Embark on a historical journey with our Indus Valley Civilization GK MCQs blog. Challenge your knowledge, unravel fascinating answers, and delve into the mysteries of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Explore intriguing questions, gain insights, and enhance your understanding of the Indus Valley’s rich cultural heritage.
1. Which of the following sites provides evidence of maritime trade during the Harappan era?
- Kalibangan
- Harappa
- Mohen-jo dero
- Lothal
Show Answer
Answer: Lothal
Lothal is a small mature Harappan settlement located near the Gulf of Khambat in Dhalka taluk of Ahmadabad in Gujarat. It was first excavated in 1957 by S R Rao. Notable structures at Lothal include a dockyard, warehouse, workshop for manufacturing stone beads, evidence of shell working, rice husk, and a cemetery.
2. Where were terracotta female figures discovered among the following Harappan sites?
- Kot Diji
- Khirasara
- Mohenjo-daro
- Kot Bala
Show Answer
Answer: Mohenjo-daro
In Mohenjo-daro, they found clay statues that looked like women. Mohenjo-daro is in Pakistan and was one of the biggest cities in the Indus Valley Civilization. They found many important things there, like a big bath, a big storage building, a bronze dancing girl, a statue of a man with a beard, clay toys, a seal with a bull on it, a seal with a figure like a god, three special cylinder seals, and a piece of woven cloth.
3. Why was Indus Valley Civilization Non-Aryan?
- it had an agricultural economy
- it extended up to the Narmada Valley
- it was urban
- it has a pictographic script
Show Answer
Answer: it was urban
One reason the Indus Valley Civilization is different from the Aryan people is that it was mostly about cities. Their cities, like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, were very well planned and had good infrastructure.
4. With which people Indus Valley Civilization traded?
- Romans
- Parthians
- Chinese
- Mesopotamians
Show Answer
Answer: Mesopotamians
The Indus Valley people traded with the Mesopotamians, who lived in a place that’s now Iraq, parts of Syria, Turkey, and Iran.
5. What material did people of Indus Valley use to build their houses?
- stone
- wood
- pucca bricks
- all of these
Show Answer
Answer: pucca bricks
In the Indus Valley, they made strong bricks from baked clay. They used these bricks to build strong houses and other things in their old cities.
6. The dockyard of which one of the following civilizations was uncovered at Lothal?
- Mesopotamian
- Persian
- Indus Valley Civilization
- Egyptian
Show Answer
Answer: Indus Valley Civilization
Lothal, which is in Gujarat, India, was a big city and port in the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. They had a dockyard there, which shows they did a lot of things with boats.
7. The Harappan Civilization was discovered in which year?
- 1935
- 1942
- 1901
- 1921
Show Answer
Answer: 1921
They found the Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, in 1921. It was an ancient society known for having well-planned cities and clever ways to manage water.
8. Which of the following Indus Valley sites is not located in India?
- Khirasara
- Loteshwar
- Chanhudaro
- Farmana
Show Answer
Answer: Chanhudaro
Chanhudaro is an old place from the later part of the Indus Valley Civilization. It’s 130 kilometers south of Mohenjo-daro in Pakistan.
9. Where was the Great Granary found in the Indus Valley civilization?
- Surkotada
- Lothal
- Mohenjodaro
- Harappa
Show Answer
Answer: Mohenjodaro
They found a big storage building called the Great Granary in Mohen-jo Daro. Harappa had six smaller granaries.
10. What is the style of script used in the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Brahmi
- Not deciphered yet
- Boustrophedon
- Pictographic
Show Answer
Answer: Boustrophedon
In the Indus Valley Civilization, they wrote in a special way. They wrote from right to left in one line and then from left to right in the next.
11. Which of the following statements are incorrect regarding Indus Valley Civilization?
- It is difficult to say to which race the people belonged
- The people knew nothing about agriculture Man
- The Indus Valley Civilization was an advanced urban civilization
- Iron was not known to the people
Show Answer
Correct Answer: The people knew nothing about agriculture Man
Agriculture played a crucial role in the Indus Valley Civilization. The people were skilled farmers who cultivated various crops, including wheat, barley, peas, and cotton.
12. What is the local name of Mohenjodaro?
- Mound of the Dead
- Mound of the Survivor
- Mound of the Living
- Mound of the Great
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Mound of the Dead
The name “Mohenjodaro” means “Mound of the Dead” in the local language. This name is attributed to the discovery of numerous burial sites and graveyards within the archaeological site of Mohenjodaro. These findings suggest that the city had a significant burial culture, and the name reflects the presence of these ancient tombs.
13. Where has a nude male torso been found?
- Harappa
- Lothal
- Mehergarh
- MohanJodro
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Harappa
A nude male torso has been discovered at Harappa.
14. The Indus Valley Civilization was famous for?
- architecture
- craftsmanship
- town planning
- All of these
Show Answer
Correct Answer: craftsmanship
The Indus Valley Civilization was renowned for its remarkable achievements in various aspects, including town planning, craftsmanship, and architecture. The advanced level of civilization reached by the people of that time is evident in their well-planned cities, intricate craftsmanship seen in artifacts, and sophisticated architectural structures.
15. Which of the following animals was known to the Indus Valley Civilization ?
- Elephant
- Giraffe
- Bull
- Horse
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Horse
Bulls were indeed common animals during the Indus Valley Civilization. They held cultural and possibly religious significance and were often depicted in the artwork and seals of the civilization. The bull is considered an important symbol of this ancient culture.
16. What material was used for house construction in the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Wood
- Bamboo
- Stone
- Bricks
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Bricks
Bricks made from fired clay were a primary construction material used in building houses and structures in the Indus Valley Civilization. These bricks were carefully crafted and arranged to construct sturdy and well-designed buildings within the cities of the civilization.
17. Where has an inkpot been discovered among the following Harappan sites?
- Kalibangan
- Chanhudaro
- Harappa
- Lothal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Chanhudaro
Chanhudaro is unique among the cities of the Indus Valley Civilization as it is the only one where a small pot, assumed to be an ink pot, was discovered. This finding suggests that the people of Chanhudaro may have had some form of writing or record-keeping, as the pot could have been used for ink in a writing system that remains undeciphered to this day.
18. The writing style in the Indus Valley Civilization, known as Boustrophedon, means:
- It was written left to right and right to left in alternate lines
- It was written up to down
- It was written left to right
- It was written right to left
Show Answer
Correct Answer: It was written right to left
Boustrophedon is a style of writing commonly found in ancient manuscripts and inscriptions. In this writing style, each line of text alternates in direction, creating a back-and-forth pattern. This means that while one line is written from left to right, the next line is written from right to left, and so on. Additionally, the letters in each reversed line also appear in reverse order. Boustrophedon was used in various ancient cultures and is known for its distinctive visual appearance.
19.Which one of the following remains excavated in Indus Valley indicates the commercial and economic development?
- Boats
- Houses
- Pottery
- Seals
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Seals
Seals played a significant role in the Indus Valley Civilization for administrative and commercial purposes. These seals featured intricate designs and inscriptions, often showcasing animals, symbols, and script. They were used to make impressions on clay or other materials as a form of identification and authentication. The presence of these seals provides valuable evidence of trade, commercial activities, and economic development in the Indus Valley Civilization, as they were used to mark goods and transactions.
20. Which one of the following cities is the the earliest city discovered in India?
- Sindh
- Mohenjodaro
- Harappa
- Rangpur
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Harappa
Harappa is indeed considered one of the earliest and most well-preserved cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. It is renowned for its impressive urban planning, including well-organized streets, drainage systems, and well-designed buildings. Harappa, along with Mohenjo-Daro, represents the urban sophistication of this ancient civilization, offering insights into their architectural and civic achievements.
21.Which two towns of the Indus Valley Civilization were located on the bank of the Ghagghar River?
- Kalibanga and Banawali
- Rangpur and Surkotda
- Harappa & Rojari
- Harappa & Mohenjo Dero
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Kalibanga and Banawali
Scholars have proposed a connection between the Ghaggar-Hakra River system, which flows through northwestern India and eastern Pakistan, and the ancient Vedic Saraswati river. This hypothesis suggests that the Ghaggar-Hakra River may have been the historical Saraswati river described in Vedic texts. Towns like Kalibanga and Banwali were located along these riverbanks, providing potential archaeological evidence for this theory. Additionally, Kalibangan is known for its distinctive fire altars and is recognized for having one of the world’s earliest documented ploughed fields, offering insights into the agricultural practices of the time.
22. Which site of the Indus Valley era is considered as the oldest “Ploughed field” in the world?
- Lothal
- Rangpur
- Harappa
- Kalibangan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Kalibangan
The Kalibangan archaeological site is renowned for its unique fire altars, which are significant structures associated with ancient rituals and religious practices. These fire altars provide insights into the spiritual and cultural aspects of the people who lived there during the Indus Valley Civilization. Additionally, Kalibangan is considered to have the world’s earliest attested ploughed field, indicating advanced agricultural practices and the use of ploughs for cultivation during that time.
23. Which site has provided evidence of the earliest recorded “Earthquake”?
- Surkotda
- Harappa
- Kalibangan
- Lothal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Kalibangan
According to B. B. Lal, former Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Kalibangan site shows evidence of an earthquake occurring around 2600 BC, which led to the end of the Early Indus settlement at the site. This is perhaps the earliest archaeologically recorded earthquake.
24. Which one of the following Indus Civilization site has an evidence of a dockyard?
- Mohenjodaro
- Lothal
- Harappa
- Rakhigarhi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Lothal
The site of Lothal, located in present-day Gujarat, India, offers substantial evidence of a dockyard within the Indus Valley Civilization. This dockyard is a crucial archaeological discovery that suggests the civilization’s involvement in maritime trade and commercial activities. It indicates their capacity to build and manage boats for trade along waterways, further highlighting their advanced urban planning and economic prowess.
25. Which statement is correct regarding Harappan Civilization?
- The Harappan Civilization was rural-based
- The inhabitants of Harappa grew and used cotton
- The standard Harappan seals were made of clay
- The inhabitants of Harappa had neither knowledge of copper nor bronze
Show Answer
Correct Answer: The inhabitants of Harappa grew and used cotton
The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was indeed known for its cultivation and use of cotton. This assertion is supported by archaeological evidence in the form of cotton fibers and textiles found at various Harappan sites. The civilization’s expertise in cotton cultivation and weaving is indicative of their advanced agricultural and textile production capabilities.
26. Among which of the following sites was an advanced water management system found at the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Kalibangan
- Lothal
- Alamgirpur
- Dholavira
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Dholavira
The site of Dholavira, situated in present-day Gujarat, India, has revealed an advanced water management system. This system includes the presence of reservoirs, canals, and wells, showcasing the sophisticated water management practices of the Harappan Civilization. The ability to efficiently manage and distribute water resources played a crucial role in sustaining their urban centers and agricultural activities, emphasizing their advanced understanding of hydraulic engineering.
27. At which place the remains of wells have been found in houses that existed during the Indus Valley Civilization ?
- Kalibangan
- Lothal
- Harappa bras
- Mohenjodaro
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Kalibangan
The archaeological site of Kalibangan has revealed the presence of wells within houses dating to the developed stage of the Indus Valley Civilization. This discovery provides important insights into the advanced urban planning and infrastructure of this ancient civilization. The wells were likely used to access and manage water resources for both domestic and agricultural purposes. Having wells within houses indicates a well-organized and water-savvy society that contributed to the prosperity of the Indus Valley settlements. It reflects the civilization’s ability to provide essential resources to its residents, further emphasizing its advanced nature.
28. Which site has provided evidence that the people of the Indus Valley Civilization were aware of tides?
- Lothal
- Kalibangan
- Suktagendor
- Surkotda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Lothal
Lothal, an ancient city with a well-preserved dockyard in the Indus Valley Civilization, demonstrates the inhabitants’ awareness of tides. The existence of a dockyard in Lothal suggests that the people living there were knowledgeable about the tidal movements in the nearby Gulf of Khambat. This awareness was crucial for maritime trade and navigation, ensuring the safe entry and exit of boats during different tidal conditions. It underscores the civilization’s maritime expertise and its ability to conduct trade across waterways.
29. The Harappans used intaglio seals, made mostly of carved and fired steatite, for:
- Amulets and charms to ward off evil spirits
- Marking their goods and property
- Exporting commodities
- Medium of exchange in place of coins
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Marking their goods and property
The seals of the ancient Harappans were likely used for marking goods and bales of merchandise, similar to how seals are used today for signing letters or in commercial transactions. Therefore, option d) is correct.
30. The archaeological findings from Alamgirpur in Ghaziabad district showed the-
- Vedic Culture
- Gupta Period Culture
- Harappa Culture
- Mauryan Culture
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Harappa Culture
Archaeological findings from Alamgirpur, situated in the Ghaziabad district, reflect the Harappa Culture, which was an integral part of the broader Indus Valley Civilization. These discoveries include artifacts, structures, and pottery that are characteristic of the Harappan culture. The presence of Harappan cultural elements at Alamgirpur underscores the extensive reach and influence of the Indus Valley Civilization in different regions of the Indian subcontinent. It offers valuable evidence of the spread and integration of Harappan culture beyond the major urban centers.
31. Where was cotton for textile first cultivated?
- Central
- America
- India Egypt
- Mesopotamia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: America
India is considered one of the earliest regions where cotton was cultivated for textile production. Cotton cultivation has a long history in the Indian subcontinent, dating back to ancient times. The Indus Valley Civilization, in particular, is known to have used cotton for textile production, as evidenced by archaeological discoveries of cotton fibers and textiles. This early cultivation of cotton played a significant role in shaping the textile traditions of the region, marking India as an early center for cotton cultivation and textile production that continues to be significant in modern times.
32. Where was the rock cut architecture in Harappan culture context found at?
- Dholavira
- Amri
- Kalibangan
- Kotdiji
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Dholavira
Rock-cut architecture has been discovered at the site of Dholavira, providing evidence of the advanced architectural techniques employed by the Harappan Civilization. Dholavira, located in present-day Gujarat, India, was one of the major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization. The presence of rock-cut architecture indicates the civilization’s ability to carve and shape stone for various purposes, including creating architectural elements such as steps, reservoirs, and other structures directly into solid rock formations. This showcases the engineering and construction skills of the Harappan people and their adaptability to the local environment.
33. Where is the first astronomical observatory of the Harappan Civilization located?
- Daimabad
- Dholavira
- Chanhudaro
- Ropar
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Dholavira
The Dholavira site in Gujarat is believed to be the location of the first astronomical observatory of the Harappan Civilization. This identification was made by M. N. Vahia from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and Srikumar Menon from Manipal School of Architecture and Planning in 2012. They pointed to two circular structures at Dholavira, which were claimed to have been used for observational astronomy. While more research and evidence may be needed to fully support this claim, the possibility of ancient astronomical observatories in the Harappan Civilization highlights their interest in celestial observations and the development of early astronomy.
34. Which of the following statements about the Indus Valley Civilization is correct?
- Both Surkotada and Dholavira are located in the Kutch region of Gujarat.
- The Lothal site was located on the bank of the Narmada River.
- Both Harappa and Mohenjo-daro are located on the banks of the Indus River.
- Both Chanhudaro and Kalibangan were located within the boundaries of present-day Rajasthan.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Both Surkotada and Dholavira are located in the Kutch region of Gujarat.
The statement provides geographical information about the locations of some key Indus Valley Civilization sites. Mohenjo-daro was situated on the banks of the Indus River, Harappa was located on the banks of the Ravi River, Chanhudaro is now located in Pakistan, and Lothal was positioned at the mouth of the Gulf of Cambay (also known as the Gulf of Khambat). These geographical placements were strategic for trade, access to water resources, and connectivity within the civilization, showcasing the thoughtful urban planning of the Harappan cities.
35. Harappans did not know which one of the following things?
- Construction of Drains
- Construction of Arches
- Construction of Wells
- Construction of Pillars
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Construction of Arches
The Harappan Civilization primarily employed post-and-lintel construction methods in its architecture and did not incorporate arches into its buildings. The absence of arches is a distinguishing feature of Harappan architecture. Instead, they used sturdy pillars (posts) to support horizontal beams (lintels) to create doorways and other architectural features. This architectural style was effective in constructing robust and durable structures, as seen in the well-preserved remains of Harappan cities.
36. What is the most common motif found on Indus seals?
- Rhinoceros
- Unicorn
- Elephant
- Bull
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Unicorn
The most common motif found on Indus seals is the unicorn, a mythical animal with a single horn. This motif is significant as it represents a creature that has been traced back to the Indian subcontinent in ancient Greek and Roman sources. The unicorn symbolizes the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Indus Valley Civilization. These seals, often made of clay or stone, were used for various purposes, including marking goods, containers, or documents. The unicorn motif reflects the cultural and artistic expressions of the civilization and provides valuable insights into their beliefs and symbolism.
37. The dockyard at Lothal was well connected with which river?
- Hiran
- Bhadar
- Tapti
- Bhogavo
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Bhogavo
Lothal, an ancient city in the Indus Valley Civilization, is situated in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India. It is strategically located between the Sabarmati River and its tributary, the Bhogavo River. What makes Lothal particularly noteworthy is its well-planned dockyard, which was connected to the Bhogavo River. This dockyard is considered one of the most significant archaeological discoveries from the Indus Valley Civilization. Its strategic location and connectivity to the river system indicate the civilization’s advanced maritime activities and trade capabilities. Lothal’s dockyard played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce, further highlighting the sophisticated urban planning of the Harappan cities.
38. The people of the Indus Valley Civilization primarily traded with the people of which civilization?
- Mesopotamians
- Chinese
- Romans
- Parthians
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Mesopotamians
The people of the Indus Valley Civilization engaged in trade with various regions, and one of their primary trading partners was the Mesopotamians. Dilmun and Makan are believed to have served as intermediate trading stations or intermediary regions between Meluha (an early name for the Indus area) and Mesopotamia. These trading connections are supported by archaeological findings, including seals and inscriptions, which provide evidence of the trade routes and interactions between these ancient civilizations. While other civilizations existed during this period, they were not directly linked to the Indus Valley Civilization in terms of trade networks.
39. Where was a copper chariot of Harappa times discovered?
- Daimabad
- banawali
- Kuntal
- Rakhigarhi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Daimabad
A copper chariot of Harappa times was discovered at the site of Daimabad.
40. Which one of the following is the sitefrom where the famous Bull-seal of Indus Valley Civilization was discovered?
- Lothal
- Rajgiri
- Harappa
- Chanhudaro
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Harappa
The famous Bull-seal of the Indus Valley Civilization was indeed discovered at the archaeological site of Harappa. This seal is an iconic artifact that features a depiction of a bull in a distinctive style. Such seals were used for various purposes, including marking goods and documents, and are considered important symbols of the civilization. The bull, in particular, was a significant motif and may have held cultural or religious significance. Its discovery at Harappa underscores the rich archaeological heritage of this ancient city and its contribution to our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization’s culture and trade.
41. Who found the Indus Valley Civilization ?
- Dayaram Sahni
- A.L. Basham
- Sir Leonard Wooley
- V.S. Agrawal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Dayaram Sahni
Dayaram Sahni is indeed associated with the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization. He conducted excavations at Harappa in 1920-1921 and made significant discoveries that led to the recognition of the ancient civilization. Thank you for pointing out the correct answer.
42. Which one of the following animals was most commonly represented on the seals and terracotta art of the Harappan culture ?
- Rhinoceros
- Bull
- Cow
- Elephant
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Bull
The Bull was indeed prominently represented on the seals and in the terracotta art of the Harappan culture. The bull was a significant motif and symbol in the iconography of the Indus Valley Civilization. It often appeared on seals and other artifacts, depicting various aspects of bull imagery, including the “unicorn” motif and bull carts. The bull likely held cultural, religious, or even economic significance, and its frequent representation in art and seals reflects its importance in the civilization’s iconography.
43. Which of the following appears to be unknown to the people of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Barley
- Cotton
- Wheat
- Pulses
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Pulses
The people of the Indus Valley Civilization had a diverse diet and used several agricultural crops and resources. While there is documented evidence of their use of wheat, barley, and cotton, there is no concrete evidence regarding the use of pulses in their diet. The chief food crops in the civilization included wheat, barley, sesame, mustard, and peas, among others. Additionally, rice husks have been found in Lothal and Rangpur, suggesting the cultivation of rice in some areas. Cotton was a significant crop, contributing to the textile industry. The diet also included fish and animal meat, reflecting the diversity of food sources available to the Harappan people.
44. Which type of seals were most commonly used in the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Quadrate
- Rounded
- Oval
- Cylindrical
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Quadrate
Quadrate seals were indeed the most common type of seals in the Harappan culture. These seals were typically square or rectangular in shape and featured intricate designs and inscriptions. They were used for various purposes, including marking goods, containers, or documents. The quadrate seals are notable for their craftsmanship and are among the most iconic artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization.
45. Remains of horses have been found at which site of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Surkotada
- Suktagen Dor
- Mohenjo-Daro
- Lothal
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Surkotada
The Surkotada site contains horse remains dated to 2000 BC, which is considered a significant observation in relation to the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1974 revealed findings of horse bones at all levels of the site.
46. Which term was used for Indus Valley. In the Mesopotamian records?
- Magan
- Failaka
- Dilmun
- Meluha
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Meluha
The term “Meluha” was used in Mesopotamian records to refer to the region of the Indus Valley Civilization. This historical name reflects the trade and interactions between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. It provides valuable insights into the ancient trade routes and connections between these civilizations. “Meluha” is one of the names that have been identified in cuneiform inscriptions, indicating the awareness of Mesopotamians about the distant land of the Indus Valley.
47. Which one of the following Harappan specialised centre for making shell objects ?
- Amri
- Kotdiji
- Lothal
- Balakot
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Lothal
The site of Balakot has revealed significant evidence of extensive shell working and craftsmanship. This evidence suggests that the Harappan culture had the capability to work with shells to create various objects and artifacts. Shell working was an important aspect of their craftsmanship and trade, as these shell products were likely used as ornaments or traded items. The discovery at Balakot contributes to our understanding of the wide range of skills and industries present in the Indus Valley Civilization.
48. The Manda site of the Indus Valley Civilization is located on the bank of which river?
- Chenab
- Jhelum
- Ravi
- Indus
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Chenab
The Manda site of the Indus Valley Civilization is situated on the right bank of the Chenab River in the foothills of the Pir Panjal range, approximately 28 kilometers northwest of Jammu. Excavations at this site were conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India during 1976-77 under the supervision of J. P. Joshi. The site’s location along the Chenab River highlights the widespread presence of the Indus Valley Civilization in various regions of the Indian subcontinent, providing valuable archaeological insights into this ancient culture.
49. The Indus Valley site Harappa is located on the bank of which river?
- Beas
- Sutlej
- Indus
- Ravi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Ravi
Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro were two major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization, and they were situated along different rivers. Harappa was located on the banks of the Ravi River in the Montgomery district of western Punjab, which is now part of Pakistan. In contrast, Mohenjo-Daro was positioned on the bank of the Indus River. These cities are renowned archaeological sites that have significantly contributed to our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization’s urban planning, architecture, and way of life.
50. Which of the following Indus Valley sites provides evidence of a structure resembling a “stadium with terraced stands”?
- Dholavira
- Lothal
- Harappa
- Kalibangan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Dholavira
The Dholavira site in Kutch, Gujarat, stands out for its long cultural sequence spanning over 1,500 years. Among its notable features is a monumental structure that is believed to resemble a “stadium with terraced stands.” Dholavira’s archaeological significance lies in its well-preserved remains, including advanced water management systems and architectural structures. The “stadium” structure is an intriguing discovery that adds to our understanding of the cultural and architectural diversity within the Indus Valley Civilization.
51. A large number of beads were discovered at Mohenjo-Daro in the Indus Valley Civilization. Most of these beads were made of:
- Lapis
- Steatite
- Terracotta
- Jasper
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Steatite
Among the important discoveries at Mohenjo-Daro are beautiful beads, which were a significant part of the civilization’s material culture. The majority of these beads were crafted from fired steatite, a type of soapstone. Additionally, various other materials were used in bead-making, including agate, carnelian, lapis lazuli, grossular garnet, serpentine, and amazonite. These beads served both ornamental and possibly trade purposes, reflecting the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the Harappan people. They provide valuable insights into the materials and techniques used for adornment during that era.
52. Among the following, what showed the greatest uniformity in Indus Valley Civilization settlements?
- Religious practices
- Buildings
- Town planning
- Bricks
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Town planning
The greatest uniformity within the Indus Valley Civilization is observed in the layouts of its towns, streets, structures, brick sizes, drains, and other elements. This uniformity is a notable characteristic of the civilization’s urban planning and architectural design. Across major sites such as Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Kalibangan, and others, a common pattern emerges: settlements divided into two parts. These typically consist of a citadel, located on a higher mound on the western side, and a lower town situated on the eastern side of the settlement. This standardized layout reflects the well-organized and consistent urban planning principles applied by the Harappan people across various cities within their civilization.
53. Which state of Independent India has the largest number of Indus Valley Civilization sites?
- Gujarat
- Punjab
- Rajasthan
- Haryana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Gujarat
Gujarat, after India’s independence, has emerged as a region rich in archaeological treasures from the Harappan civilization. It stands as one of the primary centers of the Indus Valley Civilization and houses major ancient metropolitan cities such as Lothal, Dholavira, and Gola Dhoro. These archaeological sites have played a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the Harappan civilization and its urban planning, trade networks, and cultural heritage.
54. The famous “Dancing girl” found in Mohenjo-Daro was made of which material?
- Steatite
- Terracotta
- Bronze
- Red limestone
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Bronze
The ‘Dancing girl’ found in Mohenjo-Daro is a famous artifact dating back approximately 4,500 years and is made of bronze. This exquisite sculpture is a testament to the artistic skills of the people of the Harappan civilization. Steatite, also known as soapstone, was a prevalent material used to create seals, and such artifacts have been discovered at nearly every excavated Harappan site. Terracotta, another common material, was used to craft figurines and other objects of cultural and artistic significance.
55. The famous Bull-seal was found at which site of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Lothal
- Chanhudaro
- Harappa
- Mohenjo-Daro
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Harappa
The Bull-seal, another iconic artifact from the Indus Valley Civilization, was discovered at the Harappa site. This well-crafted seal showcases the fine artistic abilities of the people of that era. Seals from this civilization were typically square or rectangular in shape and were used for various purposes, including marking goods and documents. The bull-seal is dated to approximately 2450-2200 BC. Additionally, seals depicting a rhinoceros were found at Mohenjo-Daro, and the people of Lothal worshipped a horned deity depicted on ancient seals, providing insights into their religious beliefs and cultural practices.
56. Which Indus Valley Civilization site was located near the border of modern-day Iran?
- Suktagendor
- Amri
- Kot Diji
- Balakot
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Suktagendor
Suktagendor, an important coastal town, was situated about 55 kilometers from the Arabian Sea shore, along the bank of the Dasht River near the Iran border. It is considered the western border of the Indus Valley Civilization. The location of Suktagendor holds historical significance in defining the extent of the civilization’s reach and its proximity to the Arabian Sea, which likely played a role in trade and maritime activities.
57. Who was the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India at the time of the excavation of the Harappan site of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- John Marshall
- M. Wheeler
- Dayaram Sahni
- R.D. Banerji
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Correct Answer: John Marshall
During the excavation of Harappan sites, the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India was John Marshall, who served from 1902 to 1928. In 1921, Marshall focused his efforts on exploring the Indus Valley, leading to the groundbreaking discovery of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. This discovery included the unearthing of the ancient cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, which have since become iconic archaeological sites that shed light on the civilization’s history, culture, and urban development. Marshall’s contributions were instrumental in unraveling the mysteries of this ancient civilization.
58. At which of the following sites of the Indus Valley Civilization was a clay model of a plough found?
- Banawali
- Mitathal
- Kalibangan
- Rakhigarhi
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Correct Answer: Banawali
Hyderabad and Bengaluru A clay model of a plough discovered at the Banawali site, an archaeological site from the Indus Valley Civilization period in the Fatehabad district of Haryana, sheds light on the agricultural practices of that time. The presence of this plough model suggests the use of agricultural tools and techniques in this ancient civilization, providing valuable insights into their farming practices and technological advancements in agriculture.secured over 84 percent on-time departures in the recent review.
59. Where was evidence of a game similar to chess found in the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Mohen Jo dero
- Kalibangan
- Harappa
- Lothal
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Correct Answer: Lothal
The resemblance between various types of terracotta game pieces found in Lothal and modern chessmen is a remarkable observation. Some scholars speculate that chess might have originated in the Indus Valley Civilization, while others believe it developed in India as Chaturanga between 400 BC to 400 AD. This connection highlights the possibility of early board games and the cultural exchange of ideas related to gaming and strategy in ancient times.
60. What does “kalibangan” mean in Rajasthan, showing the prehistoric and pre-Mauryan character of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Black forest
- Black land
- Black River
- Black Bangles
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Correct Answer: Black Bangles
The word “Kali” means black, and “Bangan” means bangles. This linguistic insight provides a glimpse into the cultural significance and symbolism associated with the term. Bangles, often made of black materials such as glass or metal, have been an integral part of traditional Indian jewelry and attire, with cultural and aesthetic significance.
61. Bones of camels have been found at which of the following sites of the Indus Valley Civilization?
- Harappa
- Mohenjo-Daro
- Kalibangan
- Lothal
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Correct Answer: Kalibangan
The discovery of camel bones at the Kalibangan site during the excavation of Indus Valley Civilization sites indicates the presence of camels in the region during that ancient period. These findings offer evidence of the fauna that existed in the area and provide insights into the ecological context of the civilization.
62. Which of the following is the largest Harappan/Indus Valley Civilization site?
- Rakhigarhi
- Mehrgarh
- Harappa
- Mohenjo-Daro
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Correct Answer: Rakhigarhi
Among the approximately 2,000 sites of the Indus Valley Civilization spread across India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, Rakhigarhi stands out as the largest site. Located in the Hisar district of Haryana, India, Rakhigarhi’s vast archaeological remains are significant in understanding the scope and scale of the Indus Valley Civilization. The size and prominence of this site highlight its importance as a center of ancient urban life, trade, and culture within the civilization.
63. Which of the following provides the earliest evidence of settled life?
- Mohenjo-Daro
- Kalibangan
- Mehrgarh
- Harappa
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Correct Answer: Mehrgarh
The statement that the earliest evidence of settled life, farming, and domestication of animals has been found at Mehrgarh, dating back to 7000 BC, is correct. Mehrgarh is an archaeological site located in present-day Pakistan and is considered one of the earliest Neolithic settlements in South Asia. The discoveries at Mehrgarh provide crucial insights into the transition from a nomadic, hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled agriculture and the domestication of animals, marking a significant turning point in human history.
Indus Valley Civilizations GK Notes
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