Mauryan and Post Mauryan Empire is important part of Ancient Indian History and its syllabus. Previous Year Question (PYQ) papers are invaluable resources for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. In this article we present important PYQ on Mauryan Empire and Post Mauryan Empire.
UPSC PYQ on Mauryan Empire
Q- Which of the following phrases defines the nature of the ‘Hundi’ generally referred to in the sources of the post-Harsha period? (2020)
(a) An advisory issued by the king to his subordinates
(b) A diary to be maintained for daily accounts
(c) A bill of exchange
(d) An order from the feudal lord to his subordinates
Answer- Option C
EXPLANATION
The Hundi emerged as a financial tool during Medieval India, serving various purposes in trade and credit transactions. It functioned as a means of remittance, enabling the transfer of funds between locations, as well as a credit instrument for borrowing money.
Learn how to structure your answers properly from here.
Q- Who among the following rulers advised his subjects through this inscription? (2020)
“Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely.”
(a) Ashoka
(b) Samudragupta
(c) Harshavardhana
(a) Krishnadeva Raya
Answer- Option A
EXPLANATION
Ashoka is acknowledged for promoting the principles of the Buddhist faith. His dhamma, or way of life, did not include worship of deities or sacrificial rituals, emphasizing instead a paternal duty towards his subjects. Ashoka’s edicts and inscriptions provided guidance on religious matters, particularly Buddhism, and outlined regulations for the conduct of Bhikshuks, or Buddhist monks.
Q- Which one of the following books of Ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of the Sunga Dynasty? (2016)
(a) Swapnavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
Malavikagnimitra is a Sanskrit play penned by Kalidasa during the 5th century CE. It recounts the romantic tale of King Agnimitra, who ruled as the Shunga Emperor in Vidisha. Agnimitra was the offspring of Pushyamitra Shunga, the progenitor of the Sunga dynasty. Kalidasa, widely regarded as the foremost playwright of his time, skillfully explores the theme of love in its myriad expressions within the narrative.
Q- The national motto of India, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from (2014)
(a) Katha Upanishad
(b) Chandogya Upanishad
(c) Aitareya Upanishad
(d) Mundaka Upanishad
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
The national motto of India, “Satyameva Jayate,” which is inscribed beneath the Emblem of India, originates from the Mundaka Upanishad. This motto translates to “Truth Alone Triumphs” and is written in the Devanagari script.
Q- The Chinese traveller Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) who visited India recorded the general conditions and culture of India at that time. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2013)
- The roads and river-routes were completely immune from robbery.
- As regards punishment for offences, ordeals by fire, water and poison were the instruments for determining the innocence or guilt of a person.
- The tradesmen had to pay duties at ferries and barrier stations.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
Yuan Chwang, also known as Hiuen Tsang, documented various aspects of India during his travels. He noted the diversity in housing materials such as wood, bricks, and dung, and observed that city streets were often dirty and laid out in circular patterns. He observed the cycle of old cities being replaced by new ones. Notable cities like Prayag and Kannauj were hubs of activity, hosting important assemblies.
Nalanda and Valabhi stood out as significant centers of Buddhist education. Indians were known for their attire made from cotton, silk, and wool, and were avid enthusiasts of education, literature, and the arts. Hiuen Tsang admired Emperor Harsha and his administration, although he remarked on the severity of criminal law and the prevalence of robbery despite it.
Emperor Harsha maintained a formidable army, and while taxation was relatively lenient, traders faced minor duties at checkpoints. Vegetarianism was common, and Indian society was structured along caste lines, with women generally respected. The dominance of the Brahmanical religion was evident, and Sanskrit was the language of the educated elite.
Also read about UPSC PYQ on Gupta Period and Indus Valley Civilization.