Different terms from medieval history is important part of 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 terms from Medieval History.
UPSC PYQ on terms from Medieval History
Q- In medieval India, the term “Fanam” referred to: (2022)
(a) Clothing
(b)Coins
(c) Ornaments
(d) Weapons
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
Fanam, a gold currency exclusively utilized in Southern India during the 17th to 19th centuries, derives its name from the Europeanized adaptation of the term “Panam,” which signifies coinage.
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Q- With reference to Indian history, who of the following were known as “Kulah-Daran” ? (2022)
(a) Arab merchants
(b) Qalandars
(c) Persian calligraphists
(d) Sayyids
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
During the Delhi Sultanate era, the Sayyids, who were part of the theological class, were known as Kulah-Daran, meaning cap-wearers. This term distinguished them from other theologians, commonly known as Dastar-bandan or turban-wearers, who typically wore turbans as their official headgear.
Q- With reference to the history of India, the terms “kulyavapa” and “dronavapa” denote (2020)
(a) measurement of land
(b) coins of different monetary value
(c) classification of urban land
(d) religious rituals
Answer- Option A
EXPLANATION
Agricultural crops formed the primary output of society, providing the bulk of the state’s revenue through agriculture. Inscriptions refer to various types of land: cultivated land was commonly termed Kshetra, uncultivable land as Khila, jungle or forest land as Aprahata, pasture land as Gopata Sarah, and habitable land as Vasti. Different regions used different land measures, including Nivartana, Kulyavapa, and Dronavapa.
Q- Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally (2016)
(a) agriculturists
(b) warriors
(c) weavers
(d) traders
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Banjaras were primarily traders during this period of Indian history. They played a significant role during the reign of Alauddin Khalji, who utilized them to transport grain to urban markets. Emperor Jahangir mentioned in his memoirs that Banjaras were responsible for transporting grain on their bullocks from various regions to sell in towns.
Q- In medieval India, the designations ‘Mahattara’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used for
(a) military officers
(b) village headmen
(c) specialists in Vedic rituals
(d) chiefs of craft guilds
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
In medieval India, the designations ‘Mahattara’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used for village headmen.
Also read about UPSC PYQ on Mauryan Period and Vedic Culture.