Kingdoms in South India – UGC NET History – Practice Questions

Pallavas

1. The Pallava dynasty ruled approximately between:
A) 100 BCE – 300 CE
B) 150 CE – 600 CE
C) 275 CE – 897 CE
D) 400 CE – 1200 CE

2. The Pallavas were primarily associated with which region of India?
A) North-West India
B) Eastern India
C) South India
D) Central India

3. Which city served as the capital of the Pallava dynasty?
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchipuram
D) Amaravati

4. The Pallavas reached their zenith mainly during the reigns of:
A) Simhavarman and Nandivarman
B) Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavarman I
C) Aparajitavarman and Dantivarman
D) Paramesvaravarman I and Nripatunga

5. The Pallavas are most remembered for their contribution to:
A) Coin minting
B) Maritime trade
C) Shore temple architecture
D) Textile production

6. The rise of the Pallavas coincided with the decline of which dynasty?
A) Gupta Dynasty
B) Satavahana Dynasty
C) Chola Dynasty
D) Maurya Dynasty

7. Initially, the Pallavas served as feudatories under:
A) Cholas
B) Rashtrakutas
C) Satavahanas
D) Pandyas

8. Which ruler is considered the first historical ruler of the Pallava dynasty?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavishnu
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

9. Simhavishnu earned which title?
A) Vatapikonda
B) Avanisimha
C) Vichitrachitta
D) Ranajayan

10. Bharavi, author of Kiratarjuniyam, flourished in the court of:
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Simhavishnu
D) Nandivarman III

11. Sivaskandavarman was known for performing:
A) Rajasuya sacrifice only
B) Vajapeya sacrifice only
C) Ashwamedha and other Vedic sacrifices
D) No Vedic sacrifice

12. Samudragupta compelled which Pallava ruler to accept Gupta suzerainty?
A) Simhavarman
B) Vishnugopa
C) Nandivarman
D) Aparajita

13. Simhavishnu conquered the territory of the:
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Cholas
C) Guptas
D) Paramaras

14. The Pallava–Chalukya conflict began during the reign of:
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Nripatunga

15. Pulakesin II belonged to which dynasty?
A) Rashtrakuta
B) Chalukya
C) Chola
D) Ganga

16. Pulakesin II defeated Mahendravarman I at:
A) Vatapi
B) Kanchi
C) Pullalur
D) Manimangalam

17. Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakesin II and captured:
A) Madurai
B) Tanjore
C) Vatapi
D) Amaravati

18. Narasimhavarman I assumed the title:
A) Avanisimha
B) Dharmamaharaja
C) Vatapikonda
D) Chitrakarapuli

19. Which Chinese traveler visited the Pallava kingdom?
A) Fa-Hien
B) Hiuen Tsang
C) I-Tsing
D) Marco Polo

20. Hiuen Tsang described the people of the Pallava kingdom as:
A) Lazy and warlike
B) Uneducated and poor
C) Brave and devoted to learning
D) Highly nomadic

21. Mahendravarman I was initially a follower of:
A) Buddhism
B) Jainism
C) Vaishnavism
D) Islam

22. Mahendravarman I later converted to Shaivism under the influence of:
A) Sambandar
B) Appar
C) Basava
D) Ramanuja

23. Which Sanskrit work was written by Mahendravarman I?
A) Kavyadarsha
B) Kiratarjuniyam
C) Mattavilasa Prahasana
D) Bharathavenba

24. The title ‘Vichitrachitta’ was associated with:
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Nandivarman III

25. The Mandagappattu inscription praises Mahendravarman I for building temples without using:
A) Gold and silver
B) Marble and granite
C) Brick, wood, metal, or mortar
D) Sandstone and clay

26. Narasimhavarman I was also known as:
A) Avanisimha
B) Vichitrachitta
C) Mamalla
D) Dharma Maharaja

27. The Pancha Rathas temple complex is located at:
A) Kanchi
B) Tiruvadi
C) Mamallapuram
D) Tanjore

28. Which site became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984?
A) Kailasanatha Temple
B) Mamallapuram monuments
C) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
D) Tiruvadi Temple

29. Narasimhavarman I successfully restored which Sinhalese prince to power?
A) Vijayabahu
B) Sena I
C) Manavarman
D) Dhatusena

30. The famous Ghatika of Kanchi was primarily a centre of:
A) Military training
B) Trade
C) Learning and education
D) Sculpture making

31. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

32. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

33. Assertion (A): Pallavas pioneered the Dravidian architectural style.
Reason (R): Pallava architecture evolved from rock-cut temples to free-standing structural temples.

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 of A.
D) A is false, but R is true.

34. Assertion (A): Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakesin II.
Reason (R): Narasimhavarman I captured Vatapi after defeating the Chalukyas.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

35. Which ruler is regarded as the real founder of the Pallava dynasty?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavishnu
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Nandivarman II

36. Which river marked the southern extent of Simhavishnu’s conquests?
A) Krishna
B) Godavari
C) Kaveri
D) Tungabhadra

37. The magnificent reliefs of Simhavishnu and his consorts are found in:
A) Kailasanatha Temple
B) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
C) Varaha Cave at Mamallapuram
D) Brihadeshwara Temple

38. Which ruler began the three-way conflict involving the Chalukyas and Cholas?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

39. Which battle took place near Kanchi and was won by Pulakesin II?
A) Battle of Vatapi
B) Battle of Pullalur
C) Battle of Talakad
D) Battle of Manimangalam

40. Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakesin II in how many major battles according to tradition?
A) One
B) Two
C) Three
D) Five

41. Which ruler adorned Mamallapuram extensively during his reign?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Dantivarman

42. Vikramaditya I belonged to the:
A) Chola dynasty
B) Chalukya dynasty
C) Pallava dynasty
D) Ganga dynasty

43. The Pallava ruler defeated by Vikramaditya II of the Chalukyas was:
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Nandivarman
D) Aparajitavarman

44. Which Chola ruler ended Pallava supremacy?
A) Rajaraja I
B) Rajendra I
C) Aditya I
D) Vijayalaya

45. The Chalukya–Pallava conflict ended with the decline of both dynasties and rise of:
A) Mauryas and Guptas
B) Rashtrakutas and Cholas
C) Cheras and Pandyas
D) Satavahanas and Kadambas

46. Narasimhavarman I entered Vatapi in:
A) 610 CE
B) 625 CE
C) 642 CE
D) 670 CE

47. The title ‘Vatapikonda’ means:
A) Builder of Vatapi
B) Protector of Vatapi
C) Conqueror of Vatapi
D) King of Vatapi

48. The Pallavas supported the kings of which island kingdom in naval wars?
A) Java
B) Maldives
C) Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
D) Sumatra

49. Nandivarman II was selected by:
A) Military generals
B) Ministerial council
C) Buddhist monks
D) Chola kings

50. Which foreign threat distracted the Chalukyas in the north-west?
A) Huns
B) Turks
C) Arabs
D) Mongols

51. Dantidurga was the founder of the:
A) Chola kingdom
B) Pallava kingdom
C) Rashtrakuta kingdom
D) Ganga kingdom

52. At the height of their power, Pallava territories stretched from northern Andhra Pradesh to:
A) River Krishna
B) River Godavari
C) River Kaveri
D) River Narmada

53. Which uprising was jointly crushed by the Pandyas, Chalukyas, and Pallavas?
A) Santal uprising
B) Kalabhra uprising
C) Velama uprising
D) Maratha uprising

54. The Kalabhras protested mainly against:
A) Foreign invasions
B) Brahmadeya land grants to Brahmanas
C) Temple taxation
D) Chola supremacy

55. The Pallavas supplanted which dynasty in the Eastern Peninsula?
A) Cholas
B) Ikshvakus
C) Guptas
D) Kadambas

56. Sivaskandavarman issued a charter in:
A) 250 CE
B) 283 CE
C) 315 CE
D) 350 CE

57. Simhavarma defeated which Ikshvaku ruler?
A) Vishnugopa
B) Manavarman
C) Rudrapurushadatta
D) Vikramaditya

58. The authority of Sivaskandavarman extended from the Krishna River to:
A) Vindhyas
B) Southern Penner and Bellary region
C) Godavari delta
D) River Kaveri

59. Which inscriptions are associated with Sivaskandavarman?
A) Allahabad and Junagadh inscriptions
B) Mayidvolu and Hirahadagalli inscriptions
C) Hathigumpha and Nasik inscriptions
D) Mandagappattu and Kasakudi inscriptions

60. Simhavishnu is described in which play by Mahendravarman I?
A) Bhagavadajjuka
B) Kavyadarsha
C) Mattavilasa Prahasana
D) Nandikalambakam

61. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

62. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

63. Assertion (A): Simhavishnu is regarded as the true founder of the Pallava dynasty.
Reason (R): He extended Pallava authority up to the Kaveri River and consolidated power.

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 of A.
D) A is false, but R is true.

64. Assertion (A): Mahendravarman I was an expert in cave temple architecture.
Reason (R): He pioneered the use of marble for temple construction in South India.

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

65. Which Pallava ruler pioneered rock-cut architecture?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman III
D) Aparajitavarman

66. Mahendravarman I built a Shiva temple at:
A) Mahabalipuram
B) Tiruvadi
C) Vatapi
D) Kanchi

67. Which among the following was NOT a title of Mahendravarman I?
A) Gunabhara
B) Chitrakarapuli
C) Vichitrachitta
D) Vatapikonda

68. Mahendravarman I constructed rock-cut temples at all EXCEPT:
A) Vallam
B) Mahendravadi
C) Dalavanur
D) Badami

69. The inscription at Kudumianmalai is associated with:
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Simhavarman III
D) Aparajitavarman

70. Mahendravarman I was also known for expertise in:
A) Astronomy
B) Metallurgy
C) Music
D) Navigation

71. Kanchi University under the Pallavas taught all EXCEPT:
A) Vedas
B) Painting
C) Music
D) Persian literature

72. Mahendravarman I authored another work besides Mattavilasa Prahasana called:
A) Kiratarjuniyam
B) Bhagavadajjuka
C) Kavyadarsha
D) Perumbhanatrupadai

73. The Sanskrit work Dhivyacharitam mentions persecution of:
A) Buddhists
B) Thirumalisai Alvar
C) Jain monks
D) Chalukya envoys

74. Mahendravarman I lost northern provinces to:
A) Aditya Chola
B) Pulakesin II
C) Dantidurga
D) Vikramaditya II

75. The son of Mahendravarman I was:
A) Nandivarman II
B) Dantivarman
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

76. Narasimhavarman I ruled approximately between:
A) 575–600 CE
B) 600–630 CE
C) 630–668 CE
D) 795–846 CE

77. The epithet ‘Mamalla’ means:
A) Great king
B) Great saint
C) Great wrestler
D) Great architect

78. The Pancha Rathas are also known as:
A) Trimurti temples
B) Pandava Rathas
C) Lion temples
D) Kanchi Rathas

79. Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakesin II near Kanchi at:
A) Pullalur
B) Manimangalam
C) Vatapi
D) Tanjore

80. Narasimhavarman I followed primarily which faith?
A) Buddhism
B) Jainism
C) Shaivism
D) Vaishnavism

81. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

82. Assertion (A): Hiuen Tsang noted the flourishing of Buddhism and Jainism in Kanchi.
Reason (R): The Pallavas exclusively patronized Buddhism.

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

83. Assertion (A): Narasimhavarman I is regarded as one of the few Indian kings who never lost a battle.
Reason (R): He defeated Pulakesin II and captured Vatapi.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

84. Which general of Narasimhavarman I played a key role in destroying Vatapi?
A) Buddhavarman
B) Vikramaditya
C) Paranjothi
D) Dharmapala

85. Narasimhavarman I’s conquest of Sri Lanka is confirmed by:
A) Allahabad Pillar Inscription
B) Arthashastra
C) Mahavamsa
D) Junagadh Inscription

86. During the Pallava period, both religious and secular literature flourished primarily in:
A) Sanskrit and Pali
B) Tamil and Prakrit
C) Sanskrit and Tamil
D) Telugu and Kannada

87. The capital city of the Pallavas emerged as an important centre of Sanskrit learning. Identify the city.
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchipuram
D) Amaravati

88. Which Pallava ruler authored Bagavatha Ajikkiyam in Sanskrit?
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Simhavishnu
D) Nandivarman III

89. Dandin, a renowned Sanskrit scholar of the Pallava age, authored:
A) Kiratarjuniyam
B) Kavyadarsha
C) Mattavilasa Prahasana
D) Nandikalambakam

90. Which scholar visited Kanchipuram during the Pallava period and composed Kiratarjuniyam?
A) Dandin
B) Bharavi
C) Perundevanar
D) Kalladanar

91. The devotional hymns in Tamil during the Pallava period were mainly composed by:
A) Digambaras and Svetambaras
B) Nayanmars and Alwars
C) Siddhas and Nathas
D) Bhikshus and Arhats

92. Bharathavenba was written by:
A) Bharavi
B) Dandin
C) Perundevanar
D) Kalladanar

93. Kalladam, a grammatical work, was authored by:
A) Appar
B) Dandin
C) Kalladanar
D) Sambandar

94. Which work describes the reign of Nandivarman III?
A) Mattavilasa Prahasana
B) Nandikalambakam
C) Bhagavadajjuka
D) Perumbhanatrupadai

95. Kanchi University attracted students from:
A) Only South India
B) Only Brahmin communities
C) Across India and abroad
D) Only Tamil-speaking regions

96. Mayurasarman, founder of the Kadamba dynasty, studied at:
A) Nalanda
B) Vikramashila
C) Kanchi
D) Taxila

97. Dharmapala, later associated with Nalanda University, belonged to:
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchi
D) Amaravati

98. The Brahmanical educational institutions associated with temples were called:
A) Viharas and Chaityas
B) Ghatikas and Mathas
C) Sanghas and Sabhas
D) Agraharas and Salais

99. Which language became the recognised medium in Brahmanical institutions during the Pallava period?
A) Tamil
B) Telugu
C) Sanskrit
D) Prakrit

100. According to Hiuen Tsang, approximately how many Buddhist monks and nuns were present at Kanchi?
A) 2,000
B) 5,000
C) 10,000
D) 15,000

101. In the early Pallava period, which religion enjoyed popularity?
A) Islam
B) Christianity
C) Jainism
D) Sikhism

102. Most Pallava rulers followed:
A) Buddhism and Jainism
B) Vaishnavism and Shaivism
C) Shaktism and Tantricism
D) Ajivika and Lokayata

103. Pallava kings performed Vedic sacrifices such as:
A) Rajasuya only
B) Agnisthoma, Vajapeya, and Ashvamedha
C) Soma Yajna only
D) None of the above

104. The Bhakti movement in South India gained momentum primarily through:
A) Buddhist monks
B) Jain Acharyas
C) Alvars and Nayanars
D) Chola administrators

105. Inscriptions carved on pillars, walls, caves, and stones are called:
A) Literary records
B) Epigraphic information
C) Numismatic evidence
D) Genealogical accounts

106. Pallava inscriptions were mainly found on:
A) Palm leaves only
B) Coins only
C) Pillars, temple walls, and written books
D) Clay tablets only

107. Which among the following languages was commonly used during the Pallava period?
A) Arabic
B) Persian
C) Prakrit
D) Greek

108. Early Pallava inscriptions were mostly written in:
A) Tamil and Telugu
B) Sanskrit and Prakrit
C) Kannada and Tamil
D) Pali and Sanskrit

109. Which script was used officially by the Pallavas?
A) Brahmi only
B) Kharosthi
C) Grantha (Grantham)
D) Sharada

110. Pallava inscriptions in Prakrit mentioning Simhavarman were discovered in:
A) Madurai district
B) Palnad taluk of Guntur district
C) Bellary region
D) Tanjore district

111. Tamil became increasingly used in Pallava inscriptions beginning with:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Sivaskandavarman
D) Aparajitavarman

112. From the reign of Paramesvaravarman I, Pallava inscriptions were mostly written in:
A) Tamil only
B) Telugu only
C) Sanskrit and Tamil
D) Pali and Tamil

113. Which Tamil literary work describes Kanchipuram during the Pallava period?
A) Silappadikaram
B) Manimekalai
C) Kural
D) Tevaram

114. Pallava art and architecture represent an early phase of which architectural style?
A) Nagara style
B) Vesara style
C) Dravidian style
D) Indo-Islamic style

115. During the Pallava reign, South India saw the emergence of:
A) Wooden monasteries only
B) Brick forts only
C) First stone and mortar temples
D) Mughal domes

116. The Pallavas pioneered the transition from:
A) Structural to Mughal temples
B) Rock-cut to free-standing temples
C) Wooden to cave monasteries
D) Buddhist to Islamic architecture

117. The ‘Pancha Pandava Rathas’ at Mamallapuram symbolize:
A) Five Buddhist caves
B) Five architectural styles
C) Five Chola rulers
D) Five Jain Tirthankaras

118. Which among the following is considered the greatest masterpiece of Pallava architecture?
A) Shore Temple
B) Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchi
C) Brihadeshwara Temple
D) Meenakshi Temple

119. The sculpture known as “Descent of the Ganga” is also called:
A) Vishnu’s Penance
B) Arjuna’s Penance
C) Shiva’s Meditation
D) Bhagiratha Relief

120. The paintings in Sittannavasal caves belong to:
A) Gupta period
B) Maurya period
C) Pallava period
D) Vijayanagara period

121. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

122. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

123. Assertion (A): Sanskrit remained important during the Pallava age.
Reason (R): Kanchi was a major centre of Sanskrit learning.

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 of A.
D) A is false, but R is true.

124. Assertion (A): Buddhism and Jainism disappeared completely during Pallava rule.
Reason (R): Hiuen Tsang mentioned Buddhist monasteries in Kanchi.

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 are false.

125. Assertion (A): The Bhakti movement gained strength under the Pallavas.
Reason (R): Alvars and Nayanars spread devotional traditions in South India.

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 are false.
D) A is false, but R is true.

126. Which religion gradually lost royal patronage under the Pallavas?
A) Shaivism
B) Vaishnavism
C) Buddhism and Jainism
D) Vedic religion

127. Which among the following was NOT commonly used during the Pallava period?
A) Tamil
B) Sanskrit
C) Telugu
D) Persian

128. The Pallavas are credited as the forefathers of which architectural tradition?
A) Indo-Islamic architecture
B) Vesara architecture
C) Dravidian architecture
D) Gothic architecture

129. The earliest Pallava rock-cut temples were built entirely without:
A) Granite and marble
B) Wood, bricks, or metal
C) Stone and clay
D) Sculptures and inscriptions

130. Dwarapalakas in Pallava temples refer to:
A) Royal priests
B) Warriors of the king
C) Guardian figures at temple entrances
D) Temple dancers

131. Which ruler was especially known as a patron of architecture and cave temples?
A) Aparajitavarman
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Dantivarman
D) Nandivarman III

132. The Shore Temple at Mamallapuram was primarily built under:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Aditya I

133. The term “Seven Pagodas” is associated with:
A) Brihadeshwara Temple
B) Mamallapuram Shore Temple
C) Kailasanatha Temple
D) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple

134. According to tradition, how many temples were believed to have submerged near Mamallapuram?
A) Three
B) Four
C) Six
D) Eight

135. Arjuna’s Penance at Mamallapuram is carved on a stone approximately:
A) 50 feet long
B) 100 feet long
C) 200 feet long
D) 300 feet long

136. The Kailasanathar Temple at Kanchipuram was built during the reign of:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

137. The Kailasanathar Temple inspired which Chola ruler to build the Brihadeshwara Temple?
A) Rajendra I
B) Rajaraja Chola I
C) Vijayalaya Chola
D) Kulottunga I

138. The lion sculptures found extensively in the Kailasanathar Temple symbolized:
A) Chola military power
B) Buddhist teachings
C) Pallava insignia
D) Maritime trade

139. Which temple of Kanchipuram is one of the 108 Divya Desams?
A) Kailasanathar Temple
B) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
C) Shore Temple
D) Pancha Rathas

140. Vaikuntha Perumal Temple was built by:
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Nandivarman
D) Aparajitavarman

141. The original name of Vaikuntha Perumal Temple was:
A) Vishnukanchi
B) Simhavishnu Mandir
C) Parameshwara Vishnugriham
D) Vatapikonda Mandapa

142. Mandagapattu Tirumurti Temple was dedicated to:
A) Vishnu only
B) Shiva only
C) Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva
D) Devi only

143. The Mandagapattu Temple is significant because it contains the earliest known:
A) Tamil inscription
B) Copper plate grant
C) Grantha-script Sanskrit inscription
D) Jain cave inscription

144. The famous open-air sculpture gallery of the Pallavas is located at:
A) Kanchi
B) Madurai
C) Mamallapuram
D) Vatapi

145. “The Descent of the Ganga” sculpture represents:
A) Krishna lifting Govardhana
B) Bhagiratha bringing Ganga to Earth
C) Shiva destroying Tripura
D) Rama’s exile

146. The Sittannavasal paintings are primarily associated with:
A) Buddhist themes
B) Jain traditions
C) Shaiva philosophy
D) Vaishnava devotion

147. Which event marked the beginning of the decline of Pallava supremacy?
A) Defeat of Pulakesin II
B) Rise of Rashtrakutas
C) Temporary occupation of Kanchi by Vikramaditya II
D) Battle of Talikota

148. Which dynasty founder defeated Nandivarman but avoided complete destruction of the Pallavas through marriage alliance?
A) Pulakesin II
B) Aditya I
C) Dantidurga
D) Rajendra I

149. Dantivarman ruled approximately during:
A) 600–630 CE
B) 630–668 CE
C) 795–846 CE
D) 869–899 CE

150. Nandivarman III ruled approximately during:
A) 575–600 CE
B) 630–668 CE
C) 846–869 CE
D) 903–950 CE

151. Nripatunga ruled approximately during:
A) 700–750 CE
B) 795–846 CE
C) 869–899 CE
D) 903–925 CE

152. Who was the last Pallava king?
A) Nandivarman III
B) Dantivarman
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Simhavarman

153. Aparajitavarman was defeated by:
A) Pulakesin II
B) Dantidurga
C) Aditya I
D) Rajaraja I

154. The defeat of Aparajitavarman led to the loss of:
A) Vatapi region
B) Andhra coast
C) Kanchi region
D) Kerala coast

155. Pallava rule came to an end near the close of:
A) 7th century CE
B) 8th century CE
C) 9th century CE
D) 10th century CE

156. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

157. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

158. Assertion (A): Kailasanathar Temple inaugurated a tradition of royal temple patronage in South India.
Reason (R): Kings increasingly took direct interest in grand temple construction after it.

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 are false.
D) A is true, but R is false.

159. Assertion (A): The Shore Temple is associated with UNESCO World Heritage status.
Reason (R): Mamallapuram monuments were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1984.

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) A is false, but R is true.
D) Both are false.

160. Assertion (A): Pallava architecture influenced Southeast Asia.
Reason (R): Similar artistic forms and Grantha inscriptions are found in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

161. Which among the following best describes the Pallava transition in temple architecture?
A) From wooden to Islamic architecture
B) From Buddhist monasteries to mosques
C) From rock-cut caves to structural temples
D) From brick stupas to marble palaces

162. Which monument is known as the “Open Art Gallery” of the Pallavas?
A) Kailasanathar Temple
B) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
C) Mamallapuram
D) Kanchi University

163. The Pallavas are often credited with laying the foundation of which South Indian temple style?
A) Nagara
B) Vesara
C) Dravidian
D) Indo-Saracenic

164. Which among the following temples was carved from rock and later influenced structural architecture?
A) Brihadeshwara Temple
B) Pancha Rathas
C) Meenakshi Temple
D) Konark Temple

165. The Pallavas maintained their rule for nearly:
A) 200 years
B) 300 years
C) 500 years
D) 700 years

166. Which Pallava ruler was associated with the title ‘Chettakari’ (Temple Builder)?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

167. Which among the following titles belonged to Narasimhavarman I?
A) Gunabhara
B) Vichitrachitta
C) Ranajayan
D) Chettakari

168. Narasimhavarman I’s military success in Sri Lanka was linked to helping:
A) Vijayabahu
B) Sena II
C) Manavarman
D) Rajasingha

169. The Pallava–Chalukya struggle lasted for approximately:
A) 50 years
B) 100 years
C) More than two centuries
D) Five centuries

170. The Pallava kingdom was repeatedly challenged in the south by the:
A) Mauryas
B) Guptas
C) Pandyas
D) Hoysalas

171. Which ruler bore the title ‘Lion of the Earth’?
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

172. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

173. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

174. Assertion (A): Pallava inscriptions gradually shifted toward Tamil.
Reason (R): Mahendravarman I began using Tamil in some records.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

175. Assertion (A): Pallavas exclusively supported Sanskrit literature.
Reason (R): Tamil devotional literature flourished under the Nayanmars and Alwars.

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 are false.

176. Which Pallava ruler is credited with reviving the Pallava dynasty after a period of decline?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavishnu
C) Dantivarman
D) Nripatunga

177. Simhavishnu was the son of:
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavarman III
C) Nandivarman II
D) Sivaskandavarman

178. Which dynasty was overthrown by Simhavishnu to stabilize Pallava rule?
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Cholas
C) Kalabhras
D) Guptas

179. Simhavishnu extended Pallava influence up to:
A) Krishna River
B) Godavari River
C) Kaveri River
D) Tungabhadra River

180. Which neighbouring power did Simhavishnu clash with after extending his territory?
A) Mauryas
B) Pandyas
C) Palas
D) Paramaras

181. Simhavishnu’s overseas military expedition was directed towards:
A) Java
B) Maldives
C) Sri Lanka and Malaya
D) Bali

182. Pallava artistic influence in Southeast Asia is evidenced by:
A) Arabic inscriptions
B) Grantha script and Pallava-style art
C) Persian manuscripts
D) Mughal miniatures

183. The period beginning with Simhavishnu is often called:
A) Early Pallavas
B) Classical Pallavas
C) Greater or Later Pallavas
D) Neo-Pallavas

184. Simhavishnu was a devotee of:
A) Shiva
B) Vishnu
C) Buddha
D) Mahavira

185. Which literary personality was patronized by Simhavishnu?
A) Dandin
B) Bharavi
C) Kalladanar
D) Dharmapala

186. Which ruler was defeated by Mahendravarman I at Pullalur according to Pallava inscriptions?
A) Vikramaditya II
B) Pulakesin II
C) Dantidurga
D) Aditya I

187. Which title reflected Mahendravarman I’s artistic skills?
A) Avanisimha
B) Mamalla
C) Chitrakarapuli
D) Vatapikonda

188. Which cave inscription praises Mahendravarman I for building temples without traditional materials?
A) Allahabad inscription
B) Hathigumpha inscription
C) Mandagappattu inscription
D) Junagadh inscription

189. The Mahabalipuram Lighthouse is traditionally associated with:
A) Narasimhavarman II
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Simhavarman III
D) Nandivarman III

190. Mahendravarman I is regarded as the pioneer of:
A) Structural temple architecture
B) Rock-cut temple architecture
C) Islamic architecture
D) Vesara architecture

191. Narasimhavarman I continued the architectural work initiated at Mamallapuram by:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Dantivarman
D) Paramesvaravarman I

192. Which title of Narasimhavarman I means “great wrestler”?
A) Ranajayan
B) Vatapikonda
C) Mamalla
D) Srinidhi

193. Narasimhavarman I captured the Chalukya capital in:
A) 620 CE
B) 630 CE
C) 642 CE
D) 652 CE

194. The title assumed by Narasimhavarman I after conquering Vatapi was:
A) Ranajayan
B) Vatapikonda
C) Dharma Maharaja
D) Chitrakarapuli

195. Which Chinese traveller observed that Kanchi was the birthplace of Dharmapala?
A) Fa-Hien
B) Hiuen Tsang
C) Ibn Battuta
D) Al-Biruni

196. Hiuen Tsang observed that Kanchi was important for:
A) Silk production only
B) Maritime warfare only
C) Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism
D) Islamic theology

197. Narasimhavarman I’s military campaigns against Sri Lanka were intended to restore:
A) Vijayabahu
B) Manavarman
C) Dhatusena
D) Sena I

198. The Kasakudi copper plates mention:
A) Pulakesin II’s victories
B) Narasimhavarman’s Sri Lankan conquest
C) Aditya Chola’s campaigns
D) Rashtrakuta invasions

199. The Pallavas strongly supported which two languages?
A) Pali and Persian
B) Kannada and Telugu
C) Sanskrit and Tamil
D) Arabic and Tamil

200. Which Sanskrit scholar during the Pallava age authored Kavyadarsha?
A) Bharavi
B) Dandin
C) Kalladanar
D) Perundevanar

201. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

202. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

203. Assertion (A): Simhavishnu is regarded as the real founder of the Pallava Empire.
Reason (R): He expanded Pallava authority up to the Kaveri River and revived political stability.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

204. Assertion (A): Mahendravarman I initially patronized Jainism.
Reason (R): Later, he embraced Shaivism after being influenced by Appar.

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) A is false, but R is true.
D) Both are false.

205. Assertion (A): Narasimhavarman I was tolerant toward religions other than Shaivism.
Reason (R): Hiuen Tsang recorded the flourishing of Buddhism and Jainism in Kanchi.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

206. Which ruler was described as possessing judicial wisdom from a young age?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Dantivarman

207. Which dynasty ruled alongside the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras during Simhavishnu’s period?
A) Mauryas
B) Guptas
C) Chalukyas
D) Hoysalas

208. Which ruler bore the title ‘Gunabhara’?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman II
D) Nandivarman III

209. Which temple at Pudukottai is associated with Mahendravarman I?
A) Kailasanatha Temple
B) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
C) Thirukokarnam Temple
D) Shore Temple

210. Which inscription credits Mahendravarman I with musical expertise?
A) Allahabad Pillar inscription
B) Kasakudi plates
C) Kudumianmalai inscription
D) Aihole inscription

211. Narasimhavarman I built which of the following at Mamallapuram?
A) Brihadeshwara Temple
B) Mahishasura Mandapam
C) Meenakshi Temple
D) Shore Temple exclusively

212. Which ruler was known for never losing a battle according to historical tradition?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Dantivarman

213. Which title among the following belonged to Narasimhavarman I?
A) Vichitrachitta
B) Avanisimha
C) Srimohan
D) Chettakari

214. The general Paranjothi is also known as:
A) Dantidurga
B) Dharmapala
C) Vikrama Kesari
D) Manavarman

215. Narasimhavarman I’s successful invasion of Sri Lanka occurred on the:
A) First expedition
B) Second expedition
C) Third expedition
D) Fourth expedition

216. Which among the following rulers is associated with the title ‘Avanisimha’?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

217. The Pallavas are believed to have originated in:
A) Kerala
B) Punjab
C) Tondaimandalam
D) Bengal

218. Which ruler humbled neighbouring powers including Ceylon?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Nripatunga

219. The Chalukya ruler who invaded Kanchi during Mahendravarman I’s reign was:
A) Vikramaditya II
B) Pulakesin II
C) Dantidurga
D) Aditya I

220. Which ruler restored lost Pallava prestige by avenging his father’s defeat?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Nandivarman II
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Dantivarman

221. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

222. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

223. Assertion (A): The Pallavas influenced the culture of Southeast Asia.
Reason (R): Pallava-style art and Grantha inscriptions have been found in Southeast Asian regions.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

224. Assertion (A): Narasimhavarman I supported only Shaivism in his kingdom.
Reason (R): Hiuen Tsang noted flourishing Buddhism and Jainism in Kanchi.

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 are false.

225. Assertion (A): Pallava political power declined after repeated invasions and regional challenges.
Reason (R): Rashtrakutas, Pandyas, and Cholas weakened Pallava authority over time.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

226. The Pallava rulers were generous patrons of:
A) Maritime trade only
B) Agriculture only
C) Art and architecture
D) Coinage only

227. The earliest stone and mortar temples in South India were built during the rule of the:
A) Mauryas
B) Satavahanas
C) Pallavas
D) Hoysalas

228. Pallava temple architecture developed from earlier prototypes primarily made of:
A) Marble and sandstone
B) Granite and limestone
C) Brick and timber
D) Iron and steel

229. Which among the following best reflects the contribution of the Pallavas to architecture?
A) Introduction of Indo-Islamic domes
B) Development of free-standing Dravidian temples
C) Construction of Buddhist stupas only
D) Introduction of Gothic arches

230. The religious revival during the Pallava period gave impetus to:
A) Military expansion
B) Architectural activity
C) Maritime trade
D) Foreign invasions

231. The progression of Pallava architecture moved from cave temples to:
A) Buddhist stupas
B) Wooden temples
C) Monolithic Rathas and structural temples
D) Islamic mosques

232. The Five Rathas at Mamallapuram are popularly known as:
A) Chola Rathas
B) Trimurti Rathas
C) Pancha Pandava Rathas
D) Jain Rathas

233. Which structural temple at Mamallapuram is regarded as a major Pallava achievement?
A) Brihadeshwara Temple
B) Shore Temple
C) Meenakshi Temple
D) Virupaksha Temple

234. Which Pallava temple is regarded as an architectural masterpiece at Kanchi?
A) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
B) Kailasanatha Temple
C) Mandagappattu Temple
D) Pancha Rathas

235. The sculpture depicting “Arjuna’s Penance” is considered a masterpiece of:
A) Medieval Persian art
B) Indo-Islamic art
C) Classical Indian art
D) Mughal miniature painting

236. The Pallava period witnessed flourishing of:
A) Music only
B) Dance only
C) Painting only
D) Music, dance, and painting

237. The Pallava dynasty is often viewed as a transitional phase between:
A) Mauryas and Guptas
B) Rock-cut and structural temple architecture
C) Buddhism and Islam
D) Cholas and Delhi Sultanate

238. Which ruler initiated the long Pallava–Chalukya rivalry?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman III
D) Aparajitavarman

239. Which Chalukya ruler marched against the Pallavas during Mahendravarman I’s reign?
A) Vikramaditya I
B) Pulakesin II
C) Tailapa II
D) Dantidurga

240. Mahendravarman I was unable to reclaim territories lost to:
A) Aditya I
B) Pulakesin II
C) Vikramaditya II
D) Dantivarman

241. Narasimhavarman I avenged the defeat of:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Paramesvaravarman I
D) Nandivarman II

242. Which battle near Kanchi significantly weakened Pulakesin II?
A) Battle of Talakad
B) Battle of Manimangalam
C) Battle of Koppam
D) Battle of Takkolam

243. The Chalukya capital captured by Narasimhavarman I was:
A) Aihole
B) Pattadakal
C) Vatapi (Badami)
D) Kalyani

244. Narasimhavarman I’s conquest of Vatapi earned him the title:
A) Vichitrachitta
B) Avanisimha
C) Vatapikonda
D) Gunabhara

245. The Pallava ruler Paramesvaravarman I faced invasions from:
A) Guptas and Mauryas
B) Chalukyas and Pandyas
C) Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas
D) Turks and Arabs

246. Which Chalukya ruler temporarily occupied Kanchi?
A) Pulakesin II
B) Vikramaditya II
C) Tailapa II
D) Someshvara I

247. Which ruler of the Pallavas was chosen by a ministerial council after political instability?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Nandivarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

248. The Pallavas increasingly faced threats from which southern dynasty?
A) Mauryas
B) Pandyas
C) Guptas
D) Palas

249. Which Chola ruler finally ended Pallava rule?
A) Vijayalaya
B) Aditya I
C) Rajaraja I
D) Rajendra I

250. Pallava political authority formally ended in approximately:
A) 7th century CE
B) 8th century CE
C) End of the 9th century CE
D) 11th century CE

251. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

252. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

253. Assertion (A): Pallava architecture marked a transition from cave temples to structural temples.
Reason (R): Pallava architects experimented with monolithic Rathas before developing structural temples.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

254. Assertion (A): The Pallavas significantly influenced South Indian temple architecture.
Reason (R): They pioneered the Dravidian architectural style.

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 are false.
D) A is true, but R is false.

255. Assertion (A): Pallava temples relied exclusively on wooden construction.
Reason (R): The earliest Pallava temples were made without brick, wood, metal, or mortar.

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 are false.

256. The earliest Pallava inscriptions were mainly written in:
A) Tamil and Kannada
B) Sanskrit and Prakrit
C) Telugu and Tamil
D) Arabic and Persian

257. Which script is prominently associated with Pallava inscriptions?
A) Sharada
B) Kharosthi
C) Grantha script
D) Devanagari

258. Tamil increasingly replaced Prakrit in Pallava inscriptions beginning from:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Sivaskandavarman
D) Aparajitavarman

259. Which religious traditions lost popular support due to decline in royal patronage?
A) Shaivism and Vaishnavism
B) Buddhism and Jainism
C) Vedic religion and Bhakti
D) Tantricism and Shaktism

260. Which movement dominated South Indian religious life from the Pallava period onward?
A) Sufi movement
B) Jain reform movement
C) Bhakti movement
D) Tantric movement

261. The devotional hymns of the Nayanmars mainly promoted:
A) Vaishnavism
B) Shaivism
C) Buddhism
D) Jainism

262. The Alwars are mainly associated with:
A) Shaivism
B) Vaishnavism
C) Jainism
D) Buddhism

263. The title “Dharma-Maharaja” assumed by Pallava rulers reflected:
A) Maritime power
B) Vedic royal legitimacy
C) Chola influence
D) Buddhist patronage

264. Which among the following Vedic sacrifices was performed by Pallava rulers?
A) Rajasuya only
B) Vajapeya
C) Ashvaghosha
D) None of these

265. The Ghatikas under the Pallavas were associated with:
A) Coin minting
B) Military camps
C) Temple-based education
D) Maritime trade

266. Which city became a major intellectual centre under the Pallavas?
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchipuram
D) Ujjain

267. The founder of the Kadamba dynasty, educated at Kanchi, was:
A) Bharavi
B) Mayurasarman
C) Appar
D) Dandin

268. Dharmapala, later linked to Nalanda, belonged to:
A) Madurai
B) Tanjore
C) Kanchi
D) Vatapi

269. Which among the following scholars belonged to the Pallava period?
A) Kalidasa
B) Dandin
C) Banabhatta
D) Vishakhadatta

270. Which ruler’s reign saw flourishing rock-cut architecture at Mamallapuram?
A) Aparajitavarman
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Aditya I
D) Nripatunga

271. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

272. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

273. Assertion (A): Pallavas supported both Sanskrit and Tamil literature.
Reason (R): Kanchi became an important centre of Sanskrit learning while Tamil Bhakti literature flourished.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

274. Assertion (A): Buddhism disappeared completely from the Pallava kingdom.
Reason (R): Hiuen Tsang mentioned numerous Buddhist monasteries at Kanchi.

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 are false.

275. Assertion (A): Pallava rule ended because of a single military defeat.
Reason (R): Pallava decline resulted from repeated invasions by Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Pandyas, and Cholas.

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 are false.

276. Which among the following best describes the geographical extent of the Pallava kingdom at its peak?
A) From Narmada to Krishna
B) From Godavari to Tungabhadra
C) From northern Andhra Pradesh to the Kaveri River
D) From Vindhyas to Kanyakumari

277. The Pallavas reduced which dynasty to a marginal political state in the 7th century?
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Cholas
C) Pandyas
D) Cheras

278. Which ruler occupied Vatapi after defeating the Chalukyas?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Simhavishnu
D) Aparajitavarman

279. The Kalabhra uprising was primarily directed against:
A) Buddhist monasteries
B) Chola taxation system
C) Brahmanical land grants (Brahmadeya)
D) Foreign merchants

280. Pallava political history is closely linked with conflicts against:
A) Mauryas and Kushanas
B) Chalukyas, Cholas, and Pandyas
C) Palas and Pratiharas
D) Delhi Sultanate

281. Which among the following rulers performed the Ashwamedha sacrifice?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Sivaskandavarman
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Narasimhavarman II

282. Which Pallava ruler established authority in Coastal Andhra by defeating Rudrapurushadatta?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavarma
C) Nandivarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

283. Coastal Andhra under the Pallavas was known as:
A) Gangavadi
B) Cholamandalam
C) Karmarashtra
D) Tondaimandalam

284. Which inscription mentions crown prince Buddhavarman and Budhyankur?
A) Allahabad Pillar inscription
B) Kasakudi plates
C) Guntur copper plate inscription
D) Aihole inscription

285. Simhavishnu defeated the Kalabhras who were regarded as:
A) Noble rulers
B) Evil rulers
C) Religious reformers
D) Foreign settlers

286. Which river valley became important under Simhavishnu’s expansion?
A) Narmada valley
B) Krishna valley
C) Kaveri valley
D) Tapti valley

287. The Pallava–Chalukya conflict continued for more than:
A) Fifty years
B) One century
C) Two centuries
D) Four centuries

288. Which Pallava ruler’s reign is associated with Mattavilasa Prahasana?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Nandivarman III

289. Mahendravarman I converted to Shaivism after influence from:
A) Sambandar
B) Appar
C) Basavanna
D) Ramanuja

290. Which ruler’s architectural works are visible at Pallavaram, Dalavanur, and Mandagappattu?
A) Narasimhavarman II
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Nripatunga

291. Which among the following titles was NOT associated with Mahendravarman I?
A) Mattavilasa
B) Vichitrachitta
C) Gunabhara
D) Vatapikonda

292. Mahendravarman I’s farce on Buddhist and Shaiva ascetics is:
A) Bhagavadajjuka
B) Mattavilasa Prahasana
C) Kiratarjuniyam
D) Nandikalambakam

293. Narasimhavarman I was the son and successor of:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman II
D) Sivaskandavarman

294. Narasimhavarman I shared with his father a love for:
A) Warfare and taxation
B) Art and architecture
C) Maritime trade
D) Agriculture

295. The Pancha Rathas at Mamallapuram are now recognized as:
A) Archaeological Survey headquarters
B) UNESCO World Heritage monuments
C) Chola memorials
D) Buddhist monasteries

296. Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakesin II in several battles including:
A) Koppam
B) Manimangalam
C) Talikota
D) Raichur

297. Narasimhavarman I helped restore power in Sri Lanka to:
A) Dhatusena
B) Manavarman
C) Vijayabahu
D) Sena II

298. Hiuen Tsang described Kanchi as:
A) A militarized city only
B) A declining urban centre
C) A major centre where Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism flourished
D) A desert kingdom

299. Which educational centre in Kanchi gained prominence during the Pallavas?
A) Vikramashila
B) Ghatika of Kanchi
C) Nalanda
D) Odantapuri

300. Narasimhavarman I is regarded as one of the few Indian rulers who:
A) Never built temples
B) Never expanded territory
C) Never lost a battle
D) Never performed rituals

301. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

302. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

303. Assertion (A): The Pallavas emerged after the decline of the Satavahanas.
Reason (R): Initially, they were subordinate rulers under the Satavahanas.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

304. Assertion (A): Simhavishnu is considered the real founder of the Pallava dynasty.
Reason (R): He consolidated Pallava power and expanded the kingdom up to the Kaveri River.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

305. Assertion (A): Narasimhavarman I earned the title ‘Vatapikonda’.
Reason (R): He defeated Pulakesin II and captured Vatapi.

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 are false.
D) A is true, but R is false.

306. Which ruler fought against the Chalukyas after Narasimhavarman I?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Narasimhavarman II
C) Dantivarman
D) Aparajitavarman

307. Paramesvaravarman I faced invasion from which Chalukya ruler?
A) Pulakesin II
B) Vikramaditya I
C) Vikramaditya II
D) Tailapa II

308. According to Pallava records, whose attack was repulsed?
A) Aditya I
B) Pulakesin II
C) Vikramaditya I
D) Dantidurga

309. In the 8th century CE, Kanchi was captured by:
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Vikramaditya II of the Chalukyas
C) Cholas
D) Hoysalas

310. The ministerial council selected which ruler after political crisis?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman I
C) Nandivarman II
D) Nripatunga

311. Which external power threatened the Chalukyas from Sindh?
A) Mongols
B) Turks
C) Arabs
D) Persians

312. One feudatory who broke away from the Chalukyas was:
A) Aditya I
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Dantidurga
D) Simhavishnu

313. The last of the Pallavas was reportedly assassinated by:
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Cholas
C) Son of a feudatory
D) Pandyas

314. Which ruler defeated Aparajitavarman?
A) Pulakesin II
B) Aditya I
C) Vikramaditya II
D) Dantidurga

315. Pallava supremacy over South India ended mainly because of:
A) Mauryan invasions
B) Gupta pressure
C) Chola expansion under Aditya I
D) Hoysala attacks

316. Which among the following cities remained a renowned Sanskrit learning centre under the Pallavas?
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchipuram
D) Ujjain

317. Which literary work was authored by Bharavi?
A) Kavyadarsha
B) Kiratarjuniyam
C) Bharathavenba
D) Bhagavadajjuka

318. Which Tamil scholar composed Bharathavenba?
A) Kalladanar
B) Perundevanar
C) Appar
D) Sambandar

319. Nandikalambakam primarily describes the reign of:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman III
D) Aparajitavarman

320. The Pallavas encouraged the growth of which literary traditions?
A) Persian only
B) Sanskrit only
C) Both Sanskrit and Tamil
D) Arabic and Telugu

321. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

322. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

323. Assertion (A): The Pallavas supported both Sanskrit and Tamil languages.
Reason (R): Kanchi was an important Sanskrit learning centre, while Tamil Bhakti literature flourished.

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 are false.
D) A is true, but R is false.

324. Assertion (A): The Pallavas were indifferent toward education.
Reason (R): Kanchi University attracted students from different parts of India.

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 are false.

325. Assertion (A): The decline of the Pallavas resulted from repeated political and military pressures.
Reason (R): Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Pandyas, and Cholas all weakened Pallava authority.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

326. Which heterodox religions remained active in the Pallava kingdom?
A) Islam and Christianity
B) Buddhism and Jainism
C) Sikhism and Zoroastrianism
D) Judaism and Taoism

327. According to Hiuen Tsang, Kanchi had approximately how many Buddhist monasteries?
A) 50
B) 200
C) Hundreds
D) None

328. Which school of Buddhism was prominent in Kanchi according to Hiuen Tsang?
A) Hinayana
B) Mahayana
C) Vajrayana
D) Zen

329. Which title was commonly adopted by Pallava kings to indicate righteous kingship?
A) Chakravartin
B) Rajadhiraja
C) Dharma-Maharaja
D) Maharajadhiraja

330. The Bhakti movement under the Pallavas was strengthened primarily from the:
A) 4th century CE
B) 5th century CE
C) 7th century CE
D) 10th century CE

331. The rise of Bhakti under the Pallavas contributed significantly to the spread of:
A) Buddhism and Jainism
B) Shaivism and Vaishnavism
C) Islam and Christianity
D) Tantricism only

332. Which among the following was an important source of Pallava history?
A) Foreign coins only
B) Inscriptions
C) Persian chronicles
D) Buddhist stupas only

333. Writings carved on walls, caves, and pillars are collectively called:
A) Manuscripts
B) Numismatic records
C) Inscriptions (Epigraphic records)
D) Puranic accounts

334. Pallava inscriptions were found on all of the following EXCEPT:
A) Temple walls
B) Pillars
C) Written books
D) Silk manuscripts exclusively

335. Which among the following languages was used in Pallava inscriptions?
A) Arabic
B) Persian
C) Telugu
D) Turkish

336. The earliest Pallava inscriptions were generally composed in:
A) Tamil and Telugu
B) Sanskrit and Prakrit
C) Kannada and Pali
D) Persian and Arabic

337. Tamil became prominent in Pallava inscriptions beginning from the reign of:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

338. Which work of the 2nd century CE described Kanchipuram?
A) Silappadikaram only
B) Manimekalai and Perumbhanatrupadai
C) Arthashastra
D) Tevaram

339. Pallava architecture reached its fullest development later under the:
A) Mauryas
B) Guptas
C) Cholas
D) Delhi Sultanate

340. Which architectural style did the Pallavas pioneer in South India?
A) Nagara
B) Indo-Islamic
C) Dravidian
D) Vesara exclusively

341. Pallava structural temples emerged after experimentation with:
A) Wooden palaces
B) Brick stupas
C) Monolithic Rathas and cave temples
D) Islamic domes

342. The Shore Temple at Mamallapuram is situated on the:
A) Western coast of India
B) Eastern coast of Tamil Nadu
C) Banks of the Krishna River
D) Banks of the Kaveri River

343. Which foreign traders are believed to have traded with Mamallapuram in early times?
A) Chinese only
B) Romans
C) Arabs only
D) Persians only

344. Mamallapuram architecture mainly flourished under:
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavishnu
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Dantivarman

345. The Pancha Pandava Rathas at Mamallapuram are examples of:
A) Brick temples
B) Monolithic rock-cut architecture
C) Mughal structures
D) Buddhist stupas

346. The sculpture “Arjuna’s Penance” is associated with:
A) Nalanda
B) Ajanta
C) Mamallapuram
D) Amaravati

347. The Kailasanathar Temple at Kanchi is historically important because it inspired:
A) Konark Temple
B) Brihadeshwara Temple
C) Sun Temple at Modhera
D) Meenakshi Temple

348. The lion motif widely seen in Kailasanathar Temple symbolized:
A) Chola imperialism
B) Pallava royal insignia
C) Buddhist symbolism
D) Jain iconography

349. Which ruler built Vaikuntha Perumal Temple?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Narasimhavarman II
C) Nandivarman
D) Aparajitavarman

350. Vaikuntha Perumal Temple is one among the:
A) 12 Jyotirlingas
B) 18 Shakti Peethas
C) 108 Divya Desams
D) Panch Bhoota temples

351. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

352. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

353. Assertion (A): Buddhism continued to flourish in Kanchi during the Pallava period.
Reason (R): Hiuen Tsang mentioned hundreds of monasteries and thousands of Mahayana monks there.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

354. Assertion (A): Pallava rulers ignored Vedic rituals.
Reason (R): Pallava kings performed sacrifices such as Ashvamedha and Vajapeya.

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 are false.

355. Assertion (A): Tamil became increasingly important in Pallava inscriptions.
Reason (R): Mahendravarman I began using Tamil in some inscriptions.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

356. Which ruler’s reign witnessed the beginning of Pallava decline after Kanchi’s occupation?
A) Narasimhavarman I
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman
D) Simhavishnu

357. The Rashtrakuta founder Dantidurga defeated:
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Nandivarman
D) Aparajitavarman

358. The marriage alliance between Reva and Dantidurga helped:
A) Strengthen Chola power
B) Prevent collapse of the Pallava kingdom
C) End Pallava–Chalukya rivalry immediately
D) Establish Buddhist rule

359. Which ruler ruled from 869–899 CE?
A) Dantivarman
B) Nandivarman III
C) Nripatunga
D) Aparajitavarman

360. Pallava rule formally ended after the defeat of:
A) Dantivarman
B) Nandivarman III
C) Aparajitavarman
D) Nripatunga

361. Which Chola king annexed Kanchi after defeating the Pallavas?
A) Rajendra I
B) Aditya I
C) Kulottunga I
D) Vijayalaya

362. The Pallava period is important for the transition from:
A) Buddhism to Islam
B) Tribal to Mughal polity
C) Rock-cut to structural temple architecture
D) Copper to iron economy

363. Which among the following was a major contribution of the Pallavas to Indian culture?
A) Persian literature
B) Islamic domes
C) Dravidian temple architecture
D) Roman roads

364. Which Pallava ruler is considered a major temple builder and cave architect?
A) Aparajitavarman
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Dantivarman
D) Nripatunga

365. The open-air relief sculpture at Mamallapuram mainly depicts:
A) Ramayana war
B) Descent of the Ganga / Arjuna’s Penance
C) Buddha’s enlightenment
D) Jain Tirthankaras

366. Which Pallava city developed into a renowned educational and religious centre?
A) Madurai
B) Vatapi
C) Kanchipuram
D) Amaravati

367. Which ruler patronized Bharavi?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Nandivarman III
D) Aparajitavarman

368. Which Sanskrit scholar of the Pallava age wrote Kavyadarsha?
A) Bharavi
B) Dandin
C) Kalidasa
D) Banabhatta

369. Pallava kings greatly contributed to the growth of:
A) Sanskrit only
B) Tamil only
C) Both Sanskrit and Tamil literature
D) Persian literature

370. Which among the following best characterizes Pallava religious policy?
A) Exclusive support to Buddhism
B) Exclusive patronage to Jainism
C) Promotion of Vedic, Shaiva, and Vaishnava traditions while tolerating heterodox faiths
D) Suppression of temples

371. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

372. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

373. Assertion (A): Pallava art influenced regions of Southeast Asia.
Reason (R): Pallava-style inscriptions and art forms are found in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

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 are false.
D) A is true, but R is false.

374. Assertion (A): Mahendravarman I was initially a patron of Jainism.
Reason (R): Later he embraced Shaivism after influence from Appar.

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) A is false, but R is true.
D) Both are false.

375. Assertion (A): The Pallavas were pioneers of Dravidian temple architecture.
Reason (R): Their temples evolved from rock-cut caves to structural stone temples.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

376. Which among the following rulers is regarded as the first important Pallava ruler?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Sivaskandavarman
C) Mahendravarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

377. The Pallava ruler Vishnugopa was compelled to acknowledge suzerainty of:
A) Chandragupta II
B) Harshavardhana
C) Samudragupta
D) Skandagupta

378. Which ruler is associated with the revival of Pallava supremacy in the late 6th century CE?
A) Sivaskandavarman
B) Simhavishnu
C) Dantivarman
D) Nripatunga

379. The reign of which ruler marked the beginning of the “Greater Pallavas” period?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Narasimhavarman II
D) Aparajitavarman

380. Which Pallava ruler defeated the Cholas and extended his control southward?
A) Mahendravarman I
B) Simhavishnu
C) Paramesvaravarman I
D) Nandivarman III

381. Mahendravarman I’s conversion from Jainism to Shaivism reflects the growing influence of:
A) Buddhism
B) Bhakti movement
C) Islamic mysticism
D) Persian culture

382. The city of Kanchipuram under the Pallavas became famous as a centre of:
A) Maritime trade only
B) Textile production
C) Education and religion
D) Coin minting only

383. Which ruler’s reign witnessed the visit of Hiuen Tsang?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Dantivarman

384. Which Pallava ruler continued and expanded architectural activity at Mamallapuram?
A) Simhavishnu
B) Mahendravarman I
C) Narasimhavarman I
D) Aparajitavarman

385. Which among the following monuments best exemplifies Pallava monolithic architecture?
A) Brihadeshwara Temple
B) Pancha Rathas
C) Shore Temple
D) Kailasanathar Temple

386. The Shore Temple represents the Pallava achievement in:
A) Brick architecture
B) Buddhist architecture
C) Structural temple architecture
D) Islamic architecture

387. Which among the following correctly represents the sequence of Pallava architectural development?
A) Structural temples → cave temples → Rathas
B) Brick shrines → mosques → cave temples
C) Cave temples → monolithic Rathas → structural temples
D) Monolithic Rathas → cave temples → stupas

388. Which ruler temporarily occupied Kanchi, accelerating Pallava decline?
A) Pulakesin II
B) Vikramaditya II
C) Aditya I
D) Dantidurga

389. Which dynasty finally replaced Pallava political dominance in Tamil country?
A) Rashtrakutas
B) Hoysalas
C) Cholas
D) Guptas

390. Which ruler defeated Aparajitavarman and annexed the Pallava kingdom?
A) Rajaraja I
B) Pulakesin II
C) Aditya I
D) Vikramaditya II

391. The Pallavas are historically remembered as pioneers of:
A) Indo-Islamic architecture
B) Buddhist cave monasteries only
C) Dravidian temple architecture
D) Persian court culture

392. Which among the following best reflects Pallava cultural contribution?
A) Exclusive promotion of Sanskrit
B) Decline of temple culture
C) Development of art, literature, religion, and architecture
D) Focus only on military conquest

393. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

394. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

395. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer.

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

396. Assertion (A): Pallava rulers significantly contributed to temple architecture in South India.
Reason (R): They pioneered the transition from rock-cut to structural temples.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

397. Assertion (A): Kanchipuram flourished as an educational centre under the Pallavas.
Reason (R): Institutions like Ghatikas and Kanchi University attracted scholars from many regions.

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) A is false, but R is true.
D) Both are false.

398. Assertion (A): The Pallavas supported only Shaivism and discouraged all other religions.
Reason (R): Buddhism and Jainism continued to exist during their rule.

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 are false.

399. Assertion (A): Pallava decline was a gradual political process.
Reason (R): Repeated conflicts with Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Pandyas, and Cholas weakened the dynasty over time.

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) A is true, but R is false.
D) Both are false.

400. Which among the following best summarizes the historical importance of the Pallavas?
A) They established Islamic rule in South India
B) They were only regional military rulers
C) They laid the foundation of Dravidian temple architecture and shaped South Indian cultural development
D) They replaced Sanskrit entirely with Tamil