Question 1 of 5
Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: 1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene. 2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India. 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
Why: The Indus Valley Civilization is considered predominantly secular, with limited evidence of religious dominance such as small figurines and no large temples like in later civilizations. Cotton was indeed cultivated and used for textiles, as evidenced by impressions on seals and cloth fragments found at Mohenjo-Daro. Both statements are correct, corresponding to option C[1].
Question 2 of 5
The “dharma” and “rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements: 1. Dharma stands for the execution of correct policies in normal time. 2. Rita stands for normal functioning of the universe as per natural laws. 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
Why: In Vedic thought, 'Rita' refers to the cosmic order and natural laws governing the universe, including moral and ritual order. 'Dharma' evolved later to mean righteous duty, not just policy execution in normal times. Only statement 2 is correct, so option B[1].
Question 3 of 5
With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin. 2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics. 3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition. How many of the statements given above are correct?
A
Only one
B
Only two
C
All three
D
None
Why: Stupas originated in Buddhism as hemispherical structures containing relics of Buddha or saints. They served votive (offering) and commemorative purposes, marking sacred sites. All three statements are correct, so option C[4].
Question 4 of 5
“Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects.” The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?
A
Buddhism
B
Jainism
C
Shaivism
D
Vaishnavism
Why: Jainism teaches animism, where all substances including rocks, water, plants, and air possess jiva (soul). This extends non-violence (ahimsa) to all matter, distinguishing it from other sects. Option B[4].
Question 5 of 5
With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts: 1. Nettipakarana 2. Parishishtaparvan 3. Avadanashataka 4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana Which of the above are Jaina texts?
A
1, 2 and 3
B
2 and 4 only
C
1, 3 and 4
D
2, 3 and 4
Why: Parishishtaparvan by Hemachandra and Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana by Somadeva Suri are Jaina texts detailing lives of Tirthankaras. Nettipakarana is Buddhist, Avadanashataka is Mahayana Buddhist. Only 2 and 4, option B[4].
