Q120. Which Mauryan ruler is particularly associated with major developments in imperial architecture?
[SSC CHSL, 2025]
A. Ashoka
B. Brihadratha
C. Dasharatha
D. Kunala
Answer: A. Ashoka
Explanation: Ashoka’s reign witnessed monumental pillars, stupas, inscriptions and rock-cut architecture. His polished sandstone pillars are among the finest surviving examples of Mauryan imperial craftsmanship.
Q119. Around which year did Chandragupta Maurya establish the Mauryan Empire?
[SSC CHSL, 2025]
A. 621 BCE
B. 521 BCE
C. 421 BCE
D. 321 BCE
Answer: D. 321 BCE
Explanation: Chandragupta established Mauryan power around 322–321 BCE after overthrowing the Nandas, beginning a dynasty that would dominate much of the subcontinent.
Q118. What is a notable feature associated with the Ashokan pillar at Sanchi?
[MP Police Constable, 2025]
A. Four-lion capital
B. Gupta-era frescoes
C. Dravidian gopuram
D. Persian cuneiform
Answer: A. Four-lion capital
Explanation: Ashokan pillars formed an important element of Mauryan monumental art. Animal capitals, including lions, symbolized royal authority and Ashoka’s proclamation of Dhamma.
Q117. Which ruler’s administration is noted for its highly centralized structure?
[SSC CGL, 2025]
A. Harshavardhana
B. Samudragupta
C. Chandragupta Maurya
D. Pulakeshin II
Answer: C. Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Chandragupta established a centralized imperial government supported by ministers, provincial officers, tax collectors, military departments and an extensive intelligence network.
Q116. Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire in approximately:
[RRB NTPC UG, 2025]
A. 350 BCE
B. 375 BCE
C. 300 BCE
D. 322 BCE
Answer: D. 322 BCE
Explanation: The conventional chronology places the foundation of the Mauryan Empire around 322 BCE, following Chandragupta’s successful overthrow of the Nanda dynasty in Magadha.
Q115. The early stupas at Sanchi and Sarnath are especially associated with which imperial period?
[RRB NTPC UG, 2025]
A. Mauryan
B. Gupta
C. Chola
D. Mughal
Answer: A. Mauryan
Explanation: Ashoka’s patronage initiated major Buddhist construction at sites such as Sanchi and Sarnath. Many structures were enlarged and decorated by subsequent dynasties.
Q114. The Lion Capital at Sarnath was erected under which Mauryan ruler?
[RRB NTPC UG, 2025]
A. Chandragupta Maurya
B. Bindusara
C. Ashoka
D. Brihadratha
Answer: C. Ashoka
Explanation: The polished sandstone Lion Capital crowned an Ashokan pillar at Sarnath. Its four lions were later adopted as the State Emblem of independent India.
Q113. Which Mauryan emperor is associated with an elaborate espionage system described in ancient sources?
[SSC Stenographer, 2025]
A. Chandragupta Maurya
B. Harsha
C. Kanishka
D. Samudragupta
Answer: A. Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: The Mauryan state used networks of secret agents to gather intelligence and monitor officials and subjects, a system described extensively in the Arthashastra.
Q112. Who founded the Mauryan dynasty?
[SSC Stenographer, 2025]
A. Ashoka
B. Bindusara
C. Chandragupta Maurya
D. Pushyamitra Shunga
Answer: C. Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Chandragupta founded the Mauryan dynasty after defeating the last Nanda ruler. His reign created the political foundation later expanded by Bindusara and Ashoka.
Q111. Which script was widely used during the Mauryan period and especially in Ashokan inscriptions?
[RRB NTPC, 2025]
A. Brahmi
B. Devanagari
C. Grantha
D. Sharada
Answer: A. Brahmi
Explanation: Brahmi was the principal script used in most Ashokan inscriptions. Its successful decipherment by James Prinsep revolutionized the study of India’s early historical period.
