Vedic Period 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 Vedic Period.
UPSC PYQ on Vedic Period
Q- The “dharma” and “rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India, In this context, consider the following statements: (2011)
- Dharma was a conception of obligations and of the discharge of one’s duties to oneself and to others.
- Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a.) 1 only
(b.) 2 only
(c.) Both 1 and 2
(d.) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer- Option C
EXPLANATION
The development of Hinduism from the ancient Vedic religion introduced concepts such as Rita, which evolved into the principles of dharma (duty) and karma (the consequences of actions).
Rita represents the cosmic order, the sacrificial order, and the moral law of the universe. The proper functioning of the universe, including the movements of the sun, moon, and seasons, is believed to be governed by Rita, protected by Varuna with the assistance of Mitra. Dharma, an ancient Indian concept encompassing law and religion, was equated with justice and determined by righteous kings or Dharma Rajas. It is viewed as a path of action leading to physical and spiritual well-being in both this life and the afterlife, while deviation from dharma results in spiritual decline known as “Adharma.”
Therefore, statement 1 is accurate in depicting the significance of dharma in the Vedic tradition, while statement 2 correctly explains the concept of Rita and its importance in Vedic religion.
Q- The religion of early Vedic Aryans was primarily of
(a) Bhakti
(b) image worship and Yajnas
(c) worship of nature and Yajnas
(d) worship of nature and Bhakti
Answer- Option C
EXPLANATION
During the early Vedic period, the primary religious practices of the Aryans revolved around the veneration of nature and the performance of Yajnas.
Also read about UPSC PYQ on Buddhism and Jainism and Gupta Period