Indus Valley Civilization Notes PDF

SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY BUILDING NO-630, BLOCK B-1, JANAKPURI EAST, BELOW RANA MOTORS, NEW DELHI NEW HISTORY NOTES BY NEHA MA’AM S.NO CHAPTER NAME PAGE NO 1 INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION 1-12 2 VEDIC CULTURE 13-23 3 MAHAJANAPAD...

SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY BUILDING NO-630, BLOCK B-1, JANAKPURI EAST, BELOW RANA MOTORS, NEW DELHI NEW HISTORY NOTES BY NEHA MA’AM S.NO CHAPTER NAME PAGE NO 1 INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION 1-12 2 VEDIC CULTURE 13-23 3 MAHAJANAPAD 24-27 4 BUDDHISM 28-34 5 JAINISM 35-38 6 MAGADH EMPIRE 39-55 7 CENTRAL ASIA 56-64 8 GUPTA DYNASTY 65-73 9 VARDHANA 74-82  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Indus valley civilization (𝟐𝟔𝟎𝟎𝑩𝑪 − 𝟏𝟗𝟎𝟎𝑩𝑪) ⋄ It is also known as Harappan civilization and Bronze age civilization. ⋄ It was the largest of the four ancient urban civilization of Egypt, Mesopotamia, India and china. ⋄ Capital cities- Harappa and Mohenjodaro & In 1924, John Marshall, Director of Archaeological survey of India, announced the discovery of the new civilization in the Indus Valley. ⋄ In 1853, Alexander Cunnigham found a Harappan seal (unicorn seal) of bull with six written letters In 1875 Alexander Cunnigham became the first director general of the Archaeological survey of India he is known as the father of ASI. Active sites- Northernmost site- Manda (Jammu & Kashmir) Southernmost site- Daimabad (Maharashtra) Easternmost site- Alamgirpur (UP) Westernmost site- Sutkangendor / Makran coast (Pakistan-Iran border) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 1  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Important features of the IVC- IVC is the first known Urbanization in India. Systematic town planning- the towns were rectangular followed the Grid system with road at right angle and rarely opened into the main street.(except lothal) (the main roads in Mohenjodaro was 10 m wide and 800 m long) Use of brunt bricks in construction Underground drainage system (except Banawali), giant water reservoir in Dholavira and in almost all cities every big or small house had its own courtyard and bathroom Fortified citadel (except Chanhudaro) and The Citadel within Lothal was not walled off, but was built at a height Below the citadel in each city lay a lower town containing brick houses, which were inhabited by the common people. They were aware of the construction of streets, wells and bows but they did not have knowledge of pillars. Main crops- Wheat and Barley, evidences of cultivation or rice in Lothal, other crops dates, mustard, sesame, lentils, rai, peas etc. (Most Harappan sites are located in semi-arid lands, where irrigation was probably required for agriculture.) Indus people were the first to produce cotton in the world it was called Sindon by the Greeks.(agro- commercial civilization) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 2  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Animals- Sheep, oxen, goat, bull, buffalo, dog, pig, deer, camel, tiger, rhinoceros, elephant etc. not horse centered but evidences of Horse found in Lothal and Surkotada. (Lion and cow were not known to Indus people) The Harappans ate a wide range of plant and animal products, including fish. Iron is not known, people aware of copper Saddle querns are found in considerable numbers and they seem to have been the only means in use for grinding cereals Nageshwar and Balakot were specialized centers for making shell objects - including bangles, ladles and inlay - which were taken to other settlements utilitarian and luxuries- two category first includes objects of daily use made fairly easily out of ordinary materials such as stone or clay include querns, pottery, needles etc. 2nd category little pots of faience (a material made of ground sand or silica mixed with color and a gum and then fired) were probably considered precious because they were difficult to make. Society Economy and Religion Harappa was possibly ruled by ruling class merchant. Mostly buildings have private wells (In Kalibangan many houses had their wells) and properly ventilated bathrooms Some houses have remains of staircases to reach a second storey or the roof Traces of canals have been found at the Harappan site of Shortughai in Afghanistan and Baluchistan, but not in Punjab or Sind Presence of numerous seals, uniform script and regular weight and measures no use of metal money follow barter system. The weights proceeded in a series used set of cubical stone usually made of a stone called chert and generally cubical weight. lower denominations of weights were binary (1, 2,4,8,16,32, etc. up to 12,800 ), while the higher denominations followed the decimal system. Script- oldest script in the Indian subcontinent -Pictographic script (Boustrophedon style right to left than left to right) (it has been not deciphered so far) No evidences of temples and big places Numerous terracotta figurines of women (plant growing out of the embryo of a women) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 3  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION The people of Indus region also worshipped trees and Animals The people probably believes in ghost and evil sprit, amulets has been found in large numbers Very found of ornament of gold ,silver precious stones, ivory etc. Pottery- painted red and black but plain potteries are more common Dead Bodies were buried or cremated in North-South Orientation. Q. Which one among the following is not the characteristic feature of the Harappan settlement? (a) Doorways and windows generally faced the side lanes and rarely opened onto the main streets (b). Houses generally had separate bathing areas and toilets (c) The citadel was walled but the lower town was not walled (d) Drains and water chutes from the second storey were often built inside the wall Q. Which one of the following Harappan sites was a specialised centre for making shell objects ? (a) Lothal (b) Balakot (c) Amri (d) Kot Diji Shamans are men and women who claim magical and healing powers, as well as an ability to communicate with the other world. But despite that there is no conclusive evidences of Harappan believing in another world Steatite was mainly used in the manufacture of seals. seals with symbol similar to Swastika design. terracotta models of the plough have been found at sites in Cholistan and at Banawali (Haryana). “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 4  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Khetri region of Rajasthan (for copper) and south India (for gold). copper was also probably brought from Oman, Tin, which was mixed with copper to produce bronze, may have been brought from present-day Afghanistan and Iran. Gold could have come all the way from present-day Karnataka, and precious stones from present-day Gujarat, Iran and Afghanistan Mesopotamian sites also contains traces of nickel, Indus people had good contact with the people of Mesopotamian. Mesopotamian texts mention contact with regions named Dilmun (probably the island of Bahrain), Magan and Meluha, possibly the Harappan region. Phases of IVC 1. Early Harappan Phase ( 3300 to 2600 BC) 2. Mature Harappan Phase ( 2600 to 1900 BC) 3. Late Harappan Phase ( 1900 to 1300 BC) Important sites Harappa- On the bank of Ravi river Montgomery dist. of Punjab, Pakistan Excavated by Daya Ram Sahmi in 1921. Major Findings- 6 Granaries in row, Red sandstone Male torso, Stone symbol of Lingam and yoni, Coffin burial, Mother goddess (plant growing from the womb that represent mother earth), Dice, Painted pottery, Quadrate seals, evidences of two cemeteries (In Harappa the dead were generally laid in pits), 2 room barracks (probably built for laborers to live) Mohenjodaro- On the bank of Indus river Larkana dist. Of Sindh, Pakistan Excavated by Rakhal Das Banerjee in 1922 Largest city of Indus valley civilization. It is also known as Mound of Dead. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 5  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Major Findings- Great bath (surrounded by a corridor on all four sides and rectangular in shape 45.71 m long and 15.23 m wide), great granaries, best drainage system (every cities had a courtyard and a bathroom, there are no windows in the walls along the ground level. Besides, the main entrance does not give a direct view of the interior or the courtyard.), Bronze Dancing girl ('tribhanga' dancing posture.), steatite statue of bearded man (soapstone), Post cremation burial, Priest king, Seal of Pasupathi / Proto Shiva ( three horned heads and is represented in the sitting posture of a yogi with one leg placed above the other surrounded by an elephant, a tiger(on the left side), rhinoceros and a buffalo(on the right side) and two deer at his feet), Assembly hall, cotton pieces, swastika design, bronze figure of a bull, painted earthen jar Chanhudaro- On the bank of Indus river Sindh dist. Of Pakistan. Excavated by N.G. Majumdaar in 1931. Major findings- City without citadel, Inkpot, Lipstick, Metal- workers, shell ornament, bead market and factory, Dog’s paw on a brick, bronze toy cart, Terracotta model of a bullock cart. Lothal- Bank of Bhogava river in Ahmedabad, Gujrat Excavated by S.R. Rao in 1953-1954 Important port city and Naval side of IVC. Major Findings- Dockyard, Granaries, rice husk, joint burial of male and female, terracotta figures of horse, Persian/ Iranian seal, three paired cemeteries, copper dog and bird Dholavira- “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 6  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Bank of Luni river Kutch dist., of Gujrat Excavated by Jagatpati Joshi in 1967-1968 and by R.S. Bisht in 1985 Major Findings- Water reservoir system, unique water harnessing system and storm water drainage system, evidences of stadium, only site divided into three parts, Harappan inscription signboard, rock cut architecture Surkotada- situated between the rivers Sabarmati and Bhogva in Gujrat excavated by J.P joshi in 1972  Major Findings-  Only site with horse remains, oval grave and pit burial. Kalibanga- Bank of river Ghaggar Hanumangarh dist. Of Rajasthan Excavated by Amalanand Ghosh in 1953, B.V Lal and B.K. Thapar 1961.  Major Findings-  Bangle factory, seven fire altars, camel bone, ploughed field surface, wooden plough, evidences of surgery and Earthquake, decorated bricks, many houses had their own wells Banawali- on the bank of river Ghaggar in Fatehabad dist. Haryana. Excavated by R.S.Bisht in 1973 Major Findings- Oval shaped settlement, lack of systematic drainage system, lack of grid pattern town planning, only city with radial streets, clay model of plough. Rakhigarhi- On the bank of river Ghaggar in Hisar dist. Haryana. Excavated by Amrendra Nath 1963 “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 7  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION It is the largest site of IVC in India. Major Findings- Granary, cemetery, terracotta bricks, granary with 7 rectangular chambers, world’s largest museum of Harappan culture Q. Consider the following statements : 1 Terracotta models of the plough have been found at sites in Cholistan and at Banawali (Haryana). 2 There is evidence of a ploughed field at Kalibangan associated with the mature phase of the Harappan civilization. 3 The ploughed field at Kalibangan had two sets of furrows crossing at right angles to each other suggesting two different crops were grown together in it. Which of the statements given above are correct ? (a) 1,2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the above Ropar- On the bank of Sutlej Punjab, India Excavated by Y.D. Sharma in 1953 First site to be found after independence. Major Findings- Dog buried with human, copper axe. Alamgirpur- on the bank of Yamuna river, UP Major Findings- Broken cupper blade, ceramic items, impression of cloth on a trough. Daimabaad- On the bank of Pravara river Major Findings- Bronze image, chariot Amri- On the bank of Indus river Founded by N.G.Majumdaar in 1935 Evidences of Antelope and rhinoceros. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 8  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Note- Amalananda Ghosa (1965) was the first archaeologist to identify the similarities between a pre Harappan culture and the mature harappan culture 1. The Harappan civilization is also known as a. Bronge Age civilization b. Silver Age civilization c. Golden Age civilization d. Stone Age civilization 2. At which among the following sites of Indus Valley civilization the rows of distinctive fire altars with provision of ritual bathing have been found? a. Harappa b. Mohenjodaro c. Kalibanda d. Dholavira 3. Which of the following animals was not represented in seals and terracotta art of harappan sculpture? a. Tiger b. Elephant c. Cow d. Rhinoceros 4. The script of Indus valley civilization was a. Persian b. Dravidian c. Sanskrit d. Undeciphered 5. The harappan people believed in a. Sprit Charm b. In amulet c. In other world Which of the following statements are true a. Only 1 b. Only 1 and 2 c. 2 and 3 d. All of the above 6. Remains of horse bones fund from a. Lothal b. Surkotada c. Kalibanga d. Dholavira 7. Which of the following characterizes/ characterize the people of Indus Civilization? 1. They possessed great palaces and temples. 2. They worshipped both male and female deities. 3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare. Select the correct statement/ statements using the codes given below. a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 only c. 1, 2 and 3 d. None of the statements given above is correct 8. Match the following List I List II (Harappan Settlements) (Rivers) A. Mohenjodaro 1. Indus B. Ropar 2. Ghaggar C. Kalibangan 3. Sutlej D. Harappa 4. Ravi “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 9  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION A B C D a) 1 2 3 4 b) 1 3 2 4 c) 4 3 2 1 d) 3 2 4 1 9. The organic relationship between the ancient culture of the Indus Valley and Hinduism of today is proved by the worship of a. Pashupati Indra and the Mother Goddess b. Stones trees and animals c. Vishnu and Lakshmi d. Siva and Sakti 10. Which one of the following ancient towns is well known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelising water into connected reservoirs? a) Dholavira b) Kalibangan c) Rakhigarhi d) Ropar 11. Assertion (A): Civilization was dominated by the peasants and merchants and thus also called as an agro- commercial civilization. Reason (R): Indus people were the first who produces cotton, which Greeks termed as Sindon (derived from Sindh). Codes: A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A B. Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation of A C. A is true but R is false D. Both A & R is not true 12. Assertion (A): The greatest artistic of the Harappan culture were the seals, made of steatite. Harappan script is pictographic but yet to be deciphered. Reason (R): The script was written from right to left in the first line and left to right in the second line. This style is called Boustrophedon. Codes: A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A B. Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation of A C. A is true but R is false D. Both A & R is not true 13. Assertion (A): People of the civilization had developed their own kind of weighing and measurement system which was the multiple of 16. Reason (R): Dead Bodies were buried or cremated in North-South Orientation. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 10  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION Codes: A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A B. Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation of A C. A is true but R is false D. Both A & R is not true 14. Which place in Harappa Civilisation where scale-pan made of elephant's tusk was found during excavation? A. Lothal and Mohenjo-daro B. Ropar and Chahudaro C. Harappa and Mohenjo-daro D. Alamgirpur and Kotdiji 15. In the Mesopotamian records which one of the following terms was used for the Indus valley A. Dilmun B. Meluha C. Magan D. Failaka 16. The terracotta plough of the harappan civilization was found at A. Mohenjodaro B. Banawali C. Kalibanga D. Lothal 17. Match list 1 and List 2 and select correct code from among the codes given below List- 1 List 2 (Harappan city) (Location) A. Manda 1. Rajasthan B. Daimabad 2. Haryana C. Kalibanga 3. Jammu- Kashmir D. Rakhigarhi 4. Maharashtra Code- A B C D a) 1 2 3 4 b) 2 3 4 1 c) 3 4 1 2 d) 4 1 2 3 18. Which metal has not been found till date in the Harappan age sites A. Copper B. Gold C. Silver D. Iron 19. Which of the following was the first metal used by man? A. Gold B. Silver C. Copper D. Iron 20. Consider the following statements “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 11  INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION 1. Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Ropar and Kalibangan are leading sites of the Indus valley civilization 2. The Harappan people developed planned towns with network of streets and drains 3. The Harappan people did not know the use of metal Code- A. 1 and 2 B. 1 and 3 C. 2 and 3 D. All of the above 21. The biggest Harappan site in India is A. Rakhigarhi B. Dholavira C. Kaibangan D. Lothal 22. Which was the largest city of the Indus valley civilization is A. Lothal B. Mohenjodaro C. Mehrgarh D. Harappa 23. Out of the following remains excavated in Indus Valley which one indicates the commercial and economic development? A. Pottery B. Seals C. Boats D. Houses “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 12  VEDIC CULTURE Vedic period (1500BC-600BC) Arrival of Aryans ▪ Aryans originally lived in the steppes region (eastern Europe & central Asia). later they move to Punjab region of India around 1500BC. ▪ With the advent of Aryans begins the history of Vedic period (1500BC-600BC). It was a ruler civilization. ▪ The word ‘Aryan’ is borrowed from ‘Arya’ in Sanskrit means ‘class of noble people’ or ‘class of superior ‘. ▪ Iranian text Zend Avesta talks about names of Aryan god like Indra, Varuna, Agani etc. ▪ There name appears in Hittite inscription (Anatolia), Kassitte inscription ( Iraq) and Mittani inscription (Syria). ▪ Many historians gave various theories regarding the original place of Aryans. ▪ According to Max Muller the Aryans were from the central Asia (the most accepted one). ▪ The “ Arctic Home in the Vedas” is a seminal work on the origin of Aryans presented by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. ▪ The word ‘Veda’ is derived from the root vid which means to know. The term Veda signifies superior knowledge. Compiler of Vedas – Maharishi Ved Vyash. Language- Sanskrit, Indo- Aryan language. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 13  VEDIC CULTURE “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 14  VEDIC CULTURE Geographical expansion- The early Aryans settled in the land of seven rivers are called the region of Sapt Sindhu 1. Sindhu ( Indus) 2. Vitasta ( Jhelum) 3. Askini ( Chenab) 4. Bipasa ( Beas) 5. Satudri ( Satluj) 6. Parushni ( Ravi) 7. Saraswati (Ghagghar) The region covered present day part of Afghanistan (kumbha river), Punjab and Haryana ▪ The later Vedic Aryans Settled in Gangetic valley (western ganga valley called Aryavrata) Acquired knowledge of Eastern and Western Sea and also of Narmada and Vindhyan Mountains Sindhu is the most mentioned and Swaraswati is the most holy river in early Vedic period. Swaraswati valley was known as Brahmavarta Rig veda also mentioned the name of Ganga and Yamuna river The Himalaya were called as Himavat and Hindu Kush was called Munjavant in Rig Vedic period but no mention of Vindhyas and Satpura mountain The swastika sign not mentioned in Rig Veda. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 15  VEDIC CULTURE “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 16  VEDIC CULTURE Vedic texts are broadly categories into two parts- Shruti- these are the text that is heard or produced by sages while meditation.eg. 4 Vedas Smritis- collection of vedic hymns or mantras Eg. Ramayan , Mahabharat, Purans etc Vedangas- To understanding of the Vedas one needs to know vedangas ( supplementary on vedas) These are 6 in numbers- Siksha- education “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 17  VEDIC CULTURE Nirukta- origin of word Chhanda- metrics used in Sanskrit verse Jyotish- astronomer Vajakaran- Sanskrit grammar Kalpa- knowledge of rituals Upanishad- ▪ Books on philosophy ▪ They are also known as Vedantas having the truth about human life and path of Moksha. ▪ Mundaka upanishada contains the famous phase ‘Satyameva Jayate’ ▪ Maitrayani Upanishad ; Doctrine of Trimurti. Brahmanas ▪ satpatha Brahmana, related to Yajur Veda. ▪ Aitareya Brahamana is related to Rig Veda Ramayana ▪ Oldest epic of the world. ▪ Composed between 400 BC- 400CE ▪ Author- Valmilki Mahabharata ▪ Roughly composed between 400 BCE- 300 CE ▪ Longest epic of the world. ▪ Bhagavad Gita is extracted from Bihshama Parvan of Mahabharata. Shanti Parvan is the largest Parvan of Mahabharata. The six Theistic Philosophies (Darshan) 1. Samkhya- theoretical foundation by Kapil. 2. Yoga- union of soul with God, by Patanjali. 3. Vaisheshika- discusses atomic theory by Kanad 4. Nayaya- Philosophy of logic by Gautam 5. Mimansa- rituals by Jaimini “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 18  VEDIC CULTURE 6. Vedanta- by Badrayan. 1. Consider the following statements regarding the four Vedas I. Rig-Veda is a collection of hymns II. Sam Veda is a collection of songs mostly taken from Rig Veda III. Atharvaveda is a collection of sacrificial formulae Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? a. Only I b. I and II c. II and III d. All of the above 2. At the banks of which of the following rivers was the Battle of Ten Kings fought in the Early Vedic Period? a) Sarasvati b) Drishadvati c) Parushni d) Shutudri 3. Which one of the following rivers was earlier known as Vitasta a) Tista b) Jhelum c) Ravi d) Beas 4. Which one among the following is not true with regard to Rig Veda Samhita ? a. There are about 300 non-Indo-European words in Rig Veda b. There is a reference to dasarajna (battle of ten kings) in the Rig Veda c. It is mentioned in the Rig Veda that the Bharata chief Sudas fought against a confederacy of ten tribes d. Purus sided with Bharata in the battle of ten kings 5. From which historical work were the words “Satyameva Jayate” appearing under the national emblem taken ? a) Bhagawad Gita b) Rig Veda c) Ramayana d) Mundaka Upanishad 6. Which one of the following Vedas contains sacrificial formulae? a) Sama Veda b) Rig Veda c) Yajur Veda d) Athar Veda Pre- Maurya Period Mahajanapadas (600BC) ▪ In pre- Mauryan period the entire northern territory was divided into sixteen Mahajanpadas (states). The states had either Monarchical or republican. ▪ Source of information- Ahguttara Nikaya and Bhagwatisuttra (Jain text) ▪ During the period the Brahmi script appeared for the first time. ▪ During this period the use of coin is also recorded known as Panch mark coin ▪ The sixteen Mahajanpadas mentioned in the Anguttara Nikaya are- “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 19  VEDIC CULTURE 1) Anga 2) Magadha 3) Kashi 4) Kosala 5) Vajji 6) Malla 7) Chhedi 8) Vatsa 9) Kuru 10) Panchala 11) Matshya 12) Aasmaka 13) Surasena 14) Avanti 15) Gandhara 16) Kamboja. Monarchies- Gandhara, Kamboja Kashi, Vatsa, Avanti, Chedi, Kuru Panchala, Matsya, Anga, Koasala, Magadha, and Sursena. Republics- Asmaka, Malla,and Vajji. Panini has mentioned 22 Mahajanapadas in Ashtadhyayi.Magadh, Ashmaka and Kamboj Mentioned in Ashtdhayayi. It was written during 6th- 5th century BC. Monarchies- 1. Kashi- Capital- Banaras/ Varanasi Probably the first and the most powerful state initially. Conflict with- Kosala, Magadh, and Anga. 2. Kosala- capital- Sharavasti (mention- Shatpath Brahman) present day –UP The king of Kosala was Prasenjit, (contemporary of Buddha,Bimbisara and Ajatasatru of Magadh). His sister married with Bimbisara and the Kashi was given to her as dowry. Prasenjit’s daughter Vajjra was married to Ajatasatru and kashi was given as dowry again. Finally Kosala was captured by Magadh after the death of Prasenjit. 3. Anga- capital- Champa (prenently- Munger and Bhagalpur dist. Of Bihar) ▪ Wealth and commerce and its merchants regularly visited Suvarnbhumi (south china and Indo- China) ▪ Annexed by Bimbisara of Magadh. 4. Magadha- capital- Rajagriha (Girivraja) and Vaishali ( earlier) and Pataliputra (later). Famous for Elephant. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 20  VEDIC CULTURE 5. Vatsa- capital- Kaushambi ( near Allahabad) ▪ First appears in Rigveda, offshoot of Kuru, who shifted from Hastinapur to Kaushambi. ▪ Ruler- Udayana ▪ Contemporary of lord Buddha. Note- Pradyota, Prasenjit, Udayana, Bimbisara, Ajatshatru and Pukkusati were the contemporary of Lord Buddha. 6. Avanti- capital- Mahissmati (south), Ujjayini / Ujjain (north). ▪ Captured by Magadha during the rule of Sishunaga. 7. Gandhara- capital- Taxila ( Kabul valley) ▪ Famous learning centre. Panini and Kautilya were the famous teacher of Taxila university. Ruler- Pukkusati Captured by Cyrus the Achaemenid emperor of Persia (Iran) 8. Kamboja- Capital- Rajpur/ Hataka ( Kabul valley). ▪ Associated with Gandhara in literature and inscriptions. They are referred to in Yaska’s Nirukta ▪ Around 530 BC Cyrus attacked and captured it ▪ During Kautilya’s time it transformed from a monarchy to republican. ▪ Famous for horse market. 9. Matshya- capital- Viratnagar (Rajasthan) 10. Kurus- capital- Hastinapur /Indraprastha 11. Panchala- capital- Ahicchatra ( North capital Bareilly, UP), Kampilya (south). 12. chedi- capital- Suktimati ( Bundelkhand) Ruler- Shishupala 13. Surasena- capital- Mathura (located in the junction of two trade route Uttarpratha and Dakshinapratha) ▪ Belonging to the Yadava clan which is associated with lord Krishana. Republics 14. Vajji- capital- Vaishali (Nepal hills) ▪ Captured by Ajatshatru “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 21  VEDIC CULTURE 15. Mallas- capital- Kushinagar and Pavapuri 16. Asmaka- capital- Patali ( Potna, Maharastra) 1. Which of the following statements about ancient Indian Mahajanpadas is correct? a) All Mahajanpadas were oligarchy where power was exercised by a group of people b) All Mahajanpadas were located in eastern India c) No army was maintained by the Mahajanpadas d) Buddhist and jain text list sixteen Mahajanpadas 2. Mathura, the famous city was the capital of which ancient Mahajanapada? a) Kashi b) Kuru c) Panchala d) Sursena 3. Which Mahajanapada ruler was Shishupala? a) Chedi b) Panchal c) Magadh d) Kosala 4. Which of the following was the capital of Matsya Mahajanapada? a) Sothivati b) Viratnagar c) Ujjain d) Mahishmati 5. Panini, the first Grammarian of Sanskrit language in India, lived during the a) 2nd Century B.C. b) 6th-5th Century B.C. c) 2nd Century A.D. d) 5th-6th Century A.D 6. How many Mahajanapadas have been mentioned by Panini in Ashtadhyayi? a) 18 b) 20 c) 22 d) 24 7. Which of the following Mahajanpadas is not republican in nature? a) Malla b) Vajji c) Kamboja d) Asmaka 8. Name the kingdom which first used elephants in wars a) Kosala b) Magadha c) Champa d) Avanti 9. Match the following. List-I List-II A. Samkhya 1. Gautam B. Mimamsa 2. Patanjali C. Nyaya 3. Kapil D. Yoga 4. Jaimini “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 22  VEDIC CULTURE a) A-1 B-2 C-3 D-4 b) A-3 B-4 C- 1 D-2 c) A-4 B-3 C-2 D-1 d) A-1 B-3 C-2 D-4 10. Match the following Mahajanpadas capital A. Vatsa 1. Mathura B. Sursena 2. Hataka C. Kamboja 3. Kausambi D. Chedi 4. Suktimati a) A- 3 B- 1 C- 2 D- 4 b) A- 2 B- 1 C- 3 D- 4 c) A- 1 B- 2 C- 3 D- 4 d) A- 3 B- 2 C- 1 D- 4 11. Which of the following is the major impact of Vedic culture on Indian history? A) Progress of philosophy B) Development of culture C) Rigidification of caste system D) Perception of a new world 12. Which part of Rigveda gives an account of the origin of the Universe? A) Second Mandala B) Fourth Mandala C) Ninth Mandala D) Tenth Mandala 13. Which of the following cities was located at junction of Uttarapatha and Dakshinapatha? A) Varanashi B) Patliputra C) Mathura D) Champa “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 23  MAHAJANAPADAS Pre- Maurya Period Mahajanapadas (600BC) ▪ In pre- Mauryan period the entire northern territory was divided into sixteen Mahajanpadas (states). The states had either Monarchical or republican. ▪ Source of information- Ahguttara Nikaya and Bhagwatisuttra (Jain text) ▪ During the period the Brahmi script appeared for the first time. ▪ During this period the use of coin is also recorded known as Panch mark coin ▪ The sixteen Mahajanpadas mentioned in the Anguttara Nikaya are- 1) Anga 2) Magadha 3) Kashi 4) Kosala 5) Vajji 6) Malla 7) Chhedi 8) Vatsa 9) Kuru 10) Panchala 11) Matshya 12) Aasmaka 13) Surasena 14) Avanti 15) Gandhara 16) Kamboja. Monarchies- Gandhara, Kamboja Kashi, Vatsa, Avanti, Chedi, Kuru Panchala, Matsya, Anga, Koasala, Magadha, and Sursena. Republics- Asmaka, Malla,and Vajji. Panini has mentioned 22 Mahajanapadas in Ashtadhyayi.Magadh, Ashmaka and Kamboj Mentioned in Ashtdhayayi. It was written during 6th- 5th century BC. Monarchies- 1. Kashi- Capital- Banaras/ Varanasi Probably the first and the most powerful state initially. Conflict with- Kosala, Magadh, and Anga. 2. Kosala- capital- Sharavasti (mention- Shatpath Brahman) present day –UP The king of Kosala was Prasenjit, (contemporary of Buddha,Bimbisara and Ajatasatru of Magadh). “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 24  MAHAJANAPADAS His sister married with Bimbisara and the Kashi was given to her as dowry. Prasenjit’s daughter Vajjra was married to Ajatasatru and kashi was given as dowry again. Finally Kosala was captured by Magadh after the death of Prasenjit. 3. Anga- capital- Champa (prenently- Munger and Bhagalpur dist. Of Bihar) ▪ Wealth and commerce and its merchants regularly visited Suvarnbhumi (south china and Indo- China) ▪ Annexed by Bimbisara of Magadh. 4. Magadha- capital- Rajagriha (Girivraja) and Vaishali ( earlier) and Pataliputra (later). Famous for Elephant. 5. Vatsa- capital- Kaushambi ( near Allahabad) ▪ First appears in Rigveda, offshoot of Kuru, who shifted from Hastinapur to Kaushambi. ▪ Ruler- Udayana ▪ Contemporary of lord Buddha. Note- Pradyota, Prasenjit, Udayana, Bimbisara, Ajatshatru and Pukkusati were the contemporary of Lord Buddha. 6. Avanti- capital- Mahissmati (south), Ujjayini / Ujjain (north). ▪ Captured by Magadha during the rule of Sishunaga. 7. Gandhara- capital- Taxila ( Kabul valley) ▪ Famous learning centre. Panini and Kautilya were the famous teacher of Taxila university. Ruler- Pukkusati Captured by Cyrus the Achaemenid emperor of Persia (Iran) 8. Kamboja- Capital- Rajpur/ Hataka ( Kabul valley). ▪ Associated with Gandhara in literature and inscriptions. They are referred to in Yaska’s Nirukta ▪ Around 530 BC Cyrus attacked and captured it ▪ During Kautilya’s time it transformed from a monarchy to republican. ▪ Famous for horse market. 9. Matshya- capital- Viratnagar (Rajasthan) 10. Kurus- capital- Hastinapur /Indraprastha “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 25  MAHAJANAPADAS 11. Panchala- capital- Ahicchatra ( North capital Bareilly, UP), Kampilya (south). 12. chedi- capital- Suktimati ( Bundelkhand) Ruler- Shishupala 13. Surasena- capital- Mathura (located in the junction of two trade route Uttarpratha and Dakshinapratha) ▪ Belonging to the Yadava clan which is associated with lord Krishana. Republics 14. Vajji- capital- Vaishali (Nepal hills) ▪ Captured by Ajatshatru 15. Mallas- capital- Kushinagar and Pavapuri 16. Asmaka- capital- Patali ( Potna, Maharastra) 1. Which of the following statements about ancient Indian Mahajanpadas is correct? A) All Mahajanpadas were oligarchy where power was exercised by a group of people B) All Mahajanpadas were located in eastern India C) No army was maintained by the Mahajanpadas D) Buddhist and jain text list sixteen Mahajanpadas 2. Mathura, the famous city was the capital of which ancient Mahajanapada? A) Kashi B) Kuru C) Panchala D) Sursena 3. Which Mahajanapada ruler was Shishupala? A) Chedi B) Panchal C) Magadh D) Kosala 4. Which of the following was the capital of Matsya Mahajanapada? A) Sothivati B) Viratnagar C) Ujjain D) Mahishmati 5. Panini, the first Grammarian of Sanskrit language in India, lived during the a) 2nd Century B.C. b) 6th-5th Century B.C. c) 2nd Century A.D. d) 5th-6th Century A.D 6. How many Mahajanapadas have been mentioned by Panini in Ashtadhyayi? A) 18 B) 20 C) 22 D) 24 7. Which of the following Mahajanpadas is not republican in nature? A) Malla B) Vajji C) Kamboja D) Asmaka 8. Name the kingdom which first used elephants in wars “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 26  MAHAJANAPADAS A) Kosala B) Magadha C) Champa D) Avanti 9. Match the following. List-I List-II A. Samkhya 1. Gautam B. Mimamsa 2. Patanjali C. Nyaya 3. Kapil D. Yoga 4. Jaimini a) A-1 B-2 C-3 D-4 b) A-3 B-4 C- 1 D-2 c) A-4 B-3 C-2 D-1 d) A-1 B-3 C-2 D-4 10. Match the following Mahajanpadas capital A. Vatsa 1. Mathura B. Sursena 2. Hataka C. Kamboja 3. Kausambi D. Chedi 4. Suktimati a) A- 3 B- 1 C- 2 D- 4 b) A- 2 B- 1 C- 3 D- 4 c) A- 1 B- 2 C- 3 D- 4 d) A- 3 B- 2 C- 1 D- 4 11. Which of the following is the major impact of Vedic culture on Indian history? A) Progress of philosophy B) Development of culture C) Rigidification of caste system D) Perception of a new world 12. Which part of Rigveda gives an account of the origin of the Universe? A) Second Mandala B) Fourth Mandala C) Ninth Mandala D) Tenth Mandala 13. Which of the following cities was located at junction of Uttarapatha and Dakshinapatha? A) Varanashi B) Patliputra C) Mathura D) Champa “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 27  BUDDHISM Buddhism and Jainism During later Vedic period (around 500BC) these two religion came up with new philosophies Cause of origin- Expensive and complicated Vedic rituals, superstitious beliefs, mantra confused the people. Highly philosophical teaching, not understood by all. Rigid caste system Supremacy of Brahminas The real cause of these new religion lay in the introduction of a new agriculture economy in north- eastern India. The founder of Buddhism Siddharth Gautam asked his followers to choose Madhyam Marg or Middle path. Buddhism Life of Buddha- Born in- 563 BC on the vaishakha Purnima day at Lumbini, Kapilvastu, Nepal. Also known as Sakya Muni and Tathagata Father- Siddhodhana Mother- Mayadevi Step mother- Gautami Wife- Yashodhana Son- Rahul Teacher- Alarakama and Udraka Ramputra At the age of 29 he left his house with channa, the charioters and his horse Khanthak. Attain Nirvana at the age of 35 at Gaya on the bank of Niranjanana river. Great events of Buddha’s Life “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 28  BUDDHISM Pushyamitra Shunga and King Shashanka cut down the Bodhi tree in the 2nd century BC, and in 600 AD. Literary sources Tripitaka ( Three baskets of Buddhist scripture) 1. Suttapitaka- Sutras related to Buddha (teaching of Buddha dharma) It is divided into five Nikayas - 1. Digha 2. Majjhima 3. Samyutta 4. Anguttra 5. Khuddaka 1. Vinayapitaka- Monastic rule 2. Abhidhampitaka- Doctrine and Philosophy of Buddhism. Jataka folklores ( stories related to birth of Buddha)/ Sadok (in Chinese).they are 500 in numbers. Kutagarashaha ( Hut with a pointed roof) a place where intellectual debates amongs Buddhist mendicates took place) Milindapanha ( questions of Milinda (Greek king) and answers of Buddha monk Nagasena) Early Buddhist sculptors did not show Buddha in human form, these shows the Buddha’s presence in empty seat, wheel, tree and stupas Jewels of Buddhism Buddha (enlightment), Dhamma (doctrine) and Sangha (Sangha founded by Buddha himself. Upasakas or the lay followers, who lived with family; and the Bhikshus (monks) The women were also admitted in Sangha and were known as Bhikshunis). 4 Nobel truth- 1. Life is full of misery 2. Desire is the cause of misery. 3. Killing desires would kill sorrow “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 29  BUDDHISM 4. Desire can be concurred by following the 8 path ( Astangika marga) Right belief, right thought, Right speech, Right action, Right Living, Right effort, Right recollection, Right meditation. Important Buddhist scholars Alara Kalama- The first teacher of Buddha. Uddaka Ramaputta- second teacher of Buddha. Moggaliputta Tissa- Launched Ashoka’s Dhamma campaign Asvagosha- Wrote Buddhacharitra and Sanskrit drama Sariputra Prakran ( Sriputra the disciple of Buddha). Nagarjuna- Founded Madhyamik school of Mahayana Buddhism gave theory of ‘Sunyavad’ (emptiness) and important work including Mulamadhayamakarika. Buddhagosha- Most important commentator of Theravada, important work is Visuddimarga. Dharmakriti- also known as Kant of India, Teacher at Nalanda university. Maitreya- future Buddha, also known as Ajiaboddhisatva Schools of Buddhism Mahayana Buddhism- means Great Vehicle. Originated in North India and then spread east into central Asia, East Asia and some part of South Asia.(China, Korea, Japan etc) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 30  BUDDHISM Salvation through grace and help of Buddha. Worship of Buddha in idol form and believed that Buddha will born again. Language- Sanskrit Sub -school- Chittmatra and Madhyamaka Two subjects of Mahayana- 1. Madhyamika/ sunyavaad (founder- Nagarjuna) 2. Yogachar/ Vijnanavada ( founder- Maitreyanath) Hinayana Buddhism- means lesser vehicle or defective vehicle. It is also known as ‘Southern Buddhist religion’ ( Shri Lanka, Myanmar, Thiland etc) Believes in the original teaching of Buddha Individual salvation through self- discipline and meditation. Buddha will never reborn and did not believe in idol worship. Buddha was an intellectual not a god. Language- Pali Subject- Vaibhasika and Sautantrika Bodhisattvas 1. Vajrapani- like Indra, Thunderbolt-bearing Bodhisattva 2. Avalokiteshvara- It is also known as Guanyin, which also means “Perceiver of all sounds” and Padmapani ( the lotus bearer), kind hearted. 3. Maitreya- Bodhisattva of the Future (A popular representation of the Maitreya Boddhisattva is the Laughing Buddha. It is said to be an incarnation of Maitreya) 4. Manjushri- Bodhisattva of Wisdom 5. Samantabhadra- Bodhisattva of Practice and Meditation 6. Ksitigarbha- Bodhisattva of Mortals 7. Amitabha- Buddha of heaven “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 31  BUDDHISM UNESCO’s heritage sites related to Buddhism Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, MP Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar Ajanta Caves Aurangabad, Maharashtra Q. Where did Buddha attain Parinirvana? (a) Bodh Gaya (b) Kushinagara (c) Rajgriha (d) Vaisali Q. Who among the following was contemporary of Gautam Buddha? (a) Nagarjuna (b) Kanishka (c) Kautilya (d) Mahavir 1. In which place Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon? A. Kushinagar B. Sarnath (Banaras) C. Patliputra D. Rajgir 2. Which among the following is the great Buddhist work consisting of dialogues between the Indo-Greek King Menander and the Buddhist philosopher Nagasena? A. Milinda Panha B. Arthsashtra C. Jataka D. Kumarasambhava 3. The language adopted for preaching In Mahayana Buddhism was A. Pali B. Brahmi C. Sanskrit D. Prakrit 4. Who among the following was associated with the formulation of the basic ideas of the Mahayana Buddhism? a) Nagarjuna b) Kashyapa Matanga c) Menander d) Kanishka 5. Where did Buddha attain Parnirvana A) Bodh Gaya B) Kushinagar C) Rajgriha D) Vaisali “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 32  BUDDHISM 6. What is the literal meaning of "Buddha"? A) Awakened One B) The Enlightenment One C) Sanyasi D) Both A & B 7. Who among the following king was cut down the Bodhi tree in the 2nd century BC, and in 600 AD? A) Pushyamitra Shunga and King Shashanka B) Ashoka and Shishupala C) Bimbisara and Bindusara D) Jarasand and Ajatshatru 8. Regarding Buddhism, choose the correct statement. 1. Attainment of salvation or Nirvana is main goal of Buddhism. 2. The Sutta Pitaka, the Vinaya Pitaka and the Abhidhamma Pitaka collectively are called as Tripitakas. 3. Hinayana sought the salvation of all through the grace and help of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. 4. Mahayana Sect sought salvation through self-discipline and meditation. A) Only 1 and 2 B) Only 3 and 4 C) All of the above D) None 9. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism. 2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment. 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 10. Consider the following statements regarding the first Buddhist Council. 1. Anand and Upali laid down the Sutta Pitaka and Vinaya Pitaka respectively. 2. Its proceedings were conducted in Sanskrit. 3. It was held during the lifetime of Buddha. 4. Its main purpose was to maintain the purity of Buddha's teachings. Which of the statements given are correct? a) All of the above b) 1 and 2 c) 1 and 4 d) 1, 2 and 3 “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 33  BUDDHISM 11. List-I (Event Related to Buddha) List-II (Place) A. Birth of Buddha 1. Bodh Gaya B. Enlightenment 2. Lumbini C. First sermon 3. Kushinagar(kasia) D. Death of Buddha 4. Sarnath 5. Rajgriha a) A-2 B-1 C-4 D-3 b) A-4 C-3 B-2 D-1 c) A-1 B-2 C-3 D-4 d) A-3 B-4 C-1 D-2 “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 34  JAINISM Jainism According to Jain tradition there were 24 Thirthankaras and all were Kshatriya. Rishabhadeva ( Adinatha ) was the first Thirthankara and Mahavira was the last 24th Thirthankara of Jainism. The name of two Jain Tirthankaras Rishabhadeva and Arishtanemi (22nd) are found in Rigveda. Early 22 thirthankaras is ambiguous. Proof of only the last two Parshwanath (23rd) and Mahavira (24th ). A few scholars believe that the nude torso found at Harappa belongs to some Tirthanakara. How is Jainism different from Buddhism?  Jainism does not condemn the varna system while Buddhism does.  Jainism believed in transmigration of soul i.e. reincarnation while Buddhism does not.  Jainism recognized the existence of the gods but placed them lower than the jina.  Buddha prescribed the middle path while Jainism advocates his followers to even completely discard the clothes i.e. life of austerity. Vardhaman Mahavira  Born in- 540 BC (599 BC) in Kundagram near Vaishali, Bihar.  Father- Siddhartha  Mother- Trishala ( Sister of Lichhavi prince Chetaka)  Wife- Yasoda  Daughter- Priyadarsena ( whose husband Jamali became his 1st disciple).  He belonged to Jnatrika clan and was connected to the royal family of Magadha. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 35  JAINISM  At the age of 30 he renounced his home and became an ascetic and after 13 year outside the town of Jumbikagrama on the bank of Rajapaksa river under the saal tree in Bihar he attained the kaivalya.  He is also known as Kaivalya, Jina, Nirgrantha, Kevlin and Jitendra.  At the age of 72 he died at Pavapuri ( Patna) in 468 BC (527 BC)  He was accompanied by Makkhali Gosala, but later due to some difference Gosala left him and founded Ajivika sect. Teaching of Jainism-  Two elements of the world – Jiva (conscious) and Atma (Unconscious).  The universe is eternal. It's existence is divided into cycles of progress (utsarpini) and declines (avasarpim). The universe functions through the interaction of living souls Uiva) and everything in the universe has a soul. The purification of the soul is the purpose  of living, for it is only the pure soul after being released from the body that resides in bliss. Doctrines of Jainism (Triratna) 1. Samyak sadhana ( Right Faith) 2. Samyak Gyan ( Right knowledge) 3. Samyak Karma ( Right action)  Anekantavada ( different aspects of truth) and Syadvada (probability) philosophy is related to Jainism  First sermon- Vipulachala ( Rajgraha)  Sacred book- Siddhanta or Agama  Language- Prakrit (Ardha Magadhi)  Five vows of Jainism- Ahinsa ( non violence), Satya ( non- lying), Asteya ( non- stealing), Aparigraha ( non- possession), Brahmacharya ( Chastity). The 5th doctorine was added by mahaveera. Sects of Jainism (split of Jainism into two sects 300BC) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 36  JAINISM Jain Council- First Jain Council Held at Patliputra in 3rd Century B.C. and was presided by Sthulbhadra. Ruler- Chandra Gupta Maurya Compilation of 12 Angas Second Jain Council Held at Vallabhi in 512 A.D. and was presided by Devardhi Kshmasramana. Final Compilations of 12 Angas and 12 Upangas. Ellora Caves (Cave No. 30-35)- Maharashtra Mangi Tungi Cave- Maharashtra Gajapantha Cave- Maharashtra Udayagiri-Khandagiri Caves- Odisha Hathi-gumpha Cave- Odisha related to King Kharvela Sittanavasal Cave- Tamil Nadu Jianalaya (Temple)  Dilwara Temple- Mount Abu, Rajasthan  Girnar and Palitana Temple- Gujarat  Muktagiri Temple- Maharashtra  Pavapuri temple and Rajagriha- Bihar  Statue of Gometeshwar/ Bahubali- Sharavanbelgona ( Karnataka) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 37  JAINISM Jain text-(total 12 Angas) 1. Bhagwati sutra composed by Sudharmaswami ( Svetambara school). 2. Kalpsutra written by Bhadrabahu (biography of jain trithankaras) 3. Acharanga sutra oldest sutra of Jainism 1. Anekantavada is a core theory and philosophy of which one of the following? (a) Buddhism (b) Jainism (c) Sikhism (d) Vaishnavism 2. Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism? (a) The extinction of the flame of desire (b) The complete annihilation of self (c) A state of bliss and rest (d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension 3. Consider the following statements relating to jain literature: 1. The sacred books of the Jains are known as Siddhanta or Agama. 2. The language of the earliest jain text is eastern dialects of Pali known as Ardha Magadhi. Which of the statements given above is/ are true A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 4. Jain Kalpsutra was written by A. Katyayan B. Budhhaghosha C. Nagsena D. Bhadrabahu 5. Identify the Tirthankara of Jainism based on the statements given below 1. He was born in Varanasi and gave up royal life to become an ascetic. 2. According to jain tradition he lived two hundred years before Mahavira 3. Many teaching of Jainism are attributed to him Code- A. Mahavir B. Parshvanath C. Mallinath D. Sthalabahu “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 38  MAGADH EMPIRE Rise of Magadha Empire Causes of the rise of Magadh- Strategic geography ( abundance of iron, alluvial soil etc) Greater uses of elephant. Powerful rulers like Bimbisar and Ajatshatru. Important dynasties of Magadh empire- Haryaka, Shishunag, Nand, Maurya, Sung, Karnva and Andhra Satvahana Brihadratha was the earliest known king of Magadh his son Jarashanda was killed by Bhim. Haryaka Dynasty- (544 BC- 412BC) 1. Bimbisara- (542BC- 493BC) Founder of Haryaka dynasty Capital- Rajgraha Also known as shrenika/ Seniya ( because of his largest standing army) Contemporary of Buddha and Mahaveer. He had 3 wives- (started matrimonial alliances) 1. Kausala devi (sister of Prasenjit) 2. chellana- Daughter of Lichivi King Chetaka who was the brother of Trisla. 3. Khema- daughter of Punjab king Madra. On the request of King Pradyota he sent his royal physician Jivaka to Ujjain. He was killed by his son Ajatshatru Ajatshatru- (492- 460)- Son of Lichavi princess Chellana. Contemporary of Buddha. He annexed Kashi, Kosala, Vijji and Vaishali. He had organised first Buddhist council in 483 BC. He built the city of Patliputra (Patna) on the bank of Ganga and Son river in 490 BCE. It is Situated at the confluence of the Ganges, Gandhaka, and Son rivers, Pataliputra formed a "water fort or jaldurga". “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 39  MAGADH EMPIRE Udayin (460- 444 BC)- He shifted his capital to Pataliputra from Rajagraha near the confluence of the Ganga and Son at Patna. He built a fort at the confluence of Ganga and Son river in Patliputra (Patna). Nagadasaka was the last ruler of Haryaka dynasty over thrown by Shishunaga of Naga dynasty Shishunaga Dynasty Shishunaga- Annexed Avanti and many other janpadas He shifted his capital to Vaishali from Patliputra. Kalashok (Kakvarna)- Shifted capital to Pataliputra from Vaishali. Arranged 2nd Buddhist council in 383 BC Nandhivardhan son of Kalashok was the last ruler of this dynasty. Nanda Dynasty- Mahapadma Nanda- Founder of Nanda dynasty Also known as Ekrat and Ugrasena, considered as the first non- Kshatriya dynasty. He is described in the puranas as the destroyer of Khatriya and as the second Parshurama ( Sarvaksatranka) Dhanand- Last ruler of Nanda dynasty At the time of his ruling period Alexander invaded India in 326 BC. Dhanand was killed by Chankya with the help of his disciple Chandra Gupta Maurya. Alexander Invasion- (327 BC- 325BC) Born in- 356 BC in pella , Macedonia he invaded India after crossing the river Indus and invaded towards Taxila ( King Porus).during that time the king of Taxila was Ambi. Alexander marched to India through the Khyber pass in 326 B.C Battle of Hydaspes – between Alexander and Porus (on the bank of Jhelum river). At the bank of Beas river (Hyphasis) the troop of Alexander stopped. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 40  MAGADH EMPIRE When asked by Alexander how he wished to be treated, Porus replied "Treat me as a king would treat another king". Impressed, Alexander indeed treated him like a king, allowing him to retain his lands He remained in India for 19 month He died in 323 BC at Babylon ( Mesopotamia) 1. Who was the first Indian King started the matrimonial alliances to strengthen his power? A. Ajatashatru B. Bimbisara C. Shishunagas D. Dhananada 2. Which one of the following rivers in India was not crossed by Alexander and his Army? A. Hyphasis B. Hydaspes C. Hydraotes D. Acesines 3. Which of the following ruler shifted his capital to Vaishali from Patliputra A. Udayin B. Sishunaga C. Ajatshatru D. Mahapadmanand 4. Which dynasty ruled over ‘Magadha’ after Mauryan Dynasty? A. Satavahan B. Shunga C. Nanda D. Kanva 5. Who built the fort upon the confluence of ganga and son? A. Udayin B. Ajatshatru C. Kalashoka D. Bimbisara 6. Who built the city of Patliputra on the bank of Ganga and Son river in 490 BCE? A. Kalashoka B. Bimbisara C. Ajatshatru D. Udayin 7. Which of the following ruler is not a contemporary of Lord Buddha A. Ajatshatru B. Bimbisara C. Udyin D. Udayana The Mauryan Empire 322-185 BC Chandra Gupta Maurya-(322 BC- 298BC) Founder of Mauryan empire. He is also known as Sandrokottos and Androcottus. (William Jones). He included territories of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharastra, Gujrat and central region to Mauryan empire. Thus the credit of unification of North India is attributed to him. In 305 BC he defeated Seleucus Nikator, the Greek emperor after Alexander. Nikator sent Megasthenes a Greek ambassador in his court. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 41  MAGADH EMPIRE Accompanied by Bhadrabahu, he went to Sravanabelagola (Karnataka), where he died by slow Starvation ( Salvation/Santhara) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 42  MAGADH EMPIRE He set up a sound and efficient system of administration in his vast empire. There was a municipal committee of 30 members to look after the affairs of the city. Under Chandragupta Maurya his governer Pushagupta constructed Sudarshan lake at Girnal Mountain in Gujarat. (Source of information- Junagadh inscription of Rudradaman, The biggest inscription of Sanskrit language.) Note- The first reconstruction of Sudarshan lake was done by Rudra Daman 1 of Saka dynasty using forced labour. The second reconstruction of Sudarshan Lake was done by Skandgupta of Gupta dynasty. Note- For the first time in Indian History, the description of the State Administration was found for Mauryan period. Bindusara ( 298BC- 273BC)- Chandragupta was succeeded by his son Bindusara. Also known as Amitrochates (destroyer of foes), Simhasena. He followed the religion Ajivika ( fate) Ajivika sects- The Ajivikas are believed to have evolved from one of the many ascetic groups of the times. According to Buddhist records, Nanda Vaccha was considered the founder of the Ajivika sect. The followers worshipped the Ashoka tree as God and carried in their hands a bunch of peacock feathers They wear no clothes and lived like a monk in an organised group. Bindusara is descrined as “ conqueror of the land between two seas i.e Arabian sea and Bay of Bengal. He sent Ashokavardhana in Taxila to settle down the revolt he was the viceroy of Ujjain at that time. Greek ambassador Deimachos visited his court. Ashoka ( 273 BC- 237 BC) Mother name – Subhadrangi He came to throne after killing his 99 brothers. He is also known as Kamashoka, Chandashoka, Dhammashoka, Devnaam Priyadarsani ( Source of information- Gurjara (M.P) and Maski inscription, Karnataka). He has a cordial relations with Cholas, Pandayas and Satiyaputras (Rock edict 2). He included Kashmir in his kingdom and built the city of Srinagar. ( Rajtarangini – Kalhana) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 43  MAGADH EMPIRE Teacher- Upgupta The kalinga war- 261BC Source of information- Hathigupha inscription of King Kharvela (Kalinga ruler of Chedi dynasty) Capital- Tosali Ruler- Raja Ananta Padmanabha Whole cities were destroyed and more than thousands people were killed. The horror of war disturbed him and he decided to follow the path of Dhamma and turned to Buddhism under Mogliputta tissa. At its zenith Ashoka’s empire stretched from Afghanistan in the west to Bagladesh east. It covered almost the whole Indian subcontinent except Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Ashoka maintained close relations with Tissa, the ruler of Ceylon. Devaanampiya Tissa was the second son of Mutasiva. Ashoka’s Edict- Language- Prakrit, Greek and Aramaic Script- Brahmi (left to right) and kharosthi (right to left) The script were firstly decoded by James Prinsep in 1837. Note- the earliest inscriptions were written in Prakrit language (3rd centaury B.C). Sanskrit was adopted as an epigraphic medium in 2nd centaury A.D. Major rock edicts of Ashoka “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 44  MAGADH EMPIRE Pillar Edicts There are seven pillar edicts. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 45  MAGADH EMPIRE Inscription of Ashoka- “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 46  MAGADH EMPIRE There is only one edict, in which Ashoka refers himself as King of Magadha (Raja Magadhe.) :bhabhru edict (In this Ashoka expressed or rather confessed his faith in the Buddha, Dharma and the Sangha.) He Uses his name only in four of these places- the name of Ashoka occurs only in copies of Minor Rock Edict I found at three places in Karnataka and one in Madhya Pradesh. 1. Maski (Karnataka) 2. Brahmagiri (Karnataka) 3. Gujjara (MP) 4. Nettur (Andhra pradesh) The national emblem of India “Sarnath Lion capital” is taken from the Sarnath inscription of Ashoka.it has depicted 4 lions with bull, elephant and horse and contain slogan “Satyameva Jayate” Asoka's Barbara cave inscription mentions the donation of Barbara hills region to Ajivika sect. Stupas – Sanchi stupa (Bodhi tree), Bharhut, & Deorkothar – MP Dhamek (UP), Sannati (Karnataka) Sanchi stupa- discovered in 1818 animals depicted at Sanchi are horse, elephant, monkey and cattle. Many symbols like empty seats, wheels and trees were used to indicate the different teaching of Buddhism There is a motif in sanchi stupa of Gajalakshmi surrounded by lotuses and elephants Q. Consider the following statements regarding Sanchi and its archaeological findings : 1. When Sanchi was discovered in 1818 , three of its four gateways were still standing, the fourth was lying on the spot where it had fallen 2. Animals depicted at Sanchi include elephants, horses, monkeys and cattle Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q. Which one of the following Ashokan Minor Rock Edicts, contains the personal name of the king - Ashoka ? (a) Maski (b) Bahapur (c) Bairat (d) Sahasram 10 inscription of Ashoka “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 47  MAGADH EMPIRE Dhamma of Ashoka- Ashoka was a Buddhist but he also promote few principles of morality known as Dhamma. The Dhamma, as explained in Ashoka's edicts is not a religion or a religious system but a 'Moral Law', a 'Common Code of Conduct' or an 'Ethical Order' 4 points of Dhamma- 1. Tolerance 2. Non- violence 3. Good conduct 4. Welfare Officers- Dhammamahamatra Sanghmitra daughter of Ashoka was sent to Tamrpani (Sri Lanka) for conversion of women to Buddhism. Mauryan Administration Mauryan empire was divided into 5 provinces- Uttarapatha (capital-Taxila), Avantipatha (Ujjain), Prachyapatha (Tosali), Dakshinpatha (Suvarnagiri ) and Magadha. both Taxila and Ujjayini being situated on important long-distance trade routes, while Suvarnagiri (literally, the golden mountain) was possibly important for tapping the gold mines of Karnataka. Mauryan administration was highly centralized. The Emperor was the supreme power and source of all authority. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 48  MAGADH EMPIRE He was assisted by a Council of Ministers. It was called ‘Mantriparishad’. The ministers were called ‘Mantris.’ The members of the council were personally selected by the king It was specially consulted in times of emergency. It may have acted as a political check on the King. Highest officers were called as Tirthas and Adhyakshas Important Officials – Mantri- chief minister Mantriparishad Adhyaksha- Head of the council Purohit- Chief priest Senapati- Commander- in – chief Yuvaraj- prince Samaharta- revenue collector Shulkadhyaksha- Officer-in- charge of Royal income Uparika – Ministers of justice Anta- Mahamattas- the security of frontier fort (antahpala) Samsthadhyaksha- Superintendent of market Dhamma- mahamattas- Dhamma officers Ithijhakha Mahamattas- Superintendent of women Pativedakas – reporter Rajuka- revenue settlement officers Sitadhyaksha- Supervised agriculture Vish or Ahara- district Mauryan society- Four- fold varna system, slavery (dasas) existed Women’s position in society were deteriorated severly: widow remarriage stopped, institution of Ganikas (prostitution) expanded. Society was divided into number of caste and subcaste which was generally based on occupation. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 49  MAGADH EMPIRE Untouchable caste- Chanadala, Nishad, Shabar etc Varna- Shankar- vivah (inter-cast marriage) Ring wells are identified for the first time in Mauryan period. Mauryan Economy- Highly taxation Crown land- Sita Punch marked coins also called Pana (mostly silver) and copper were used for transaction State monopoly of mining, forest, salt, sale of liquor, arms etc. The main centres of textile manufacturing were Varanasi, Mathura, Bengal, Gandhara and Ujjain. Mining and metallurgy was another important economic activity Downfall of Mauryan empire- The decline of the Maurya Dynasty was rather rapid after the death of Ashoka. Mauryan Empire began to decline after the death of Ashoka in 232 BC. The last king was Brihadratha was assassinated by his general Pushyamitra Shunga who was a Brahmin. ( Brihadratha is also mentioned in Hashcharittra of Banabhatt0 Other causes of downfall- 1. Weak monarchs after Ashoka 2. The religious policy of Ashoka 3. Financial crisis 4. Highly centralised administration 5. The partition of the Empire (Kalhana, the author of the work Rajatarangini which is an account of Kashmir’s history, says that after Ashoka’s death, his son Jalauka ruled over Kashmir as an independent ruler.) 6. Foreign invasions (Indo- Greeks) Post Mauryan Empire The Sunga Dynasty- Period of arrival of Bhagvatism Founder- Pushyamitra Sung Capital – Pataliputra “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 50  MAGADH EMPIRE He performed two Ashwamedha Sacrifices, Rajasuya and Vajapeya. Defeated the Bactrian (Greeks) king Dematrius and Menander Patanjli was the purohit of Pushyamitra sung. Agnimitra- By this time, Vidarbha broke away from the empire. Agnimitra is the hero of Kalidasa’s poem, Malavikagnimitram.(1st play of Kalidas) Last Sunga king was Devabhuti, Devabhuti was killed by his own minister, Vasudeva Kanva in around 73 BC. This established the Kanva dynasty at Magadha from 73 to 28 BC. Kanva Dynasty- Founder- Vasudeva Capital- Vidisha (MP) Author of book “ Satasai”. Satavahanan dynasty- it was an Indian family that, according to some interpretations based on the Puranas, belonged to the Andhra jati (a tribe) and was the first Deccanese dynasty to build an empire in Daksinapatha—i.e., the southern region. Founder- Simuka Capital- Pratishthana ( Paithana, Maharastra) second- Amravati They are the first native Indian king have issued their own coins (lead coin) which had the rulers’ portraits on them. The coin legends were in Prakrit. Some reverse coin legends are in Tamil, Telugu and Kannada also. They patronised Prakrit more than Sanskrit. Even though the rulers were Hindus and claimed Brahmanical status, they supported Buddhim also. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 51  MAGADH EMPIRE Satakarni I (70- 60 BC) Satakarni I was the 3rd king of the Satavahanas. Satakarni I was the first Satavahana king to expand his empire by military conquests. He conquered Kalinga after the death of Kharavela. He also pushed back the Sungas in Pataliputra. He also ruled over Madhya Pradesh. Name also mentioned in gateway of Sanchi Stupa. After annexing the Godavari Valley, he assumed the title of ‘Lord of Dakshinapatha’. His queen Nayanika wrote the Naneghat inscription which describes the king as Dakshinapathapati. He performed Ashvamedha and revived Vedic Brahmanism in the Deccan. Hala- King Hala compiled the Gatha Saptashati. Called Gaha Sattasai in Prakrit, it is a collection of poems with mostly love as the theme. Around forty of the poems are attributed to Hala himself. Hala’s minister Gunadhya composed Brihatkatha. Gautamiputra Satakarni (106 – 130 AD or 86 – 110 AD) He is considered the greatest king of the Satavahana dynasty. He called himself the only Brahmana who defeated the Shakas and destroyed many Kshatriya rulers. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 52  MAGADH EMPIRE In a Nasik inscription of his mother Gautami Balashri, he is described as the destroyer of the Shakas, Pahlavas and the Yavanas (Greeks) as the uprooter of the Kshaharatas and the restorer of the glory of the Satavahanas. He is also described as Ekabrahmana (a peerless Brahmana) and Khatiya-dapa- manamada (destroyer of the pride of Kshatriyas). He was given the titles Rajaraja and Maharaja. He donated land to the Buddhist monks. The Karle inscription mentions the grant of Karajika village, near Pune, Maharashtra. Importants Books and Authors during Magadha empire- 1. Arthashastra – Kautlya It is divided into 15 adhikarans and the main concern of the Arthashastra are the theortical issue like origin of state. Arthasastra is a text on statecraft, which gives advice to kings as to how to rule his land and discharge his duties Book based on politics, economics, military strategy, state function, and social organisation attributed to the philosopher and Prime Minister Kautilya (also known as Chanakya). The notion of Saptanga that was introduced in 'Arthashastra' includes kings, territory, administration and treasury 2. Indika- Megasthenese The Indika tells us about the geography of India, History of Mauryan, Indian society and economy. he division of Maurya society into seven classes was particularly mentioned in the ‘Indica’ of Megasthenes. The Indians generally were divided into seven categories, the wise men (Brahmins), farmers, herdsmen, artisans, soldiers, over lookers and government officials including army and navy officers. Mahabhasya – Patanjli It is a commentary on selected rules of Sanskrit grammar from Paini’s treatise, the Ashtadhyayi and Katyayana’s Varttika. Ashtadhyayi- Panini Work of Sanskrit language It sums up in 4,000 sutras Panini divided his work into 8 chapter Manusmiriti – Manu (2nd centuary BC) Law book “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 53  MAGADH EMPIRE Ambedkar publicly burn the Manusmriti on the occasion of his historical Mahad Satyagraha in 1927 for establishing the right of untouchables to drink the water of the Chawdar tank in Mahad town in Maharashtra because it dehumanized the Shudras and untouchables There are total 8 form of marriage given in Manusmiriti. (1) Brahma form of marriage (2) Daiva form of Marriage (3) Arsha form of Marriage (4) Prajapatya form Marriage (5) Asura form of Marriage (6) Gandharva form of marriage (7) Rakshasa form of marriage (8) ‘Paishacha’ form of marriage Mrichhakatika- Sudraka Mrichchhakatika (The Clay Court) is a Sanskrit play written by Shudraka in 2nd C BC. It is about a young man named Charudatta, and his love for Vasantasena, a rich courtesan. Mudraraksas- Visakhdutta The Mudrarakshasa ("The Signet of the Minister"), a historical play in Sanskrit narrates the ascent of the king Chandragupta Maurya to power in Northern India. 1. Who of the following was a contemporary of Alexander the great? A) Chandragupta Mauiya B) Pushyaimtra Sunga C) Bimbisara D) Ashoka 2. The most important source for the study of Mauryan history is A) Mudrarakshasa B) Natural Historica C) Devichandraguptam D) Arthashastra 3. During the reign of Chandragupta Maurya, Pataliputra was administered by a board consisting of the members numbered. A) 20 B) 30 C) 40 D) 50 4. Who was Ashoka's contemporary king of Ceylon? A) Abhaya B) Pakanduka C) Devanampiya Tissa D) Mutasiva 5. In which of the following inscriptions, Ashoka declared some concessions in taxes? A) Minor rock Edict, Sasaram B) Bhabru-Bairat Edict C) Lumbini pillar Edict D) Rock Edict XII “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 54  MAGADH EMPIRE 6. In which of the following inscriptions, Ashoka made his famous declaration "All men are my children"? A) Minor Rock Edict of Ahrawra B) Pillar Edict VII C) Lumbini Pillar Edict D) Separate Kalinga Rock Edict 7. Who were the beneficiaries of Ashoka's donations in the region of Barabar Hill? A) Buddhists B) Ajivikas C) Svetambar D) Digambar 8. Which of the following Ashoka inscriptions is in Kharosthi script? A) Lumbini B) Gimar C) Khaisi D) Shahbazgarhi 9. Ashoka's deep devotion to Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha is mentioned in which of following inscriptions? A) Rock Edict III B) Pillar Edict VII C) Rock Edict XIII D) Bhabru Minor Rock Edict 10. Kautilya's Arthashastra deals with the aspects of A) Economic life B) Religious life C) Social life D) Political policies 11. Which was the currency in circulation during the Maurya period? A) Pana B) Tola C) Kakini D) Dinar 12. The earliest epigraphic reference to Chandragupta Mauiya is found in the A) Barabar cave inscription of Ashoka B) Hathigumpha inscription of Kharvela C) Junagarh Rock Edict of Ashoka D) Junagarh Rock inscription of Rudradaman 13. Which one of the following edicts mentions the personal name of Ashoka? A) Kaisi B) Rummindei C) Special Kalinga Edict D) Maski 14. The Lumbini was the birth place of Gautama Buddha, is confirmed by an inscription of A) Ashoka B) Kanishka C) Harsha D) Dharmapal “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 55  CENTRAL ASIAN History of central Asian contact In eastern, central and Deccan the Mauryan were succeeded by native rulers such as Sunga, Kanvas, and the Satvahanas In North India they were succeeded by the ruling dynasties from cental Asia. The Indo- Greeks (200BC)- The Greeks were the first to invade India from central Asia. They also referred to as Indo- Greek or Bactrian Greek because they ruled Bactria in North Afghanistan and North -West of Hindu Kush mountain. They issued the large number of coins and they were the first to issue golden coin in India. They issued molded coins in India The Indo-Greeks were the first rulers in India to issue coins which can be definitely attributed to the kings. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 56  CENTRAL ASIAN Language used in coins- Greek script- Khrosti out of 42 Greco- Bactrian and Indo Greek kings as many as 34 are known only through their coins. Introduced Satrapa system. It was a system of military government than carried out by syntheans/Sakas They introduced the Hellenistic art in India in the North Western frontier. Eg Gandhara art The term Horshastra used for astrology in Sanskrit is derived from the Greek term Horoscope. Demetrius (King of Bactria) Invaded India around 190 BCE and made Taxila as his capital and probably also came into conflict with Pushyamitra Sunga. Conquered a large part of north-western India and also extended Bactrian rule to the south of the Hindukush. Demetrius sent his commanders for further conquests Menander/Milinda/Minedra (165 BCE- 145 BCE) Capital- Sakala (Sialkot), Punjab He issued first coins in India. He extended his rule upto Mathura Menander also wanted to capture Patliputra but Vasumitra Sung thwarted all his attempts to capture the Patliputra He was converted to Buddhism by Nagasena, (also known as Nagarjuna). Menander has been identified with the king Milinda mentioned in the famous Buddhist text Milindapanho (130 BC), language Pali Appolodtus- Capital- Sindh He extended his empire upto Ujjain Antialkidas – he sent his ambassador Heliodorus in the court of Bhagbhara ( son of Vasumitra) Source of information- Besnagar (Vidisha)/Garurdhwaja pillar inscription of Heliodorus ( constructed pillar in honour of Vasudeva Krishna and called himself as Bhagwat ( worshipper of Lord Krishana) Language- Pali and Brahmi Hermaius He was the last ruler of this dynasty and was defeated by the Parthians around 2nd century BC (Shaka Ruler) “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 57  CENTRAL ASIAN Shakas/Scythians (90BC) Destroyed Greek power both in Bactria and India Maues- Founder of Saka dynasty in India. There were five branches of the Shakas with their seats of power in different parts of India and Afghanistan.( Afghanistan, Taxila (Punjab), Mathura, western India, Upper Deccan) A king of Ujjain Vikramaditya defeated Shakas and started a new era Vikram Samvat ( the victory over shakas) in 57 BC. Rudradaman 1 (CE 130-150) He ruled over Sindh, Kutch and Gujarat and also recovered from the Satavahanas, Kokan, the Narmada valley, Malwa and Kathiawar. He repair the Sudershan lake which was built by Pushya Gupta the governor of Chandra Gupta Maurya Related inscription- Junagadh inscription Court language of Rudradaman – Sanskrit Prathians- Gonopharnes (1st century AD)- Christian missionary (first) st. Thomas visited his court. Kushanas The Parthians were followed by the Kushanas who were also called Yue-Chis (moon tribe) / Yuezi or Tocharians. They are known as Guishang in Chinese sources. Minted largest number of copper coins. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 58  CENTRAL ASIAN Kujula Kadphises 1 (15 CE – 64 CE) Founder of Kushana dynasty. He minted the coins in copper and is believed to have imitated the Roman ‘aurei’ type coins to facilitate trade. His coins have been found south of the Hindukush. His coins give an idea about his association with Buddhism. He adopted the epithet ‘Dharmathida’ and ‘Sachadharmathida’. Vima Kadphises-(Kadphises 2) Concurred whole of northwestern India. First Kushan to issue gold coin in India He issued gold coins and got the title of “Lord of the world” Kanishka (78 CE – 105 CE) information about Kanishka is provided by the famous Rabatak inscription (Afghanistan). Adopted the title of ‘Devputra’ and also known as second Ashoka. Capital- Purushapura (Peshawar), Mathura (2nd ) He started Shaka era or Shaka Samvat in 78 AD which is a Hindu era and is used by the government of India for its calendar. He had organized the 4th Buddhist council in 72 AD. Sanskrit literature began to be developed during this time. The scholars in his court- 1. Aswaghosha – Wrote Buddhacharitra ( biography of Buddha ) 2. Nagarjuna- Madhyamik Sutra (the concept of relativity ) he is also known as the ‘Indian Einstein’ 3. Vasumitra- chairman of 4th Buddhist council “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 59  CENTRAL ASIAN 4. Charak- wrote Charak Sanhita (between 3rd century BC to 2nd centary AD). He is known as the “father of Indian Medicine”. 5. Kamasutra- Vatsyayana (3rd centaury AD) 6. Rajtarangini- Kalhan ( a/c to Kalhan Kanishka invaded Kashmir and occupied it) 7. Sushruta- father of Indian surgery Kanishka issued large no. of gold coins related to Budhhism, Greek god, Hindu god and himself Inscription related to Kanishka- 1. Rabatak inscription (Afghanistan)- it is related to kanishka and the related kings of his time, it is also related to genealogy of Kanishka like Kadphises (father), Kujula kadphises (grand father). It gives the information about the Kushan deities and the important states of Kushanas It includes 23 lines in Bactrian language and a Greco- Bacterian script In this inscription Kanishka is referred as a ‘king of kings’ and ‘son of god’ 2. Sarnath inscription- achievements of Kanishka recoded into this inscription. This inscription is based on the image of Bala Bodhisattva. 3. Kanishka stupa- related to relics of Buddha Peshawar it was multi- storeyed stupa ( source of information- travel records of Hiuen- Tsang and records of Alburuni) During this time 3 distinct school of arts flourished- 1. Gandhara School of art in Northwest 2. Amravat School of art in Andhra region Mathura School of art in Ganges Valley. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 60  CENTRAL ASIAN Gandhara school- It is also known as the Graeco-Buddhist school of art. It was based on Graeco Roman norms where in the theme of sculptures is predominantly Buddhist but their style is Greek. Found in- north-west India between 100BC to 700CE Developed mainly by- Kushana Gandhara School of Art portrayed buddha as a human with 32 mahapurusha lakshanas Mainly Buddhist images are found. There is a great influence of Buddhism and Hellenistic realism. The famous Bamyan Buddha of Afghanistan belongs to this school of art. blue-grey stone used for making idols of Buddha and Bodhisattva. Characteristics- Sculpture is shown in spiritual state. Realistic images. Less ornaments. Lean body. Expressive images. Great detailing and rich carving. Different Mudras portrayed- Abhaya Mudra (don’t fear). Bhumisparsha Mudra (touching the earth). Dhyana Mudra (meditation). Dharmachakra Mudra (preaching pose). “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 61  CENTRAL ASIAN Mathura School- purely indigenous school of art and shows the representation of Yakshas (male deities). The presentation of female beauty as a vehicle of art was a novel experiment of the Mathura school. Found mainly in north India (Mathura) in 100BC-600CE. Patronized by Kushana It is influenced by all the three religions – Buddhism, Jainism and Brahmanism It consists of the stone images of Buddha, Mahavira and also of Brahmanical deities Local red stone with black spots used to make the images. Chief characteristic features of Mathura school of art- Sculpture in delighted mood. Images are lacking in spiritual look. Having strong muscular structure and energetic. Attention is not paid to detailing. Less expressive images. Buddha is surrounded by two monks- Padmapani (holding lotus) and Vajrapani (holding vajra). Note- A headless portrait statue of the emperor Kaniska was made in Mathura Amravat School- indigenous in nature. Found in Andhra Pradesh between the valleys of the rivers Krishna and Godavari. (between 150 BC- 350 CE). Patronized by- Satavahanas The chief characteristic feature of the Amravati school is narrative art one medallion depicts a whole story of ‘taming of an elephant by the Buddha’. There is a prominence of human figures in comparison to figures drawn from nature. Sculptures of this school are mainly found on the railings, plinths and other parts of stupas. Used white marble-like stone to carve out the figures. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 62  CENTRAL ASIAN Q. Which one of the following statements about Rabatak inscription is not correct? (a) It throws important light on Kushana genealogy. (b) It refers to Kanishka as 'a king of kings and a son of God'. (c) The 23-line inscription is written in Gandhari language. (d) It mentions names of States which were part of Kanishka's empire. Q. The Mathura school of Art developed in the early centuries of Christian era and its products are made of? A. Sandstone B. Marble C. Red sandstone D. All of the above Q. Who is called as the ‘second Ashoka’ ? A. Samudra Gupta B. Chandra Gupta Maurya C. Kanishka D. Harshavardhana Q. The greatest development in the Kushana period was in the field of A. Religion B. Art C. Literature D. Architecture Q. Who among the following were contemporaries of Kanishka? A. Kamban Banabhatta Ashvagosha B. Nagarjuna Ashvagosha Vasumitra C. Asvagosha Kalidasa Banabhatta D. Kalidas Kamba Vasumitra Q. Charak was the famous court physician of A. Harsha B. Chandra Gupta Maurya C. Ashoka D. Kanishka Q. Kalhana's well-known work 'Rajatarangini' is an important source material for the study of which one of the following? A. Ancient Kamarupa B. Post-Mauryan Magadhat C. Medieval Rajasthan D. Early medieval Kashmir Q. Which one of the following chronological orders of the given dynasties of India is correct? A. Maurya-Nanda-Kanva-Sunga B. Nanda-Maurya-Sunga-Kanva C. Nanda-Maurya-Kanva-Sunga D. Maurya-Nanda-Sunga-Kanva Q. Which one among the following statements is not correct? (a) Gandhara School of Art owed its origin to the Indo-Greek rulers but the real patrons of the school were the Kushans, especially Kanishka “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 63  CENTRAL ASIAN (b) Rich carving, elaborate omamentations and complex symbolism were not the main features of the Candhara sculpture (c) The Graeco-Roman architectural impact modified the structure of Buddhist Stupas (d) The artists of the Amravati School of Arts mainly used white marble Q. Megasthenes was a (a) Greek ambassador to the court of Chandragupta Maurya (b) Greek trader during Ashoka's time (c) Greek trader in the Gupta period (d) Chinese pilgrim during Harsha's time Q. Who among the following was associated with the formulation of the basic ideas of the Mahayana Buddhism? (a) Nagarjuna (b) Kashyapa Matanga (c) Menander (d) Kanishka Q. Statement I : The first coins to bear the names and images of rulers were issued by the Kushanas. Statement II : The first gold coins were issued by the Kushanas. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 64  GUPTA DYNASTY Gupta Empire (400 AD-500AD) The Gupta are believed to have been the feudatories of the Kushana. The original kingdom of the Guptas comprised UP, Bihar with their center of power at Prayagraj UP. The Gupta age is known as the “Golden age” and “classical age” of India because of numerous achievement in the field of art, science, literature and technology with great wealth, peace, prosperity, law and order. Gupta Empire Founder- Sri Gupta (used the title of Maharaja) (240-280 AD) Ggatotkacha son of Sri Gupta also took the title of maharaja. (280-320AD) Both Sri Gupta and Ggatotkacha were the rulers of small kingdom in Magadh. Chandragupta 1- (320-335 AD) He is considered as the ‘real founder of the Gupta dynasty’ He started Gupta era in 319- 320 AD He took the title of Maharajadhiraj Married with Kumardevi (Lichchhavi princess) He issued coins in the joint names of his queen and himself (Kumar devi type coins). He expanded his empire from Magadh to Prayagraj Samundragupta- Son of Chandragupta “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 65  GUPTA DYNASTY Greatest ruler of Gupta Dynasty He is known as the ‘Napolean of India’ (by- A.V Smith) Related inscription- Allahabad inscription of Ashoka- also associated with Samyndragupta, it was inscribed in Sanskrit language by Harisena court poet of Samundragupta, in this Samundragupta is known as Lichhavi- Dauhitra. It suggested the decimal system introduced in India In this inscription the military conquest (5 conquest) of Samundragupta is explained in detail. Samundragupta was a Vaishnavite issued Garud types of coin which is also a royal emblem of Gupta. He was a great Veena player his image depicted him with veena is found in his coins He also performed Ashvamedga yagya and issued numbers of silver and gold coins. Associated literature Prayag Prahasti- written by Harisena Associated titles- Kaviraj, Apratirathah (invincible), Vyaghra-Parakramah (brave as a tiger), Parakramah (brave). According to a Chinese source, Meghavarman,the ruler of Sri Lanka, sent a missionary to Samudragupta for permission to build a Buddhist temple at Gaya. “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 66  GUPTA DYNASTY Chandragupta 2- Samundragupta was succeeded by his son Ramgupta but Chandragupta 2 killed him. Wife- Kubernaga ( Naga daughter) Daughter- Prabhadevi ( Husband- Rudrasena2 ruler of Vakataka dynasty ) Capital- Ujjain( initially Patliputra ) He defeated Rudrasena 3 ( Saka dynasty) with the help of Rudrasena 2 and annexed western India. after the victory over Sakas, that Chandragupta II adopted the title of Vikramaditya. He also attacked Bactria (Kushans) and expended his territory. Title- Sakahari, Vikramaditya (powerful as son), Parambhagwata “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 67  GUPTA DYNASTY Related inscription – Mehruli iron pillar inscription (Qutub Minar complex)- also known as ‘Marvel of Metallurgy’ First deciphered by James Princep in 1838 Language- Sanskrit Place of installation – Vishnupadagiri (unidentified place) He issued a large number of golden coins (Dinara) he was the First Gupta ruler to issue silver coin ( Rupyaka) He had Navratna (nine gems) in his court “SSBGUIDE DEFENCE ACADEMY” 68  GUPTA DYNASTY 1) Kalidas- Poetry- Ritusamhara, Meghaduttam, Kumarsambhavam, Raghuvansam Drama- Malvikaagnimitram, Vikramor Vaishiyam, Abhijanshakuntalam 2) Dhanvantri ( Physician)- Father of Ayurveda 3) Varamihira ( Astrologer) - wrote Panchsidhantika and Brihat Samhita 4) Shanku- wrote silpa shastra 5) Amar Singha- Amarkosha 6) Harisena- Prayag Prahasti 7) Kahapanaka- Jyotishshastra 8) Vetal Bhatta- Mantra shastra 9) Vararuchi- Prakrit Prakash ( 1st grammar of Prakrit language) Chinese traveler Fahien visited India during his time. But he did not mentioned Chandragupta and Nalanda university in his account. Pursope- to study Buddhism To visit the Buddhist shrine To collect manuscript related to Buddhism The travel account of Fahien is known as FO-KWO-KI. In this he wrote about the life of the people of India He called Gangetic valley as land of Brahmanism ( Buddhism neglected) Kumargupta- Symbol-