Kingdoms in Eastern India – UGC NET History – Practice Questions

Palas of Bengal

1. The Pala Empire was founded by:

A) Gopala
B) Dharmapala
C) Devapala
D) Mahipala I

2. The Pala dynasty was founded approximately in:

A) 650 CE
B) 750 CE
C) 850 CE
D) 950 CE

3. The term ‘Pala’ means:

A) Warrior
B) Emperor
C) Monk
D) Protector

4. The Pala rulers governed Bengal and Bihar for nearly:

A) 400 years
B) 200 years
C) 150 years
D) 600 years

5. The Pala Empire emerged as one of the most powerful imperial powers of:

A) Jainism
B) Buddhism
C) Shaivism
D) Islam

6. The political vacuum that enabled the rise of the Palas followed the death of:

A) Samudragupta
B) Chandragupta II
C) Harshavardhana
D) Ashoka

7. Shashanka, ruler of Gauda, was the contemporary of:

A) Harshavardhana
B) Pulakeshin II
C) Samudragupta
D) Dharmapala

8. The Pala Empire initially established authority in:

A) Punjab and Sindh
B) Gujarat and Rajasthan
C) Odisha and Andhra
D) Bihar and Bengal

9. According to Arab trader Sulaiman, the Pala Empire was called:

A) Ruhma (Dharma)
B) Gauda
C) Vanga
D) Aryavarta

10. Sulaiman mentioned that the Pala king was accompanied by a force of:

A) 10,000 elephants
B) 25,000 elephants
C) 50,000 elephants
D) 1,00,000 elephants

11. In Bengal’s history, the Pala period is generally regarded as the:

A) Vedic Age
B) Iron Age
C) Age of Decline
D) Golden Age

12. Gopala ascended the throne after being elected by:

A) Buddhist monks
B) Provincial chieftains
C) Village assemblies
D) Merchants

13. Before Gopala’s accession, Bengal experienced:

A) Mauryan centralization
B) Gupta expansion
C) Unrest, invasions, and internal strife
D) Mughal administration

14. The term ‘Matsya Nyaya’ symbolized:

A) Agricultural prosperity
B) Buddhist ethics
C) The stronger preying upon the weaker
D) Revenue administration

15. Gopala ended the period of near-anarchy known as:

A) Rajadharma
B) Dharma Chakra
C) Bhukti division
D) Matsya Nyaya

16. Gopala was the son of:

A) Dharmapala
B) Dayitavishnu
C) Vapaata
D) Vigrahapala II

17. According to the Ramacharita, Gopala belonged to the:

A) Lunar dynasty
B) Naga dynasty
C) Gupta dynasty
D) Solar dynasty

18. Gopala was married to:

A) Rannadevi
B) Deddadevi
C) Madanadevi
D) Tribhuvanadevi

19. Gopala is remembered as a devout supporter of:

A) Shaivism
B) Vaishnavism
C) Mahayana Buddhism
D) Jainism

20. Which Mahavihara was founded by Gopala?

A) Nalanda Mahavihara
B) Vikramasila Mahavihara
C) Somapura Mahavihara
D) Odantapuri Mahavihara

21. Odantapuri Mahavihara was located in:

A) Assam
B) Odisha
C) Magadha (Bihar)
D) Bengal

22. Odantapuri Mahavihara was eventually destroyed by:

A) Alauddin Khalji
B) Mahmud Ghazni
C) Timur
D) Muhammad bin Bakhtiyar Khalji

23. Dharmapala was the:

A) Second emperor of the Pala dynasty
B) Founder of the dynasty
C) Fifth emperor of the dynasty
D) Last emperor of the dynasty

24. Dharmapala was the son of:

A) Devapala
B) Mahipala I
C) Gopala
D) Vigrahapala III

25. Dharmapala was married to:

A) Rannadevi
B) Deddadevi
C) Madanadevi
D) Tribhuvanadevi

26. Dharmapala assumed imperial titles such as:

A) Sultan and Shahanshah
B) Chakravarti only
C) Paramabhattaraka, Paramesvara, Maharajadhiraja
D) Mahadandanayaka only

27. During Dharmapala’s reign, the famous tripartite struggle involved:

A) Palas, Senas, Cholas
B) Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas
C) Cholas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas
D) Mauryas, Guptas, Hunas

28. The tripartite struggle centered on control over:

A) Prayag
B) Bengal
C) Kanauj
D) Ujjain

29. Dharmapala defeated the ruler of Kanauj named:

A) Vatsaraja
B) Dhruva
C) Chakrayudha
D) Indrayudha

30. Dharmapala installed whom as his nominee on the throne of Kanauj?

A) Chakrayudha
B) Vatsaraja
C) Mahipala
D) Govindachandra

31. Dharmapala fought the Pratihara ruler Vatsaraja at:

A) Kanauj
B) Pataliputra
C) Prayag
D) Prayag

32. Which Rashtrakuta ruler defeated Vatsaraja and later challenged Dharmapala?

A) Govinda III
B) Krishna III
C) Amoghavarsha
D) Dhruva

33. Dharmapala assumed the title:

A) Dakshinapathasvamin
B) Uttarapathasvamin
C) Rajakesari
D) Tribhuvanachakravarti

34. Nalanda University attained worldwide fame during the reign of:

A) Ashoka
B) Harsha
C) Dharmapala
D) Kumarapala

35. Dharmapala donated the royal income of how many villages to Nalanda University?

A) 50 villages
B) 100 villages
C) 500 villages
D) 200 villages

36. Vikramasila University became famous especially for teaching:

A) Ayurveda
B) Astronomy
C) Grammar
D) Tantra (Tantrism)

37. Which famous Buddhist scholar associated with Tibetan Buddhism studied at Vikramasila University?

A) Haribhadra
B) Tilopa
C) Atia Dipankara
D) Santaraksita

38. Somapura Mahavihara was established in:

A) Odisha
B) Bihar
C) Bengal
D) Assam

39. Somapura Mahavihara influenced Buddhist architecture in:

A) China
B) Sri Lanka
C) Myanmar
D) Cambodia

40. Somapura Mahavihara is now recognized as a:

A) National Monument only
B) Buddhist pilgrimage site only
C) UNESCO World Heritage Site
D) UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

41. Devapala ruled approximately during:

A) 770–810 CE
B) 810–850 CE
C) 850–900 CE
D) 900–950 CE

42. Devapala was the son of:

A) Deddadevi
B) Madanadevi
C) Rannadevi
D) Tribhuvanadevi

43. Devapala’s empire extended from Kamboja to:

A) Vindhyas
B) Himalayas
C) Bay of Bengal
D) Deccan

44. Which inscription records Devapala’s campaigns in Pragjyotisha and Utkala?

A) Allahabad Pillar Inscription
B) Nalanda Inscription
C) Sarnath Inscription
D) Badal Pillar Inscription

45. The Buddhist poet associated with Devapala’s court was:

A) Vajrasattva
B) Sandhyakara Nandi
C) Haribhadra
D) Chakrapanidatta

46. Vajrasattva authored:

A) Ramacharita
B) Dayabhaga
C) Shabda Pradipa
D) Lokeshwarasataka

47. Devapala maintained an army of more than:

A) 10,000 elephant units
B) 20,000 elephant units
C) 50,000 elephant infantry units
D) 1,00,000 elephant units

48. King Balaputradeva of Java and Sumatra requested Devapala’s permission to:

A) Build a fort in Bengal
B) Establish a port
C) Construct a palace at Nalanda
D) Build a monastery at Nalanda

49. Devapala donated how many villages for the maintenance of the Nalanda monastery requested by Balaputradeva?

A) Five villages
B) Ten villages
C) Twenty villages
D) Fifty villages

50. Mahipala I is remembered as the:

A) Founder of the Pala dynasty
B) Last ruler of the Pala dynasty
C) Second founder of the Pala dynasty
D) First ruler of Bengal

51. Mahipala I ruled approximately between:

A) 977–1027 CE
B) 850–900 CE
C) 1072–1126 CE
D) 1027–1072 CE

52. Mahipala I was the son of:

A) Devapala
B) Vigrahapala II
C) Kumarapala
D) Dharmapala

53. According to the Sarnath inscription, Mahipala I ordered the construction of sacred structures in:

A) Assam
B) Bengal
C) Bihar
D) Odisha

54. Mahipala I successfully fought against which group to reclaim Bengal?

A) Rashtrakutas
B) Cholas
C) Hunas
D) Kambojas

55. Which inscriptions mention Mahipala I’s reclamation of Bengal?

A) Allahabad and Junagadh inscriptions
B) Nalanda and Sarnath inscriptions
C) Bhangarh and Tippera inscriptions
D) Hathigumpha and Badal inscriptions

56. Which Chola ruler invaded Bengal during Mahipala I’s reign?

A) Rajaraja Chola
B) Kulottunga Chola
C) Aditya Chola
D) Rajendra Chola I

57. Rajendra Chola’s conquest of Bengal took place approximately between:

A) 950–970 CE
B) 1021–1024 CE
C) 1050–1060 CE
D) 1080–1090 CE

58. According to the Tirumalai inscription, Rajendra Chola defeated which ruler of Dandabhukti?

A) Govindachandra
B) Rana Sura
C) Dharmapala
D) Mahipala I

59. After the Chola invasion, which region continued to remain loyal to Mahipala I?

A) Entire Bengal
B) Odisha only
C) Southern Radha
D) Northern Bengal and Northern Radha

60. After his military campaigns, Mahipala I mainly devoted himself to:

A) Maritime expansion
B) Religious and peaceful activities
C) Foreign conquests
D) Temple destruction

61. Mahipala I renovated temples, monasteries, and built votive stupas at:

A) Nalanda
B) Bodh Gaya
C) Tara shrine at Satyapir Bhita
D) Somapura

62. Which literary work mentions the popularity of Mahipala’s songs in Bengal?

A) Ramacharita
B) Dayabhaga
C) Chaitanya Bhagavat
D) Gaudapada Karika

63. Ramapala was the son of:

A) Dharmapala
B) Mahipala I
C) Vigrahapala III
D) Kumarapala

64. Ramapala ruled approximately during:

A) 977–1027 CE
B) 850–900 CE
C) 1072–1126 CE
D) 1126–1175 CE

65. Ramapala succeeded:

A) Mahipala I
B) Kumarapala
C) Gopala III
D) Shurapala II

66. Ramapala married:

A) Deddadevi
B) Rannadevi
C) Tribhuvanadevi
D) Madanadevi

67. Ramapala is considered:

A) Founder of Pala dynasty
B) Last ruler of Pala dynasty
C) Last great ruler of the Pala dynasty
D) First Buddhist emperor

68. Ramapala crushed which major uprising?

A) Santhal rebellion
B) Bhil rebellion
C) Varendra uprising
D) Kalinga revolt

69. Ramapala ruled from which capital city?

A) Pataliputra
B) Nalanda
C) Ramavati
D) Vikramapura

70. Ramapala expanded his kingdom into:

A) Gujarat and Rajasthan
B) Punjab and Kashmir
C) Kamarupa, Orissa, and Northern India
D) Sindh and Multan

71. Ramapala’s achievements are glorified in:

A) Dayabhaga
B) Lokeshwarasataka
C) Ramacharitam by Sandhyakara Nandi
D) Charyapadas

72. Ramapala maintained close relations with which Chola ruler?

A) Rajendra Chola I
B) Rajaraja I
C) Kulottunga Chola
D) Aditya Chola

73. Ramapala defeated which Kaivarta ruler to regain Varendra?

A) Govindapala
B) Vijayasena
C) Bhima
D) Dhruva

74. After Ramapala’s death, the Pala dynasty weakened significantly during the reign of:

A) Gopala III
B) Kumarapala
C) Devapala
D) Narayanapala

75. The Pala administrative system was largely modeled on:

A) Mauryan administration
B) Mughal administration
C) Chola administration
D) Gupta administration

76. The Pala polity followed a:

A) Republican system
B) Federal system
C) Monarchical administrative structure
D) Tribal confederation

77. Which of the following titles were offered to Pala rulers?

A) Shahanshah and Sultan
B) Parameshwar, Paramvattaraka, Maharajadhiraja
C) Samanta and Nayaka
D) Devaputra and Chakravartin only

78. The Pala throne was generally:

A) Elective
B) Rotational
C) Based on military merit
D) Hereditary

79. Provinces in the Pala Empire were known as:

A) Nadus
B) Vishayas
C) Bhuktis
D) Mandalas

80. Officials who governed Bhuktis were called:

A) Mahasamantas
B) Rajasthaniyas
C) Uparikas
D) Dutas

81. The primary function of the Uparika was to:

A) Conduct diplomacy only
B) Maintain temples only
C) Collect revenue and maintain law and order
D) Lead armies only

82. Bhuktis were further divided into:

A) Nadus and Kurrams
B) Sarkars and Parganas
C) Vishayas and Mandalas
D) Janapadas and Mahajanapadas

83. The foreign minister in the Pala administration was known as:

A) Mahadandanayaka
B) Duta
C) Mahasandhi-vigrahika
D) Mahapratihara

84. The head ambassador in Pala administration was called:

A) Rajasthaniya
B) Duta
C) Mahasamanta
D) Pramatr

85. The chief justice or Dharmadhikari was known as:

A) Mahapratihara
B) Mahasandhi-vigrahika
C) Maha Dandanayaka
D) Jyestha Kayastha

86. The official responsible for tax collection was:

A) Mahaksapatalika
B) Sasthadhikrta
C) Kshetrapa
D) Duta

87. The police forces under the Pala administration were headed by:

A) Duta
B) Rajasthaniya
C) Mahapratihara
D) Pramatr

88. The secret service department under the Palas was known as:

A) Vishaya
B) Khola
C) Mandala
D) Bhukti

89. The head of land-use division was called:

A) Pramatr
B) Duta
C) Mahasamanta
D) Kshetrapa

90. The official responsible for land measurements was:

A) Mahapratihara
B) Pramatr
C) Dandanayaka
D) Khola

91. Match List I with List II regarding Pala rulers and achievements:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

A)

92. Match List I with List II regarding universities:

A- A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
C- A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

93. Match List I with List II regarding administration:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
D- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1

A)

94. Match List I with List II regarding literary works:

A- A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
B- A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
C- A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

95. Match List I with List II regarding religion:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

96. Assertion (A): Gopala was elected by provincial chieftains.
Reason (R): Bengal was suffering from chaos and Matsya Nyaya before his rise.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

97. Assertion (A): Dharmapala established his supremacy in North India.
Reason (R): He assumed the title Uttarapathasvamin.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

98. Assertion (A): Vikramasila University specialized in Tantra training.
Reason (R): It competed directly with Nalanda University.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) A is true, but R is false
C) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
D) A is false, but R is true

99. Assertion (A): Mahipala I permanently lost Bengal to Rajendra Chola.
Reason (R): Rajendra Chola intended to permanently occupy Bengal.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) Both A and R are false
D) A is false, but R is true

100. Assertion (A): The Pala administrative system was influenced by Gupta practices.
Reason (R): The Palas adopted and efficiently modified Gupta administration.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

101. The dominant religions during the Pala period were:

A) Jainism and Islam
B) Shaivism and Sikhism
C) Buddhism and Hinduism
D) Christianity and Buddhism

102. The Pala rulers primarily followed which form of Buddhism?

A) Hinayana Buddhism
B) Mahayana Buddhism
C) Zen Buddhism
D) Theravada Buddhism

103. Which major Buddhist monastery built by the Palas is now located in Bangladesh?

A) Nalanda Mahavihara
B) Odantapuri Mahavihara
C) Vikramasila Mahavihara
D) Somapura Mahavihara

104. The spread of Mahayana Buddhism during the Pala period significantly influenced:

A) Persia and Arabia
B) Europe and Africa
C) Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Indonesia
D) Japan and Korea only

105. Which temple in Assam is associated with Pala patronage?

A) Kamakhya Temple
B) Brihadeeswara Temple
C) Hayagriva Avatar Temple
D) Lingaraja Temple

106. Coins of the Pala period indicate worship of:

A) Buddha alone
B) Only Vishnu and Shiva
C) Shiva, Vishnu, and Saraswati
D) Jain Tirthankaras only

107. The religious environment under the Palas reflected:

A) Exclusively Buddhist culture
B) Only Brahmanical traditions
C) Complete religious conflict
D) A synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist culture

108. Dharmapala renovated which famous university?

A) Takshashila University
B) Vallabhi University
C) Nalanda University
D) Mithila University

109. Vikramasila University reportedly had more than:

A) 500 students and 20 teachers
B) 100 faculty members and 1000 students
C) 5000 teachers and 5000 students
D) 200 faculty members and 200 students

110. Which university founded by Dharmapala flourished for nearly 400 years?

A) Taxila
B) Vikramasila
C) Somapura Mahavihara
D) Pushpagiri

111. The Pala School of Painting is especially associated with:

A) Oil paintings
B) Fresco paintings
C) Miniature manuscript paintings
D) Canvas paintings

112. Manuscripts during the Pala period were generally written on:

A) Birch bark
B) Cotton cloth
C) Copper plates
D) Palm leaves

113. Which colors were prominently used in Pala miniature paintings?

A) Green, orange, violet, pink
B) Red, blue, black, and white
C) Yellow, brown, silver, gold
D) Purple, red, green, gold

114. Which of the following is an important miniature painting work of the Pala period?

A) Ragamala
B) Razmnama
C) Padmavat
D) Astasahasrika-Prajnaparamita

115. Dhiman and his son Vitpala were famous as:

A) Diplomats and generals
B) Sculptors and painters
C) Buddhist philosophers
D) Temple architects

116. Students and pilgrims helped spread Pala art to:

A) Europe only
B) Arabia and Persia
C) Nepal, Tibet, Burma, Sri Lanka, and Java
D) China alone

117. Which Pala-era wall painting site at Nalanda is considered among the best examples?

A) Bodh Gaya cave
B) Ajanta mural
C) Sarai Sthal
D) Vikramasila cave

118. Pala wall paintings show the influence of:

A) Mughal and Rajput art
B) Persian and Arab art
C) Greek and Roman art
D) Ajanta and Bagh paintings

119. The Pala School of Sculptural Art is mainly associated with:

A) Western India
B) Southern India
C) Eastern India (Bengal and Bihar)
D) Kashmir Valley

120. The majority of Pala sculptures were inspired by:

A) Jainism
B) Islam
C) Vaishnavism
D) Buddhism

121. Which stone was widely used in Pala sculptures?

A) Marble
B) Granite
C) Sandstone
D) Basalt

122. The majority of basalt used in Pala sculptures came from:

A) Rajasthan
B) Munger and Santhal Pargana
C) Odisha
D) Gujarat

123. Buddha in Pala sculptures is frequently depicted in:

A) Tribhanga pose only
B) Dancing posture
C) Abhaya, Bhumisparsa, and Dharmachakra mudras
D) Reclining posture only

124. The largest bronze figure from the Pala period was discovered at:

A) Nalanda
B) Bodh Gaya
C) Vikramasila
D) Sultanganj

125. The famous bronze image from Sultanganj is preserved in:

A) National Museum, Delhi
B) Indian Museum, Kolkata
C) Louvre Museum, France
D) Birmingham Museum, United Kingdom

126. Terracotta art during the Pala period was mainly used for:

A) Coin minting
B) Writing scriptures
C) Decorating wall surfaces
D) Military fortification

127. Terracotta plaques discovered at Paharpur are famous examples of:

A) Mughal painting
B) Gupta sculpture
C) Chola bronzes
D) Pala artistic excellence

128. During the Pala period, miniature paintings frequently depicted:

A) Mughal emperors
B) Scenes from Buddha’s life and Mahayana deities
C) European traders
D) Persian courts

129. Which text written during the Pala period became an authority on Hindu law?

A) Ramacharita
B) Shabda Pradipa
C) Dayabhaga
D) Lokeshwarasataka

130. The famous literary work Ramacharita was authored by:

A) Chakrapanidatta
B) Sandhyakara Nandi
C) Vangasena
D) Gaudapada

131. Match List I with List II regarding universities and founders/patronage:

A- A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

132. Match List I with List II regarding literary works:

A- A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

133. Match List I with List II regarding administration:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

A)

134. Match List I with List II regarding sculpture:

A- A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
B- A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
C- A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
D- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

135. Match List I with List II regarding religion:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

136. Assertion (A): The Palas primarily followed Mahayana Buddhism.
Reason (R): They helped revive Buddhism after Harsha’s reign.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

137. Assertion (A): Vikramasila University competed with Nalanda University.
Reason (R): Vikramasila specialized in Tantra training.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

138. Assertion (A): Pala rulers patronized only Buddhism.
Reason (R): Hinduism and Brahmanism also received patronage.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

139. Assertion (A): The Pala School of Painting used palm-leaf manuscripts.
Reason (R): Paintings were often drawn alongside text on manuscripts.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

140. Assertion (A): Terracotta art during the Pala period focused only on religious themes.
Reason (R): Artists also represented scenes from ordinary life.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

141. The Charyyapadas, regarded as the earliest form of Bangla language, were composed by:

A) Jain monks
B) Court poets of Sena dynasty
C) Buddhist poets
D) Persian scholars

142. During Dharmapala’s reign, Bengali vernacular gradually developed into:

A) Classical Sanskrit
B) Proto-Bengali form
C) Prakrit language
D) Persian dialect

143. Which literary work of the Pala period had dual meanings—one narrating the Ramayana and the other the history of Ramapala?

A) Dayabhaga
B) Shabda Pradipa
C) Gaudapada Karika
D) Ramacharita

144. Gaudapada Karika is also known as:

A) Ramacharita
B) Dayabhaga
C) Agamashastra
D) Lokeshwarasataka

145. The well-known medical treatises of the Pala period are associated with:

A) Sandhyakara Nandi
B) Chakrapanidatta
C) Vangasena
D) Haribhadra

146. The medicinal text Shabda Pradipa was authored by:

A) Vangasena
B) Chakrapanidatta
C) Gaudapada
D) Sureshvara

147. The commentary on Sushruta Shastra during the Pala period was written by:

A) Vangasena
B) Jimutavahana
C) Tilopa
D) Sandhyakara Nandi

148. Which jurist of the Pala period contributed significantly to Dharmashastra literature?

A) Haribhadra
B) Sureshvara
C) Jimutavahana
D) Atisha

149. Which of the following became a permanent authority of Hindu Law?

A) Gaudapada Karika
B) Ramacharita
C) Lokeshwarasataka
D) Dayabhaga

150. During the Pala period, universities were notably established at:

A) Vallabhi and Ujjain
B) Takshashila and Pataliputra
C) Uddandapura and Vikramasila
D) Kanchipuram and Madurai

151. Students from Pala universities helped spread Pala literature to:

A) Greece and Rome
B) Persia and Arabia
C) Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Indonesia
D) Japan only

152. During the Pala period, architecture flourished particularly in:

A) Punjab and Kashmir
B) Gujarat and Rajasthan
C) Bengal and Bihar
D) Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

153. The majority of Pala-period architecture was:

A) Secular in nature
B) Military in nature
C) Religious in nature
D) Commercial in nature

154. Burnt bricks were mainly used in Pala architecture because:

A) Stone was prohibited
B) They were suitable for large religious structures
C) Persian influence dominated
D) Timber was unavailable

155. Which of the following architectural forms developed during the Pala period?

A) Mahaviharas and Stupas only
B) Chaityas and Temples only
C) Terracottas and Stupas only
D) Mahaviharas, Chaityas, Temples, Terracottas, and Stupas

156. Mahaviharas during the Pala period were primarily meant for:

A) Royal administration
B) Military training
C) Residence and education of Buddhist monks
D) Trade activities

157. Mahaviharas were generally:

A) Circular in shape
B) Rectangular with open courtyards
C) Triangular in shape
D) Pyramid-shaped

158. Which Mahavihara was used as a model for the first Tibetan monastery?

A) Nalanda
B) Vikramasila
C) Somapura
D) Odantpuri Mahavihara

159. Between the 9th and 12th centuries, the two most prominent Buddhist centres were:

A) Takshashila and Vallabhi
B) Nalanda and Pushpagiri
C) Somapura and Vikramasila
D) Odantapuri and Ujjain

160. The best place to study Buddhist architecture during the Pala period was:

A) Vikramasila
B) Nalanda
C) Somapura
D) Odantapuri

161. Although Buddhists, the Pala emperors also built:

A) Jain monasteries only
B) Islamic mosques
C) Hindu temples
D) Christian churches

162. Hindu temples during the Pala period were generally built in the:

A) Nagara style
B) Dravida style
C) Vesara style
D) Vanga style

163. The Siddheswara Mahadeva temple in West Bengal is an example of:

A) Chola architecture
B) Early Pala temple architecture
C) Mughal architecture
D) Mauryan architecture

164. Which Pala ruler built the medieval brick Siva temple in Bihar?

A) Dharmapala
B) Devapala
C) Mahipala I
D) Narayana Pala

165. Ramapala established the city of:

A) Vikramapura
B) Pataliputra
C) Ramvati (Ramavati)
D) Gaur

166. Match List I with List II regarding literary figures and works:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

167. Match List I with List II regarding architecture:

A- A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
B- A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
C- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

168. Match List I with List II regarding paintings:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
D- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1

A)

169. Match List I with List II regarding sculpture:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

170. Match List I with List II regarding religion:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

171. Assertion (A): The Palas significantly contributed to the revival of Buddhism in India.
Reason (R): Buddhism was declining after Harsha’s reign, but the Palas revived it.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

172. Assertion (A): Nalanda flourished greatly under Dharmapala.
Reason (R): Dharmapala granted income from 200 villages to Nalanda.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

173. Assertion (A): Pala rulers patronized only Buddhist institutions.
Reason (R): Hindu temples and Brahmins also received grants from them.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

174. Assertion (A): The Pala School of Painting was influenced by Tantra.
Reason (R): Mahayana sect deities and tantric elements appear in paintings.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

175. Assertion (A): Mahaviharas served only as religious centres.
Reason (R): They also functioned as major educational institutions.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

176. Assertion (A): Pala temples followed only the Dravida style.
Reason (R): Hindu temples of the Pala period were built in the Vanga style.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

177. Assertion (A): Sculptures during the Pala period were inspired exclusively by Buddhism.
Reason (R): Images of Hindu gods such as Vishnu and Ganesha were also sculpted.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

178. Assertion (A): Terracotta plaques of Paharpur are major examples of Pala art.
Reason (R): They were extensively used for decorative wall surfaces.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

179. Assertion (A): Bengali vernacular began evolving during the Pala period.
Reason (R): Charyyapadas represent an early form of Bangla language.

A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
D) A is false, but R is true

180. Assertion (A): Ramapala failed to restore Pala prestige after the Kaivarta revolt.
Reason (R): He successfully defeated Bhima and recovered Varendra.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) A is false, but R is true

181. The Pala dynasty began to decline significantly after the reign of:

A) Gopala
B) Dharmapala
C) Devapala
D) Mahipala I

182. Which rulers initially managed to hold the Pala kingdom together after Devapala?

A) Mahipala and Ramapala
B) Mahendrapala and Shurapala
C) Kumarapala and Madanapala
D) Narayanapala and Vigrahapala III

183. Which ruler is credited with reviving the strength of the Pala Empire in 988 CE?

A) Ramapala
B) Dharmapala
C) Mahipala I
D) Kumarapala

184. The Pala Empire was ultimately overthrown in the 12th century by:

A) Cholas
B) Rashtrakutas
C) Gahadavalas
D) Vijayasena of the Sena dynasty

185. Rampala was succeeded by his son:

A) Madanapala
B) Gopala III
C) Kumarapala
D) Vigrahapala III

186. During Kumarapala’s reign, which problem became severe?

A) Mauryan invasions
B) Feudatories acting independently
C) Portuguese attacks
D) Arab occupation

187. Which western dynasties increasingly invaded Pala territories during decline?

A) Cholas and Chalukyas
B) Pallavas and Cheras
C) Gahadavalas and Kalachuris
D) Paramaras and Satavahanas

188. Which old Pala general openly rebelled during Kumarapala’s reign?

A) Governor of Bengal
B) Governor of Kamarupa
C) Governor of Odisha
D) Governor of Punjab

189. Gopala III reportedly ruled for approximately:

A) 5 years
B) 10 years
C) 14 years
D) 25 years

190. Madanapala was the son of:

A) Kumarapala
B) Dharmapala
C) Ramapala
D) Narayanapala

191. During Madanapala’s reign, the Palas were seriously threatened by:

A) Mughal invasions
B) Arab merchants
C) Sena rulers
D) Portuguese fleets

192. After defeat by the Senas, the Palas retained control mainly over:

A) Bengal
B) Bihar
C) Odisha
D) Anga region

193. Madanapala died approximately in:

A) 1100 CE
B) 1125 CE
C) 1161 CE
D) 1197 CE

194. Which ruler is regarded as the “last known” Pala king?

A) Kumarapala
B) Gopala III
C) Govindapala
D) Madanapala

195. Which ruler is mentioned as governing a smaller Pala territory around 1175 CE?

A) Narayanapala
B) Kumarapala
C) Govindapala
D) Vigrahapala II

196. The Pala dynasty disappeared from political history after:

A) Foreign conquest alone
B) Defeat and gradual obscurity
C) Buddhist reforms
D) Chola occupation

197. A major reason for Pala decline was the continuous:

A) Maritime expansion
B) Religious conflict
C) Tripartite struggle
D) Agrarian revolts only

198. The tripartite struggle involved the Palas, Pratiharas, and:

A) Senas
B) Cholas
C) Chalukyas
D) Rashtrakutas

199. After the tripartite struggle, which new dynasties frequently raided Pala territories?

A) Mauryas and Guptas
B) Chandelas, Chalukyas, and Paramaras
C) Satavahanas and Pallavas
D) Hoysalas and Yadavas

200. Continuous invasions weakened the Pala Empire mainly by:

A) Increasing population pressure
B) Religious intolerance
C) Draining the treasury and military resources
D) Causing famines alone

201. Match List I with List II regarding Pala rulers and contributions:

A- A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3
B- A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

A)

202. Match List I with List II regarding decline of the Palas:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

203. Match List I with List II regarding officials in administration:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

204. Match List I with List II regarding religious centres:

A- A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

A)

205. Match List I with List II regarding scholars and texts:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

206. Match List I with List II regarding art and architecture:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

207. Assertion (A): The decline of the Pala dynasty began after Devapala’s reign.
Reason (R): Weak successors weakened the political stability of the empire.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

208. Assertion (A): Mahipala I permanently defeated Rajendra Chola.
Reason (R): Rajendra Chola retained Bengal permanently.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) Both A and R are false
D) A is false, but R is false

209. Assertion (A): Ramapala successfully restored Pala prestige after the Kaivarta revolt.
Reason (R): He defeated Bhima and recovered Varendra.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

210. Assertion (A): Pala administration ignored trade and commerce.
Reason (R): The administration developed riverways, towns, and ports.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

211. Assertion (A): The Pala rulers followed a republican political system.
Reason (R): Power was concentrated in the hands of the monarch.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

212. Assertion (A): Pala rulers patronized only Buddhist institutions.
Reason (R): Hindu temples and Brahmins also received grants.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

213. Assertion (A): Pala rulers were religiously intolerant.
Reason (R): Dharmapala made religious tolerance a state policy.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

214. Assertion (A): Tantric practices increasingly influenced Buddhism during the Pala period.
Reason (R): Mahayana Buddhism evolved into Vajrayana Buddhism.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

215. Assertion (A): Pala sculptures exclusively represented Buddhist themes.
Reason (R): Hindu deities like Vishnu and Saraswati were also depicted.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

216. Assertion (A): Odantapuri influenced Tibetan monastic architecture.
Reason (R): It served as a model for the first Tibetan monastery.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

217. Which Pala ruler is credited with founding Odantapuri Mahavihara?

A) Dharmapala
B) Devapala
C) Gopala
D) Ramapala

218. The Pala Empire mainly covered which modern Indian states?

A) Punjab and Haryana
B) Gujarat and Maharashtra
C) Odisha and Andhra Pradesh
D) Bihar and West Bengal

219. The chief objective of the tripartite struggle was control over:

A) Prayag
B) Magadha
C) Kanauj
D) Kamarupa

220. Which Arab traveller provided an account of the Pala Empire?

A) Al-Biruni
B) Ibn Battuta
C) Marco Polo
D) Sulaiman

221. The title ‘Uttarapathasvamin’ assumed by Dharmapala means:

A) Lord of the South
B) Lord of the North
C) Protector of Bengal
D) Emperor of Magadha

222. Dharmapala temporarily shifted political power in North India from the Pratiharas to the:

A) Rashtrakutas
B) Senas
C) Cholas
D) Palas

223. Which ruler of Kanauj was defeated by Dharmapala and replaced by Chakrayudha?

A) Dhruva
B) Indrayudha
C) Vatsaraja
D) Nagabhata II

224. Which Rashtrakuta ruler defeated Dharmapala but later enabled him to regain Kanauj after his death?

A) Govinda III
B) Krishna III
C) Amoghavarsha
D) Dhruva

225. Haribhadra, spiritual mentor of Dharmapala, was a:

A) Jain monk
B) Brahmin scholar
C) Buddhist philosopher and author
D) Military commander

226. Which Buddhist scholar is credited with helping spread Tibetan Buddhism’s Sharma traditions?

A) Tilopa
B) Santaraksita
C) Atia Dipankara
D) Haribhadra

227. The famous expression “Dhan bhante Mahipaler git” reflects:

A) Royal taxation policy
B) Temple construction
C) Popularity of Mahipala’s folk songs
D) Chola invasions

228. Which Pala ruler maintained close ties with Chola ruler Kulottunga?

A) Dharmapala
B) Devapala
C) Mahipala I
D) Ramapala

229. Which ruler’s achievements were glorified in Ramacharitam?

A) Dharmapala
B) Devapala
C) Ramapala
D) Kumarapala

230. The governor responsible for maintaining law and order in a Bhukti was called:

A) Mahasamanta
B) Duta
C) Pramatr
D) Uparika

231. Match List I with List II regarding rulers and titles/positions:

A- A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B- A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
C- A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D- A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

A)

232. Match List I with List II regarding monasteries and features:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

233. Match List I with List II regarding administration and officials:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

234. Match List I with List II regarding art and painting:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

235. Match List I with List II regarding decline factors:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

236. Match List I with List II regarding literary personalities:

A- A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B- A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C- A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
D- A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

A)

237. Assertion (A): The Pala rulers encouraged religious tolerance.
Reason (R): Hindu temples and Brahmins also received land grants from them.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

238. Assertion (A): Mahipala I permanently lost all of Bengal to the Cholas.
Reason (R): Rajendra Chola intended only a temporary northern expedition.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

239. Assertion (A): The Palas adopted Gupta administrative practices.
Reason (R): They established a hereditary monarchy with ministers from prominent families.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

240. Assertion (A): Pala terracotta art focused only on Buddhist themes.
Reason (R): Terracotta also depicted ordinary life and Hindu deities.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

241. Assertion (A): Dharmapala contributed to the spread of Buddhist learning.
Reason (R): He established Vikramasila and supported Nalanda University.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

242. Assertion (A): Pala paintings had no tantric influence.
Reason (R): Mahayana deities and tantric themes frequently appeared in miniature paintings.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

243. Assertion (A): Somapura Mahavihara influenced Buddhist architecture beyond India.
Reason (R): It influenced Buddhist architecture in Cambodia.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

244. Assertion (A): Ramapala failed to recover Varendra.
Reason (R): He defeated the Kaivarta ruler Bhima.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

245. Assertion (A): Pala rulers only supported Buddhism and neglected Hinduism.
Reason (R): Shaivism and Vaishnavism were also patronized.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

246. Assertion (A): The decline of the Pala dynasty was caused solely by foreign invasions.
Reason (R): Weak successors and rebellious feudatories also contributed to decline.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

247. Assertion (A): Pala Mahaviharas were only residential centres for monks.
Reason (R): They also functioned as renowned educational institutions.

A) Both A and R are true
B) A is true, but R is false
C) A is false, but R is true
D) Both A and R are false

248. Assertion (A): The Pala dynasty significantly shaped Bengal’s language and culture.
Reason (R): Proto-Bengali and Charyyapadas evolved during this period.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

A)

249. Assertion (A): The Palas maintained a centralized monarchy.
Reason (R): The king exercised authority assisted by hereditary ministers.

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 the correct explanation
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true

250. Assertion (A): The Pala Empire occupies an important place in Indian history.
Reason (R): It promoted Buddhism, education, art, literature, and regional political power for nearly four centuries.

A) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
B) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
C) A is true, but R is false
D) A is false, but R is true