{"id":324,"date":"2025-11-25T00:04:02","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T18:34:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/?page_id=324"},"modified":"2025-11-29T23:25:56","modified_gmt":"2025-11-29T17:55:56","slug":"ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/","title":{"rendered":"Ancient India (History)WBCS Preliminary Question Paper"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#WBCS_Preliminary_Question_Paper_%E2%80%93_2023\" >WBCS Preliminary Question Paper &#8211; 2023<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2021\" >\u2705 WBCS Preliminary 2021<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2020\" >\u2705 WBCS Preliminary 2020<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2019\" >\u2705 WBCS Preliminary 2019<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2018\" >\u2705 WBCS Preliminary 2018<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%94_2017\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2014 2017<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2016\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2016<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2015\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2015<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2014\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2014<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2013\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2013<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2012\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2012<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2011\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2011<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2010\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2010<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2009\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2009<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2008\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2008<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2007\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2007<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2006\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2006<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2005\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2005<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2004\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2004<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2003\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2003<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2002\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2002<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2001\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2001<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/#%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2000\" >\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2000<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WBCS_Preliminary_Question_Paper_%E2%80%93_2023\"><\/span>WBCS Preliminary Question Paper &#8211; 2023<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>28. Name the king whose achievements were described in Nanaghat inscription.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Satakarni I<br>(B) Gautamiputra Satakarni<br>(C) Vashishta Putra Pulamayi<br>(D) Yajnasri Satakarni<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Satakarni I<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>34. Who was the first historical emperor of India?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Dhanananda<br>(B) Chandragupta Maurya<br>(C) Bimbisara<br>(D) Bindusara<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Chandragupta Maurya<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Chandragupta Maurya was the first ruler to establish a large, historically documented pan-Indian empire. Greek accounts like Megasthenes\u2019 <em>Indica<\/em> and various inscriptions support his reign. He unified North India after overthrowing the Nandas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>63. Name the Chalukya king who defeated Harshavardana.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Pulakeshin I<br>(B) Pulakeshin II<br>(C) Mangalesh<br>(D) Kirtivarmana<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Pulakeshin II<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Pulakeshin II defeated Harsha on the banks of the Narmada River. The Aihole inscription proudly records this victory. This stopped Harsha\u2019s expansion into the Deccan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>80. Which Mahajanapada finally succeeded in founding an empire?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Koshala<br>(B) Kashi<br>(C) Magadha<br>(D) Panchala<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Magadha<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>89. Name the Chola king who adopted the title \u2018Gangaikonda\u2019.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Rajendra Chola I<br>(B) Rajaraj I<br>(C) Rajadhiraj Chola<br>(D) Rajendra Chola II<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Rajendra Chola I<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Rajendra Chola I took the title \u201cGangaikonda\u201d 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>92. Who wrote \u2018Kumarasambhavam\u2019?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Vishnusharma<br>(B) Dandin<br>(C) Kalidasa<br>(D) Somedeb<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Kalidasa<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Kumarasambhavam<\/em> is an epic poem written by Kalidasa. It narrates the love of Shiva\u2013Parvati and the birth of Kartikeya. It is considered a masterpiece of classical Sanskrit literature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>98. Where did Chandragupta II establish his second capital?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bidisha<br>(B) Malava<br>(C) Valabhi<br>(D) Ujjayni<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Bidisha<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>107. Who was Mihirkula\/Mihirgula?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Saka king<br>(B) Kushana king<br>(C) Huna king<br>(D) Pahlava king<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Huna king<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>131. Where was the first Buddhist Council held?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Vaisali<br>(B) Pataliputra<br>(C) Rajagriha<br>(D) Malava<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Rajagriha<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The First Buddhist Council was held at Rajagriha soon after the Buddha\u2019s death. King Ajatashatru supported the meeting. Teachings were recited and organized, forming the basis of the Pitakas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>177. Where was the capital of Kanishka?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Purushpur<br>(B) Jalandhar<br>(C) Kashmir<br>(D) Pataliputra<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Purushpur<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Kanishka\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>180. Under which emperor was Nalanda University founded?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Samudragupta<br>(B) Chandragupta II<br>(C) Skandagupta<br>(D) Kumaragupta I<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (D) Kumaragupta I<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Who is the composer of Allahabad Prasasti?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Harishena<br>(B) Bishakhdutta<br>(C) Kalidasa<br>(D) Shudrak<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Harishena<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Allahabad Prasasti was composed by Harishena, the court poet of Samudragupta. It records Samudragupta\u2019s conquests and achievements. It is inscribed on the Ashokan pillar at Prayagraj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Earliest fossil remains of archaic Homo sapiens has been found in<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Siwalik hills<br>(B) Narmada valley<br>(C) Nallamalai hills<br>(D) Chotanagpur Plateau<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Narmada valley<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Arrange the foreign travellers in chronological order:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Xuanzang<br>(b) Itsing<br>(c) Fa Hien<br>(d) Megasthenes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) (a), (b), (c), (d)<br>(B) (a), (d), (b), (c)<br>(C) (d), (c), (a), (b)<br>(D) (d), (c), (b), (a)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) (d), (c), (a), (b)<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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 \u2192 c \u2192 a \u2192 b.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Match the following:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Kot Diji \u2014 ?<br>(b) Harappa \u2014 ?<br>(c) Kalibangan \u2014 ?<br>(d) Mohenjodaro \u2014 ?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) (a-2), (b-3), (c-1), (d-4)<br>(B) (a-1), (b-3), (c-2), (d-4)<br>(C) (a-4), (b-1), (c-2), (d-3)<br>(D) (a-3), (b-2), (c-4), (d-1)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Correct matches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kot Diji \u2014 F. A. Khan, G. S. Ghurye (2)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Harappa \u2014 Daya Ram Sahani (3)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kalibangan \u2014 Luigi Pio Tessitori (1)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mohenjodaro \u2014 R. D. Banerji (4)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) (a-2), (b-3), (c-1), (d-4)<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Who among the following stated that there was no slavery in India?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Strabo<br>(B) Ptolemy<br>(C) Megasthenes<br>(D) Xuanzang<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Megasthenes<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> In <em>Indica<\/em>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Earliest reference to \u2018Sati\u2019 is found in which inscription?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Asokan inscription of Girnar<br>(B) Aihole inscription<br>(C) Eran inscription<br>(D) Damodarpur inscription<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Eran inscription<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Eran inscription (Madhya Pradesh) mentions a woman immolating herself on her husband\u2019s pyre. It is the earliest inscriptional evidence of Sati (6th century CE). It relates to the Gupta period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. The Gupta King who destroyed the Sakas was<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Samudra Gupta<br>(B) Chandra Gupta-I<br>(C) Kumara Gupta<br>(D) Chandra Gupta-II<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (D) Chandra Gupta-II<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Earliest evidence of settled agriculture in the subcontinent comes from<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Utnur<br>(B) Burzahom<br>(C) Mehrgarh<br>(D) Bagor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Mehrgarh<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Mehrgarh (in present Pakistan) shows evidence of farming and domestication from 7000\u20135500 BCE. It is one of the world\u2019s earliest Neolithic agricultural sites. Excavations revealed wheat, barley, and early village life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. The first sermon of Gautama Buddha is called<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Mahabhinishkraman<br>(B) Dharmachakra Pravartana<br>(C) Dhammaghos<br>(D) Mahaparinirvana<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Dharmachakra Pravartana<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath to his five disciples. This event is known as \u201cTurning of the Wheel of Dharma.\u201d It marks the beginning of the Buddhist Sangha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Who was the Greek king of Syria mentioned in Asokan edict?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Antiochus II Theos<br>(B) Ptolemy II<br>(C) Antigonus<br>(D) Alexander<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Antiochus II Theos<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Ashoka\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11. Match List\u2013I with List\u2013II<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Moriyas \u2014 1. Pippalivana<br>(b) Videhas \u2014 2. Mithila<br>(c) Licchavis \u2014 3. Vaishali<br>(d) Mallas \u2014  4. Kapilavastu<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Which are <strong>not properly matched<\/strong>?<br>(A) (a-1), (b-2), (c-3)<br>(B) (d-4)<br>(C) (c-3), (d-4)<br>(D) All of the above<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Correct matches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Moriyas \u2014  Pippalivana (correct)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Videhas \u2014 Mithila (correct)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Licchavis \u2014 Vaishali (correct)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mallas \u2014   <strong>Kushinagar<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So mismatches = (B) d-4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2021\"><\/span>\u2705 <strong>WBCS Preliminary 2021<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>110. When did \u015aaka era (\u015aakabda) commence?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) 78 A.D.<br>(B) 78 B.C.E.<br>(C) 178 B.C.E.<br>(D) 178 A.D.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) 78 A.D.<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The \u015aaka 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>126. Who is the author of the Allahabad Pillar Inscription?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Rudradaman<br>(B) Harisena<br>(C) Samudragupta<br>(D) Banabhatta<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Harisena<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Allahabad Pillar inscription was composed by Harisena, the court poet of Samudragupta. It records Samudragupta\u2019s military achievements and policies. It is engraved on an old Ashokan pillar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2020\"><\/span>\u2705 <strong>WBCS Preliminary 2020<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>56. Boghazkoi is important because\u2014<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Trading centre<br>(B) Vedas composed there<br>(C) Inscription mentions Vedic gods<br>(D) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Inscription mentioning Vedic gods<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>78. Earliest evidence of agriculture in Indian subcontinent?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Pratapgarh<br>(B) Mehrgarh<br>(C) Quetta<br>(D) Kalat<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Mehrgarh<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Mehrgarh (7000\u20132000 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>91. Who wrote <em>The Wonder That Was India<\/em>?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) A. L. Basham<br>(B) Alison Bashford<br>(C) R. C. Majumder<br>(D) Satish Chandra<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) A. L. Basham<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> A. L. Basham was a British Indologist who authored <em>The Wonder That Was India<\/em>. The book surveys ancient Indian culture and civilization. It is widely used in historical studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>99. Two assemblies of Early Vedic period?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Samiti<br>(B) Sabha<br>(C) Samiti + Sangam<br>(D) Both (A) &amp; (B)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (D) Both (A) and (B)<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The two main political assemblies were <em>Sabha<\/em> (elite council) and <em>Samiti<\/em> (general assembly). They helped in decision-making in tribal governance. Vedic texts mention both frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>145. Correct statement about Indus Valley Civilization?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Both Harappa &amp; Mohenjodaro on Ravi<br>(B) Chanhudaro &amp; Kalibangan in Rajasthan<br>(C) Surkotada &amp; Dholavira in Kutch<br>(D) Lothal on Narmada<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (C) Surkotada and Dholavira are in Kutch<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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\u2019s ancient channel, not Narmada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2019\"><\/span>\u2705 <strong>WBCS Preliminary 2019<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>71. Where did Gautama Buddha attain Nirvana (Enlightenment)?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Lumbini<br>(B) Sarnath<br>(C) Kusinagar<br>(D) Bodh Gaya<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (D) Bodh Gaya<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>72. Who wrote <em>Mrichchhakatika<\/em>?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Vishakhadatta<br>(B) Shudrak<br>(C) Banabhatta<br>(D) Bhasa<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Shudrak<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Mrichchhakatika<\/em> (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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>73. Who succeeded Samudragupta?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Chandragupta II<br>(B) Vishnugupta<br>(C) Chandragupta I<br>(D) Skandagupta<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (A) Chandragupta II<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya) succeeded his father Samudragupta. His reign marked Gupta empire\u2019s expansion and cultural peak. He defeated the Western Kshatrapas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>74. Ashoka\u2019s inscriptions and Brahmi script were deciphered by\u2014<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Cunningham<br>(B) James Prinsep<br>(C) Max Muller<br>(D) Wheeler<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) James Prinsep<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> In 1838, James Prinsep successfully deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts. This allowed Ashoka\u2019s edicts to be read for the first time. It revolutionized Indian epigraphic studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>75. Earliest evidence of agriculture in Indian subcontinent?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Pratapgarh<br>(B) Mehrgarh<br>(C) Quetta<br>(D) Kalat<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (B) Mehrgarh<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Mehrgarh is the earliest site showing agriculture (around 7000 BCE). Finds include cultivated wheat and barley. It marks the beginning of Neolithic settlements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Preliminary_2018\"><\/span>\u2705 <strong>WBCS Preliminary 2018<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>105. Who was the writer of <em>Buddhacharita<\/em>?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Buddhaghosha<br>(b) Ashvaghosha<br>(c) Nagarjuna<br>(d) Panini<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (b) Ashvaghosha<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Ashvaghosha composed <em>Buddhacharita<\/em>, a Sanskrit epic on the life of Buddha. It is one of the earliest Buddhist biographical works. He lived during the Kushana period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>111. Which Harappan site is NOT in Gujarat?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Surkotada<br>(b) Lothal<br>(c) Dholavira<br>(d) Banwali<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (d) Banwali<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>116. Which kingdom covered modern Patna &amp; Gaya districts?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Anga<br>(b) Kosala<br>(c) Magadha<br>(d) Avanti<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (c) Magadha<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Magadha included present-day Patna and Gaya regions. It became the most powerful Mahajanapada. Later dynasties like Nandas and Mauryas rose from here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>125. Who came to India during Chandragupta Maurya\u2019s reign?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Faxian<br>(b) Xuanzang<br>(c) Megasthenes<br>(d) Strabo<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (c) Megasthenes<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Megasthenes was the Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus I to Chandragupta Maurya\u2019s court. He wrote <em>Indica<\/em>, describing Mauryan society. His accounts provide valuable historical data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>131. Where did Buddha deliver his first sermon?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Bodh Gaya<br>(b) Shravasti<br>(c) Sarnath<br>(d) Vaishali<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Answer: (c) Sarnath<\/strong><br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%94_2017\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2014 2017<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">136. Who was referred to as \u2018Sandrocottus\u2019 in Greek writings?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Asoka (b) Bindusara (c) <strong>Chandragupta Maurya<\/strong> \u2705 (d) Dhanananda<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Greek writers (like Plutarch\/Arrian) used \u201cSandrocottus\u201d for Chandragupta Maurya. He founded the Mauryan Empire after overthrowing the Nandas. Megasthenes served at his court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">150. Which Gupta ruler repulsed the Hunas?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Samudragupta (b) Chandragupta II (c) <strong>Skandagupta<\/strong> \u2705 (d) Kumaragupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">156. Who authored <strong>Brihatsamhita<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Aryabhatta (b) <strong>Varahamihira<\/strong> \u2705 (c) Amarasimha (d) Brahmagupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Varahamihira\u2019s <em>Brihatsamhita<\/em> is a classic Sanskrit compendium on astronomy, astrology, omens, architecture, etc. He flourished in the Gupta age (often linked to Vikramaditya\u2019s court).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">162. Which historian is famous for research on Ancient India (secular approach)?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Satish Chandra (b) Bipan Chandra (c) <strong>R. S. Sharma<\/strong> \u2705 (d) Amalesh Tripathi<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> R. S. Sharma wrote widely on ancient Indian economy and society (<em>Sudras in Ancient India<\/em>, <em>Material Culture and Social Formations in Ancient India<\/em>). He used a rigorous, secular historical method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2017<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">86. Which is a Harappan site in Rajasthan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Mohenjo Daro (B) Suktagen Dor (C) <strong>Kalibangan<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Lothal<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Kalibangan lies on the Ghaggar (Rajasthan). It shows fire-altars and ploughed fields\u2014key Harappan features. Lothal is in Gujarat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">77. Who used the name \u2018Piyadasi\u2019 in edicts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bimbisara (B) <strong>Ashoka<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Chandragupta Maurya (D) Brihadratha<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> \u201cDevanampriya Piyadasi\u201d is Ashoka\u2019s royal epithet in his inscriptions. The 13th Rock Edict famously mentions Kalinga war and remorse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">85. Which Magadha ruler was known as \u2018Seniya\u2019?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Bimbisara<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Ajatashatru (C) Mahapadma Nanda (D) Chandragupta Maurya<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Bimbisara is called \u201cSeniya Bimbisara\u201d in Pali sources. He expanded Magadha and allied with Licchavis\/Kosala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">87. Famous physician in Buddha\u2019s time?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kautilya (B) Nachiketa (C) Charaka (D) <strong>Jivaka<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Jivaka Komarabhacca was Buddha\u2019s contemporary royal physician. He is celebrated in Buddhist texts for surgical and medical skill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. Author of <em>Kadambari<\/em>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kshemendra (B) Kalhana (C) Bhababhuti (D) <strong>Banabhatta<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> B\u0101\u1e47a, court poet of Harsha, wrote <em>Harshacharita<\/em> and <em>Kadambari<\/em>. <em>Kadambari<\/em> is one of Sanskrit literature\u2019s great prose romances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">78. Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) visited India during?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Samudragupta (B) Ashoka (C) <strong>Harshavardhana<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Kulottunga<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Xuanzang travelled c. 630\u2013645 CE under Harsha. His <em>Si-Yu-Ki<\/em> details Indian polity, monasteries, and Buddhist schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2016\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2016<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">189. \u201cFather of Indian Archaeology\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Alexander Cunningham<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Gordon Childe (C) Mortimer Wheeler (D) John Marshall<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Cunningham founded the ASI in 1861 and surveyed many ancient sites. He pioneered systematic archaeology in India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">26. Decline of Nandas by Chanakya &amp; Chandragupta is portrayed in which play?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Mrichchhakatika (B) <strong>Mudrarakshasa<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Mattavilasa (D) Devi Chandragupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Vishakhadatta\u2019s <em>Mudrarakshasa<\/em> dramatizes Chandragupta\u2019s rise and Chanakya\u2019s diplomacy. Rakshasa, the Nanda minister, is central.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">27. Most famous Indo-Greek ruler?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Demetrius (B) Antiochus I (C) <strong>Menander (Milinda)<\/strong> \u2705 (D) \u2014<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Menander ruled c. 2nd century BCE and embraced Buddhist ideas (dialogues in <em>Milindapanha<\/em>). He expanded Indo-Greek power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">193. Rice cultivation is linked to which Harappan site?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kalibangan (B) <strong>Lothal<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Kot Diji (D) Ropar<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Rice remains\/husks have been reported from Lothal (and Rangpur). It indicates crop diversity in the Harappan economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">196. The Upanishads were compiled around:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>600 BC<\/strong> \u2705 (B) 800 BC (C) 1000 BC (D) 1600\u2013600 BC<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Major (early) Upanishads belong mainly to c. 800\u2013500 BCE; exams usually round to ~600 BCE. They mark the late Vedic philosophical phase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">199. According to Buddhism, the cause of all sorrow is:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Maya (B) Kama (C) <strong>Trishna (craving)<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Krodha<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Second Noble Truth identifies <em>tanh\u0101\/trishna<\/em> as the root of dukkha. Ending craving leads to cessation (Nirvana).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2015\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2015<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. Author of <em>Kadambari<\/em>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Khemendra (B) Kalhana (C) Bhababhuti (D) <strong>Banabhatta<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> B\u0101\u1e47a, court poet of Harsha, authored <em>Kadambari<\/em>, a landmark in Sanskrit prose. He also wrote <em>Harshacharita<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">189. Ancient port of the Indus Civilization (Gujarat)?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Harappa (B) <strong>Lothal<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Dholavira (D) Surkotada<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Lothal had a dockyard and seal factory\u2014clear port evidence. It facilitated maritime trade with the Persian Gulf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">193. Which was <strong>not<\/strong> a Buddhist genealogical text? (Sri Lankan history)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Suttapitaka <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(B) Vinayapitaka <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(C) Abhidhammapitaka <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(D) <strong>Dipavamsa<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u274c\u2192<strong>Key fact:<\/strong> <em>Dipavamsa<\/em> <strong>is<\/strong> an early Sri Lankan Buddhist chronicle.<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Dipavamsa<\/em> is a genealogical\/chronicle text, while the three <em>Pitakas<\/em> are canonical. So genealogical = <em>Dipavamsa<\/em>; the Pitakas are <strong>not<\/strong> genealogical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>(Exam keys often expect you to <strong>identify Dipavamsa as the chronicle<\/strong>\u2014keep that in mind.)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2014\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2014<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">48. Contemporary of both Buddha and Mahavira?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Bimbisara<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Chandragupta (C) Pradyota (D) Ajatashatru<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Bimbisara of Magadha was contemporary to both (6th century BCE). He strengthened Magadha through alliances and conquest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">67. Major port of the Indus Valley?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Lothal<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Kalibangan (C) Chanhudaro (D) Mehrgarh<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Lothal\u2019s dock and maritime finds show overseas trade. It\u2019s near Ahmedabad (Gujarat).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">84. Successor of Chandragupta Maurya?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Bindusara<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Ajatashatru (C) Ashoka (D) Harsha<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Bindusara (Amitraghata) ruled after Chandragupta. Ashoka was Bindusara\u2019s son.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">93. Samudragupta\u2019s southern policy?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Conquest (B) <strong>Dharma-Vijaya<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Digvijaya (D) None<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> He defeated southern kings but generally reinstated them as tributaries. This lenient \u201cconquer-and-restore\u201d is termed <em>Dharma-Vijaya<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">112. Oldest Veda?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Atharvaveda (B) <strong>Rigveda<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Yajurveda (D) Samaveda<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Rigveda<\/em> is the earliest Vedic text (hymns). Others are liturgical or later compilations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">118. Shashanka belonged to:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Pala (B) Sena (C) <strong>Gauda<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Kamrup<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Shashanka (c. 7th century) ruled Gauda (Bengal). His capital was at Karnasuvarna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">168. Alexander fought Porus on the river:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Indus (B) <strong>Jhelum (Hydaspes)<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Ravi (D) Iravati<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Battle of Hydaspes (326 BCE) was on the Jhelum. Porus resisted bravely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">176. Author of <em>Indica<\/em>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Herodotus (B) <strong>Megasthenes<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Strabo (D) Plutarch<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Megasthenes wrote <em>Indica<\/em> after visiting Chandragupta\u2019s court. It describes Mauryan administration and society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">184. Taxila is famous for:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Early Vedic Age (B) <strong>Gandhara Art<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Gupta Art (D) Mauryan Art<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Taxila was a Gandhara art centre under Kushans. It also hosted renowned learning institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2013\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2013<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">59. The Great Bath was found at\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Lothal (B) Harappa (C) <strong>Mohenjo-daro<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Kalibangan<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Great Bath is a unique tank-structure at Mohenjo-daro. It suggests ritual bathing and civic planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">63. Who composed the Aihole Prasasti?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kautilya (B) <strong>Ravikirti<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Harisena (D) Nayanika<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Ravikirti praised Chalukya king Pulakeshin II in the Aihole inscription. It\u2019s a key source on Deccan history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">70. Buddha was born in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) 523 BCE (B) <strong>563 BCE<\/strong> \u2705 (C) 623 BCE (D) 602 BCE<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Traditional date for Buddha\u2019s birth is 563 BCE at Lumbini. (Some modern chronologies differ.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. First permanent home of Aryans in India\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Punjab<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Rajasthan (C) Sindh (D) Gujarat<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Early Vedic settlements flourished in the \u201cSapta-Sindhu\u201d region including Punjab. The <em>Rigveda<\/em> reflects this geography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">81. Who resisted Alexander strongly?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Ambhi (B) Mahapadma (C) <strong>Porus<\/strong> \u2705 (D) All<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> King Porus fought Alexander at Hydaspes (Jhelum). His valour impressed Alexander.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">85. In inscriptions, Ashoka calls himself\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Priyadarshi (B) Dhammasoka (C) Daivaputra (D) <strong>Devanampriya Priyadarsin<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> \u201cBeloved of the gods, Piyadassi\u201d is Ashoka\u2019s standard epigraphic style. It appears across his edicts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">89. Gupta ruler known as Vikramaditya\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Chandragupta I (B) Samudragupta (C) <strong>Chandragupta II<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Skandagupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Chandragupta II adopted the title Vikramaditya. He defeated the Western Kshatrapas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2012\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2012<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">48. Composer of Allahabad Prasasti of Samudragupta?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kalhana (B) Bilhana (C) Banabhatta (D) <strong>Harisena<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Harisena, Samudragupta\u2019s court poet, authored it. It\u2019s on an Ashokan pillar at Prayagraj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">67. Earliest reference to Varna system?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Manu Samhita (B) <strong>Rigveda<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Atharvaveda (D) Satapatha Brahmana<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The <em>Purusha Sukta<\/em> (RV 10.90) mentions the four varnas. It\u2019s an early textual reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">84. Who was \u2018Lichchhavi-dauhitra\u2019?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Samudragupta<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Chandragupta II (C) Kumaragupta (D) Skandagupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> \u201cDauhitra\u201d = daughter\u2019s son; Samudragupta\u2019s mother Kumaradevi was a Licchavi princess. Hence the epithet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2011\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2011<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">27. First metal discovered by humans?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Iron (B) Aluminium (C) Zinc (D) <strong>Copper<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Early Neolithic\/Chalcolithic used native copper before bronze\/iron. Copper tools predate iron metallurgy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">44. Main Buddhist scriptures are written in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Prakrit (B) Sanskrit (C) <strong>Pali<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Ardhamagadhi<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Theravada <em>Tripitaka<\/em> is preserved in Pali. Later texts also exist in Sanskrit\/Prakrit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">58. Alexander stayed in India for\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) 16 months (B) <strong>19 months<\/strong> \u2705 (C) 20 months (D) 24 months<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> From 326 to 325 BCE, roughly a year and a half. He campaigned till the Beas and returned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">72. Important Satavahana port\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Sopara<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Tamralipta (C) Calicut (D) Cochin<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Sopara (Nalasopara) on the western coast was active in Satavahana trade. Tamralipta was an eastern port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">103. Who was \u2018Amitraghata\u2019?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bimbisara (B) <strong>Bindusara<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Ashoka (D) Kalasoka<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Greek \u201cAmitrochates\u201d = Sanskrit <em>Amitraghata<\/em>, i.e., Bindusara. He succeeded Chandragupta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">110. Who issued the Nasik Prasasti?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Gautamiputra Satakarni<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Samudragupta (C) Harsha (D) Dharmapala<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Nasik (Naneghat\/Nasik) records by his mother Gautami Balashri praise Gautamiputra. They highlight his anti-Kshatrapa victories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">120. Lion Capital on currency notes was found at\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bharhut (B) Sanchi (C) Bodh Gaya (D) <strong>Sarnath<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka is India\u2019s State Emblem. It dates to c. 250 BCE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2010\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2010<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">48. Aryabhata &amp; Varahamihira belonged to\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Maurya (B) <strong>Gupta<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Pala (D) Delhi Sultanate<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Both flourished in the Gupta age, a classical period for science. Texts include <em>Aryabhatiya<\/em> and <em>Brihatsamhita<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">67. Harappans traded with people of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) China (B) Iran (C) Russia (D) <strong>Sumer<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Mesopotamian records mention \u201cMeluhha,\u201d identified with the Indus region. Seals\/weights show long-distance trade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">69. Oldest Indian philosophical school\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Yoga (B) <strong>Samkhya<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Vaisesika (D) Karma Mimansa<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Samkhya is among the earliest <em>darshanas<\/em> (pre-Buddhist roots). It posits dualism of Purusha\u2013Prakriti.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">81. Who was Megasthenes?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Ambassador of Seleucus<\/strong> \u2705 (B) PM of Chandragupta (C) Greek pilgrim (D) Chinese traveller<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> He visited Chandragupta\u2019s court and wrote <em>Indica<\/em>. His work informs us about Mauryan polity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2009\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2009<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">59. Who discovered the Indus Civilization?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Sir Leonard Woolley (B) V. S. Agrawala (C) <strong>R. D. Banerjee<\/strong> \u2705 (D) A. L. Basham<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> R. D. Banerjee uncovered Mohenjo-daro (1922); Daya Ram Sahni found Harappa (1921). These finds revealed the civilization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">63. Metal unknown to Indus people?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Copper (B) <strong>Iron<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Bronze (D) Gold<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Harappa is Bronze Age (copper\/bronze, gold, silver). Iron use came later (post\u2013second millennium BCE).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">70. Period of Vedic literature composition?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) 1000 BCE (B) 3000\u20132500 BCE (C) <strong>1500\u20131000 BCE<\/strong> \u2705 (D) 1200\u20131000 BCE<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The early Vedic period spans roughly 1500\u20131000 BCE. Later Vedic texts continue to ~600 BCE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. The word \u201cAryan\u201d denotes\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Cultivation (B) A race (C) Pastoral society (D) <strong>Linguistic group<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> \u201cArya\u201d is primarily a cultural-linguistic term (Indo-Aryan). Race interpretations are outdated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">81. \u201cTripitaka\u201d was written in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Brahmi (B) Kharosthi (C) <strong>Pali<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Sanskrit<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Theravada canon is in Pali, preserved in Sri Lanka and SE Asia. Scripts varied; language is Pali.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">85. Number of Tirthankaras?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) 16 (B) 22 (C) 23 (D) <strong>24<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Jainism recognizes 24 Tirthankaras. Mahavira is the 24th; Parshvanatha is the 23rd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">89. Last Tirthankara?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Parshvanatha (B) <strong>Mahavira<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Siddhartha (D) Silabhadra<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Vardhamana Mahavira (6th century BCE) is the 24th Tirthankara. He systematized Jain teachings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">94. Founder of the Nanda dynasty?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bimbisara (B) <strong>Mahapadma Nanda<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Ajatashatru (D) Dhanananda<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Mahapadma established Nanda rule; Dhanananda was the last Nanda. They preceded the Mauryas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">98. Who assumed the title \u201cAmitraghata\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Ajatashatru (B) <strong>Bindusara<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Chandragupta Maurya (D) Ashoka<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Greek \u201cAmitrochates\u201d refers to Bindusara (\u201cslayer of foes\u201d). He extended Mauryan control southwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">105. Who introduced the \u015aaka era?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bhumaka (B) Nahapana (C) Rudradaman (D) <strong>Kanishka<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The \u015aaka era starts in 78 CE, generally linked to Kanishka\u2019s accession. It\u2019s used in India\u2019s national calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">116. Mathura School of Art flourished in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Sunga (B) Satavahana (C) Saka (D) <strong>Kushana<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Under Kushans, Mathura produced red sandstone Buddha\/Jina images. Gandhara ran in parallel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">120. Founder of Gupta dynasty?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Chandragupta I (B) <strong>Sri Gupta<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Samudragupta (D) Skandagupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Sri Gupta was the earliest known Gupta ruler (c. 3rd\u20134th century CE). Chandragupta I later assumed the imperial title.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">125. \u201cNapoleon of India\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Ashoka (B) Kanishka (C) <strong>Samudragupta<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Chandragupta II<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Vincent Smith dubbed Samudragupta so for his rapid conquests. The Allahabad Prasasti lists his campaigns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">129. Capital of Shashanka?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Samatata (B) Tamralipta (C) <strong>Karnasuvarna<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Lakhnawati<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Shashanka ruled Gauda from Karnasuvarna (near Murshidabad). He was a 7th-century Bengal ruler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2008\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2008<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">34. Chandragupta Maurya defeated\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Porus (B) Alexander (C) <strong>Seleucus<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Ambhi<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Chandragupta defeated Seleucus I Nicator (305 BCE). The treaty ceded territories and sealed a marriage alliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">59. Court poet of Samudragupta?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Asvaghosha (B) Nagarjuna (C) Aryabhatta (D) <strong>Harisena<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Harisena authored the Allahabad Prasasti. It celebrates Samudragupta\u2019s reign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2007\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2007<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">91. Year \u015aakabda started?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>78 A.D.<\/strong> \u2705 (B) 58 B.C. (C) 273 B.C. (D) 420 A.D.<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The \u015aaka era begins in 78 CE, often linked to Kanishka. It\u2019s still an official Indian calendar era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">122. First to introduce gold coins in India?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Sakas (B) Mauryas (C) Guptas (D) <strong>Kushanas<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Kushanas (esp. Kanishka) issued abundant high-quality gold coinage. Indo-Greeks popularized silver earlier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2006\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2006<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">78. Indus Valley Civilization is\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) <strong>Urban<\/strong> \u2705 (b) Rural (c) Stone Age (d) Iron Age<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Planned cities, drains, brick architecture, standardized weights show urbanism. It\u2019s Bronze Age, not Iron.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">123. According to Ceylonese tradition, Buddha\u2019s Parinirvana:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) 483 BCE (b) 486 BCE (c) <strong>543 BCE<\/strong> \u2705 (d) 546 BCE<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Sri Lankan chronicles (Dipavamsa\/Mahavamsa) use 544\/543 BCE chronology. Modern scholars propose ~400s BCE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">124. Principal sacred book of Buddhists:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) <strong>Tripitaka<\/strong> \u2705 (b) Astha (c) Panchapatika (d) Astanga Marga<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Three Baskets\u2014Vinaya, Sutta, Abhidhamma\u2014form the canon. Language in Theravada is Pali.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">143. Charvaka was a\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) <strong>Religious\/philosophical school<\/strong> \u2705 (b) Doctor (c) Science scholar (d) Wrestler<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Charvaka\/Lokayata is a materialist philosophy denying afterlife and Vedas. It emphasizes perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">194. \u2018Ratha Temples\u2019 of Mahabalipuram built under\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Pulakeshin II (b) <strong>Narasimhavarman I (Pallava)<\/strong> \u2705 (c) Rajaraja (d) Rajendra Chola<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Pancha Rathas are Pallava rock-cut monuments (7th century). Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla) patronized them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2005\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2005<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">118. Who is known as \u2018Kunik\u2019?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Bimbisara (b) <strong>Ajatashatru<\/strong> \u2705 (c) Bindusara (d) Ashoka<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Ajatashatru is called Kunika\/Kunik in Buddhist texts. He expanded Magadha after Bimbisara.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">125. <em>Surya-Siddhanta<\/em> was authored by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) Aryabhatta (b) <strong>Varahamihira<\/strong> \u2705 (c) Bararuchi (d) Sushruta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The text is a classical astronomical treatise; later redactions are linked to Varahamihira\u2019s school. (Traditional attribution varies, exam key: Varahamihira.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">129. Who performed <em>Ashvamedha<\/em>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) <strong>Pulakeshin I<\/strong> \u2705 (b) Kirtivarman (c) Pulakeshin II (d) Mangalesh<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Pulakeshin I (Early Chalukya) performed Ashvamedha to assert sovereignty. It elevated Chalukya status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">146. Founder of Satavahana dynasty?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(a) <strong>Simuka<\/strong> \u2705 (b) Krishna (c) Satakarni I (d) Gautamiputra Satakarni<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Simuka is regarded as the earliest Satavahana ruler. Inscriptions\/ Puranas list him as founder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2004\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2004<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">41. First historical emperor of India?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bimbisara (B) Mahapadma (C) <strong>Chandragupta Maurya<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Vikramaditya<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> He unified large parts of North India and founded the Mauryan Empire. Greek sources corroborate his reign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. \u2018Fo-Kuo-Ki\u2019 was authored by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) It-Tsing (B) <strong>Fa-Hien (Faxian)<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Hiuen Tsang (D) Megasthenes<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Fo-Guo-Ji<\/em> (Record of Buddhist Kingdoms) narrates Faxian\u2019s travels (c. 5th century CE). He visited during Gupta period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">81. \u201cIndian Machiavelli\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Chanakya (Kautilya)<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Nana Fadnavis (C) Abul Fazl (D) Alivardi Khan<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> For <em>Arthashastra<\/em>\u2019s statecraft\/realpolitik, Chanakya is compared to Machiavelli. He guided Chandragupta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">83. First independent king of Bengal?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Shashanka (B) King Ganesha (C) <strong>Gopala<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Mahasengupta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Gopala (c. 8th century) was elected and founded the Pala dynasty\u2014Bengal\u2019s first stable, independent line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2003\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2003<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">78. \u2018Divya\u2019 was leader of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Kaivarta Rebellion<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Kol (C) Munda (D) Santal<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Divya\/Dibyak led the Kaivarta uprising in Bengal against the Palas. It reflects regional assertion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">31. Asokan Brahmi first read by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Cunningham (B) <strong>James Prinsep<\/strong> \u2705 (C) R. L. Mitra (D) Burgess<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> In 1838 Prinsep deciphered Brahmi\/Kharosthi. This unlocked Ashoka\u2019s edicts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">38. Sandhyakar Nandi was court poet of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Pratiharas (B) Rashtrakutas (C) <strong>Senas<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Palas<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> His <em>Ramacharita<\/em> praises Sena king Lakshmanasena. It\u2019s a key source for Bengal\u2019s late ancient history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2002\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2002<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">27. Which was <strong>not<\/strong> a part of the Tripitaka?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Jatakas<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Vinaya (C) Sutta (D) Abhidhamma<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Tripitaka = Vinaya, Sutta, Abhidhamma. Jataka tales are narrative stories (often grouped under Khuddaka), but exams typically treat them as <strong>outside<\/strong> the Tripitaka core.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">28. Chandragupta Maurya belonged to the Moriya tribe of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Shudras (B) Vaishyas (C) Brahmanas (D) <strong>Kshatriyas<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Buddhist tradition counts the Moriyas as Kshatriyas. He founded the Mauryan dynasty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">37. Gandhara School\u2014true statements?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>i, ii &amp; iii<\/strong> \u2705<br>i) Buddha\u2019s image appears here early; ii) craftsmen used light\/stone-stucco; iii) also called Greco-Buddhist art.<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Gandhara blended Hellenistic style with Buddhist themes. (Mathura used red sandstone; Gandhara used schist\/stucco.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">38. Gayatri mantra in Rigveda addresses\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Indra (B) Agni (C) <strong>Savitri<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Ushas<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The <em>Gayatri<\/em> (RV 3.62.10) is to Savitri, the solar deity. It\u2019s Vedic Hinduism\u2019s most famous mantra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">54. Original name of the sect later called \u2018Jaina\u2019\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Tirthankaras (B) Jina (C) <strong>Nigranthas<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Arhant<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Early Buddhist texts refer to Jains as <em>Niganthas<\/em> (bondless). Led by Mahavira in 6th century BCE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">68. Kalinga war mentioned in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>13th Rock Edict<\/strong> \u2705 (B) 12th (C) Bhabru (D) 8th<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The 13th Major Rock Edict records Ashoka\u2019s remorse after Kalinga. It\u2019s pivotal to his Dhamma policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">93. First rulers to make land grants to Brahmanas?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Shungas (B) Kanvas (C) <strong>Satavahanas<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Shakas &amp; Kushanas<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Early copper-plate grants appear under Satavahanas in Deccan. The practice later spread widely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">95. Indus Civilization belongs to\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Neolithic (B) Paleolithic (C) Mesolithic (D) <strong>Chalcolithic (Bronze Age)<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> It used copper\/bronze with urban features. Iron was unknown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2001\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2001<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">23. Finest specimen of Pallava architecture\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Madurai temples (B) Tanjore (C) Kailashnath at Ellora (D) <strong>Rock-cut Rathas, Mahabalipuram<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The Pancha Rathas and shore temples showcase Pallava rock-cut\/dravidian beginnings. Narasimhavarman\u2019s period is key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">63. Greatest medical scholar in Gupta Age\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Bhatta (B) Bana (C) <strong>Charaka<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Bhagabhatta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Charaka Samhita<\/em> is foundational in Ayurveda (systematized earlier but revered in Gupta studies). It covers medicine and diagnostics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. Buddhist doctrines are contained in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Jatakas (B) Satapatha (C) Upanishads (D) <strong>Dhammapada<\/strong> \u2705<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> <em>Dhammapada<\/em> collects Buddha\u2019s moral sayings. Jatakas are stories; the other two are Vedic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">85. Key source on Mauryan municipal administration of Pataliputra\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Indra (B) <strong>Arthashastra<\/strong> \u2705 <em>(exam option)<\/em> (C) Mudrarakshasa (D) Ashokan inscriptions<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Administrative machinery is detailed in <em>Arthashastra<\/em>; Greek <em>Indica<\/em> also describes Pataliputra\u2019s committees. (Option likely intended \u201cIndica,\u201d but given list makes Arthashastra the correct pick.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">108. God not belonging to Rigvedic pantheon\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Indra (B) Maruts (C) <strong>Shiva<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Aditi<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Rigveda has Rudra, not the later Shiva form. Indra\/Maruts\/Aditi are Rigvedic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">166. Patanjali was contemporary of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Agnimitra Sunga (B) <strong>Pushyamitra Sunga<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Vasudeva Kanva (D) Gautamiputra Satakarni<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Patanjali (grammarian) lived in the Sunga period (2nd century BCE). He authored the <em>Mahabhashya<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">167. Chalukyas established their empire in\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Gujarat (B) Malwa (C) <strong>Deccan<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Far South<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Early Chalukyas (Badami) ruled the Deccan; later branches at Kalyani and Vengi. Pulakeshin II was their greatest ruler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%9C%85_WBCS_Prelims_%E2%80%93_2000\"><\/span>\u2705 WBCS Prelims \u2013 2000<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">72. \u2018Sabha\u2019 &amp; \u2018Samiti\u2019 were institutions of\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Rigvedic Aryans<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Dravidians (C) Hill tribes (D) Indus people<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> These assemblies advised kings in early Vedic polity. <em>Sabha<\/em> = select council; <em>Samiti<\/em> = popular assembly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">73. <em>Indica<\/em> was written by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Gondophares (B) <strong>Megasthenes<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Vincent Smith (D) William \u2014<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Megasthenes, Seleucus\u2019s ambassador, documented Mauryan India. Only fragments survive via later writers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">74. Allahabad Pillar inscription penned by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Harisena<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Ravikirti (C) Rudradaman (D) Banabhatta<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> It\u2019s Samudragupta\u2019s eulogy by his court poet Harisena. Engraved on an Ashokan pillar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">76. \u2018Si-Yu-Ki\u2019 was authored by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) <strong>Xuanzang (Hiuen-Tsang)<\/strong> \u2705 (B) Fa-Hien (C) Megasthenes (D) I-Tsing<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Xuanzang\u2019s <em>Da Tang Xiyu Ji<\/em> (Record of the Western Regions) is known as <em>Si-Yu-Ki<\/em>. It chronicles his 7th-century travels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">77. Angkor Wat was built by\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Chandragupta II (B) Aryabhatta (C) <strong>Suryavarman II<\/strong> \u2705 (D) Kanishka<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> The 12th-century Khmer king built the iconic temple in Cambodia. It\u2019s dedicated to Vishnu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">78. Famed mathematician of ancient India\u2014<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>(A) Kalhana (B) <strong>Aryabhata<\/strong> \u2705 (C) Rudrasena (D) Abul Fazl<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong> Aryabhata authored <em>Aryabhatiya<\/em> (499 CE) with early place-value, \u03c0 approximation, and astronomy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>WBCS Preliminary Question Paper &#8211; 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 \u2705 Answer: (A) Satakarni IExplanation: The Nanaghat inscription was issued by Queen Naganika and records the achievements of her husband Satakarni I. It describes his sacrifices, military strength, &#8230; <a title=\"Ancient India (History)WBCS Preliminary Question Paper\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/home\/wbcs-prelims\/crack-wbcs-prelims\/previous-years-mcq\/ancient-india-historywbcs-preliminary-question-paper\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Ancient India (History)WBCS Preliminary Question Paper\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":363,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-324","page","type-page","status-publish"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/324","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=324"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/324\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":548,"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/324\/revisions\/548"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/363"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/earningvista.com\/exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=324"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}