Q200. Which inscription records the history and activities of a guild of silk weavers during the Gupta period?
[UPSC NDA-II – 2026]
A. Hathigumpha Inscription
B. Mandasor Inscription
C. Aihole Inscription
D. Nasik Inscription
Answer: B. Mandasor Inscription
Explanation: The Mandasor inscription describes a guild of silk weavers who migrated from Lata to Dashapura and contributed to constructing and repairing a Sun temple.
Q199. Match the Gupta rulers with their associated titles: Kaviraja, Vikramaditya, Shakraditya and Maharaja. Which matching is correct?
[RPSC RAS Prelims – 2026]
A. Samudragupta–Kaviraja; Chandragupta II–Vikramaditya; Kumaragupta I–Shakraditya; Sri Gupta–Maharaja
B. Chandragupta II–Kaviraja; Samudragupta–Vikramaditya; Sri Gupta–Shakraditya; Kumaragupta–Maharaja
C. Kumaragupta–Kaviraja; Sri Gupta–Vikramaditya; Samudragupta–Shakraditya; Chandragupta II–Maharaja
D. None of these
Answer: A. Samudragupta–Kaviraja; Chandragupta II–Vikramaditya; Kumaragupta I–Shakraditya; Sri Gupta–Maharaja
Explanation: Gupta rulers adopted distinctive titles reflecting political authority, religious affiliations and personal accomplishments. Samudragupta’s literary reputation particularly explains his title Kaviraja.
Q198. Which Deccan ruler defeated Harshavardhana and checked his southward expansion?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Narasimhavarman I
B. Pulakeshin II
C. Vikramaditya I
D. Dantidurga
Answer: B. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: Chalukya king Pulakeshin II stopped Harsha near the Narmada. Ravikirti’s Aihole inscription celebrates his achievements and the failure of Harsha’s southern expansion.
Q197. Who wrote the astronomical work Panchasiddhantika?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Aryabhata
B. Brahmagupta
C. Varahamihira
D. Bhaskaracharya
Answer: C. Varahamihira
Explanation: Varahamihira, an eminent sixth-century astronomer, composed Panchasiddhantika, which summarized five earlier astronomical traditions and became an important source for ancient Indian astronomy.
Q196. The reign of Kumaragupta I is mainly associated with which feature of Gupta history?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Immediate collapse of the empire
B. Consolidation and prosperity
C. Conquest by Harsha
D. Establishment of the Pala Empire
Answer: B. Consolidation and prosperity
Explanation: Kumaragupta I inherited a large empire from Chandragupta II and maintained its political stability and prosperity for several decades before major external pressures intensified.
Q195. Which Pala ruler founded Vikramashila Mahavihara near present-day Bhagalpur?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Gopala
B. Dharmapala
C. Devapala
D. Mahipala
Answer: B. Dharmapala
Explanation: Dharmapala founded Vikramashila as an important Buddhist centre of higher learning. It became one of eastern India’s leading universities alongside Nalanda during the Pala age.
Q194. Which pair represents important Gupta-period temple sites in present-day Uttar Pradesh?
[UPSSSC Lekhpal – 2026]
A. Deogarh and Bhitargaon
B. Pattadakal and Aihole
C. Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram
D. Ellora and Elephanta
Answer: A. Deogarh and Bhitargaon
Explanation: Deogarh’s Dashavatara Temple and the brick temple at Bhitargaon are major surviving examples illustrating the development of structural temple architecture under the Guptas.
Q193. Which Chalukya ruler defeated Harshavardhana on the Narmada frontier?
[SSC GD Constable – 2026]
A. Pulakeshin I
B. Pulakeshin II
C. Vikramaditya II
D. Kirtivarman II
Answer: B. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: Pulakeshin II successfully resisted Harsha’s attempt to extend authority into the Deccan, establishing the Narmada as an approximate boundary between their political spheres.
Q192. Which feature best characterizes Gupta-period society?
[UP PGT History – 2026]
A. Complete disappearance of caste distinctions
B. Consolidation of endogamous jatis and growth of landholding Brahmanas
C. Abolition of land grants
D. Establishment of universal slavery
Answer: B. Consolidation of endogamous jatis and growth of landholding Brahmanas
Explanation: Gupta society witnessed greater proliferation of jatis and increasing Brahmanical land grants, developments that influenced agrarian expansion, local hierarchy and social organization.
Q191. Which religious development became especially important during the Gupta age?
[UP PGT History – 2026]
A. Disappearance of Vaishnavism
B. Growth of Puranic Hinduism and temple worship
C. Complete rejection of image worship
D. End of religious patronage
Answer: B. Growth of Puranic Hinduism and temple worship
Explanation: The Gupta age saw consolidation of Vaishnava, Shaiva and Shakta traditions, growth of devotional worship, Puranic literature and increasingly permanent temples dedicated to deities.
Q190. The Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh is an early example of which temple arrangement?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Dravida gopuram plan
B. Panchayatana-Nagara tradition
C. Vesara mandapa complex
D. Buddhist chaitya plan
Answer: B. Panchayatana-Nagara tradition
Explanation: The Deogarh Vishnu temple represents an early developed Nagara tradition and is associated with the Panchayatana concept of a principal shrine accompanied by subsidiary shrines.
Q189. The Gupta-period Dashavatara Temple is located at which place?
[UPSSSC Junior Engineer – 2026]
A. Deogarh
B. Sanchi
C. Badami
D. Amaravati
Answer: A. Deogarh
Explanation: The Dashavatara or Vishnu Temple at Deogarh in present-day Uttar Pradesh is a celebrated Gupta monument featuring important sculptural panels based on Vaishnava themes.
Q188. The famous Iron Pillar at Mehrauli primarily demonstrates ancient India’s achievement in which field?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Navigation
B. Metallurgy
C. Textile production
D. Shipbuilding
Answer: B. Metallurgy
Explanation: The pillar’s sophisticated wrought-iron composition and remarkable resistance to corrosion demonstrate the high level of ferrous metallurgy achieved by craftspeople of ancient India.
Q187. Which ancient institution was a celebrated Buddhist Mahavihara and major centre of learning during and after the Gupta age?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Nalanda
B. Madurai
C. Taxila
D. Pratishthana
Answer: A. Nalanda
Explanation: Nalanda developed into a renowned residential monastic university patronized by Gupta and later rulers, attracting scholars from India and several other Asian regions.
Q186. Which inscription indicates that Kumaragupta I’s minister Prithvishena was a Shaiva?
[UPHESC Assistant Professor, Ancient History – 2026]
A. Karmadanda Inscription
B. Hathigumpha Inscription
C. Junagadh Inscription of Rudradaman
D. Aihole Inscription
Answer: A. Karmadanda Inscription
Explanation: The Karmadanda inscription is an important Gupta epigraphic source and provides information about Prithvishena, a high official under Kumaragupta I, and his Shaiva affiliation.
Q185. Consider the Gupta kings: (1) they assumed titles such as Maharajadhiraja and Parameshvara; (2) they used religious epithets such as Parama-bhagavata. Which is correct?
[UPSC CDS-I – 2026]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Gupta monarchs emphasized imperial sovereignty through grand political titles while religious epithets, particularly Vaishnava ones such as Parama-bhagavata, also appeared in royal ideology.
Q184. Which political change became prominent after the decline of Gupta imperial authority?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Emergence of smaller hereditary kingdoms
B. Creation of another Mauryan Empire
C. Elimination of regional rulers
D. Political unification under Rome
Answer: A. Emergence of smaller hereditary kingdoms
Explanation: Post-Gupta India witnessed increasing regionalization, with Maukharis, Maitrakas, Later Guptas, Pushyabhutis and other powers establishing autonomous hereditary kingdoms.
Q183. Nalanda Mahavihara is traditionally associated with initial royal patronage under which Gupta ruler?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Samudragupta
B. Kumaragupta I
C. Skandagupta
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: B. Kumaragupta I
Explanation: Kumaragupta I is traditionally connected with Nalanda’s foundation or early institutional development, after which later Gupta, Harsha and Pala rulers continued its patronage.
Q182. Who composed Harshacharita?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Harisena
B. Banabhatta
C. Kalidasa
D. Bharavi
Answer: B. Banabhatta
Explanation: Banabhatta, Harshavardhana’s court writer, composed the Sanskrit prose biography Harshacharita, an important literary source for seventh-century northern Indian political and social history.
Q181. The Prayaga Prashasti chiefly celebrates the achievements of which Gupta ruler?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta I
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Harisena’s Prayaga Prashasti lists Samudragupta’s conquests, tributary states and political relationships, making it the principal epigraphic source for his imperial career.
Q180. Who was the celebrated court poet of Harshavardhana?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Banabhatta
B. Harisena
C. Kalhana
D. Bilhana
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Bana enjoyed the patronage of Harsha and wrote Harshacharita and Kadambari. His works are central literary sources for Sanskrit literature and early seventh-century society.
Q179. Who checked Harshavardhana’s expansion south of the Narmada?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Narasimhavarman II
C. Rajaraja I
D. Dantidurga
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: The powerful Badami Chalukya monarch Pulakeshin II resisted Harsha’s southern ambitions, a success praised in Ravikirti’s celebrated Aihole inscription.
Q178. In the political structure of post-Gupta India, the term Samanta generally referred to a:
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Buddhist monk
B. Feudatory or subordinate lord
C. Village artisan
D. Merchant guild
Answer: B. Feudatory or subordinate lord
Explanation: Samantas were subordinate chiefs or landed magnates owing varying degrees of allegiance to superior rulers. Their increasing prominence reflected decentralization in early medieval politics.
Q177. The famous Sheshashayana panel at Deogarh depicts which deity?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Shiva
B. Vishnu
C. Surya
D. Karttikeya
Answer: B. Vishnu
Explanation: The panel shows Vishnu reclining on the cosmic serpent Ananta or Shesha, surrounded by divine figures, and is a masterpiece of Gupta Vaishnava sculpture.
Q176. Harshavardhana died around which year?
[SSC MTS – 2026 (2025 cycle)]
A. 606 CE
B. 630 CE
C. 647 CE
D. 712 CE
Answer: C. 647 CE
Explanation: Harsha ruled from approximately 606 to 647 CE. His death without a strong successor contributed to renewed political fragmentation in northern India.
Q175. Gupta gold coins were commonly known as:
[SSC MTS – 2026 (2025 cycle)]
A. Tankas
B. Dinaras
C. Jitals
D. Karshapanas
Answer: B. Dinaras
Explanation: Gupta rulers issued abundant high-quality gold coins generally termed Dinaras. Their designs provide important evidence regarding royal titles, religion, ceremonies, warfare and courtly culture.
Q174. Consider: Assertion—Gupta achievements resulted mainly from state-funded scientific institutions. Reason—Indian mathematicians developed or systematized important concepts of zero and decimal notation. Which is correct?
[MP Police SI – 2026]
A. Both are true, and R explains A
B. Both are true, but R does not explain A
C. Assertion is false, Reason is true
D. Assertion is true, Reason is false
Answer: C. Assertion is false, Reason is true
Explanation: Mathematical advances were real, but attributing the entire Gupta intellectual flourishing specifically to a modern-style state-funded STEM institutional system is historically anachronistic.
Q173. Which commodity was an important import into India during the post-Gupta/early medieval period?
[Bihar Police SI – 2026]
A. Horses
B. Rice
C. Cotton
D. Pepper
Answer: A. Horses
Explanation: High-quality war horses were imported from Central and West Asia because cavalry became increasingly important. Horse trade consequently held strategic importance for early medieval kingdoms.
Q172. Which observations are associated with Faxian’s account of Gupta India? (1) mild administration, (2) prosperity, (3) marginalized Chandalas living outside settlements.
[MP Police SI – 2026]
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Faxian described generally prosperous conditions and comparatively mild punishments while also recording severe social exclusion faced by Chandalas in contemporary society.
Q171. Which Chinese pilgrim visited India during the reign of Harshavardhana?
[MP Police SI – 2026]
A. Faxian
B. Xuanzang
C. Marco Polo
D. Megasthenes
Answer: B. Xuanzang
Explanation: Xuanzang travelled extensively through India in the seventh century, visited Harsha’s court and Nalanda, and left detailed accounts of politics, religion and education.
Q170. The Panchatantra is commonly associated with which broad period of ancient Indian history?
[Delhi Police Head Constable – 2026]
A. Maurya period
B. Gupta period
C. Sultanate period
D. Mughal period
Answer: B. Gupta period
Explanation: The surviving Sanskrit tradition of the Panchatantra, conventionally attributed to Vishnu Sharma, is commonly placed in the classical age and frequently associated with Gupta-era literature.
Q169. Why is the Gupta age conventionally called a “Golden Age” in many examination texts?
[Delhi Police Constable – 2026]
A. Only because of territorial expansion
B. Because of notable achievements in literature, art, science and mathematics
C. Because Buddhism disappeared
D. Because agriculture stopped
Answer: B. Because of notable achievements in literature, art, science and mathematics
Explanation: Classical Sanskrit literature, sculpture, temple architecture, astronomy and mathematics made major advances during the Gupta centuries, although historians use the “Golden Age” label with qualifications.
Q168. Which Gupta ruler is famously described as the “Napoleon of India”?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta I
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Historian V. A. Smith applied the comparison to Samudragupta because the Prayaga Prashasti records his extensive military campaigns across northern and southern India.
Q167. Which Vedic sacrifice did Samudragupta perform to proclaim imperial sovereignty?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Rajasuya
B. Agnihotra
C. Ashvamedha
D. Vajapeya
Answer: C. Ashvamedha
Explanation: Samudragupta performed the Ashvamedha after major military successes and commemorated the ceremony through special gold coins featuring the sacrificial horse.
Q166. Which period is often called a golden age of early Indian temple architecture?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Gupta period
B. Mauryan period
C. Delhi Sultanate
D. Mughal period
Answer: A. Gupta period
Explanation: Gupta architects developed influential free-standing stone and brick temples whose sanctums, doorways and early shikharas helped shape later North Indian temple architecture.
Q165. Significant early structural Hindu temple-building activity is particularly associated with which dynasty?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Gupta
B. Ahom
C. Vijayanagara
D. Lodhi
Answer: A. Gupta
Explanation: Gupta-period monuments at Deogarh, Bhitargaon, Tigawa and Nachna illustrate the important transition toward durable, free-standing Brahmanical temple structures.
Q164. Which inscription is a major primary source for Samudragupta and the Gupta Empire?
[SSC CGL – 2025]
A. Hathigumpha inscription
B. Nasik Prashasti
C. Allahabad Pillar/Prayaga Prashasti
D. Aihole inscription
Answer: C. Allahabad Pillar/Prayaga Prashasti
Explanation: Written by Harisena, the Prashasti details Samudragupta’s conquests and diplomatic relations and is indispensable for reconstructing fourth-century Gupta political history.
Q163. Which Gupta administrative official was the village headman?
[SSC CGL – 2025]
A. Gramika
B. Uparika
C. Kumaramatya
D. Sandhivigrahika
Answer: A. Gramika
Explanation: Gramika or Gramadhyaksha headed village administration, while Uparikas governed provinces and other officials performed central, district or specialized administrative duties.
Q162. Which statement best describes royal succession under the Guptas?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. Primogeniture operated absolutely
B. The eldest son alone could rule
C. Succession was not invariably determined by eldest-son inheritance
D. Kings were elected annually
Answer: C. Succession was not invariably determined by eldest-son inheritance
Explanation: Gupta succession was dynastic but not governed by rigid primogeniture. Political ability, royal preference and elite acceptance could influence selection among princes.
Q161. Which Gupta emperor earned the comparison “Napoleon of India” for his campaigns?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Samudragupta conducted campaigns throughout Aryavarta and Dakshinapatha, combining annexation, reinstatement and tributary arrangements according to political circumstances.
Q160. According to the Eran inscriptional tradition, why was Samudragupta considered worthy of succession by his father?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. Age alone
B. Wealth alone
C. Devotion, conduct and heroism
D. Foreign support
Answer: C. Devotion, conduct and heroism
Explanation: Gupta records emphasize Samudragupta’s personal virtues and martial ability as qualities underlying his selection, indicating that royal succession was not necessarily automatic primogeniture.
Q159. Which southern dynasties became especially prominent during the post-Gupta period?
[DSSSB TGT – 2025]
A. Pallavas and Chalukyas
B. Mauryas and Nandas
C. Guptas and Kushanas
D. Shungas and Kanvas
Answer: A. Pallavas and Chalukyas
Explanation: Pallavas centred on Kanchipuram and Chalukyas centred on Badami emerged as major peninsular powers, contributing substantially to early medieval temple architecture and regional politics.
Q158. Which of the following was NOT a post-Gupta dynasty?
[DSSSB TGT – 2025]
A. Maukhari
B. Maitraka
C. Maurya
D. Pushyabhuti
Answer: C. Maurya
Explanation: Mauryan rule ended centuries before the Gupta Empire. Maukharis, Maitrakas and Pushyabhutis rose amid the political fragmentation following Gupta decline.
Q157. Which Gupta emperor described himself as “Lichchhavi-dauhitra,” meaning daughter’s son of the Lichchhavis?
[CGPSC Prelims – 2025]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Budhagupta
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Samudragupta proudly emphasized his maternal Lichchhavi ancestry because his mother Kumaradevi belonged to that prestigious lineage, strengthening Gupta dynastic legitimacy.
Q156. Who was the first independent Gupta ruler to adopt the title Maharajadhiraja?
[SSC Stenographer – 2024]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Ghatotkacha
C. Chandragupta I
D. Samudragupta
Answer: C. Chandragupta I
Explanation: Sri Gupta and Ghatotkacha were styled Maharaja, whereas Chandragupta I adopted the more exalted Maharajadhiraja, reflecting increased Gupta power.
Q155. After Gupta decline, the Maukharis emerged as an important power centred on:
[SSC CGL – 2024]
A. Thanesar
B. Kannauj
C. Valabhi
D. Ujjain
Answer: B. Kannauj
Explanation: Kannauj became the principal Maukhari centre and subsequently developed into one of the most strategically important political cities of early medieval northern India.
Q154. Which former Gupta tributary chiefs established an independent kingdom in western India with Valabhi as their capital?
[SSC CGL – 2024]
A. Maitrakas
B. Cholas
C. Pushyabhutis
D. Palas
Answer: A. Maitrakas
Explanation: The Maitrakas established an independent kingdom in Saurashtra after Gupta decline. Valabhi grew into an important administrative, commercial and educational centre.
Q153. Harisena, author of the Prayaga Prashasti, served which Gupta emperor?
[SSC Selection Post – 2024]
A. Samudragupta
B. Kumaragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Budhagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Harisena was a poet and high official of Samudragupta. His Sanskrit eulogy records the emperor’s campaigns and relationships with neighbouring rulers.
Q152. Chandragupta I was the first Gupta ruler to assume which title?
[SSC Selection Post – 2024]
A. Vikramaditya
B. Maharajadhiraja
C. Mahendraditya
D. Shakari
Answer: B. Maharajadhiraja
Explanation: The title “great king of kings” signified enhanced imperial status and distinguished Chandragupta I from the earlier Gupta rulers styled simply Maharaja.
Q151. Gupta India is especially remembered for advances in which fields?
[SSC GD Constable – 2024]
A. Science, art and literature
B. Steam engineering
C. Modern constitutionalism
D. Industrial capitalism
Answer: A. Science, art and literature
Explanation: Sanskrit literature, mathematics, astronomy, sculpture, metallurgy and temple architecture flourished during the Gupta centuries, making the era culturally prominent in Indian history.
Q150. Which Gupta ruler defeated the Western Kshatrapas and became strongly associated with the title Vikramaditya?
[SSC GD Constable – 2024]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Kumaragupta I
Answer: C. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Chandragupta II conquered the Saka Kshatrapas of western India, giving the empire access to Gujarat, Saurashtra and important western maritime trade routes.
Q149. What was the correct descending order of Gupta administrative territorial units?
[UPPSC RO/ARO – 2024]
A. Bhukti → Vishaya → Vithi → Grama
B. Vishaya → Bhukti → Grama → Vithi
C. Vithi → Bhukti → Vishaya → Grama
D. Grama → Bhukti → Vishaya → Vithi
Answer: A. Bhukti → Vishaya → Vithi → Grama
Explanation: A Bhukti was a province, Vishaya a district, Vithi a smaller territorial unit and Grama the basic village-level administrative unit.
Q148. Which Gupta ruler successfully resisted the Hunas?
[WBCS Mains – 2023]
A. Skandagupta
B. Budhagupta
C. Vishnugupta
D. Narasimhagupta
Answer: A. Skandagupta
Explanation: Skandagupta repelled early Huna invasions and is generally regarded as the last powerful Gupta emperor before the empire experienced accelerated political decline.
Q147. Which Gupta ruler took the title Vikramaditya?
[WBCS Mains – 2023]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: C. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Chandragupta II is widely known as Vikramaditya and greatly strengthened Gupta power by defeating the Western Kshatrapas and expanding toward western India.
Q146. Who is traditionally credited with composing Nagananda and Ratnavali?
[WBCS Mains – 2023]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Kalidasa
C. Banabhatta
D. Bharavi
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: Harsha is traditionally credited with three Sanskrit plays—Nagananda, Ratnavali and Priyadarshika—demonstrating the literary interests of his court.
Q145. Which ruler is traditionally associated with the celebrated “Nine Jewels” or Navaratnas?
[WBCS Mains – 2023]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Kumaragupta
D. Harsha
Answer: B. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Later tradition associates Vikramaditya’s court with nine eminent scholars, although historians caution that the complete traditional Navaratna list is not securely contemporary evidence.
Q144. The earliest important epigraphic evidence frequently cited for the practice of sati belongs to which broad historical period?
[SSC CGL – 2023]
A. Harappan
B. Gupta
C. Mauryan
D. Sultanate
Answer: B. Gupta
Explanation: The Eran inscription concerning Goparaja’s wife, dated to 510 CE, is among the earliest clear epigraphic references commonly discussed in connection with sati.
Q143. The brick temple at Bhitargaon is an important example of architecture from which period?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Gupta
B. Maurya
C. Kushana
D. Mughal
Answer: A. Gupta
Explanation: Bhitargaon’s fifth-century brick temple, with terracotta panels and an early tall superstructure, is among the most significant surviving Gupta structural temples.
Q142. Bhitargaon, famous for its Gupta-period brick temple, is situated in:
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Bihar
C. Gujarat
D. Odisha
Answer: A. Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Bhitargaon lies near Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh and preserves one of India’s earliest substantial brick Hindu temples with a surviving roofed sanctum.
Q141. Who wrote Harshacharita?
[SSC CPO – 2023]
A. Banabhatta
B. Harisena
C. Kalidasa
D. Dandin
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Bana’s ornate Sanskrit biography of Harsha combines historical information with literary embellishment and remains a major source for seventh-century northern India.
Q140. Which Chinese pilgrim travelled in India during Harshavardhana’s reign?
[SSC CGL – 2023]
A. Faxian
B. Xuanzang
C. I-Tsing only after 700 CE
D. Sung Yun
Answer: B. Xuanzang
Explanation: Xuanzang visited Harsha’s kingdom and Nalanda and recorded extensive observations concerning political geography, Buddhist institutions and social conditions in seventh-century India.
Q139. Who was Harshavardhana’s famous court poet?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Banabhatta
B. Kalidasa
C. Harisena
D. Ashvaghosha
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Banabhatta enjoyed Harsha’s patronage and authored Harshacharita and much of Kadambari, securing an important place in classical Sanskrit prose literature.
Q138. Which work was NOT composed by Harshavardhana?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Ratnavali
B. Nagananda
C. Priyadarshika
D. Amuktamalyada
Answer: D. Amuktamalyada
Explanation: Amuktamalyada was composed much later by Vijayanagara emperor Krishnadevaraya. The other three Sanskrit dramas are traditionally attributed to Harsha.
Q137. Which Gupta ruler is traditionally associated with the establishment of Nalanda?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Kumaragupta I
C. Skandagupta
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: B. Kumaragupta I
Explanation: Kumaragupta I, sometimes identified with Shakraditya of later traditions, is generally credited in examination literature with founding or initially patronizing Nalanda Mahavihara.
Q136. Which Navaratna is traditionally associated with the work Mantrashastra?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Vetala Bhatta
B. Varahamihira
C. Amarasimha
D. Dhanvantari
Answer: A. Vetala Bhatta
Explanation: Traditional lists of Vikramaditya’s Nine Gems identify Vetala Bhatta as a scholar associated with Mantrashastra, though the Navaratna tradition developed in later literature.
Q135. Who succeeded Chandragupta II on the Gupta throne?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Kumaragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Purugupta
Answer: A. Kumaragupta I
Explanation: Kumaragupta I succeeded Chandragupta II around 415 CE and maintained Gupta political stability for approximately four decades before Skandagupta’s reign.
Q134. Nalanda Mahavihara is located in present-day:
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Bihar
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Odisha
Answer: A. Bihar
Explanation: The archaeological remains of Nalanda are in Bihar near Rajgir. The institution became an internationally renowned Buddhist centre of learning in ancient India.
Q133. Who succeeded the early Gupta ruler Ghatotkacha?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The early Gupta genealogy proceeds from Sri Gupta to Ghatotkacha and then Chandragupta I, under whom the dynasty acquired substantially greater imperial importance.
Q132. The famous Iron Pillar at Mehrauli belongs broadly to which dynasty’s age?
[SSC CHSL – 2023]
A. Gupta
B. Maurya
C. Chola
D. Mughal
Answer: A. Gupta
Explanation: Its Sanskrit inscription celebrates a king named Chandra, generally identified with Chandragupta II, and illustrates the high metallurgical achievement of Gupta-age India.
Q131. Harshacharita, an important source for Harsha’s reign, was composed by:
[SSC CHSL – 2023]
A. Banabhatta
B. Kalhana
C. Bilhana
D. Harisena
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Banabhatta’s work provides valuable information about Harsha’s family, court and political environment despite being an ornate royal biography rather than modern historiography.
Q130. The famous Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh is situated in which present-day state?
[UPSC CDS – 2023]
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Rajasthan
C. Karnataka
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: A. Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: The Gupta-period Vishnu temple at Deogarh is located in Uttar Pradesh and contains celebrated sculptural panels including Vishnu Anantashayana and Gajendramoksha.
Q129. Who composed the Prayaga Prashasti praising Samudragupta?
[UPSC NDA – 2023]
A. Banabhatta
B. Harisena
C. Kalidasa
D. Vishakhadatta
Answer: B. Harisena
Explanation: Harisena served Samudragupta as a poet and high official. His inscription is fundamental for studying the ruler’s military campaigns and political diplomacy.
Q128. Which expression has NOT generally been used by historians to characterize the Gupta period?
[MPPSC Assistant Professor History – 2022]
A. Classical Age
B. Golden Age
C. Age of Empire
D. Age of cultural flowering
Answer: C. Age of Empire
Explanation: Historical writing commonly describes the Gupta centuries as a classical or “golden” age, particularly culturally, while “Age of Empire” is not the standard characterization intended here.
Q127. Which of the following is NOT a literary work attributed to Harshavardhana?
[MPPSC Assistant Professor History – 2022]
A. Ratnavali
B. Priyadarshika
C. Nagananda
D. Navanitaka
Answer: D. Navanitaka
Explanation: Harsha is traditionally credited with three Sanskrit dramas. Navanitaka is a medical work and is unrelated to his dramatic compositions.
Q126. Shashanka was the ruler of:
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Gauda
B. Kamarupa
C. Valabhi
D. Thanesar
Answer: A. Gauda
Explanation: Shashanka established an important kingdom in Gauda or Bengal, with Karnasuvarna as his capital, and was a major contemporary rival of Harshavardhana.
Q125. The Allahabad Pillar inscription of Samudragupta belongs to which period?
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Maurya
B. Gupta
C. Kushana
D. Satavahana
Answer: B. Gupta
Explanation: Although the physical pillar itself bears earlier Ashokan inscriptions, Harisena’s celebrated Prayaga Prashasti engraved on it belongs to Samudragupta’s Gupta reign.
Q124. Faxian visited India during the reign of:
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Harsha
C. Ashoka
D. Kanishka
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Faxian travelled in India around 399–414 CE while Chandragupta II ruled much of northern India, seeking Buddhist scriptures and visiting sacred sites.
Q123. The beginning of the Gupta Era is generally associated with:
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Budhagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The Gupta Era commenced around 319–320 CE and is conventionally linked with Chandragupta I’s accession and the dynasty’s emergence as an imperial power.
Q122. Who authored Harshacharita?
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Banabhatta
B. Bharavi
C. Kalidasa
D. Harisena
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Harshacharita is Bana’s Sanskrit prose biography of Harsha and contains significant, though courtly and embellished, evidence for seventh-century political and social history.
Q121. Samudragupta’s mother belonged to which clan?
[SSC CGL – 2022]
A. Lichchhavi
B. Naga
C. Saka
D. Yaudheya
Answer: A. Lichchhavi
Explanation: His mother Kumaradevi was a Lichchhavi princess. Samudragupta consequently emphasized the prestigious designation “Lichchhavi-dauhitra” in Gupta genealogical tradition.
Q120. Which office is NOT associated with Harisena in Gupta records?
[SSC CGL – 2022]
A. Sandhivigrahika
B. Kumaramatya
C. Mahadandanayaka
D. Nagar-shreshthi
Answer: D. Nagar-shreshthi
Explanation: Harisena held important political and military-administrative offices under Samudragupta. Nagar-shreshthi instead denoted a leading urban merchant or guild representative.
Q119. The King “Chandra” associated with the Mehrauli Iron Pillar is generally identified as:
[SSC CGL – 2022]
A. Chandragupta Maurya
B. Chandragupta I
C. Chandragupta II
D. Chandela ruler Chandra
Answer: C. Chandragupta II
Explanation: The inscription’s conquests and Vaishnava associations have led most historians to identify King Chandra with the Gupta emperor Chandragupta II Vikramaditya.
Q118. Who was the first Gupta ruler to assume the title Maharajadhiraja?
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: B. Chandragupta I
Explanation: Chandragupta I’s grand imperial title reflected the dynasty’s increased status following territorial growth and his politically important marriage alliance with the Lichchhavis.
Q117. Which Gupta ruler bore the title Kaviraja?
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Samudragupta
B. Skandagupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Budhagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Samudragupta was praised as Kaviraja or “king among poets,” indicating literary accomplishments alongside his better-known reputation as a military conqueror and musician.
Q116. Harisena wrote the Prayaga Prashasti in praise of:
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Samudragupta
B. Harsha
C. Chandragupta Maurya
D. Ashoka
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: The inscription categorizes conquered and neighbouring rulers according to Samudragupta’s different political policies, making it a uniquely valuable record of Gupta imperial strategy.
Q115. Kumaragupta I is traditionally credited with founding:
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Nalanda University
B. Vikramashila University
C. Takshashila University
D. Odantapuri
Answer: A. Nalanda University
Explanation: Nalanda’s early growth is conventionally connected with Kumaragupta I, while subsequent rulers from several dynasties expanded and patronized the institution.
Q114. Harshavardhana belonged to which dynasty?
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Pushyabhuti/Vardhana
B. Gupta
C. Maukhari
D. Pala
Answer: A. Pushyabhuti/Vardhana
Explanation: Harsha was the most prominent ruler of the Pushyabhuti or Vardhana dynasty, initially based at Thanesar before Kannauj became his principal political centre.
Q113. In which language was Banabhatta’s Harshacharita composed?
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Sanskrit
B. Pali
C. Tamil
D. Persian
Answer: A. Sanskrit
Explanation: Harshacharita belongs to the highly ornate Sanskrit prose or kavya tradition and is celebrated both as literature and as a historical source.
Q112. Banabhatta served as court poet to:
[SSC MTS – 2022]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: Bana was one of Harsha’s most prominent literary figures and left an important biographical portrayal of the emperor and his political environment.
Q111. Which ruler defeated Harshavardhana when Harsha attempted to expand toward the Deccan?
[SSC CGL – 2022]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Narasimhavarman I
C. Rajendra Chola
D. Dantidurga
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: The Chalukya ruler’s resistance prevented Harsha from extending his authority deeply into the Deccan and enhanced Pulakeshin’s reputation as a powerful sovereign.
Q110. Which Gupta-era poet also held the office of Mahadandanayaka?
[DSSSB Junior Secretariat Assistant – 2022]
A. Harisena
B. Kalidasa
C. Bharavi
D. Amarasimha
Answer: A. Harisena
Explanation: Harisena was more than a poet: inscriptions associate him with important administrative and judicial-military positions, illustrating the multifunctional character of elite Gupta officials.
Q109. The Prayaga Prashasti was composed by:
[UPSC NDA-II – 2022]
A. Harisena
B. Banabhatta
C. Ravikirti
D. Kalidasa
Answer: A. Harisena
Explanation: Harisena’s Sanskrit inscription on the Allahabad pillar praises Samudragupta and systematically records his conquests and relations with subordinate and frontier rulers.
Q108. The Vishnuvardhana Victory Tower at Bayana Fort belongs to which period?
[RPSC RAS Prelims – 2021]
A. Sultanate
B. Mughal
C. Mauryan
D. Gupta
Answer: D. Gupta
Explanation: The Bayana monument and associated inscriptional evidence belong to the Gupta-age political environment of Rajasthan and neighbouring regions.
Q107. Which pairing of Gupta temples and sites is correct?
[RPSC Assistant Professor History – 2021]
A. Dashavatara–Deogarh
B. Vishnu Temple–Tigawa
C. Shiva Temple–Bhumara
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: Deogarh, Tigawa and Bhumara preserve important Gupta-age structural temple remains, providing evidence for the formative development of North Indian Brahmanical architecture.
Q106. According to the answer key of this examination, which Gupta ruler issued copper coins?
[UP PGT History – 2021]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Gupta coinage was overwhelmingly famous for gold issues, but the examination keyed Samudragupta here. Copper issues were far less important than Gupta gold and silver currency.
Q105. Which Gupta-period temple is located in Uttar Pradesh?
[UPPSC GIC Lecturer – 2021]
A. Tigawa Vishnu Temple
B. Bhumara Shiva Temple
C. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh
D. Nachna Temple
Answer: C. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh
Explanation: Deogarh is in Uttar Pradesh, whereas Tigawa, Bhumara and Nachna are associated with present-day Madhya Pradesh.
Q104. Buddhist scholar Paramartha is associated with which period?
[UPPSC GIC Lecturer History – 2021]
A. Mauryan
B. Kushana
C. Gupta
D. Mughal
Answer: C. Gupta
Explanation: Paramartha was an important Buddhist scholar and translator associated with the late Gupta-era intellectual world and the transmission of Mahayana Buddhist thought.
Q103. Which Gupta ruler first assumed the exalted political title Maharajadhiraja?
[OPSC OAS Prelims – 2021]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Chandragupta II
Answer: B. Chandragupta I
Explanation: Earlier Gupta rulers used Maharaja, while Chandragupta I’s adoption of Maharajadhiraja reflected the dynasty’s transition toward wider imperial authority.
Q102. Who succeeded Chandragupta I?
[RRB NTPC – 2021]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B. Samudragupta
Explanation: Samudragupta succeeded Chandragupta I and transformed the Gupta kingdom into a major empire through extensive military campaigning and flexible tributary arrangements.
Q101. Who wrote the biography Harshacharita?
[RRB NTPC – 2021]
A. Banabhatta
B. Harisena
C. Dandin
D. Bhavabhuti
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Banabhatta served Harshavardhana and composed this celebrated Sanskrit prose biography, a key literary source on the political milieu of seventh-century northern India.
Q100. Who was called the “Napoleon of India”?
[SSC CGL – 2021]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Harsha
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: V. A. Smith’s famous comparison was based on Samudragupta’s extensive conquests described in the Prayaga Prashasti, although modern historians use such analogies cautiously.
Q99. Who composed the Allahabad Pillar eulogy of Samudragupta?
[SSC CGL – 2021]
A. Harisena
B. Kalidasa
C. Banabhatta
D. Amarasimha
Answer: A. Harisena
Explanation: Harisena’s polished Sanskrit composition records Samudragupta’s military and diplomatic achievements and gives exceptional information about fourth-century Indian political geography.
Q98. Prabhavati Gupta was the daughter of Kuberanaga and which Gupta emperor?
[SSC CHSL – 2021]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Chandragupta II
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Prabhavati Gupta married Vakataka ruler Rudrasena II and later served as regent, helping create an important political connection between the Guptas and Vakatakas.
Q97. The famous painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is found in:
[SSC CHSL – 2021]
A. Ajanta Cave 1
B. Ellora Cave 16
C. Elephanta Cave 1
D. Udayagiri Cave 5
Answer: A. Ajanta Cave 1
Explanation: The Padmapani mural in Ajanta Cave 1 is among the finest surviving examples of classical Indian Buddhist painting associated with the late Gupta-Vakataka cultural milieu.
Q96. The Ajanta caves are located in which present-day state?
[SSC CHSL – 2021]
A. Maharashtra
B. Gujarat
C. Bihar
D. Madhya Pradesh
Answer: A. Maharashtra
Explanation: Ajanta’s rock-cut Buddhist caves lie in Maharashtra and preserve architecture, sculpture and murals produced across several centuries, especially flourishing under Vakataka patronage.
Q95. Which Gupta ruler married the Lichchhavi princess Kumaradevi?
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: B. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The politically significant marriage strengthened Gupta prestige and is commemorated on distinctive coins depicting Chandragupta I together with Kumaradevi.
Q94. In Gupta administration, a Vithi was a:
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Military regiment
B. Territorial administrative unit
C. Royal bodyguard
D. Coin denomination
Answer: B. Territorial administrative unit
Explanation: Vithi represented a subdivision below the Vishaya in parts of the Gupta administrative system, demonstrating the empire’s layered territorial organization.
Q93. Shashanka was ruler of:
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Gauda
B. Malwa
C. Valabhi
D. Kanchi
Answer: A. Gauda
Explanation: Shashanka ruled Bengal from Karnasuvarna and became an important rival of Harsha and Bhaskaravarman during the early seventh century.
Q92. Banabhatta flourished during whose reign?
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Samudragupta
C. Ashoka
D. Kanishka
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: Bana was attached to Harsha’s court and immortalized his patron in Harshacharita, besides producing the celebrated prose romance Kadambari.
Q91. Which dynasty dominated much of northern India approximately between 320 and 550 CE?
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Gupta
B. Hoysala
C. Chola
D. Lodhi
Answer: A. Gupta
Explanation: Gupta imperial power arose in the fourth century CE and remained a major force until the sixth century, though regional authority varied considerably.
Q90. Which Gupta emperor is depicted playing a Veena on some of his coins?
[UPSSSC/PET Question Bank – 2021]
A. Samudragupta
B. Skandagupta
C. Chandragupta I
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Samudragupta’s “lyrist” gold coins portray him seated and playing a stringed instrument, providing unusual evidence for royal participation in music.
Q89. After Gupta decline and before Harsha’s rise, which powers held territory in northern India?
[UPSC CSE Prelims – 2021]
A. Later Guptas, Pushyabhutis, Maukharis and Maitrakas
B. Cholas, Hoysalas and Kakatiyas only
C. Delhi Sultans and Palas
D. Mauryas and Shungas
Answer: A. Later Guptas, Pushyabhutis, Maukharis and Maitrakas
Explanation: Northern India fragmented after Gupta decline, allowing several regional houses—including Later Guptas, Maukharis, Pushyabhutis and Maitrakas—to exercise power simultaneously.
Q88. Which statements about the Bhitargaon temple are correct? (1) It dates broadly to the 5th–6th century CE. (2) It is among India’s oldest surviving brick temples.
[UPPSC RO/ARO – 2021]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Bhitargaon is a major Gupta-age brick temple with terracotta decoration and represents a crucial stage in the development of structural Hindu temple architecture.
Q87. Who was the first Gupta ruler in the imperial line to emerge as a major sovereign?
[SSC Stenographer – 2021]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Ramagupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: Chandragupta I transformed the dynasty’s status, adopted Maharajadhiraja and strengthened Gupta authority through territorial expansion and his Lichchhavi marriage alliance.
Q86. Which Gupta ruler first assumed Maharajadhiraja?
[SSC GD – 2021]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Chandragupta II
D. Ramagupta
Answer: B. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The title marked a clear elevation from the earlier Maharaja designation of Sri Gupta and Ghatotkacha and signalled growing Gupta imperial aspirations.
Q85. Which event occurred earliest?
[SSC GD – 2021]
A. Beginning of Gupta Era
B. Beginning of Saka Era
C. Accession of Harsha
D. Death of Alexander
Answer: D. Death of Alexander
Explanation: Alexander died in 323 BCE; the Saka Era began in 78 CE, Gupta Era around 319–320 CE, and Harsha ascended in 606 CE.
Q84. Which Pala king founded Vikramashila University and was an important patron of Buddhist learning?
[SSC CGL – 2021]
A. Gopala
B. Dharmapala
C. Devapala
D. Mahipala
Answer: B. Dharmapala
Explanation: Dharmapala established Vikramashila in Bihar and strongly patronized Buddhist institutions, helping eastern India become a major international centre of Buddhist scholarship.
Q83. In post-Harsha India, a Hundi functioned primarily as a:
[UPSC CSE Prelims – 2020]
A. Land grant
B. Bill of exchange or credit instrument
C. Military rank
D. Temple tax
Answer: B. Bill of exchange or credit instrument
Explanation: Hundis functioned as indigenous negotiable credit instruments facilitating remittance, borrowing and commercial transactions across long-distance trading networks.
Q82. Which statement about Gupta coinage is NOT correct?
[UPSC CDS – 2020]
A. Guptas issued impressive gold coins
B. Silver issues appeared after western conquests
C. Copper was their largest and most important coinage
D. Coins depicted rulers and deities
Answer: C. Copper was their largest and most important coinage
Explanation: Gupta numismatics is especially renowned for abundant and artistically sophisticated gold coinage; copper issues were comparatively limited and never formed the dominant series.
Q81. Match the Gupta rulers with their queens: Chandragupta I–?, Samudragupta–?, Chandragupta II–?, Kumaragupta I–?
[UPPSC BEO – 2020]
A. Kumaradevi, Dattadevi, Kuberanaga, Anantadevi
B. Dattadevi, Kumaradevi, Anantadevi, Kuberanaga
C. Kuberanaga, Dattadevi, Kumaradevi, Anantadevi
D. Anantadevi, Kuberanaga, Dattadevi, Kumaradevi
Answer: A. Kumaradevi, Dattadevi, Kuberanaga, Anantadevi
Explanation: Gupta matrimonial alliances were politically important, particularly Chandragupta I’s Lichchhavi marriage and Chandragupta II’s Naga connection through Kuberanaga.
Q80. Who founded the Pushyabhuti/Vardhana dynasty according to conventional examination history?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Pushyabhuti
B. Harsha
C. Prabhakaravardhana
D. Rajyavardhana
Answer: A. Pushyabhuti
Explanation: The dynasty derives its name from its traditional founder Pushyabhuti, while Prabhakaravardhana and his son Harsha later elevated its political importance.
Q79. Harsha became king after the death of his brother:
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Rajyavardhana
B. Devagupta
C. Grahavarman
D. Shashanka
Answer: A. Rajyavardhana
Explanation: Rajyavardhana was killed amid conflicts involving Gauda and Malwa, after which the young Harsha assumed power and eventually established control over Kannauj.
Q78. Harshavardhana transferred his principal political centre from Thanesar to:
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Kannauj
B. Pataliputra
C. Ujjain
D. Valabhi
Answer: A. Kannauj
Explanation: Kannauj’s strategic position in the Ganga-Yamuna region made it an ideal imperial centre and later a focus of major early medieval political contests.
Q77. Which Chalukya ruler halted Harsha’s southern expansion?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Mangalesha
C. Vikramaditya I
D. Kirtivarman I
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: Pulakeshin II’s victory established Chalukya prestige and restricted Harsha’s effective expansion southward beyond the Narmada region.
Q76. Which Chinese pilgrim’s writings are an important source on Harshavardhana’s reign?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Xuanzang
B. Faxian
C. Megasthenes
D. Al-Biruni
Answer: A. Xuanzang
Explanation: Xuanzang met Harsha and recorded detailed descriptions of Indian kingdoms, Buddhist establishments, social customs and educational centres such as Nalanda.
Q75. Who wrote the Allahabad Pillar inscription praising Samudragupta?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Harisena
B. Kalidasa
C. Banabhatta
D. Ravikirti
Answer: A. Harisena
Explanation: Harisena served as Samudragupta’s court poet and official, and his Prashasti is one of the richest sources for Gupta imperial politics.
Q74. Which Gupta ruler is celebrated in the Allahabad Pillar inscription?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Samudragupta
B. Kumaragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Chandragupta I
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: The inscription narrates Samudragupta’s Aryavarta and Dakshinapatha campaigns and his varying treatment of defeated rulers, frontier states and distant powers.
Q73. Which was the last generally recognized ruler of the main Gupta imperial line?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Vishnugupta
B. Skandagupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Samudragupta
Answer: A. Vishnugupta
Explanation: Vishnugupta is commonly regarded as among the last known Gupta rulers, by which time imperial authority had contracted drastically under regional and external pressures.
Q72. The Gupta-period plough tax was known as:
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Halivakara
B. Bhaga
C. Hiranya
D. Bali
Answer: A. Halivakara
Explanation: Halivakara is interpreted as a levy connected with the plough, illustrating the variety of agrarian taxes and dues known from Gupta-era records.
Q71. The Ajanta murals largely depict stories drawn from:
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Jatakas
B. Arthashastra
C. Sangam poems
D. Rajatarangini
Answer: A. Jatakas
Explanation: Numerous Ajanta paintings illustrate the Buddha’s previous births narrated in Jataka stories, alongside scenes of courtly, religious and everyday life.
Q70. Which city served as a major intersection of north-south and east-west trade routes during the pre-Gupta and Gupta periods?
[WBCS Mains – 2020]
A. Ujjain
B. Taxila
C. Madurai
D. Tamralipti
Answer: A. Ujjain
Explanation: Ujjain’s position in Malwa linked northern India, the Deccan and western ports, making it an important commercial and cultural hub.
Q69. In early Indian irrigation, Araghatta referred to a:
[WBCS Mains – 2020]
A. Water-lifting device
B. Tax on merchants
C. Military formation
D. Type of temple
Answer: A. Water-lifting device
Explanation: Araghatta denoted a mechanical water-lifting arrangement, usually associated with irrigation and the expansion or intensification of agriculture.
Q68. Which ruler’s biography is Harshacharita?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Samudragupta
C. Ashoka
D. Kanishka
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: Banabhatta’s Harshacharita narrates the ancestry and early career of Harsha and remains a major source despite its highly literary character.
Q67. Harsha’s contemporary ruler in the Deccan was:
[SSC CHSL – 2020]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Rajaraja Chola
C. Krishnadevaraya
D. Amoghavarsha
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: The two rulers represented major northern and Deccan powers in the seventh century and confronted one another along the Narmada frontier.
Q66. Which Gupta-era university became particularly famous for Mahayana Buddhist studies?
[SSC CHSL – 2020]
A. Nalanda
B. Vallabhi
C. Kanchi
D. Ujjain
Answer: A. Nalanda
Explanation: Nalanda developed a vast monastic and scholastic establishment where Buddhist philosophy, logic, grammar, medicine and other subjects were studied.
Q65. Which Gupta ruler’s reign witnessed the visit of Faxian?
[SSC CGL – 2020]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Faxian travelled through Gupta-controlled regions in the early fifth century and described administrative conditions, Buddhist institutions and aspects of social life.
Q64. Information about which king is found in the post-Gupta Kuruspal inscription of Bastar?
[CGPSC Civil Service – 2020]
A. Harshagupta
B. Someshvara I
C. Mahashivagupta Balarjuna
D. Rajyavardhana
Answer: B. Someshvara I
Explanation: The Kuruspal inscription records the Naga ruler Someshvara I and provides evidence concerning regional political authority in the post-Gupta/early medieval Chhattisgarh region.
Q63. During the post-Gupta period, land classifications were based on which criteria?
[WBCS Mains – 2019]
A. Cultivated or uncultivated status
B. Irrigated or unirrigated status
C. Crops grown
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: Early medieval agrarian administration distinguished land according to cultivation, irrigation and crop patterns, helping determine productivity, fiscal rights and revenue assessment.
Q62. Which period is frequently described as the “Golden Age” of ancient India?
[SSC CPO – 2019]
A. Gupta period
B. Mauryan period
C. Sultanate period
D. Mughal period
Answer: A. Gupta period
Explanation: The conventional label reflects major achievements in Sanskrit literature, science, art and architecture, though modern historians stress unequal social and economic experiences.
Q61. Which Gupta ruler is particularly associated with the title Vikramaditya?
[SSC CPO – 2019]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Chandragupta II’s western conquests and cultural reputation led to his lasting association with the prestigious title Vikramaditya in historical tradition.
Q60. Which of the following was NOT traditionally included among Chandragupta II’s Navaratnas?
[SSC CPO – 2019]
A. Kalidasa
B. Varahamihira
C. Surdas
D. Amarasimha
Answer: C. Surdas
Explanation: Surdas belonged to the much later Bhakti tradition, whereas Kalidasa, Varahamihira and Amarasimha appear in traditional lists associated with Vikramaditya.
Q59. Which Gupta ruler was called the “Napoleon of India”?
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: The designation reflects the scale of Samudragupta’s military activity described by Harisena, though it is a modern historiographical comparison rather than an ancient title.
Q58. The Gupta gold coin was commonly called a:
[SSC CHSL – 2019]
A. Dinara
B. Jital
C. Tanka
D. Dam
Answer: A. Dinara
Explanation: Gupta Dinaras were high-quality gold coins bearing varied royal iconography and religious symbols and constitute exceptionally valuable sources for Gupta political culture.
Q57. Which Chinese pilgrim visited India during Chandragupta II’s reign?
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Faxian
B. Xuanzang
C. Yijing
D. Al-Biruni
Answer: A. Faxian
Explanation: Faxian’s journey focused on Buddhist scriptures and sacred locations, but his writings also preserve observations on administration, social practices and urban prosperity.
Q56. Which Gupta-period scholar wrote Brihat Samhita?
[SSC MTS – 2019]
A. Varahamihira
B. Aryabhata
C. Brahmagupta
D. Kalidasa
Answer: A. Varahamihira
Explanation: Brihat Samhita is Varahamihira’s encyclopedic Sanskrit work covering astronomy, astrology, architecture, omens, meteorology and numerous aspects of contemporary knowledge.
Q55. The Prayaga Prashasti provides the most detailed account of whose conquests?
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Samudragupta
B. Harsha
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Harisena classified rulers according to whether they were annexed, reinstated, tributary or frontier powers, revealing Samudragupta’s flexible imperial strategy.
Q54. Which city developed into Harshavardhana’s principal capital?
[SSC CHSL – 2019]
A. Kannauj
B. Ujjain
C. Pataliputra
D. Taxila
Answer: A. Kannauj
Explanation: Harsha’s shift toward Kannauj increased that city’s political importance and helped establish it as a major centre of early medieval northern Indian power.
Q53. In approximately 618 CE, Harshavardhana was checked by:
[SSC CHSL – 2019]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Mahendravarman I
C. Narasimhavarman I
D. Dantidurga
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: The Chalukya monarch stopped Harsha’s advance at the Narmada, maintaining Deccan independence from the dominant northern ruler.
Q52. Harisena was associated with which Gupta emperor?
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Harisena was a court poet and senior official whose celebrated Prashasti transformed Samudragupta’s achievements into one of ancient India’s most important political inscriptions.
Q51. Which ruler’s conquests opened western coastal trade regions to Gupta control?
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Sri Gupta
C. Ghatotkacha
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: By defeating the Western Kshatrapas, Chandragupta II acquired Malwa, Gujarat and Saurashtra and improved Gupta access to economically important western ports.
Q50. The Gupta period mathematician-astronomer famous for the Aryabhatiya was:
[SSC CGL – 2019]
A. Aryabhata
B. Varahamihira
C. Brahmagupta
D. Nagarjuna
Answer: A. Aryabhata
Explanation: Aryabhata composed the Aryabhatiya in 499 CE, treating arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometric ideas and mathematical astronomy with remarkable sophistication.
Q49. Which post-Gupta ruler was a contemporary and rival of Shashanka?
[PSC Examination – 2019]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Chandragupta II
C. Skandagupta
D. Kanishka
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: Harsha, Shashanka of Gauda and Bhaskaravarman of Kamarupa were major actors in the political struggles of northern and eastern India during the seventh century.
Q48. The Aihole inscription describing the achievements of Pulakeshin II was composed by:
[State PSC History – 2019]
A. Ravikirti
B. Harisena
C. Banabhatta
D. Kalidasa
Answer: A. Ravikirti
Explanation: Ravikirti’s Sanskrit eulogy at Aihole records Pulakeshin II’s victories, including his resistance to Harsha, and is a major source for Chalukya history.
Q47. The theory of Indian feudalism in the post-Gupta period has been debated because:
[WBCS Mains – 2018]
A. Not every grant produced European-style feudal relations
B. Peasants cannot uniformly be treated as serfs
C. Brahmana donees were not necessarily a warrior ruling class
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: Historians debate whether European concepts of feudalism can be directly applied to India’s varied land-grant, peasant and political relationships.
Q46. The Aihole inscription is associated with which ruler?
[RRB Group D – 2018]
A. Pulakeshin II
B. Harsha
C. Samudragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Pulakeshin II
Explanation: Ravikirti’s Aihole inscription celebrates Pulakeshin II’s Chalukya achievements, including his victory over Harshavardhana and campaigns against neighbouring powers.
Q45. Which Gupta ruler is portrayed playing the Veena on coins?
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Samudragupta
B. Kumaragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Chandragupta I
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: The lyrist-type coins demonstrate Samudragupta’s cultivated royal persona as both conqueror and patron-practitioner of music and artistic accomplishment.
Q44. The title Kaviraja belonged to:
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta II
C. Harsha
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Kaviraja highlights Samudragupta’s literary accomplishments, complementing inscriptional and numismatic evidence depicting him as warrior, poet, musician and imperial sovereign.
Q43. According to traditional accounts, Kalidasa was associated with the reign of:
[RPSC 2nd Grade – 2018]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Ashoka
C. Kanishka
D. Harsha
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Kalidasa is conventionally placed in the Gupta cultural milieu and traditionally linked with Vikramaditya, although his precise chronology remains debated among scholars.
Q42. According to Gaurishankar Hirachand Ojha, the Guptas were considered to belong to which varna?
[RPSC 2nd Grade – 2018]
A. Kshatriya
B. Vaishya
C. Shudra
D. Brahmana
Answer: A. Kshatriya
Explanation: The social origin of the Guptas has long been debated; Ojha supported a Kshatriya origin, while other historians have proposed alternative interpretations.
Q41. Which architectural form became increasingly established during Gupta rule?
[RAS Prelims – 2018]
A. Free-standing structural temples
B. Gothic cathedrals
C. Indo-Islamic domes
D. Mughal charbaghs
Answer: A. Free-standing structural temples
Explanation: Gupta builders experimented with square sanctums, pillared porches, elevated platforms and emerging superstructures, laying important foundations for later Hindu temple architecture.
Q40. Which Gupta ruler defeated the Sakas of western India?
[SSC CGL – 2018]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Chandragupta II ended Western Kshatrapa power and issued silver coins influenced by their monetary tradition after annexing their territories.
Q39. The Chinese pilgrim Faxian came to India mainly to:
[SSC CGL – 2018]
A. Collect Buddhist texts and visit sacred places
B. Conduct military campaigns
C. Establish a trading company
D. Serve as Gupta governor
Answer: A. Collect Buddhist texts and visit sacred places
Explanation: Faxian was a Buddhist monk seeking authoritative Vinaya texts and holy sites; his travelogue incidentally provides valuable historical observations about Gupta India.
Q38. Harsha’s sister Rajyashri was married to:
[PSC Examination – 2018]
A. Grahavarman
B. Shashanka
C. Pulakeshin II
D. Bhaskaravarman
Answer: A. Grahavarman
Explanation: Grahavarman was a Maukhari ruler of Kannauj. His killing helped trigger the political crisis in which Rajyavardhana died and Harsha rose to power.
Q37. Harsha’s important ally in Kamarupa was:
[PSC Examination – 2018]
A. Bhaskaravarman
B. Shashanka
C. Pulakeshin II
D. Dhruvasena I
Answer: A. Bhaskaravarman
Explanation: Bhaskaravarman of Kamarupa allied with Harsha against Shashanka of Gauda and became a significant figure in seventh-century eastern Indian politics.
Q36. Which post-Gupta kingdom had Valabhi as its capital?
[PSC Examination – 2018]
A. Maitraka
B. Maukhari
C. Pushyabhuti
D. Chalukya
Answer: A. Maitraka
Explanation: The Maitrakas ruled Saurashtra from Valabhi, which developed into an important political and educational centre after the decline of Gupta authority.
Q35. Who began the Gupta Era around 319–320 CE?
[WBCS Mains – 2017]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Sri Gupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The Gupta Era is conventionally connected with Chandragupta I and symbolizes the dynasty’s transformation from a regional house into a significant imperial power.
Q34. King “Chandra” of the Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription is generally identified with:
[WBCS Mains – 2017]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Chandragupta Maurya
C. Chandragupta I
D. Chandra of Kashmir
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: References to Chandra’s military successes and Vaishnava devotion fit Chandragupta II, though scholarly discussion has historically considered alternative identifications.
Q33. Harisena was the court poet of:
[SSC MTS – 2017]
A. Samudragupta
B. Harsha
C. Chandragupta II
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: Harisena immortalized Samudragupta’s political achievements through the Prayaga Prashasti and simultaneously served in important Gupta administrative offices.
Q32. Which Gupta ruler was commonly called the “Napoleon of India”?
[SSC MTS – 2017]
A. Samudragupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Samudragupta
Explanation: The modern comparison arose from Samudragupta’s extensive military record, especially the campaigns and political settlements documented in Harisena’s inscription.
Q31. Which Gupta ruler first adopted the title Maharajadhiraja?
[SSC MTS – 2017]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Sri Gupta
C. Samudragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: His imperial designation contrasted with the simpler Maharaja titles of earlier ancestors and signalled the growing status and territorial power of the dynasty.
Q30. The rust-resistant Iron Pillar is presently located at:
[SSC MTS – 2017]
A. Delhi
B. Patna
C. Ujjain
D. Sanchi
Answer: A. Delhi
Explanation: The pillar stands in Delhi’s Mehrauli/Qutb complex and is famous both for its Sanskrit inscription and its remarkable corrosion-resistant iron technology.
Q29. Ujjain became a notable centre of learning, culture and commerce especially under:
[SSC CPO – 2017]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Ashoka only
C. Harsha
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Western expansion under Chandragupta II strengthened Gupta connections with Malwa and Ujjain, an important junction of inland commercial and cultural routes.
Q28. Fa-Hien came to India during whose reign?
[SSC CGL – 2017]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Samudragupta
C. Kumaragupta
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Faxian travelled across northern India in the early fifth century and left one of the most important foreign accounts relating to Gupta-era conditions.
Q27. Who wrote the Prayaga Prashasti?
[SSC CGL – 2017]
A. Harisena
B. Banabhatta
C. Kalidasa
D. Ravikirti
Answer: A. Harisena
Explanation: The inscription’s polished Sanskrit eulogy glorifies Samudragupta and provides detailed evidence for rulers and regions across fourth-century South Asia.
Q26. Nalanda is traditionally said to have been established under:
[SSC CGL – 2017]
A. Kumaragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta I
D. Harsha
Answer: A. Kumaragupta I
Explanation: Gupta patronage initiated Nalanda’s rise, while Harsha and later Pala monarchs enlarged and endowed the institution over subsequent centuries.
Q25. Ajanta’s rock-cut monuments are primarily associated with which religious tradition?
[SSC CHSL – 2017]
A. Buddhism
B. Islam
C. Sikhism
D. Zoroastrianism
Answer: A. Buddhism
Explanation: Ajanta consists of Buddhist chaityas and viharas decorated with sculptures and paintings illustrating Buddhist narratives, Bodhisattvas and monastic culture.
Q24. The Gupta period is often called a Golden Age chiefly because of achievements in:
[SSC CHSL – 2017]
A. Art, literature, mathematics and science
B. Industrial mechanization
C. Oceanic colonization
D. Gunpowder technology
Answer: A. Art, literature, mathematics and science
Explanation: Major figures, texts, temples, sculpture and scientific developments flourished, although historians now treat the “Golden Age” characterization as a selective cultural description.
2016 Questions
Q23. Which inscription commemorates Yasodharman’s victory and belongs to the early sixth century?
[WBCS Mains – 2016]
A. Mandsaur Pillar Inscription
B. Hathigumpha Inscription
C. Junagadh Inscription of Rudradaman
D. Nanaghat Inscription
Answer: A. Mandsaur Pillar Inscription
Explanation: Yasodharman’s Mandsaur inscriptions celebrate his political ascendancy after Gupta decline and his success against Huna power, particularly Mihirakula.
Q22. Navanitaka of the Gupta period was a work concerned with:
[WBCS Mains – 2016]
A. Medicine
B. Metallurgy
C. Mathematics
D. Grammar
Answer: A. Medicine
Explanation: Navanitaka represents the medical knowledge of ancient India and is associated with Ayurvedic therapeutic traditions and medicinal preparations.
Q21. Which dynasty was among the early major issuers of land grants transferring fiscal privileges to Brahmanas?
[WBCS Mains – 2016]
A. Vakatakas
B. Nandas
C. Indo-Greeks
D. Kushanas
Answer: A. Vakatakas
Explanation: Vakataka copper-plate grants transferred land and various associated privileges to Brahmana beneficiaries and form important evidence for early medieval agrarian change.
Q20. Meghaduta was written by:
[SSC CGL – 2016]
A. Kalidasa
B. Banabhatta
C. Harisena
D. Bharavi
Answer: A. Kalidasa
Explanation: Meghaduta, or “Cloud Messenger,” is Kalidasa’s celebrated lyric poem in which an exiled Yaksha asks a cloud to carry a message northward.
Q19. Chandragupta II is most closely associated with which title?
[SSC CGL – 2016]
A. Vikramaditya
B. Devanampiya
C. Amitraghata
D. Priyadarshi
Answer: A. Vikramaditya
Explanation: Vikramaditya became the best-known title connected with Chandragupta II, whose reign included victory over the Western Kshatrapas and substantial cultural flourishing.
Q18. Which inscription provides one of the earliest explicit epigraphic references connected with sati?
[SSC CGL – 2016]
A. Eran inscription of Bhanugupta’s time
B. Aihole inscription
C. Hathigumpha inscription
D. Nasik inscription
Answer: A. Eran inscription of Bhanugupta’s time
Explanation: The 510 CE Eran record mentions the wife of warrior Goparaja joining him on the funeral pyre and is frequently cited in discussions of sati.
Q17. Which Gupta ruler was the first to assume the title Parama Bhagavata according to the examination tradition?
[SSC CGL – 2016]
A. Chandragupta II
B. Chandragupta I
C. Skandagupta
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II
Explanation: Parama Bhagavata expressed intense devotion to Vishnu and reflects the strong Vaishnava orientation evident in Gupta royal ideology and iconography.
Q16. Who wrote Malavikagnimitram?
[SSC CPO – 2016]
A. Kalidasa
B. Banabhatta
C. Vishakhadatta
D. Dandin
Answer: A. Kalidasa
Explanation: Kalidasa’s Sanskrit drama centres on Shunga king Agnimitra and Malavika and is among the important surviving works of classical Sanskrit theatre.
Q15. Which author is often popularly styled the “Shakespeare of India”?
[SSC CPO – 2016]
A. Kalidasa
B. Harisena
C. Aryabhata
D. Amarasimha
Answer: A. Kalidasa
Explanation: The comparison reflects Kalidasa’s exceptional reputation for dramatic and poetic works such as Abhijnanashakuntalam, Meghaduta and Raghuvamsha.
Q14. Which Gupta ruler married Kumaradevi of the Lichchhavi family?
[State PSC – 2016]
A. Chandragupta I
B. Samudragupta
C. Skandagupta
D. Kumaragupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta I
Explanation: The alliance enhanced Gupta prestige and is prominently represented on royal coinage, suggesting the political importance attached to Kumaradevi’s Lichchhavi lineage.
Q13. Which of the following works was written by Kalidasa?
[WBCS Mains – 2015]
A. Abhijnanashakuntalam
B. Meghaduta
C. Raghuvamsha
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: Kalidasa produced major Sanskrit dramas and poems, and these three works are central to his reputation as one of classical India’s greatest literary figures.
Q12. Gupta gold coins were known as:
[WBCS Mains – 2014]
A. Dinaras
B. Tankas
C. Jitals
D. Satamanas
Answer: A. Dinaras
Explanation: Gupta Dinaras are renowned for artistic quality, varied royal types and religious imagery, while also providing valuable evidence on rulers, titles and ceremonies.
Q11. Which great astronomer and mathematician flourished during the Gupta age?
[SSC CHSL – 2014]
A. Aryabhata
B. Panini
C. Patanjali
D. Kautilya
Answer: A. Aryabhata
Explanation: Aryabhata’s Aryabhatiya made major contributions to mathematical astronomy, including place-value calculations, trigonometric methods and scientific explanations of eclipses.
Q10. Who wrote Kadambari?
[SSC CPO – 2008]
A. Banabhatta
B. Kalidasa
C. Bharavi
D. Harisena
Answer: A. Banabhatta
Explanation: Bana began the celebrated Sanskrit prose romance Kadambari, which was later completed by his son Bhushanabhatta after the author’s death.
Q9. Which Gupta ruler successfully resisted the Hunas?
[SSC Matric Level – 2002]
A. Skandagupta
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta I
D. Kumaragupta II
Answer: A. Skandagupta
Explanation: Skandagupta’s military successes temporarily protected the empire from Huna pressure, but continuing invasions later contributed to the weakening of Gupta power.
Q8. Who was the famous mathematician-astronomer of the Gupta age?
[SSC Matric Level – 2002]
A. Aryabhata
B. Charaka
C. Panini
D. Chanakya
Answer: A. Aryabhata
Explanation: Aryabhata’s mathematical astronomy represented one of the outstanding scientific achievements of classical India and influenced later Indian and Islamic astronomical traditions.
Q7. The official and literary language most strongly associated with Gupta royal inscriptions was:
[SSC Matric Level – 2002]
A. Sanskrit
B. Persian
C. Arabic
D. Tamil
Answer: A. Sanskrit
Explanation: Sanskrit enjoyed exceptional royal prestige during Gupta rule and was extensively employed in inscriptions, court poetry, religious texts, drama and scholarly literature.
Q6. Who is traditionally regarded as the founder of the Gupta dynasty?
[SSC/General Studies PYQ – 2001]
A. Sri Gupta
B. Chandragupta I
C. Samudragupta
D. Ghatotkacha
Answer: A. Sri Gupta
Explanation: Sri Gupta was the earliest known ruler of the dynasty and bore the title Maharaja. His descendants gradually transformed the family into an imperial power.
Q5. The Gupta dynasty is particularly famous for achievements in:
[SSC Matric Level – 2001]
A. Art and architecture
B. Gunpowder warfare
C. European navigation
D. Printing technology
Answer: A. Art and architecture
Explanation: Gupta sculpture, temple design, terracotta work and associated Vakataka painting traditions established artistic models that influenced many later Indian regional styles.
Q4. Ajanta paintings are broadly associated in examination history with which classical period?
[SSC Matric Level – 2001]
A. Gupta-Vakataka period
B. Sultanate period
C. Mughal period
D. Vijayanagara period
Answer: A. Gupta-Vakataka period
Explanation: Ajanta’s finest surviving murals were created mainly under Vakataka patronage contemporaneous with the later Gupta age, displaying the mature classical artistic idiom.
Q3. Which ruler is traditionally associated with the title “Second Ashoka” in some older competitive-examination questions?
[SSC Matric Level – 1999]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta II
D. Skandagupta
Answer: A. Harshavardhana
Explanation: The comparison arose from Harsha’s religious patronage, charitable assemblies and support for Buddhism, although he also patronized Brahmanical traditions and was not simply an Ashokan replica.
Q2. Which post-Gupta institution became one of India’s most celebrated centres of Buddhist higher learning?
[SSC CGL – 1999]
A. Nalanda
B. Madurai
C. Sopara
D. Arikamedu
Answer: A. Nalanda
Explanation: Nalanda flourished through Gupta, Harsha and Pala patronage, attracting teachers and students from across Asia and developing an extensive monastic-academic establishment.
Q1. Kalidasa is traditionally associated with the court of which Gupta ruler?
[SSC Matric Level – 1999]
A. Chandragupta II Vikramaditya
B. Sri Gupta
C. Ghatotkacha
D. Vishnugupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta II Vikramaditya
Explanation: Traditional accounts place Kalidasa among the luminaries associated with Vikramaditya. While his exact chronology is debated, his works exemplify the classical Sanskrit culture linked with the Gupta age.