Both (A) & (B)
✅ Answer: (D) Both (A) and (B)
Explanation: The two main political assemblies were Sabha (elite council) and Samiti (general assembly). They helped in decision-making in tribal governance. Vedic texts mention both frequently.
145. Correct statement about Indus Valley Civilization?
(A) Both Harappa & Mohenjodaro on Ravi
(B) Chanhudaro & Kalibangan in Rajasthan
(C) Surkotada & Dholavira in Kutch
(D) Lothal on Narmada
✅ Answer: (C) Surkotada and Dholavira are in Kutch
Explanation: Both Surkotada and Dholavira are Harappan sites in the Kutch region of Gujarat. Harappa is on Ravi, but Mohenjodaro is on Indus. Lothal is on the Sabarmati’s ancient channel, not Narmada.
✅ WBCS Preliminary 2019
71. Where did Gautama Buddha attain Nirvana (Enlightenment)?
(A) Lumbini
(B) Sarnath
(C) Kusinagar
(D) Bodh Gaya
✅ Answer: (D) Bodh Gaya
Explanation: Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. This event is central to Buddhist tradition. The Mahabodhi temple stands at the site today.
72. Who wrote Mrichchhakatika?
(A) Vishakhadatta
(B) Shudrak
(C) Banabhatta
(D) Bhasa
✅ Answer: (B) Shudrak
Explanation: Mrichchhakatika (The Little Clay Cart) is a Sanskrit play written by King Shudraka. It depicts urban life and the story of Charudatta and Vasantasena. It is known for its realistic social themes.
73. Who succeeded Samudragupta?
(A) Chandragupta II
(B) Vishnugupta
(C) Chandragupta I
(D) Skandagupta
✅ Answer: (A) Chandragupta II
Explanation: Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya) succeeded his father Samudragupta. His reign marked Gupta empire’s expansion and cultural peak. He defeated the Western Kshatrapas.
74. Ashoka’s inscriptions and Brahmi script were deciphered by—
(A) Cunningham
(B) James Prinsep
(C) Max Muller
(D) Wheeler
✅ Answer: (B) James Prinsep
Explanation: In 1838, James Prinsep successfully deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts. This allowed Ashoka’s edicts to be read for the first time. It revolutionized Indian epigraphic studies.
75. Earliest evidence of agriculture in Indian subcontinent?
(A) Pratapgarh
(B) Mehrgarh
(C) Quetta
(D) Kalat
✅ Answer: (B) Mehrgarh
Explanation: Mehrgarh is the earliest site showing agriculture (around 7000 BCE). Finds include cultivated wheat and barley. It marks the beginning of Neolithic settlements.
✅ WBCS Preliminary 2018
105. Who was the writer of Buddhacharita?
(a) Buddhaghosha
(b) Ashvaghosha
(c) Nagarjuna
(d) Panini
✅ Answer: (b) Ashvaghosha
Explanation: Ashvaghosha composed Buddhacharita, a Sanskrit epic on the life of Buddha. It is one of the earliest Buddhist biographical works. He lived during the Kushana period.
111. Which Harappan site is NOT in Gujarat?
(a) Surkotada
(b) Lothal
(c) Dholavira
(d) Banwali
✅ Answer: (d) Banwali
Explanation: Banwali is located in Haryana, not Gujarat. Surkotada, Lothal, and Dholavira are major Harappan sites in Gujarat. Banwali shows both pre-Harappan and Harappan phases.
116. Which kingdom covered modern Patna & Gaya districts?
(a) Anga
(b) Kosala
(c) Magadha
(d) Avanti
✅ Answer: (c) Magadha
Explanation: Magadha included present-day Patna and Gaya regions. It became the most powerful Mahajanapada. Later dynasties like Nandas and Mauryas rose from here.
125. Who came to India during Chandragupta Maurya’s reign?
(a) Faxian
(b) Xuanzang
(c) Megasthenes
(d) Strabo
✅ Answer: (c) Megasthenes
Explanation: Megasthenes was the Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus I to Chandragupta Maurya’s court. He wrote Indica, describing Mauryan society. His accounts provide valuable historical data.
131. Where did Buddha deliver his first sermon?
(a) Bodh Gaya
(b) Shravasti
(c) Sarnath
(d) Vaishali
✅ Answer: (c) Sarnath
Explanation: Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath to his five disciples. This event is called Dharmachakra Pravartana. It marks the beginning of the Buddhist community (Sangha).
✅ WBCS Prelims — 2017
136. Who was referred to as ‘Sandrocottus’ in Greek writings?
(a) Asoka (b) Bindusara (c) Chandragupta Maurya ✅ (d) Dhanananda
Explanation: Greek writers (like Plutarch/Arrian) used “Sandrocottus” for Chandragupta Maurya. He founded the Mauryan Empire after overthrowing the Nandas. Megasthenes served at his court.
150. Which Gupta ruler repulsed the Hunas?
(a) Samudragupta (b) Chandragupta II (c) Skandagupta ✅ (d) Kumaragupta
Explanation: Skandagupta defeated the Huna (Hephthalite) invasions in the mid-5th century CE. His victory is noted in inscriptions like the Bhitari pillar. It preserved Gupta control for a while.
156. Who authored Brihatsamhita?
(a) Aryabhatta (b) Varahamihira ✅ (c) Amarasimha (d) Brahmagupta
Explanation: Varahamihira’s Brihatsamhita is a classic Sanskrit compendium on astronomy, astrology, omens, architecture, etc. He flourished in the Gupta age (often linked to Vikramaditya’s court).
162. Which historian is famous for research on Ancient India (secular approach)?
(a) Satish Chandra (b) Bipan Chandra (c) R. S. Sharma ✅ (d) Amalesh Tripathi
Explanation: R. S. Sharma wrote widely on ancient Indian economy and society (Sudras in Ancient India, Material Culture and Social Formations in Ancient India). He used a rigorous, secular historical method.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2017
86. Which is a Harappan site in Rajasthan?
(A) Mohenjo Daro (B) Suktagen Dor (C) Kalibangan ✅ (D) Lothal
Explanation: Kalibangan lies on the Ghaggar (Rajasthan). It shows fire-altars and ploughed fields—key Harappan features. Lothal is in Gujarat.
77. Who used the name ‘Piyadasi’ in edicts?
(A) Bimbisara (B) Ashoka ✅ (C) Chandragupta Maurya (D) Brihadratha
Explanation: “Devanampriya Piyadasi” is Ashoka’s royal epithet in his inscriptions. The 13th Rock Edict famously mentions Kalinga war and remorse.
85. Which Magadha ruler was known as ‘Seniya’?
(A) Bimbisara ✅ (B) Ajatashatru (C) Mahapadma Nanda (D) Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Bimbisara is called “Seniya Bimbisara” in Pali sources. He expanded Magadha and allied with Licchavis/Kosala.
87. Famous physician in Buddha’s time?
(A) Kautilya (B) Nachiketa (C) Charaka (D) Jivaka ✅
Explanation: Jivaka Komarabhacca was Buddha’s contemporary royal physician. He is celebrated in Buddhist texts for surgical and medical skill.
76. Author of Kadambari?
(A) Kshemendra (B) Kalhana (C) Bhababhuti (D) Banabhatta ✅
Explanation: Bāṇa, court poet of Harsha, wrote Harshacharita and Kadambari. Kadambari is one of Sanskrit literature’s great prose romances.
78. Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) visited India during?
(A) Samudragupta (B) Ashoka (C) Harshavardhana ✅ (D) Kulottunga
Explanation: Xuanzang travelled c. 630–645 CE under Harsha. His Si-Yu-Ki details Indian polity, monasteries, and Buddhist schools.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2016
189. “Father of Indian Archaeology”?
(A) Alexander Cunningham ✅ (B) Gordon Childe (C) Mortimer Wheeler (D) John Marshall
Explanation: Cunningham founded the ASI in 1861 and surveyed many ancient sites. He pioneered systematic archaeology in India.
26. Decline of Nandas by Chanakya & Chandragupta is portrayed in which play?
(A) Mrichchhakatika (B) Mudrarakshasa ✅ (C) Mattavilasa (D) Devi Chandragupta
Explanation: Vishakhadatta’s Mudrarakshasa dramatizes Chandragupta’s rise and Chanakya’s diplomacy. Rakshasa, the Nanda minister, is central.
27. Most famous Indo-Greek ruler?
(A) Demetrius (B) Antiochus I (C) Menander (Milinda) ✅ (D) —
Explanation: Menander ruled c. 2nd century BCE and embraced Buddhist ideas (dialogues in Milindapanha). He expanded Indo-Greek power.
193. Rice cultivation is linked to which Harappan site?
(A) Kalibangan (B) Lothal ✅ (C) Kot Diji (D) Ropar
Explanation: Rice remains/husks have been reported from Lothal (and Rangpur). It indicates crop diversity in the Harappan economy.
196. The Upanishads were compiled around:
(A) 600 BC ✅ (B) 800 BC (C) 1000 BC (D) 1600–600 BC
Explanation: Major (early) Upanishads belong mainly to c. 800–500 BCE; exams usually round to ~600 BCE. They mark the late Vedic philosophical phase.
199. According to Buddhism, the cause of all sorrow is:
(A) Maya (B) Kama (C) Trishna (craving) ✅ (D) Krodha
Explanation: The Second Noble Truth identifies tanhā/trishna as the root of dukkha. Ending craving leads to cessation (Nirvana).
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2015
76. Author of Kadambari?
(A) Khemendra (B) Kalhana (C) Bhababhuti (D) Banabhatta ✅
Explanation: Bāṇa, court poet of Harsha, authored Kadambari, a landmark in Sanskrit prose. He also wrote Harshacharita.
189. Ancient port of the Indus Civilization (Gujarat)?
(A) Harappa (B) Lothal ✅ (C) Dholavira (D) Surkotada
Explanation: Lothal had a dockyard and seal factory—clear port evidence. It facilitated maritime trade with the Persian Gulf.
193. Which was not a Buddhist genealogical text? (Sri Lankan history)
(A) Suttapitaka
(B) Vinayapitaka
(C) Abhidhammapitaka
(D) Dipavamsa
❌→Key fact: Dipavamsa is an early Sri Lankan Buddhist chronicle.
Explanation: Dipavamsa is a genealogical/chronicle text, while the three Pitakas are canonical. So genealogical = Dipavamsa; the Pitakas are not genealogical.
(Exam keys often expect you to identify Dipavamsa as the chronicle—keep that in mind.)
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2014
48. Contemporary of both Buddha and Mahavira?
(A) Bimbisara ✅ (B) Chandragupta (C) Pradyota (D) Ajatashatru
Explanation: Bimbisara of Magadha was contemporary to both (6th century BCE). He strengthened Magadha through alliances and conquest.
67. Major port of the Indus Valley?
(A) Lothal ✅ (B) Kalibangan (C) Chanhudaro (D) Mehrgarh
Explanation: Lothal’s dock and maritime finds show overseas trade. It’s near Ahmedabad (Gujarat).
84. Successor of Chandragupta Maurya?
(A) Bindusara ✅ (B) Ajatashatru (C) Ashoka (D) Harsha
Explanation: Bindusara (Amitraghata) ruled after Chandragupta. Ashoka was Bindusara’s son.
93. Samudragupta’s southern policy?
(A) Conquest (B) Dharma-Vijaya ✅ (C) Digvijaya (D) None
Explanation: He defeated southern kings but generally reinstated them as tributaries. This lenient “conquer-and-restore” is termed Dharma-Vijaya.
112. Oldest Veda?
(A) Atharvaveda (B) Rigveda ✅ (C) Yajurveda (D) Samaveda
Explanation: Rigveda is the earliest Vedic text (hymns). Others are liturgical or later compilations.
118. Shashanka belonged to:
(A) Pala (B) Sena (C) Gauda ✅ (D) Kamrup
Explanation: Shashanka (c. 7th century) ruled Gauda (Bengal). His capital was at Karnasuvarna.
168. Alexander fought Porus on the river:
(A) Indus (B) Jhelum (Hydaspes) ✅ (C) Ravi (D) Iravati
Explanation: The Battle of Hydaspes (326 BCE) was on the Jhelum. Porus resisted bravely.
176. Author of Indica?
(A) Herodotus (B) Megasthenes ✅ (C) Strabo (D) Plutarch
Explanation: Megasthenes wrote Indica after visiting Chandragupta’s court. It describes Mauryan administration and society.
184. Taxila is famous for:
(A) Early Vedic Age (B) Gandhara Art ✅ (C) Gupta Art (D) Mauryan Art
Explanation: Taxila was a Gandhara art centre under Kushans. It also hosted renowned learning institutions.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2013
59. The Great Bath was found at—
(A) Lothal (B) Harappa (C) Mohenjo-daro ✅ (D) Kalibangan
Explanation: The Great Bath is a unique tank-structure at Mohenjo-daro. It suggests ritual bathing and civic planning.
63. Who composed the Aihole Prasasti?
(A) Kautilya (B) Ravikirti ✅ (C) Harisena (D) Nayanika
Explanation: Ravikirti praised Chalukya king Pulakeshin II in the Aihole inscription. It’s a key source on Deccan history.
70. Buddha was born in—
(A) 523 BCE (B) 563 BCE ✅ (C) 623 BCE (D) 602 BCE
Explanation: Traditional date for Buddha’s birth is 563 BCE at Lumbini. (Some modern chronologies differ.)
76. First permanent home of Aryans in India—
(A) Punjab ✅ (B) Rajasthan (C) Sindh (D) Gujarat
Explanation: Early Vedic settlements flourished in the “Sapta-Sindhu” region including Punjab. The Rigveda reflects this geography.
81. Who resisted Alexander strongly?
(A) Ambhi (B) Mahapadma (C) Porus ✅ (D) All
Explanation: King Porus fought Alexander at Hydaspes (Jhelum). His valour impressed Alexander.
85. In inscriptions, Ashoka calls himself—
(A) Priyadarshi (B) Dhammasoka (C) Daivaputra (D) Devanampriya Priyadarsin ✅
Explanation: “Beloved of the gods, Piyadassi” is Ashoka’s standard epigraphic style. It appears across his edicts.
89. Gupta ruler known as Vikramaditya—
(A) Chandragupta I (B) Samudragupta (C) Chandragupta II ✅ (D) Skandagupta
Explanation: Chandragupta II adopted the title Vikramaditya. He defeated the Western Kshatrapas.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2012
48. Composer of Allahabad Prasasti of Samudragupta?
(A) Kalhana (B) Bilhana (C) Banabhatta (D) Harisena ✅
Explanation: Harisena, Samudragupta’s court poet, authored it. It’s on an Ashokan pillar at Prayagraj.
67. Earliest reference to Varna system?
(A) Manu Samhita (B) Rigveda ✅ (C) Atharvaveda (D) Satapatha Brahmana
Explanation: The Purusha Sukta (RV 10.90) mentions the four varnas. It’s an early textual reference.
84. Who was ‘Lichchhavi-dauhitra’?
(A) Samudragupta ✅ (B) Chandragupta II (C) Kumaragupta (D) Skandagupta
Explanation: “Dauhitra” = daughter’s son; Samudragupta’s mother Kumaradevi was a Licchavi princess. Hence the epithet.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2011
27. First metal discovered by humans?
(A) Iron (B) Aluminium (C) Zinc (D) Copper ✅
Explanation: Early Neolithic/Chalcolithic used native copper before bronze/iron. Copper tools predate iron metallurgy.
44. Main Buddhist scriptures are written in—
(A) Prakrit (B) Sanskrit (C) Pali ✅ (D) Ardhamagadhi
Explanation: The Theravada Tripitaka is preserved in Pali. Later texts also exist in Sanskrit/Prakrit.
58. Alexander stayed in India for—
(A) 16 months (B) 19 months ✅ (C) 20 months (D) 24 months
Explanation: From 326 to 325 BCE, roughly a year and a half. He campaigned till the Beas and returned.
72. Important Satavahana port—
(A) Sopara ✅ (B) Tamralipta (C) Calicut (D) Cochin
Explanation: Sopara (Nalasopara) on the western coast was active in Satavahana trade. Tamralipta was an eastern port.
103. Who was ‘Amitraghata’?
(A) Bimbisara (B) Bindusara ✅ (C) Ashoka (D) Kalasoka
Explanation: Greek “Amitrochates” = Sanskrit Amitraghata, i.e., Bindusara. He succeeded Chandragupta.
110. Who issued the Nasik Prasasti?
(A) Gautamiputra Satakarni ✅ (B) Samudragupta (C) Harsha (D) Dharmapala
Explanation: The Nasik (Naneghat/Nasik) records by his mother Gautami Balashri praise Gautamiputra. They highlight his anti-Kshatrapa victories.
120. Lion Capital on currency notes was found at—
(A) Bharhut (B) Sanchi (C) Bodh Gaya (D) Sarnath ✅
Explanation: The Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka is India’s State Emblem. It dates to c. 250 BCE.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2010
48. Aryabhata & Varahamihira belonged to—
(A) Maurya (B) Gupta ✅ (C) Pala (D) Delhi Sultanate
Explanation: Both flourished in the Gupta age, a classical period for science. Texts include Aryabhatiya and Brihatsamhita.
67. Harappans traded with people of—
(A) China (B) Iran (C) Russia (D) Sumer ✅
Explanation: Mesopotamian records mention “Meluhha,” identified with the Indus region. Seals/weights show long-distance trade.
69. Oldest Indian philosophical school—
(A) Yoga (B) Samkhya ✅ (C) Vaisesika (D) Karma Mimansa
Explanation: Samkhya is among the earliest darshanas (pre-Buddhist roots). It posits dualism of Purusha–Prakriti.
81. Who was Megasthenes?
(A) Ambassador of Seleucus ✅ (B) PM of Chandragupta (C) Greek pilgrim (D) Chinese traveller
Explanation: He visited Chandragupta’s court and wrote Indica. His work informs us about Mauryan polity.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2009
59. Who discovered the Indus Civilization?
(A) Sir Leonard Woolley (B) V. S. Agrawala (C) R. D. Banerjee ✅ (D) A. L. Basham
Explanation: R. D. Banerjee uncovered Mohenjo-daro (1922); Daya Ram Sahni found Harappa (1921). These finds revealed the civilization.
63. Metal unknown to Indus people?
(A) Copper (B) Iron ✅ (C) Bronze (D) Gold
Explanation: Harappa is Bronze Age (copper/bronze, gold, silver). Iron use came later (post–second millennium BCE).
70. Period of Vedic literature composition?
(A) 1000 BCE (B) 3000–2500 BCE (C) 1500–1000 BCE ✅ (D) 1200–1000 BCE
Explanation: The early Vedic period spans roughly 1500–1000 BCE. Later Vedic texts continue to ~600 BCE.
76. The word “Aryan” denotes—
(A) Cultivation (B) A race (C) Pastoral society (D) Linguistic group ✅
Explanation: “Arya” is primarily a cultural-linguistic term (Indo-Aryan). Race interpretations are outdated.
81. “Tripitaka” was written in—
(A) Brahmi (B) Kharosthi (C) Pali ✅ (D) Sanskrit
Explanation: The Theravada canon is in Pali, preserved in Sri Lanka and SE Asia. Scripts varied; language is Pali.
85. Number of Tirthankaras?
(A) 16 (B) 22 (C) 23 (D) 24 ✅
Explanation: Jainism recognizes 24 Tirthankaras. Mahavira is the 24th; Parshvanatha is the 23rd.
89. Last Tirthankara?
(A) Parshvanatha (B) Mahavira ✅ (C) Siddhartha (D) Silabhadra
Explanation: Vardhamana Mahavira (6th century BCE) is the 24th Tirthankara. He systematized Jain teachings.
94. Founder of the Nanda dynasty?
(A) Bimbisara (B) Mahapadma Nanda ✅ (C) Ajatashatru (D) Dhanananda
Explanation: Mahapadma established Nanda rule; Dhanananda was the last Nanda. They preceded the Mauryas.
98. Who assumed the title “Amitraghata”?
(A) Ajatashatru (B) Bindusara ✅ (C) Chandragupta Maurya (D) Ashoka
Explanation: Greek “Amitrochates” refers to Bindusara (“slayer of foes”). He extended Mauryan control southwards.
105. Who introduced the Śaka era?
(A) Bhumaka (B) Nahapana (C) Rudradaman (D) Kanishka ✅
Explanation: The Śaka era starts in 78 CE, generally linked to Kanishka’s accession. It’s used in India’s national calendar.
116. Mathura School of Art flourished in—
(A) Sunga (B) Satavahana (C) Saka (D) Kushana ✅
Explanation: Under Kushans, Mathura produced red sandstone Buddha/Jina images. Gandhara ran in parallel.
120. Founder of Gupta dynasty?
(A) Chandragupta I (B) Sri Gupta ✅ (C) Samudragupta (D) Skandagupta
Explanation: Sri Gupta was the earliest known Gupta ruler (c. 3rd–4th century CE). Chandragupta I later assumed the imperial title.
125. “Napoleon of India”?
(A) Ashoka (B) Kanishka (C) Samudragupta ✅ (D) Chandragupta II
Explanation: Vincent Smith dubbed Samudragupta so for his rapid conquests. The Allahabad Prasasti lists his campaigns.
129. Capital of Shashanka?
(A) Samatata (B) Tamralipta (C) Karnasuvarna ✅ (D) Lakhnawati
Explanation: Shashanka ruled Gauda from Karnasuvarna (near Murshidabad). He was a 7th-century Bengal ruler.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2008
34. Chandragupta Maurya defeated—
(A) Porus (B) Alexander (C) Seleucus ✅ (D) Ambhi
Explanation: Chandragupta defeated Seleucus I Nicator (305 BCE). The treaty ceded territories and sealed a marriage alliance.
59. Court poet of Samudragupta?
(A) Asvaghosha (B) Nagarjuna (C) Aryabhatta (D) Harisena ✅
Explanation: Harisena authored the Allahabad Prasasti. It celebrates Samudragupta’s reign.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2007
91. Year Śakabda started?
(A) 78 A.D. ✅ (B) 58 B.C. (C) 273 B.C. (D) 420 A.D.
Explanation: The Śaka era begins in 78 CE, often linked to Kanishka. It’s still an official Indian calendar era.
122. First to introduce gold coins in India?
(A) Sakas (B) Mauryas (C) Guptas (D) Kushanas ✅
Explanation: Kushanas (esp. Kanishka) issued abundant high-quality gold coinage. Indo-Greeks popularized silver earlier.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2006
78. Indus Valley Civilization is—
(a) Urban ✅ (b) Rural (c) Stone Age (d) Iron Age
Explanation: Planned cities, drains, brick architecture, standardized weights show urbanism. It’s Bronze Age, not Iron.
123. According to Ceylonese tradition, Buddha’s Parinirvana:
(a) 483 BCE (b) 486 BCE (c) 543 BCE ✅ (d) 546 BCE
Explanation: Sri Lankan chronicles (Dipavamsa/Mahavamsa) use 544/543 BCE chronology. Modern scholars propose ~400s BCE.
124. Principal sacred book of Buddhists:
(a) Tripitaka ✅ (b) Astha (c) Panchapatika (d) Astanga Marga
Explanation: The Three Baskets—Vinaya, Sutta, Abhidhamma—form the canon. Language in Theravada is Pali.
143. Charvaka was a—
(a) Religious/philosophical school ✅ (b) Doctor (c) Science scholar (d) Wrestler
Explanation: Charvaka/Lokayata is a materialist philosophy denying afterlife and Vedas. It emphasizes perception.
194. ‘Ratha Temples’ of Mahabalipuram built under—
(a) Pulakeshin II (b) Narasimhavarman I (Pallava) ✅ (c) Rajaraja (d) Rajendra Chola
Explanation: The Pancha Rathas are Pallava rock-cut monuments (7th century). Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla) patronized them.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2005
118. Who is known as ‘Kunik’?
(a) Bimbisara (b) Ajatashatru ✅ (c) Bindusara (d) Ashoka
Explanation: Ajatashatru is called Kunika/Kunik in Buddhist texts. He expanded Magadha after Bimbisara.
125. Surya-Siddhanta was authored by—
(a) Aryabhatta (b) Varahamihira ✅ (c) Bararuchi (d) Sushruta
Explanation: The text is a classical astronomical treatise; later redactions are linked to Varahamihira’s school. (Traditional attribution varies, exam key: Varahamihira.)
129. Who performed Ashvamedha?
(a) Pulakeshin I ✅ (b) Kirtivarman (c) Pulakeshin II (d) Mangalesh
Explanation: Pulakeshin I (Early Chalukya) performed Ashvamedha to assert sovereignty. It elevated Chalukya status.
146. Founder of Satavahana dynasty?
(a) Simuka ✅ (b) Krishna (c) Satakarni I (d) Gautamiputra Satakarni
Explanation: Simuka is regarded as the earliest Satavahana ruler. Inscriptions/ Puranas list him as founder.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2004
41. First historical emperor of India?
(A) Bimbisara (B) Mahapadma (C) Chandragupta Maurya ✅ (D) Vikramaditya
Explanation: He unified large parts of North India and founded the Mauryan Empire. Greek sources corroborate his reign.
76. ‘Fo-Kuo-Ki’ was authored by—
(A) It-Tsing (B) Fa-Hien (Faxian) ✅ (C) Hiuen Tsang (D) Megasthenes
Explanation: Fo-Guo-Ji (Record of Buddhist Kingdoms) narrates Faxian’s travels (c. 5th century CE). He visited during Gupta period.
81. “Indian Machiavelli”?
(A) Chanakya (Kautilya) ✅ (B) Nana Fadnavis (C) Abul Fazl (D) Alivardi Khan
Explanation: For Arthashastra’s statecraft/realpolitik, Chanakya is compared to Machiavelli. He guided Chandragupta.
83. First independent king of Bengal?
(A) Shashanka (B) King Ganesha (C) Gopala ✅ (D) Mahasengupta
Explanation: Gopala (c. 8th century) was elected and founded the Pala dynasty—Bengal’s first stable, independent line.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2003
78. ‘Divya’ was leader of—
(A) Kaivarta Rebellion ✅ (B) Kol (C) Munda (D) Santal
Explanation: Divya/Dibyak led the Kaivarta uprising in Bengal against the Palas. It reflects regional assertion.
31. Asokan Brahmi first read by—
(A) Cunningham (B) James Prinsep ✅ (C) R. L. Mitra (D) Burgess
Explanation: In 1838 Prinsep deciphered Brahmi/Kharosthi. This unlocked Ashoka’s edicts.
38. Sandhyakar Nandi was court poet of—
(A) Pratiharas (B) Rashtrakutas (C) Senas ✅ (D) Palas
Explanation: His Ramacharita praises Sena king Lakshmanasena. It’s a key source for Bengal’s late ancient history.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2002
27. Which was not a part of the Tripitaka?
(A) Jatakas ✅ (B) Vinaya (C) Sutta (D) Abhidhamma
Explanation: Tripitaka = Vinaya, Sutta, Abhidhamma. Jataka tales are narrative stories (often grouped under Khuddaka), but exams typically treat them as outside the Tripitaka core.
28. Chandragupta Maurya belonged to the Moriya tribe of—
(A) Shudras (B) Vaishyas (C) Brahmanas (D) Kshatriyas ✅
Explanation: Buddhist tradition counts the Moriyas as Kshatriyas. He founded the Mauryan dynasty.
37. Gandhara School—true statements?
(A) i, ii & iii ✅
i) Buddha’s image appears here early; ii) craftsmen used light/stone-stucco; iii) also called Greco-Buddhist art.
Explanation: Gandhara blended Hellenistic style with Buddhist themes. (Mathura used red sandstone; Gandhara used schist/stucco.)
38. Gayatri mantra in Rigveda addresses—
(A) Indra (B) Agni (C) Savitri ✅ (D) Ushas
Explanation: The Gayatri (RV 3.62.10) is to Savitri, the solar deity. It’s Vedic Hinduism’s most famous mantra.
54. Original name of the sect later called ‘Jaina’—
(A) Tirthankaras (B) Jina (C) Nigranthas ✅ (D) Arhant
Explanation: Early Buddhist texts refer to Jains as Niganthas (bondless). Led by Mahavira in 6th century BCE.
68. Kalinga war mentioned in—
(A) 13th Rock Edict ✅ (B) 12th (C) Bhabru (D) 8th
Explanation: The 13th Major Rock Edict records Ashoka’s remorse after Kalinga. It’s pivotal to his Dhamma policy.
93. First rulers to make land grants to Brahmanas?
(A) Shungas (B) Kanvas (C) Satavahanas ✅ (D) Shakas & Kushanas
Explanation: Early copper-plate grants appear under Satavahanas in Deccan. The practice later spread widely.
95. Indus Civilization belongs to—
(A) Neolithic (B) Paleolithic (C) Mesolithic (D) Chalcolithic (Bronze Age) ✅
Explanation: It used copper/bronze with urban features. Iron was unknown.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2001
23. Finest specimen of Pallava architecture—
(A) Madurai temples (B) Tanjore (C) Kailashnath at Ellora (D) Rock-cut Rathas, Mahabalipuram ✅
Explanation: The Pancha Rathas and shore temples showcase Pallava rock-cut/dravidian beginnings. Narasimhavarman’s period is key.
63. Greatest medical scholar in Gupta Age—
(A) Bhatta (B) Bana (C) Charaka ✅ (D) Bhagabhatta
Explanation: Charaka Samhita is foundational in Ayurveda (systematized earlier but revered in Gupta studies). It covers medicine and diagnostics.
76. Buddhist doctrines are contained in—
(A) Jatakas (B) Satapatha (C) Upanishads (D) Dhammapada ✅
Explanation: Dhammapada collects Buddha’s moral sayings. Jatakas are stories; the other two are Vedic.
85. Key source on Mauryan municipal administration of Pataliputra—
(A) Indra (B) Arthashastra ✅ (exam option) (C) Mudrarakshasa (D) Ashokan inscriptions
Explanation: Administrative machinery is detailed in Arthashastra; Greek Indica also describes Pataliputra’s committees. (Option likely intended “Indica,” but given list makes Arthashastra the correct pick.)
108. God not belonging to Rigvedic pantheon—
(A) Indra (B) Maruts (C) Shiva ✅ (D) Aditi
Explanation: Rigveda has Rudra, not the later Shiva form. Indra/Maruts/Aditi are Rigvedic.
166. Patanjali was contemporary of—
(A) Agnimitra Sunga (B) Pushyamitra Sunga ✅ (C) Vasudeva Kanva (D) Gautamiputra Satakarni
Explanation: Patanjali (grammarian) lived in the Sunga period (2nd century BCE). He authored the Mahabhashya.
167. Chalukyas established their empire in—
(A) Gujarat (B) Malwa (C) Deccan ✅ (D) Far South
Explanation: Early Chalukyas (Badami) ruled the Deccan; later branches at Kalyani and Vengi. Pulakeshin II was their greatest ruler.
✅ WBCS Prelims – 2000
72. ‘Sabha’ & ‘Samiti’ were institutions of—
(A) Rigvedic Aryans ✅ (B) Dravidians (C) Hill tribes (D) Indus people
Explanation: These assemblies advised kings in early Vedic polity. Sabha = select council; Samiti = popular assembly.
73. Indica was written by—
(A) Gondophares (B) Megasthenes ✅ (C) Vincent Smith (D) William —
Explanation: Megasthenes, Seleucus’s ambassador, documented Mauryan India. Only fragments survive via later writers.
74. Allahabad Pillar inscription penned by—
(A) Harisena ✅ (B) Ravikirti (C) Rudradaman (D) Banabhatta
Explanation: It’s Samudragupta’s eulogy by his court poet Harisena. Engraved on an Ashokan pillar.
76. ‘Si-Yu-Ki’ was authored by—
(A) Xuanzang (Hiuen-Tsang) ✅ (B) Fa-Hien (C) Megasthenes (D) I-Tsing
Explanation: Xuanzang’s Da Tang Xiyu Ji (Record of the Western Regions) is known as Si-Yu-Ki. It chronicles his 7th-century travels.
77. Angkor Wat was built by—
(A) Chandragupta II (B) Aryabhatta (C) Suryavarman II ✅ (D) Kanishka
Explanation: The 12th-century Khmer king built the iconic temple in Cambodia. It’s dedicated to Vishnu.
78. Famed mathematician of ancient India—
(A) Kalhana (B) Aryabhata ✅ (C) Rudrasena (D) Abul Fazl
Explanation: Aryabhata authored Aryabhatiya (499 CE) with early place-value, π approximation, and astronomy.
