The Satavahanas, an ancient Indian dynasty, played a pivotal role in shaping the subcontinent’s history. Emerging around the 1st century BCE, they ruled a vast territory, leaving a lasting impact on culture, trade, and governance. This introduction provides a concise overview of the Satavahanas, offering a foundation for aspirants preparing for government job comparative exams.
1. The rulers of which dynasty were the first to make land grants to Brahmanas?
- Maurya
- Sunga
- Satvahana
- Kanvas
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Correct Answer: Satvahana
The rulers of the Satvahana dynasty were the first to make land grants to Brahmanas.The Satavahana dynasty is credited with being among the first rulers in India to make land grants to Brahmanas. This practice of granting land to Brahmanas reflects their patronage of Brahmanical traditions and priests, a significant aspect of their rule.
2. Which period does the Karle Chaitya in the western Deccan belong to?
- Shungas
- Kanvas
- Satavahanas
- Kushans
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
The Karle Chaitya, located in the western Deccan or Maharashtra, is a prime example of the architecture of the Satavahana period. The Satavahanas were known for constructing numerous rock-cut chaityas (Buddhist prayer halls) and viharas (monastic complexes) with precision and skill. These rock-cut structures are notable for their architectural and artistic significance.
3. What was the official language of the Satavahanas?
- Sanskrit
- Prakrit
- Persian
- Pali
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Correct Answer: Prakrit
Prakrit was the official language of the Satavahanas. King Hala, attributed to the Satavahana dynasty, composed the Gathasattasai, a famous Prakrit text consisting of 700 verses. This text provides valuable insights into the language and culture of the Satavahanas.
4. Which among the following Satavahana/Satakarni rulers recovered Malwa from the Shaka rulers?
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Satkarni I
- Hala
- Yajnasri Satakarni
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Correct Answer: Yajnasri Satakarni
Yajna Sri Satakarni, a prominent ruler of the Satavahana dynasty who ruled in the second century AD, is often considered the last great king of the dynasty. Inscriptions in Nasik Caves and Kanheri Caves mention his achievements, including the regaining of lost territories, such as north Konkan and Malwa, from the Shaka rulers. This reflects his successful military campaigns.
5. Who wrote the famous book ‘Brihat Katha’?
- Gunadhya
- Sarva Varman
- Panini
- Radhagupt
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Correct Answer: Gunadhya
The famous book ‘Brihat Katha’ is attributed to Gunadhya, a scholar in the court of Satavahana King Hala. This work is an important literary creation of the time and contributes to our understanding of the cultural and intellectual milieu during the Satavahana rule.
6. The place Dharanikota in South India is related to which ancient dynasty?
- Chola
- Satavahana
- Pandya
- Chera
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Correct Answer: Satavahana
Dhanyakataka, situated near Amaravati in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, was the capital of the Satavahana kingdom during the 1st to 3rd centuries AD. It served as a significant political and administrative center for the dynasty.
7. The ancient Dhanyakataka, which was the capital of the Satavahana kingdom, is located in which district of Andhra Pradesh?
- Amaravati
- Guntur
- Kolluru
- Thullur
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Correct Answer: Guntur
The ancient Dhanyakataka, the capital of the Satavahana kingdom, is located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.
8. Which Saka king was defeated by Gautamiputra Satakarni?
- Moga
- Rudradaman-I
- Menander
- Nahapana
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Correct Answer: Nahapana
Gautamiputra Satakarni, a celebrated Satavahana ruler, is known for his military achievements, particularly his defeat of the Saka King Nahapana. Inscriptions, including the Nasik Inscription, are instrumental in recognizing his accomplishments, which include reclaiming territories and vanquishing rival powers.
9. The achievements of which ruler were recorded in the Nasik Inscription?
- Ashoka
- Bindusara
- Devabhumi
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
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Correct Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni
The achievements of Gautamiputra Satakarni were mentioned in the Nasik Inscription, which was made by his mother Gautami Balasri. It mentions Gautamiputra Satakarni as the destroyer of the Sakas, Pahlavas, and the Yavanas.
10. Who among the following was the first Satavahana King to introduce the Ruler’s head on the coins?
- Satkarni I
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Vasishthiputra Pulumavi
- Yajna Satakarni
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Correct Answer: Satkarni I
Satavahana Kings promoted Buddhism, and Satkarni I was the first Satavahana King to introduce the Ruler’s head on the coins.
11. Metronymics were borne by the later rulers of which among the following dynasties?
- Maurya
- Sunga
- Kanva
- Satavahana
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Correct Answer: Satavahana
Metronymics, which are names derived from the name of a mother or female ancestor, were borne by the later Satavahana rulers and not by the early Satavahanas. The metronymics of the Satavahanas were the result of matrimonial alliances with maharathis.
12. Who was the mother of Gautamiputra Satakarni?
- Shubhadrangi
- Nirjara
- Gautami
- Koshala
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Correct Answer: Gautami
Gautami Balasri, the mother of Gautamiputra Satakarni, made the Nasik Inscription. This inscription provides a comprehensive account of her son’s military successes and the restoration of the dynasty’s prestige. It underlines the prominence of female figures in the historical and administrative landscape of the Satavahana dynasty.
13. Who composed the Nasik Inscription in which the achievements of Gautamiputra Satakarni were recorded?
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Sarkarni-I
- Kanha
- Gautami
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Correct Answer: Gautami
The achievements of Gautamiputra Satakarni were mentioned in the Nasik Inscription, which was composed by his mother Gautami Balasri. The Nasik Prasasti describes Gautamiputra as the ruler of Aparanta, Anupa, Saurashtra, Kukura, Akara, and Avanti. It also mentions his victory over the Saka King Nahapana and the restoration of the prestige of his dynasty.
14. Which among the following is not correctly matched?
- Maurya Empire – Chandragupta Maurya
- Shunga Dynasty – Pushyamitra Shunga
- Satavahana Dynasty – Gautamiputra Satakarni
- All are correct
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Correct Answer: Satavahana Dynasty – Gautamiputra Satakarni
The founder of the Satavahana Dynasty was Simuka, and Gautamiputra Satakarni was a prominent ruler of the dynasty but not the founder.
15. Kavi Vatsal was a title assumed by a king belonging to which dynasty?
- Pushyabhuti
- Pallava
- Maurya
- Satavahana
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Correct Answer: Satavahana
The title of Kavi Vatsal was assumed by a king belonging to the Satvahana dynasty.
16. Who among the following assumed the titles of “sakayavanpallavanidusana” (destroyer of Saka, Yavana, and Pallava) and “Trisamudrapittoyvahana” (one whose horses had drunk waters from 3 oceans)?
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Simuka
- Rudradaman I
- Vijaya
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Correct Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni
Gautamiputra Satakarni assumed the titles of “sakayavanpallavanidusana” and “Trisamudrapittoyvahana” to signify his victories over the Sakas, Yavanas, and Pallavas.
17. Simuka was an Indian king and the founder of which dynasty?
- Satavahana
- Kadamba
- Ganga
- Kakatiya
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Correct Answer: Satavahana
Simuka is traditionally regarded as the founder of the Satavahana Dynasty. While Gautamiputra Satakarni was a prominent ruler, he was not the founder of the dynasty. Simuka’s establishment of the dynasty laid the foundation for the subsequent rule of notable Satavahana kings.
18. The silver coins of which king carried portraits and bilingual legends, which were inspired by the Kshatrapa types?
- Satavahanas
- Kushanas
- Guptas
- Mauryas
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
Satavahana kings are noted for issuing bilingual coins featuring Middle Indo-Aryan language on one side and Tamil language on the other side. These coins often carry portraits of the kings and were inspired by the Kshatrapa types.
19. Which dynasty is credited for establishing peace in the country after the decline of the Maurya Empire?
- Pallavas
- Cholas
- Satavahanas
- Vakatakas
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
The Satavahana dynasty is credited with establishing peace in the country after the decline of the Maurya Empire.
20. What was the name of the judges and judicial officers in the Satavahana Dynasty?
- Amatya
- Rajukas
- Bhoja
- Gamika
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Correct Answer: Rajukas
In the Satavahana Dynasty, judges and judicial officers were referred to as Rajukas. They played a crucial role in the administration of justice and legal matters during the Satavahana rule.
21. In which region did Satavahana rule?
- Plains of Ganges
- Hastinapur
- Deccan Region
- Gujarat
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Correct Answer: Deccan Region
The Satavahana Dynasty ruled primarily in the Deccan region of India. Their influence extended over parts of modern-day Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and surrounding areas. They established their capital in Dhanyakataka, which is located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.
22. From which varna did Satavahanas claim their descent?
- Brahmana
- Kshatriya
- Vaishya
- Shudra
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Correct Answer: Brahmana
While it is suggested that the Satavahanas claimed their descent from the Brahmana varna, they practiced Vedic rituals and worshipped deities like Krishna and Vasudeva. This is evident from inscriptions like the Naneghat cave inscription from the 1st century BCE, highlighting their religious inclinations.
23. Which dynasty started the practice of giving royal grants of land to Brahmanas and Buddhist monks?
- Mauryas S
- hungas
- Satavahanas
- Guptas
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
The Satavahana dynasty is known for starting the practice of giving royal grants of land to Brahmanas and Buddhist monks. These grants included tax exemptions and were a way for the kings to gain support and patronize religious institutions.
24. Which dynasty succeeded the Mauryas in the Deccan and in central India?
- Shungas
- Kanvas
- Satavahanas
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
There was a significant gap of approximately 100 years between the decline of the Mauryas and the rise of the Satavahanas. During this interim period, the Shunga and Kanva dynasties succeeded the Mauryas in the northern regions of India.
25. Which of the following is identical with the ‘Andhras’ of the Puranas?
- Satavahanas
- Shungas
- Kanvas
- Kushans
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Correct Answer: Satavahanas
The Satavahanas are considered identical with the ‘Andhras’ mentioned in the Puranas. However, the name ‘Andhra’ does not explicitly appear in Satavahana inscriptions, and the Puranas do not specifically mention the Satavahanas, only referring to the Andhras in general.
26. The earliest Satavahana inscriptions belong to which of the following centuries?
- 1st century BCE
- 2nd century BCE
- 3rd century BCE
- 4th century BCE
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Correct Answer: 1st century BCE
The earliest known Satavahana inscriptions date back to the 1st century BCE. During this period, the Satavahanas defeated the Kanvas and established their authority over parts of central India.
27. Who was the most famous ruler of the Satavahana dynasty?
- Simuka
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Vashishthiputra Pulumayi
- Yajna Sri Satakarni
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni
Gautamiputra Satakarni is celebrated as one of the most famous rulers of the Satavahana dynasty. His reign marked a significant resurgence in Satavahana power. He defeated the Shakas and elevated the prestige of the dynasty through his military campaigns.
28. In which inscription were the achievements of Gautamiputra Satakarni described and eulogized after his death?
- Junagadh Inscription
- Naneghat Inscription
- Nashik Inscription
- None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Nashik Inscription
After Gautamiputra Satakarni’s death, his accomplishments were described and praised in the Nashik Inscription, particularly during the reign of his son, Pulumayi II. The inscription, composed in Prakrit, emphasizes his achievements, especially his victories over rival powers.
29. In the Nashik inscription, who has been described as “ekabamhana”?
- Simuka
- Pulumayi II
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Yajna Sri Satakarni
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni
In the Nashik Inscription, Gautamiputra Satakarni is referred to as “ekabamhana,” signifying a peerless Brahmana, and “khatiya-dapamanamada,” emphasizing his role in curbing the high-handedness and pride of the Kshatriyas.
30. Which king married the daughter of Rudradaman I?
- Gautamiputra Satakarni
- Simuka
- Vashishthiputra Pulumayi
- Yajna Sri Satakarni
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Vashishthiputra Pulumayi
According to the Junagadh Inscription, Vashishthiputra Pulumayi married the daughter of Rudradaman I, suggesting matrimonial alliances and diplomatic relationships between different regional powers.
31. Which period is associated with the reign of Yajna Sri Satakarni?
- 106-130 CE
- 130-154 CE
- 152-181 CE
- 195-200 CE
Show Answer
Correct Answer: 152-181 CE
Yajna Sri Satakarni, also known as Gautamiputra Yajna Sri, was an Indian ruler of the Satavahana dynasty. He was the brother of Vashishtiputra Satakarni. His reign is dated variously: c. 152-181 CE, c.
32. Who authored the Gatha Sattasai?
- Yajna Sri Satakarni
- Hala
- Gautamiputra Vijaya
- Satakarni
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Hala
Hala, the 17th king in the Satavahana dynasty, is credited with authoring the Gatha Sattasai, which consists of 700 erotic poems written in the Maharashtri Prakrit dialect. This literary work adds to our understanding of the cultural and literary aspects of the Satavahana period.
33. The Satavahana kingdom was divided into subdivisions known as:
- Aharas
- Grama
- Bhogal
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Aharas
The Satavahana kingdom was divided into subdivisions called “aharas” or “rashtras,” which can be translated as districts. These administrative units were retained from the Ashokan period.
34. What was the lowest level of administration during the Satavahana dynasty?
- Village (Grama)
- Town
- Province
- District
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Correct Answer: Village (Grama)
The lowest level of administration during the Satavahana period was the village or “grama.” Each village was under the charge of a “gaulmika” or village headman, who also commanded a military regiment consisting of chariots, elephants, horses, and foot soldiers.
35. Which of the following were a part of the three grades of feudatories during the Satavahana period?
1. Raja
2. Mahabhoja
3. Senapati
Choose the right answer
- Only 1 and 2
- 1, 2, and 3
- 2, 3, and 4
- None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: 1, 2, and 3
The Satavahanas organized their kingdom into three grades of feudatories, including Rajas (those with the right to mint coins), Mahabhojas, and Senapatis. They primarily issued copper and bronze coins, although lead coins were also issued. Gold coins were relatively less common, and it’s believed that lead might have been imported from the Romans.
36. The Satavahanas majorly issued which of the following types of coins?
- Lead coins
- Gold coins
- Silver coins
- Copper coins
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Copper coins
The Satavahanas primarily issued copper and bronze coins, although they also issued some lead coins. Gold coins were not as common for the Satavahana dynasty. Lead was likely imported from the Romans.
37. Which period saw the regular use of fire-baked bricks and perforated roof tiles during the Satavahana dynasty?
- Kanvas
- Shungas
- Satavahanas
- Kushans
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Satavahanas
The Satavahanas had a distinctive material culture marked by the use of fire-baked bricks and perforated roof tiles. This architectural style was influenced by northern and local Deccan elements. Additionally, the Krishna-Godavari Delta region was known as the “rice bowl” during the Satavahana period, characterized by advanced rural economies and paddy cultivation. This area was a crucial agricultural center during their rule.
38. Which area was referred to as the “rice bowl” during the Satavahana period?
- Krishna-Godavari Delta
- Krishna-Kaveri Delta
- Krishna-Periyar Delta
- Kaveri-Godavari Delta
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Krishna-Godavari Delta
The area on the confluence of the Krishna and Godavari rivers, known as the Krishna-Godavari Delta, was considered the “rice bowl” during the Satavahana period. It was a region of advanced rural economy and paddy cultivation.
39. During which period was cotton exported to different countries?
- Mauryans
- Shungas
- Satavahanas
- Kushans
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Satavahanas
Under the Satavahanas, cotton production and cultivation were prominent. Andhra, the region under Satavahana control, was known for its cotton products. Cotton was also exported from India to different countries during this period.
40. Which of the following became important Buddhist sites under the Satavahanas?
1. Nagarjunakonda
2. Amravati
3. Nashik
4. Junar
Choose the right answer:
- Only 1 and 2
- Only 1, 2 and 3
- Only 2, 3 and 4
- None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Only 1, 2 and 3
Under the Satavahanas, Buddhism was promoted, and several important Buddhist sites emerged. Nagarjunakonda, Amravati, and Nashik were significant Buddhist sites associated with the Satavahana period. Junar, on the other hand, is known for its rock-cut architecture.
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