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Daily-static-mcqs 12 Feb 2024

Daily Static MCQs for UPSC & State PSC Exams - History 12 Feb 2024

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Daily Static MCQs for UPSC & State PSC Exams - History

Q1:

Consider the following statements:

1. The idol of Yakshini found from Didarganj in Patna is made of white marble.

2. Ashoka Pillar is engraved on monolithic stones.

3. The lion head of the Sarnath pillar is considered an excellent example of Mauryan sculpture.

How many of the above statements are correct?

A: Only one

B: Only two

C: All three

D: None

Answer: B

Explanation:

The idol of Yakshini found from Didarganj in Patna is not made of marble but of sandstone. It is also called Chamargrahini idol, because this idol is standing holding a chamar (fan) in its hand, its body configuration is balanced and proportional. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.


The Ashoka pillars are carved from a single stone. Most of these pillars are made of sandstone, but some are also made of granite or other stones. The height of the Ashoka pillars ranges from 15 to 30 meters. These include a majestic group of four lions located at the top, which is called the "Lion Capital of Ashoka". Ashoka's inscriptions are also engraved on these pillars, which provide information about the principles of Buddhism and Ashoka's rule over his empire. Hence, statement 2 is correct.


The Maurya period pillar top found in Sarnath, popularly known as the lion capital, is the best example of the Maurya period sculpture tradition. It is also our national symbol today. It has been carved with great care. Large statues of four roaring lions are installed on its circular altar and at the bottom of the altar; horses, bulls, deer etc. have been carved in dynamic postures, which clearly shows the excellent skill of the sculptor. This pillar top is the standard symbol of the 'Dhammachakrapravartana' and marks a great historical event in the life of the Buddha. Hence statement 3 is correct.


Q2:

What does the word 'Panchayatan' refer to in the context of the cultural history of India?

A: Business group

B: Religious sect

C: Administrative Officer

D: A style of temple construction

Answer: D

Explanation:

In the context of the cultural history of India, the term "panchayatana" designates a style of temple construction. In this style, there is a main shrine on a rectangular platform, surrounded by four subsidiary shrines. These five temples together are called "Panchayatan".


Q3:

Regarding prehistoric rock paintings, consider the following statements:

1. Its evidence comes from the cave paintings of Bhimbetka.

2. In prehistoric times, artists used many colors to make paintings.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A: 1 only

B: 2 only

C: Both 1 and 2

D: Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

Prehistoric rock paintings are paintings made on rocks, caves or other natural surfaces from a time before recorded history. These paintings depict humans, animals, religious symbols, geometric shapes and other subjects.


Evidence of prehistoric rock paintings is found in the cave paintings of Bhimbetka. Bhimbetka is in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It was discovered by Dr V.A. Wakankar in the year 1957-58.


Artists used many colors to create prehistoric rock paintings. Colors like red, green, white, black etc. have been used by the artists in these paintings.


 


Q4:

Regarding Virupaksha Temple, consider the following statements:

1. Virupaksha Temple is located in Hampi, Karnataka.

2. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

3. Virupaksha Temple has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How many of the above statements are correct?

A: Only one

B: Only two

C: All three

D: None

Answer: C

Explanation:

Virupaksha Temple is a holy place and historical site located in Hampi, Karnataka state. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is known here as Virupaksha. The Virupaksha Temple was established in the 7th century, but its present form was built in the 14th century during the Vijayanagara Empire. This temple is built in Dravidian architectural style. The gopuram (main entrance) of the Virupaksha temple is 50 meters high. A huge Shivalinga of Lord Shiva is installed in the garbhagriha of the temple. Many other temples and monuments are also located around the temple. Virupaksha Temple has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is one of the most important religious and historical sites of India. Hence all the three statements are correct.


Q5:

Consider the following statements:

1. In India, the most famous sites of prehistoric rock paintings include Bhimbetka, Piklihal and Tekkalkota.

2. Pikalihal and Tekkalkota are located in Karnataka state.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A: 1 only

B: 2 only

C: Both 1 and 2

D: Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

Prehistoric rock paintings are found throughout the world, but they are especially common in Europe, Asia, and Africa. In India, the most famous sites of prehistoric rock paintings include Bhimbetka, Piklihal and Tekkalkota.


Bhimbetka is located in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, while Pikalihal and Tekkalkota are located in Karnataka state. Hence both the above statements are correct.