1. What is the name used for a “school” of learning and teaching the branches of Vedas?
- Ratha
- Yajna
- Shakha
- Charana
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Correct Answer: Charana
In ancient India, the term “Shakha” referred to a “school” or branch of learning and teaching focused on specific aspects of the Vedas. The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, and they are divided into different branches, each with its own set of teachings and rituals. These Shakhas were responsible for preserving and passing down the knowledge contained in the Vedas through an oral tradition. Each Shakha had its unique lineage of teachers and students, ensuring the continuity of Vedic wisdom over generations.
2. In the Rigvedic Dasrajan Yudha (Battle of Ten Kings), the Bharatas emerged as winners on the bank of which river?
- The Sutlej River
- The Parushni River
- The Indus River
- The Saraswati River
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Correct Answer: The Parushni River
According to the Rigveda, the Battle of Ten Kings, also known as Dasrajan Yudha, was a historic conflict fought between King Sudas of the Bharata tribe and a coalition of ten rival tribes. The pivotal battle occurred on the banks of the Parushni River, where the Bharatas emerged victorious. This battle is described in Vedic texts and is significant as it represents a critical moment in ancient Indian history, highlighting territorial and political disputes among various tribal groups during that time.
3. Which European was the first to give Aryans a designation of a ‘race’?
- William Muller
- General Cunningham
- HH. Wilson
- Max Muller
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Correct Answer: Max Muller
Max Muller, a renowned European scholar, is credited with being the first to designate Aryans as a distinct racial group. His work in the 19th century contributed to Western understanding of the Aryan people. However, contemporary scholarship has revised this concept, emphasizing linguistic and cultural connections among various Indo-European groups rather than defining Aryans solely as a race. The term “Aryan” has been reinterpreted to focus on language and culture rather than racial categorization.
4. What was Vedic Aryans’ staple food?
- Rice and pulses
- Vegetables and fruits
- Milk and its products
- Barley and rice
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Correct Answer: Milk and its products
Milk and its products held a central place in the diet of Vedic Aryans. These dairy products, including milk, ghee (clarified butter), and others, were considered staples of their cuisine and daily sustenance. Milk was not only valued for its nutritional content but also held symbolic significance in Vedic rituals and offerings, signifying purity and nourishment in their cultural and religious practices.
5. In which sacrifice during the Vedic Era was the sacrificial material called sura used?
- Sautramani
- Vajapeya
- Agnistoma
- Rajasuya
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Correct Answer: Sautramani’
Sautramani is a Vedic sacrificial ritual performed to seek the favor of the god Indra. This ritual is associated with the Taittiriya school, which is part of the Krishna Yajurveda, one of the branches of Vedic knowledge. During the Sautramani sacrifice, a particular sacrificial material called sura was used as an offering to invoke the blessings of Indra. Vedic sacrifices were an integral part of the religious and spiritual life of the ancient Aryans, serving as a means to connect with deities and express devotion.
6. The earliest evidence of banking transactions in India comes from which era?
- Gupta Era
- Medieval India
- Vedic Era
- Maurya Era
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Correct Answer: Vedic Era
The Vedic Era in ancient India, which dates back over two millennia, provides some of the earliest evidence of banking transactions. During this period, loan deeds known as “rnapatra” or “rnalekhya” were prevalent. These loan documents served as written agreements for borrowing and lending money, similar to modern-day promissory notes. Interest rates and usury (excessive interest) were common practices during this time. The term “Kusidin” referred to usurers and is also mentioned in Manusmriti, an ancient legal text. This indicates that financial transactions and the regulation of lending and borrowing were recognized aspects of Vedic society.
7. Which functionaries were important during the Early Vedic period?
- Gramini
- Senani
- Purohita
- All of the above
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Correct Answer: All of the above
In the Early Vedic period, the social and administrative structure of Vedic society included key functionaries. These functionaries played crucial roles in various aspects of society. The “Purohita” served as the priest responsible for conducting religious rituals and ceremonies. The “Senani” was the warrior or commander responsible for protecting the community, while the “Gramini” held the position of the village head or chief, overseeing local governance and administration. These functionaries reflected the organization of Vedic communities, where religious, military, and administrative roles were clearly defined.
8. In the Later Vedic period, who was considered the god of the Shudras?
- Agni
- Indra
- Pushan
- Prajapati
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Correct Answer: Pushan
In the later Vedic traditions, Pushan was regarded as the god associated with the Shudras. Pushan was one of the Adityas, a group of solar deities in Vedic mythology. He was particularly associated with journeys, marriage, and the protection of travelers. This association highlights the diverse pantheon of deities in Vedic religion, each with specific attributes and roles. It also indicates the evolving nature of Vedic beliefs over time.
9. What was the equivalent term used for Raja in the Early Vedic era?
- Gopa
- Gomitra
- Gopati
- Gomat
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Correct Answer: Gopati
In the Early Vedic era, the term used for a king was “Gopati,” which translates to “lord” or “protector of the cowherds.” This title suggests a pastoral and agrarian society where the protection of cattle, a vital economic asset, was of paramount importance. Over time, the concept and role of kingship evolved in ancient India, and various titles were used to describe rulers, reflecting changing political and societal dynamics.
10. Among the Rigvedic deities, which one represented storms?
- Varuna
- Apas
- Indra
- Maruts
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Correct Answer: Maruts
The Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, personifies natural forces and elements, and the Maruts represent storms in Vedic mythology. Indra, Varuna, and Agni are other Rigvedic deities associated with rain, water, and fire, respectively. The Vedic hymns often personify these natural phenomena, attributing divine qualities and powers to them. This reflects the reverence and connection between the ancient Vedic people and the forces of nature, which played a vital role in their agricultural and pastoral livelihoods, as well as their spiritual practices.
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