CivilsIASPrep.comUPSC PYQs: History & Culture
Review complete published questions grouped by subject: History & Culture.
Other qualifying subject groups
- Agriculture72 published questions
- Analytical Ability7 published questions
- Ancient History7 published questions
- Art & Culture28 published questions
- Art and Culture5 published questions
- Bandaya Literature3 published questions
- Basic Numeracy63 published questions
- Communication Skills6 published questions
- CSAT862 published questions
- Cultural History68 published questions
- Current Affairs18 published questions
- Dalit Literature12 published questions
- Dalit-Bandaya Literature6 published questions
- Dasa Literature26 published questions
- Data Interpretation5 published questions
- Disaster Management18 published questions
- Drama2 published questions
- Economy172 published questions
- Economy & Agriculture2 published questions
- Economy & Social Development45 published questions
- Education5 published questions
- Energy3 published questions
- Environment61 published questions
- Environment & Ecology231 published questions
- Essay5 published questions
- Ethics233 published questions
- Ethics Case Study12 published questions
- Feminist Literature2 published questions
- Folklore34 published questions
- General Studies115 published questions
- Geography239 published questions
- Geography & Agriculture16 published questions
- Governance64 published questions
- History81 published questions
- History & Art and Culture22 published questions
- History & Culture147 published questions
- Indian Economy95 published questions
- Indian Economy & Development21 published questions
- Indian Polity37 published questions
- Indian Polity & Governance116 published questions
- Indian Society10 published questions
- Infrastructure3 published questions
- Internal Security56 published questions
- International Relations115 published questions
- International Relations & Current Affairs9 published questions
- International Relations & Security9 published questions
- Kannada Linguistics37 published questions
- Kannada Literary History4 published questions
- Kannada Literature111 published questions
- Literary Criticism35 published questions
- Literary Theory4 published questions
- Logical Reasoning76 published questions
- Medieval History9 published questions
- Medieval Kannada Literature52 published questions
- Modern History8 published questions
- Modern India History7 published questions
- Modern Indian History18 published questions
- Modern Kannada Drama12 published questions
- Modern Kannada Literature39 published questions
- Modern Kannada Novel9 published questions
- Modern Kannada Poetry3 published questions
- Modern Kannada Prose8 published questions
- Modern Kannada Short Story6 published questions
- Numeracy64 published questions
- Old Kannada Literature38 published questions
- Philosophy12 published questions
- Poetics33 published questions
- Polity153 published questions
- Polity & Governance67 published questions
- Post-Independence History2 published questions
- Post-Independence India6 published questions
- Progressive Literature7 published questions
- Quantitative Aptitude62 published questions
- Reading Comprehension120 published questions
- Reasoning44 published questions
- Science & Technology251 published questions
- Social Issues8 published questions
- Social Justice45 published questions
- Society92 published questions
- Urbanization2 published questions
- Vachana Literature32 published questions
- World History11 published questions
Questions
- Which Carnatic raga corresponds most closely to the natural-major-scale character of Hindustani Raga Bilawal?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian classical music
- Why did the British Government favour the rupee–sterling exchange rate recommended by the Hilton-Young Commission in 1926?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Colonial economy
- Pali literature names coin denominations such as kahapana and nikkha, while archaeology has recovered standardized silver punch-marked coins. These two forms of evidence are associated with which developments?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient economy
- Identify the temples in the list that display a Nagara-type curvilinear shikhara: 1. Malegitti Shivalaya, Badami; 2. Huchimalligudi, Aihole; 3. Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh; 4. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal.2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Temple architecture
- Which of the following is not one of Jainism's four principal gatis or forms of rebirth/existence?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Jainism
- The Hallisalasya scene in the Bagh Caves is best identified as which subject?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient painting
- Consider statements on India's place-value notation: 1. The Mankani plates of Gujarat (595–596 CE) provide an early epigraphic example. 2. By the ninth century place-value notation became widespread in Indian inscriptions. 3. Sanskrit inscriptions in Southeast Asia show such notation from the seventh century. Which are correct?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · History of mathematics
- Harappan archaeology shows many spindle whorls in houses but no spinning wheels; standardized graduated weights/scales; and substantial baked-brick houses with private wells and baths. Which inferences follow? 1. Household spinning was labour intensive. 2. Standardized measures reflect substantial technical knowledge. 3. Such houses demonstrate a common-property system.2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Harappan civilization
- Which comparison between the Eka Movement and Bardoli Satyagraha is accurate?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National movement
- Rigvedic references are used to support irrigation from wells and use of draught power to lift water. Which evidence supports these propositions? 1. References to devices such as stone pulley wheels and wooden pails. 2. References to axes and sickles. 3. Pre-Rigvedic use of oxen for ploughing and carts.2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Rigvedic economy
- In early aniconic Buddhist art, what does an empty throne or seat generally symbolize?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhist iconography
- Which ancient-to-modern river-name pairing is correctly matched?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Vedic geography
- Regarding the Amaravati Stupa and its sculptural tradition, consider: 1. It stood in the lower Krishna valley. 2. It was smaller than Sanchi and second to it in size. 3. Amaravati art influenced later southern traditions and travelled to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Which are correct?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhist art
- Which king–dynasty match from early historical Tamilakam is incorrect? 1. Senguttuvan–Chera 2. Udiyanjeral–Chola 3. Nedunjeliyan–Pandya2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Sangam age
- Which factors contributed to Subhas Chandra Bose forming the Forward Bloc in 1939? 1. Failure to secure Gandhi's confidence. 2. Disunity of the Congress Left. 3. Complete non-support from Communists as the decisive cause. 4. Royists and socialist leaders prioritized Congress unity over Bose.2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National movement
- Immediately after the British annexed Awadh in 1856, consider: 1. Taluqdars were dispossessed but allowed to keep arms and forts. 2. The Summary Settlement treated taluqdars largely as outside intermediaries. 3. British policy sought direct revenue relations with cultivators/villages by bypassing taluqdars. Which are correct?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Awadh annexation
- Why did the Montagu-Chelmsford constitutional framework encourage political alliances organized around community? Consider: 1. Separate electorates were retained and extended. 2. Such electorates fragmented an increasingly strong nationalism. 3. Communities and disadvantaged groups organized around the political safeguards/benefits created by separate representation.2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Constitutional reforms
- Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur, the renowned Karnataka-born Hindustani vocalist, is associated primarily with which gharana?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian music
- The expression kshetra-patni, literally 'mistress/lady of the field', is associated with which ancient text?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Vedic literature
- The UNESCO-listed Moidams created under the Tai-Ahom kingdom were principally what?2026 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Moidams
- Consider the following statements about Raja Ram Mohan Roy: I. He possessed great love and respect for the traditional philosophical systems of the East. II. He desired his countrymen to accept the rational and scientific approach and the principle of human dignity and social equality of all men and women. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Consider the following subjects with regard to Non-Cooperation Programme: I. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth II. Observance of strict non-violence III. Retention of titles and honours without using them in public IV. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes. How many of the above were parts of Non-Cooperation Programme?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- The irrigation device called'Araghatta' was2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- Who among the following rulers in ancient India had assumed the titles 'Mattavilasa', 'Vichitrachitta' and 'Gunabhara'?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- Fa-hien(Faxian), the Chinese pilgrim, travelled to India during the reign of2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime State, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and the neighbouring islands?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- With reference to ancient India(600–322 BC), consider the following pairs: Territorial Region - River. I. Asmaka: Godavari II. Kamboja: Vipas III. Avanti: Mahanadi IV. Kosala: Sarayu. How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- The first Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, a music training school, was set up in 1901 by Vishnu Digambar Paluskar in:2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Ashokan inscriptions suggest that the 'Pradeshika', 'Rajuka' and 'Yukta' were important officers at the:2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient History
- Consider the following statements in respect of the Non-Cooperation Movement: I. The Congress declared the attainment of 'Swaraj' by all legitimate and peaceful means to be its objective. II. It was to be implemented in stages with civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes for the next stage only if 'Swaraj' did not come within a year and the Government resorted to repression. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Who amongst the following are members of the Jury to select the recipient of 'Gandhi Peace Prize'? I. The President of India II. The Prime Minister of India III. The Chief Justice of India IV. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Consider the following statements in respect of the first Kho Kho World Cup: I. The event was held in Delhi, India. II. Indian men beat Nepal with a score of 78-40 in the final to become the World Champion in men category. III. Indian women beat Nepal with a score of 54-36 in the final to become the World Champion in women category. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Consider the following statements: I. In the finals of the 45th Chess Olympiad held in 2024, Gukesh Dommaraju became the world's youngest winner after defeating the Russian player Jan Nepomniachtchi II. Abhimanyu Mishra, an American chess player, holds the record of becoming world's youngest ever Grandmaster. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- 'Sedition has become my religion' was the famous statement given by Gandhiji at the time of2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- The famous female figurine known as 'Dancing Girl', found at Mohenjo-daro, is made of2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Who provided legal defence to the people arrested in the aftermath of Chauri Chaura incident?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Subsequent to which one of the following events, Gandhiji, who consistently opposed untouchability and appealed for its eradication from all spheres, decided to include the upliftment of 'Harijans' in his political and social programme?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Consider the following fruits: I. Papaya II. Pineapple III. Guava. How many of the above were introduced in India by the Portuguese in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Who among the following was the founder of the 'Self-Respect Movement'?2025 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Consider the following pairs: Party - Its Leader. 1. Bhartiya Jana Sangh - Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee 2. Socialist Party - C. Rajagopalachari 3. Congress for Democracy - Jagjivan Ram 4. Swatantra Party - Acharya Narendra Dev. How many of the above are correctly matched?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- With reference to the Government of India Act, 1935, consider the following statements: 1. It provided for the establishment of an All India Federation based on the union of the British Indian Provinces and Princely States. 2. Defence and Foreign Affairs were kept under the control of the federal legislature.2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhasa?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth century AD, was the author of a commentary on:2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO: 1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya. How many of the above properties were included in 2023?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Current Affairs (Art & Culture)
- With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets? 1. Nayaputta 2. Shakyamuni 3. Tathagata2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient India
- Consider the following information: Archaeological Site - State - Description. 1. Chandraketugarh: Odisha: Trading Port town 2. Inamgaon: Maharashtra: Chalcolithic site 3. Mangadu: Kerala: Megalithic site 4. Salihundam: Andhra Pradesh: Rock-cut cave shrines. In which of the above rows is given information correctly matched?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient India
- Who of the following rulers of medieval India gave permission to the Portuguese to build a fort at Bhatkal?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Medieval India
- With reference to revenue collection by Cornwallis, consider the following statements: 1. Under the Ryotwari Settlement of revenue collection, the peasants were exempted from revenue payment in case of bad harvests or natural calamities. 2. Under the Permanent Settlement in Bengal, if the Zamindar failed to pay his revenues to the state, on or before the fixed date, he would be removed from his Zamindari.2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Modern History
- Consider the following statements: 1. There are no parables in Upanishads. 2. Upanishads were composed earlier than the Puranas.2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Culture
- Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO?2024 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Current Affairs (Art & Culture)
- Under the Government of India Act 1919, which provincial subjects were 'reserved': (1) administration of justice; (2) local self-government; (3) land revenue; (4) police?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Government of India Act 1919
- In medieval Indian sources, 'Fanam' referred to what?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Medieval Coinage
- Which among Barindra Kumar Ghosh, Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee and Rash Behari Bose was actively associated with the Ghadar movement?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Revolutionary Nationalism—Ghadar
- Regarding the Cripps proposals: (1) Provincial Assemblies would nominate Constituent Assembly members while princely states also nominated representatives; (2) a province unwilling to accept the new Constitution could retain its existing position and negotiate a separate arrangement with Britain. Which is correct?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Cripps Mission
- Which of these are Jaina texts: (1) Nettipakarana; (2) Parishishtaparvan; (3) Avadanashataka; (4) Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Jain & Buddhist Literature
- How many person-description pairs are correct: Aryadeva—Jaina scholar; Dignaga—Buddhist scholar; Nathamuni—Vaishnava scholar?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian Philosophical Traditions
- On Mongol encounters with the Delhi Sultanate: (1) the first Mongol invasion occurred under Jalaluddin Khalji; (2) during Alauddin Khalji's reign a Mongol force reached and besieged Delhi; (3) Muhammad bin Tughlaq permanently lost northwest territory to the Mongols. Which is correct?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Delhi Sultanate & Mongols
- In medieval Indian history, who were known as 'Kulah-Daran'?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Medieval Social Groups
- Consider European trading settlements: (1) Dutch east-coast factories were on lands granted by Gajapati rulers; (2) Albuquerque captured Goa from the Bijapur Sultanate; (3) the English obtained Madras land from a representative of the Vijayanagara successor polity. Which are correct?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · European Trading Companies
- According to Kautilya's Arthashastra, which statements on slavery are accepted: (1) judicial punishment could result in slavery; (2) a female slave bearing her master's son gained freedom; (3) such a son could obtain the legal status of the master's son?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Arthashastra—Social Law
- How many Ashokan major-rock-edict site pairs are correct: Dhauli—Odisha; Erragudi—Andhra Pradesh; Jaugada—Madhya Pradesh; Kalsi—Karnataka?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ashokan Edicts
- How many king-dynasty pairs are correct: Nannuka—Chandela; Jayashakti—Paramara; Nagabhata II—Gurjara-Pratihara; Bhoja—Rashtrakuta?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Early Medieval Dynasties
- Which statement about Sangam literature is correct?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Sangam Literature
- Nizamuddin Panipati translated the Yogavasistha into Persian during whose reign?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Persian Translations under Mughals
- Which teaching best represents Ramanuja's philosophy?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ramanuja & Bhakti
- Regarding Somnath Temple: (1) it is one of the Jyotirlingas; (2) Al-Biruni described it; (3) the pran-pratishtha of the present temple was performed by President S. Radhakrishnan. Which are correct?2022 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Somnath Temple
- About the Chausath Yogini Temple near Morena, consider: (1) it is circular and associated with the Kachchhapaghata period; (2) it is India's only circular temple; (3) it was built to promote Vaishnavism; (4) its plan is popularly said to have inspired the Parliament building. Which are correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Temple Architecture
- Which Harappan city is especially known for an elaborate water-management system of dams, channels and linked reservoirs?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indus Valley Civilization
- In the first quarter of the seventeenth century, at which of these places did the English East India Company have a factory: (1) Broach; (2) Chicacole; (3) Trichinopoly?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · European Trading Companies
- Between the decline of the Guptas and the rise of Harsha, which powers held territory in northern/western India: (1) later Guptas of Magadha; (2) Paramaras of Malwa; (3) Pushyabhutis of Thanesar; (4) Maukharis of Kanauj; (5) Yadavas of Devagiri; (6) Maitrakas of Valabhi?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Post-Gupta India
- Portuguese chronicler Nuniz described women of Vijayanagara as skilled in which activities: (1) wrestling; (2) astrology; (3) accounting; (4) soothsaying?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Vijayanagara Empire
- Which event is correctly associated with Madanapalle in present-day Andhra Pradesh?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National Movement & Culture
- Which historical place-feature pairs are correctly matched: (1) Burzahom—rock-cut shrines; (2) Chandraketugarh—terracotta art; (3) Ganeshwar—copper artefacts?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Archaeological Sites
- Which statement about medieval/early-modern invasions is correct: (1) during Iltutmish's reign, Chinggis Khan reached the Indus pursuing the Khwarazm prince; (2) Timur crossed the Indus during Muhammad bin Tughluq's reign; (3) Vasco da Gama reached Kerala during Deva Raya II's reign?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Medieval Chronology
- Regarding St Francis Xavier, examine: (1) he was among the founders of the Society of Jesus; (2) he died in Goa; (3) his annual feast is celebrated in Goa. Which are correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · European Missionaries
- Compare Mitakshara and Dayabhaga Hindu-law traditions: (1) they were respectively laws for upper and lower castes; (2) under Mitakshara a son acquires an interest by birth, while under Dayabhaga succession opens on the father's death; (3) Mitakshara concerned only male-held property whereas Dayabhaga governed property of both sexes. Which is correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Hindu Law Traditions
- Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla and Kshemeshvara are remembered in Indian cultural history primarily as what?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Literature & Drama
- Consider these statements on women's political representation under British rule: (1) the Montagu-Chelmsford reforms proposed universal voting rights for all women above 21; (2) the Government of India Act, 1935 provided reserved legislative seats for women. Which is correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Constitutional Developments
- What major event in the national movement is associated with 8 August 1942?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Quit India Movement
- Who is associated with 'Songs from Prison', an English rendering of ancient Indian devotional/religious lyrics?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Gandhian Literature
- In Mughal administrative geography, what is the correct ascending order of territorial units by size?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Mughal Administration
- Who served as Secretary of the Hindu Female School, later known as Bethune Female School?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Social Reform & Education
- In colonial Indian history, Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Kumar Sehgal and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon are best remembered as what?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian National Army
- Consider: (1) the Arcot Nizamat emerged from Hyderabad; (2) the Mysore kingdom emerged from the Vijayanagara political order; (3) Rohilkhand arose from territory occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani. Which statement(s) are correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · 18th-century Regional States
- Which location-river relationship is correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Art & Archaeological Geography
- Examine: (1) 21 February was declared International Mother Language Day by UNICEF; (2) the demand for Bangla as a national language was raised in Pakistan's Constituent Assembly. Which is correct?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Language Movement
- In the Indian context, Halbi, Ho and Kui are names of what?2021 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Tribal Languages
- In Buddhist thought, what are the “paramitas”?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhism - Mahayana Concepts
- The Rakhmabai case of the 1880s is principally associated with which issues? (1) women’s education; (2) age of consent/child marriage; (3) restitution of conjugal rights.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Social Reform & Women
- Why did indigo cultivation in India decline sharply by the early twentieth century?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Colonial Agriculture & Indigo
- Lord Wellesley established Fort William College at Calcutta mainly for what purpose?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · British Administration & Education
- The “Ulgulan” or Great Tumult refers to which event?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Tribal Movements - Birsa Munda
- Which scholar-ruler association is correct? (1) Panini—Pushyamitra Shunga; (2) Amarasimha—Harshavardhana; (3) Kalidasa—Chandragupta II.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient Literature & Gupta Age
- Which historical term-description pairs are correctly matched? (1) Aurang—State treasury officer; (2) Banian—Indian commercial agent of an East India Company servant; (3) Mirasidar—holder/person responsible for hereditary land-revenue rights and payments.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Colonial Economy & Revenue Terms
- Regarding Buddhist sectarian history, consider: (1) Sthaviravadins belonged to Mahayana; (2) Lokottaravada developed as an offshoot of the Mahasanghika tradition; (3) Mahasanghika ideas that elevated the Buddha helped prepare the ground for Mahayana. Which are correct?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhist Sects
- What was a major impact of the Industrial Revolution on India during the first half of the nineteenth century?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Colonial Economy & Deindustrialisation
- Arrange these developments from earliest to latest: (1) Pratihara power under Bhoja; (2) Pallava power under Mahendravarman I; (3) Chola power under Parantaka I; (4) foundation of the Pala dynasty by Gopala.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Early Medieval India - Chronology
- In post-Harsha and medieval Indian commercial usage, what was a “hundi”?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Medieval Trade & Financial Instruments
- Regarding Sakharam Ganesh Deuskar’s “Desher Katha”, consider: (1) it warned against colonial domination of the Indian mind; (2) it influenced Swadeshi popular culture such as street plays and songs; (3) Deuskar used “desh” only in the narrow sense of Bengal. Which are correct?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Swadeshi Movement & Nationalist Literature
- Who published “Vital-Vidhvansak”, an early monthly periodical directed particularly toward oppressed/untouchable communities?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Anti-Caste Movements
- In ancient Indian sources, what do the terms “kulyavapa” and “dronavapa” denote?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient Economy & Land Measurement
- Which ruler issued an inscription advising people that excessive praise of one’s own sect and condemnation of other sects ultimately harms one’s own faith?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ashokan Edicts & Dhamma
- Which historical place–present State pairs are correctly matched? (1) Bhilsa—Madhya Pradesh; (2) Dwarasamudra—Maharashtra; (3) Girinagar—Gujarat; (4) Sthanesvara—Uttar Pradesh.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Historical Geography
- During the Gupta-period trading network, Ghantasala, Kadura and Chaul were especially known as what?2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Ancient Maritime Trade & Ports
- Which cultural-history term-description pairs are correctly matched? (1) Parivrajaka—renunciant/wandering ascetic; (2) Shramana—high-status priest; (3) Upasaka—lay follower of Buddhism.2020 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Religious Traditions & Ascetic Terms
- In Mughal administration, consider these proposed differences between jagirdars and zamindars: (1) jagirdars held land assignments in return for judicial and police duties, whereas zamindars merely collected revenue without other obligations; (2) jagirs were hereditary whereas zamindari revenue rights were not. Which is correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Mughal Administration
- Which statement best describes a major purpose of post-independence land reforms in India?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Post-Independence Land Reforms
- Regarding the Charter Act of 1813, consider: (1) it ended the East India Company’s Indian trade monopoly except for tea and trade with China; (2) it expressly asserted Crown sovereignty over territories held by the Company; (3) it transferred control of Indian revenues directly to Parliament. Which are correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · British Acts & Constitutional Development
- With respect to the Swadeshi Movement, assess: (1) it encouraged revival of indigenous crafts and industries; (2) the National Council of Education emerged as part of the movement. Which is correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Swadeshi Movement
- Which movement-leader pairs are correctly matched? (1) All India Anti-Untouchability League — Mahatma Gandhi; (2) All India Kisan Sabha — Swami Sahajanand Saraswati; (3) Self-Respect Movement — E. V. Ramaswami Naicker.2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Socio-Political Movements
- Which of these is not a Harappan civilisation site?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indus Valley Civilisation
- At which archaeological site was a sculptural inscription reading “Ranyo Ashoka” found together with an inscribed portrait of Ashoka?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Mauryan Art & Archaeology
- Which features are associated with Mahayana Buddhism? (1) deification and transcendent conceptions of the Buddha; (2) emphasis on the Bodhisattva path; (3) image worship and ritual practices.2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhism
- What best describes “vishti” during the Gupta period?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Gupta Administration & Economy
- Which plant group was domesticated in the Americas (“New World”) and later introduced to the “Old World”?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Columbian Exchange
- The use of elaborate “Kalyana Mandapas” as a distinctive element of temple architecture is especially associated with which kingdom?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Vijayanagara Architecture
- On medieval administrative institutions, consider: (1) an Amil was responsible for revenue collection in the Delhi Sultanate; (2) the iqta system was an ancient indigenous Indian institution; (3) the office of Mir Bakshi originated under the Khalji Sultans. Which is correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Delhi Sultanate & Mughal Administration
- Consider these chronology claims: (1) Nimbarka was a contemporary of Emperor Akbar; (2) Kabir was strongly influenced by Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi. Which is correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Bhakti & Sufi Traditions
- With reference to Gandhi under British rule, assess: (1) he played an important role in ending indentured labour; (2) at Lord Chelmsford’s War Conference he opposed recruitment of Indians for the World War; (3) after the Salt Satyagraha the colonial government declared the Indian National Congress illegal. Which are correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Gandhian National Movement
- Which person-position pairs from the national movement are correctly matched? (1) Tej Bahadur Sapru—President of the All India Liberal Federation; (2) K. C. Neogy—member of the Constituent Assembly; (3) P. C. Joshi—General Secretary of the Communist Party of India.2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National Movement Personalities
- Which statement about Mian Tansen is not correct?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian Music - Tansen
- Which Mughal emperor shifted court-painting emphasis away from large illustrated manuscripts toward albums, individual portraits and detailed studies of nature?2019 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Mughal Painting
- With reference to the art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?2015 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian Art Chronology
- Which one of the following was given Classical Language status recently before the 2015 examination?2015 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Classical Languages
- Kalamkari painting refers to2015 · Prelims GS1 · General Studies, History & Culture · UPSC Prelims 2015 GS Paper I, Kalamkari
- Which of the following has/have been accorded Geographical Indication status? 1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees 2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma 3. Tirupati Laddu2015 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Geographical Indications
- With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements: 1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama. 2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam. 3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Sattriya Dance
- Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to which one of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National Calendar
- With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs: 1. A grand image of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana with celestial musicians above and sorrowful followers below — Ajanta. 2. A huge image of Varaha Avatar rescuing Goddess Earth, sculpted on rock — Mount Abu. 3. “Arjuna’s Penance/Descent of Ganga” sculpted on huge boulders — Mamallapuram. Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian Sculpture
- With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is Kalaripayattu?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Kalaripayattu
- Consider the following pairs: 1. Garba — Gujarat 2. Mohiniattam — Odisha 3. Yakshagana — Karnataka. Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Folk and Classical Dance
- With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs: 1. Tabo monastery and temple complex — Spiti Valley 2. Lhotsava Lhakhang temple, Nako — Zanskar Valley 3. Alchi temple complex — Ladakh. Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhist Monuments
- Consider the following statements: 1. “Bijak” is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal. 2. The philosophy of Pushti Marg was propounded by Madhvacharya. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Bhakti Traditions
- A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Folk Music
- With reference to the cultural history of India, the term Panchayatan refers to2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Temple Architecture
- Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian philosophy?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Indian Philosophy
- The national motto of India, “Satyameva Jayate”, inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · National Symbols
- Consider the following towns of India: 1. Bhadrachalam 2. Chanderi 3. Kancheepuram 4. Karnal. Which of the above are famous for production of traditional sarees/fabric?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Textile Traditions
- Consider the following languages: 1. Gujarati 2. Kannada 3. Telugu. Which had been declared Classical Languages by the Government at the time of the examination?2014 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Classical Languages
- With reference to the history of Indian rock-cut architecture, consider the following statements: 1. The caves at Badami are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. 2. The Barabar rock-cut caves were originally made for Ajivikas by Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. 3. At Ellora, caves were made for different faiths. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture, Art & Culture · Rock-cut Architecture
- Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Buddhist Architecture
- Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture, Art & Culture · Buddhism, Buddhist Philosophy
- Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine? 1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance. 2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul. 3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended.2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Jainism
- Consider the following Bhakti Saints: 1. Dadu Dayal 2. Guru Nanak 3. Tyagaraja. Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture, Art & Culture · Bhakti Movement
- Consider the following historical places: 1. Ajanta Caves 2. Lepakshi Temple 3. Sanchi Stupa. Which of the above places is/are also known for mural paintings?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture, Art & Culture · Indian Painting, Mural Paintings
- With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consider the following statements regarding Sankhya school: 1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of soul. 2. Sankhya holds that it is self-knowledge that leads to liberation and not any exterior influence or agent. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture · Sankhya Philosophy
- In the context of cultural history of India, a pose in dance and dramatics called Tribhanga has been a favourite of Indian artists from ancient times till today. Which one of the following statements best describes this pose?2013 · Prelims GS1 · History & Culture, Art & Culture · Indian Dance and Sculpture, Tribhanga Pose