Date : 19-02-2025

VAJIRAO IAS ACADEMY

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OPSC PRELIMS TEST SERIES - 2024

Test - 1
Ancient History and Art & Culture
Time Allowed : One Hour Maximum Marks : 100

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1. In the Gupta empire, Paramabhattaraka was a 5. Match the following kingdoms with their
hydrological contributions.
(a) Council of Peace and conflict
(b) Minister for foreign affairs Kingdom Contribution
(c) In charge of granaries A. Mauryan 1. Introduced
(d) Title adopted by Gupta Kings waterwheels for
advanced
irrigation
2. Consider the following statements regarding
B. Satavahanas 2. Developed
early vedic period. hydraulic
1. Only male gods like Prithvi, Agni, Vayu, infrastructure
Varuna, and Indra were worshipped. during drought
2. There were no temples and no idol worship C. Cholas 3. Built Grand
Anicut and vast
during the early Vedic period. canal systems
Which of the above statements is/are correct? D. Gupta 4. Promoted
(a) 1 only rainwater
(b) 2 only harvesting
systems
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Select the correct answer code.
(a) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
3. Consider the following statements regarding (b) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
Sambhal Mosque. (c) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
(d) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
1. The Sambhal Mosque was constructed during
the reign of Mughal Emperor Babur. 6. Consider the following statements regarding
2. The architecture of the mosque is entirely the Vijayanagara Empire’s contributions to
unique and bears no resemblance to other hydrology.
1. The Vijayanagara rulers built reservoirs by
Mughal-era mosques.
damming rivers and streams.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? 2. The Tungabhadra tank system remains a
(a) 1 only significant feat of ancient water engineering.
(b) 2 only 3. Irrigation projects were aimed at sustaining
agricultural production and preventing droughts.
(c) Both 1 and 2
4. The Vijayanagara Empire pioneered the karez
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 system for groundwater extraction.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
4. Consider the following statements about the (a) Only one
Sanchi Stupa. (b) Only two
(c) Only three
1. It was commissioned during the Satavahana (d) All four
period.
2. It includes inscriptions in Brahmi and Gupta 7. Consider the following statements.
scripts. 1. The Eklingji Temple in Rajasthan has remained
untouched by invasions throughout its history.
3. The paradakshinapatha is meant for
2. The temple complex is built entirely of
circumambulation of the stupa by devotees. sandstone and features minimal decorative
How many of the above statements is/are correct? carvings.
(a) Only one Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) Only two
(b) 2 only
(c) All three (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) None (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1
8. Which of the following is a defining feature of 12. Consider the following statements about
Neolithic sites in India? Lothal.
1. Lothal is the northernmost Indus Valley
(a) Megalithic burial structures
Civilization site.
(b) Painted rock shelters 2. It was known for its bead-making and maritime
(c) Extensive iron tools for agriculture trade industries.
(d) Ash mounds from ritualistic burning 3. The dockyard at Lothal linked it to ancient
trade routes.
4. Lothal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Consider the following statements regarding
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
the historical development of the Kumbh Mela. (a) 1 and 4 only
1. The Kumbh Mela gained prominence solely (b) 2, 3, and 4 only
during the Gupta period as Hinduism spread. (c) 1, 2, and 4 only
2. The Chola dynasty in South India supported (d) 2 and 3 only
the Kumbh Mela, contributing to its growth.
13. Consider the following statements regarding
3. British colonial documentation in the 19th the criteria for Classical Language Status in
century recorded the socio-religious significance India?
of the Kumbh Mela. 1. The language must have a documented history
4. Emperor Akbar banned the participation of of at least 1,500–2,000 years.
Hindu religious groups in Kumbh Mela events. 2. The language must have an original literary
tradition distinct from borrowed influences.
Which of the above statements is correct? 3. The Classical Language status can only be
(a) 1 and 2 only granted to languages spoken by a majority
(b) 2 and 3 only population in India.
(c) 3 only How many of the above statements is/are correct?
(d) 1, 2, and 4 only (a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
10. Consider the following statements about the (d) None
Māori haka.
1. It is exclusively a war dance performed only by 14. Consider the following statements regarding
men. the Bahmani and Vijayanagar kingdoms.
1. The Bahmani kingdom was known for its
2. Haka is used solely during battles to intimidate religious tolerance and patronage of various
opponents. faiths.
3. It involves vigorous movements, rhythmic 2. The Vijayanagar kingdom fell in the 17th
chanting, and body-slapping. century mainly due to invasions by the Mughal
Which of the above statements is/are correct? Empire.
3. Gulbarga served as the capital of the Bahmani
(a) 1 only kingdom before it was shifted to Bidar.
(b) 2 only Which of the above statements are correct?
(c) 3 only (a) 1 only
(d) None of the above (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above
11. Consider the following statements regarding
Brihadeeswarar Temple’s architectural features. 15. Consider the following statements about the
1. The stupika on the vimana is square-shaped, Konark Sun Temple.
reflecting early Chola design principles. 1. The temple was constructed in the 13th
2. The temple lacks any gopuras (gateway towers) century under the rule of King Narasimhadeva I of
the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
in its complex.
2. It is designed as a colossal chariot with seven
3. Its inscriptions primarily document myths and wheels on each side, symbolizing the Sun God’s
legends, with no references to historical events or chariot.
rituals. 3. The temple was primarily constructed using
Which of the above statements is/are correct? Khondalite stones.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 only
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only
(d) None of the above (d) 1, 2, and 3
2
16. Consider the following statements about the 20. Bela block printing is traditionally practiced
Satavahana dynasty’s contribution to the Sanchi in which Indian state?
Stupa. (a) Telangana
1. The Satavahana dynasty is credited with (b) Gujarat
adding the toranas (gateways) around the Great (c) Madhya Pradesh
Stupa. (d) Uttar Pradesh
2. The Satavahana kings constructed new stupas
at Sanchi as a sign of their devotion to Buddhism.
21. Xuan Zang visited India during the reign of
3. The carvings on the Satavahana-built toranas
which Indian ruler?
feature scenes of royal conquests and battles.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Ashoka
(a) 1 only (b) Chandragupta Maurya
(b) 1 and 3 only (c) Harsha
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) Samudragupta
(d) 1, 2, and 3
22. Consider the following pairs.
17. The Chola dynasty, particularly under
Rajendra I, used the Andaman Islands for which Institutions of Location
purpose? Ancient
(a) As a penal colony Learning
(b) As a trading post 1. Vikramshila : Odisha
(c) For naval expeditions against the Srivijaya 2. Valabhi : Gujarat
Empire
3. Jagaddala : Bihar
(d) To spread Buddhism

18. Consider the following statements about the How many of the above pairs is/are correct?
Indus Valley Civilization. (a) Only one
1. It was a Bronze Age civilization that thrived in (b) Only two
the northwestern regions of South Asia. (c) All three
2. The Indus script used by the civilization has (d) None
been fully deciphered.
3. Sites of the Indus Valley Civilization have been 23. Consider the following statements about Raja
found in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Ravi Varma.
How many of the above statements is/are correct? 1. He is often referred to as the "Father of Modern
(a) Only one Indian Art."
(b) Only two 2. He was born in France and later moved to
(c) All three India.
(d) None 3. He created an epic painting “Shakuntala
searching for Dushyanta”.
19. Match the following ancient civilizations with
How many of the above statements are correct?
their unique characteristics.
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
Civilization Unique Feature
(c) All three
a. Indus Valley 1. Ziggurats and
palaces (d) None
b. Mesopotamia 2. Polytheistic
worship of 24. Consider the following statements about
mother Hampi’s Virupaksha Temple.
goddesses 1. The Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord
c. Nile (Egypt) 3. Oracle bone Shiva.
script 2. It was built during the reign of the Hoysala
d. Yellow River 4. Hieroglyphic Empire.
writing 3. The temple complex includes a notable tall
gopuram that serves as an architectural marvel.
Options: How many of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) a-4, b-1, c-3, d-2 (a) Only one
(b) a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4 (b) Only two
(c) a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2 (c) All three
(d) a-2, b-1, c-4, d-3 (d) None
3
25. The current white marble dome of the Ajmer 29. With reference to the history of India, consider
Sharif Dargah was built during the reign of which the following statement.
of the following Mughal emperors? 1. Buddha was not depicted in the form of an
(a) Humayun image or sculpture in the 5th/6th Century BCE.
2. Gupta Period Art featured the first
(b) Akbar
Buddharupa.
(c) Jahangir
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) Aurangzeb
correct?
(a) 1 only
26. With reference to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, (b) 2 only
which of the following statements is/are correct? (c) Both 1 and 2
1. Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya was one of his (d) Neither 1 nor 2
prominent disciples.
2. He earned the title Garib Nawaz for his selfless 30. With reference to the Khandagiri & Udayagiri
service. Caves, which of the following statements is/are
Select the correct answer using the code given correct?
below. 1. The rock cut caves were built by King
Kharavela of the Meghavahana dynasty.
(a) 1 only
2. The caves were built for the Buddhist monks
(b) 2 only
and offered them a place to stay and meditate.
(c) Both 1 and 2 Select the correct answer using the code given
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 below.
(a) 1 only
27. Which among the following temples are part of (b) 2 only
the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, declared a (c) Both 1 and 2
World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2023? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. Mamallapuram Shore Temple
2. Hoysaleswara temple at Halebidu 31. With reference to Harappan Sites, Consider
3. Chennakeshava temple at Belur the following pairs.
4. Keshava temple at Somanathapura, Mysore
Harappan Sites Rivers
Select the correct answer using the code given
1. Mohenjo-Daro : Indus
below.
2. Lothal : Sarswati
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
3. Harappa : Ravi
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only How many of the above pairs are correctly
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 matched?
(a) Only one pair
28. With reference to Indian paintings, Consider (b) Only two pairs
the following pairs. (c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs
Paintings Region
1. Basohli Painting : Tamil Nadu 32. Consider the following statements.
2. Warli Painting : Assam 1. Lingyats are the members of the Hindu sect
having a wide following in the Southern part of
3. Madhubani : Bihar
India.
Painting 2. They are the worshippers of Shiva.
3. Lingayats have rejected the Vedas and the
How many of the above pairs are correctly caste system.
matched? Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one pair (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) Only two pairs (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) All three pairs (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the pairs (d) 1, 2 and 3
4
33. With reference to the Vishnupad Temple, 37. With reference to Panchatantra, which of the
consider the following statements. following statements is/are correct?
1. It is located on the banks of the Falgu river. 1. It is a collection of interrelated animal fables in
2. It was built in 1787 on the orders of Queen
Sanskrit verse and prose.
Ahilyabai Holkar.
2. It was authored by Vishnu Sharma.
3. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How many of the statements given above are Select the correct answer using the code given
correct? below.
(a) Only one (a) 1 only
(b) Only two (b) 2 only
(c) All three (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) None (d) Neither 1 nor 2

34. Consider the following statements.

38. With reference to the given literary work,
1. Fire worship is mentioned in Rigvedic texts.
2. Rigvedic texts mention the use of Iron. Consider the following pairs.
3. The Atharvaveda is a collection of magic spells
and charms to ward off the evil spirits and Literary Work Author
diseases. 1. Ramcharitmanas : Vishnu Sharma
How many of the statements given above are 2. Panchatantra : Acharya
correct? Anandvardhan
(a) Only one
3. Sahṛdayāloka- : Tulsidas
(b) Only two
(c) All three Locana
(d) None
How many of the above pairs are correctly
35. With reference to Indian temples, Consider matched?
the following pairs. (a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
Temple Region (c) All three pairs
1. Kheer Bhawani : Jammu and
(d) None of the pairs
temple Kashmir
2. Kamakhya : Assam
Temple 39. With reference to the history of ancient India,
3. Lingaraj Temple : Tamil Nadu the terms like Raksha, Vriddhi, Palana, and
Yogakshema were related to:
How many of the above pairs are correctly (a) Agricultural Produce
matched? (b) Treasury and Finance
(a) Only one pair (c) Military Affairs
(b) Only two pairs (d) Corporate Governance
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs
40. With reference to the Khajuraho Group of
36. With reference to the ancient Nalanda Monuments, which of the following statements
University, which of the following statements is/are correct?
is/are correct? 1. It was built by Pallava rulers during the 7th
1. It was established in the 5th century by the century.
Gupta ruler Skandagupta I. 2. The Temple of Kandariya Mahadev is one of the
2. The site after its decline was first discovered by finest temples of the Khajuraho group.
Sir Francis Buchanan. Select the correct answer using the code given
Select the correct answer using the code given
below.
below.
(a) 1 only (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
5
41. With reference to the Hastal Minar, consider 45. With reference to the Sindhudurg Fort, which
the following statements. of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It stands on a square platform with an 1. The fort is located in the Konkan region of
Maharashtra.
octagonal body.
2. The fort was built in the 17th century by
2. The design of the tower resembles the Qutub Peshwa baji Rao I, the ruler of Maratha Empire.
Minar of Delhi. Select the correct answer using the code given
Which of the statements given above is/are below.
correct? (a) 1 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 46. Anekantavada, recognizing the multifaceted
nature of reality and respecting diverse
42. It is a style of temple architecture in which perspectives is a philosophy propounded by which
the idol of the deity rests in the garbha griha of the following religions in India?
(sanctum sanctorum), towering over the garbha (a) Buddhism
griha is the shikhara. (b) Jainism
Which among the following Style of Temple (c) Ajivikas
(d) Lokayatas
Architecture is described above?
(a) Dravidian Style 47. With reference to Indian festivals, Consider
(b) Kalinga Architecture the following pairs.
(c) Nagara Style
(d) None Festivals State
1. Kathi Bihu : Assam
43. Consider the following pairs. 2. Shigmo : Karnataka
3. Dree : Arunachal
Pradesh
Toys State
1. Galar Putul : Andhra Pradesh How many of the above pairs are correctly
2. Thigda dhingla : Gujarat matched?
3. Etikoppaka : Tamil Nadu (a) Only one pair
bommalu (b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs
How many of the above pairs are correctly
matched? 48. With reference to the religious practices in
(a) Only one pair India, the ‘Samvatsari’ and ‘Pratikraman’ belong
(b) Only two pairs to which of the following?
(c) All three pairs (a) Jainism
(d) None of the pairs (b) Buddhism
(c) Shaivism
44. With reference to the Kadamba inscription in (d) Vaishnavism
Indian history, sometimes appeared in the news,
49. Consider the following statements with
consider the following statements. reference to Bharatanatyam.
1. It highlighted the historical and socio-cultural 1. It is the first of India’s traditional dances to be
importance of Pandya rulers. refashioned as a theatre art .
2. Its epigraph is engraved in Tamil and Nagari 2. The music of Bharatanatyam belongs to the
characters. Carnatic system of southern India.
Which of the statements given above is/are 3. Bharatanatyam is performed only by female
artists .
correct?
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 3
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 3 only
6
50. He is credited with establishing the Advaita
Vedanta School of Hindu philosophy. He
composed devotional and meditative hymns like
Soundarya Lahari, Sivananda Lahari, Nirvana
Shalkam, Maneesha Panchakam and also
authored books on the fundamentals of the
Advaita philosophy. Which one of the following
philosophers has been described above?
(a) Madhvacharya
(b) Adi Shankaracharya
(c) Vallabhacharya
(d) Ramanujacharya

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