Political Developments – Delhi Sultanate – UGC NET – Practice Questions

Mahmud of Ghazni (971 to 1030)

1. Who founded the independent Ghaznavid dynasty in 963 CE?
A. Sabuktigin
B. Mahmud of Ghazni
C. Abdul Malik
D. Alptigin

2. Mahmud of Ghazni ruled the Ghaznavid Empire during which period?
A. 998–1030 CE
B. 977–1000 CE
C. 1001–1027 CE
D. 971–1035 CE

3. Which of the following regions was NOT part of Mahmud’s empire at the time of his death?
A. Punjab
B. Khwarazm
C. Makran
D. Tamilakam

4. The capital of the Ghaznavid dynasty was:
A. Lahore
B. Multan
C. Ghazni
D. Balkh

5. Sabuktigin captured territories between Lamghan and Peshawar from which ruler?
A. Anandapala
B. Jayapala
C. Bhimapala
D. Vidyadhar

6. Mahmud of Ghazni was the son of:
A. Alptigin
B. Ismail
C. Sabuktigin
D. Abdul Malik

7. Which title was bestowed upon Mahmud by the Caliph Al-Qadir Billah?
A. Amir-ul-Mominin
B. Sultan-ul-Azam
C. Yamin-ud-Daulah
D. Shahanshah

8. Mahmud of Ghazni is credited as the first Muslim ruler to receive the title of:
A. Khalifa
B. Padshah
C. Amir
D. Sultan

9. Mahmud secured recognition from the Caliph of Baghdad in:
A. 998 CE
B. 999 CE
C. 1001 CE
D. 1005 CE

10. Which scholar patronized by Mahmud wrote Kitab-i-Hind?
A. Firdausi
B. Utbi
C. Al-Biruni
D. Baihaki

11. Match List I with List II regarding personalities associated with Mahmud of Ghazni.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
C. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(iii)
D. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv)

12. Which of the following historians opposed the view that Mahmud’s invasions were religiously motivated?
A. Jafar
B. Havell
C. Muhammad Habib
D. Nazim

13. According to Utbi, Mahmud’s invasions in India were:
A. Political campaigns
B. Economic ventures
C. Military necessities
D. Jihads

14. The Hindushahi ruler who burnt himself after defeat by Mahmud was:
A. Anandapala
B. Trilochanapala
C. Bhimapala
D. Jaipala

15. Assertion (A): Mahmud of Ghazni repeatedly attacked India for wealth.
Reason (R): India had accumulated enormous wealth concentrated in temples and upper classes.

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

16. Mahmud’s first expedition to India took place in:
A. 998 CE
B. 999 CE
C. 1000 CE
D. 1002 CE

17. The battle near Peshawar in 1001 CE was fought between Mahmud and:
A. Anandapala
B. Vidyadhar
C. Rajyapala
D. Jaipala

18. The capital city of the Hindushahi kingdom captured by Mahmud was:
A. Lahore
B. Kannauj
C. Waihind
D. Thanesar

19. Jaipala was released by Mahmud after paying:
A. 100 elephants and 1,00,000 dinars
B. 25 elephants and 2,50,000 dinars
C. 50 elephants and 50,000 dinars
D. 10 elephants and 3,00,000 dinars

20. Anandapala succeeded Jaipala in:
A. 1000 CE
B. 1001 CE
C. 1002 CE
D. 1004 CE

21. Match List I with List II regarding Ghaznavid rulers and events.

A. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iii)
D. a-(iii), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iv)

22. Mahmud attacked the Shia kingdom of Multan in:
A. 1004 CE
B. 1006 CE
C. 1008 CE
D. 1010 CE

23. The Karmatia ruler of Multan was:
A. Nawasa Shah
B. Jaipala
C. Abdul Fateh Daud
D. Baji Rai

24. Nawasa Shah was related to Jaipala as his:
A. Son
B. Brother
C. Nephew
D. Grandson

25. Assertion (A): Anandapala sought support from other Hindu rulers against Mahmud.
Reason (R): The Hindushahi kingdom alone was incapable of resisting Mahmud’s invasions.

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

26. Mahmud defeated Anandapala near Waihind in:
A. 1006 CE
B. 1007 CE
C. 1009 CE
D. 1011 CE

27. Anandapala shifted his capital to:
A. Lahore
B. Ghazni
C. Nandana
D. Multan

28. Trilochanapala sought assistance from which ruler against Mahmud?
A. Bhima I
B. Rajyapala
C. Vidyadhar Chandela
D. Mahipala I

29. The Hindushahi kingdom came to an end with the death of:
A. Jaipala
B. Anandapala
C. Trilochanapala
D. Bhimapala

30. Mahmud attacked Thanesar in:
A. 1010 CE
B. 1012 CE
C. 1014 CE
D. 1016 CE

31. Which temple deity’s idol was taken to Ghazni after the attack on Thanesar?
A. Somnath Shiva Linga
B. Vishnu idol
C. Chakraswami deity
D. Surya idol

32. Match List I with List II regarding places attacked by Mahmud.

A. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(ii), d-(i)
B. a-(ii), b-(iv), c-(iii), d-(i)
C. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(iv)
D. a-(iii), b-(i), c-(iv), d-(ii)

33. Mahmud attacked Mathura in:
A. 1014 CE
B. 1016 CE
C. 1018 CE
D. 1020 CE

34. Which ruler of Kannauj fled without resistance during Mahmud’s invasion?
A. Mahipala
B. Vidyadhar
C. Rajyapala
D. Rama

35. Assertion (A): Mahmud admired the architecture of Mathura temples.
Reason (R): He wrote that rebuilding such temples would require immense resources and time.

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

36. Vidyadhar belonged to which dynasty?
A. Pratihara
B. Chalukya
C. Chola
D. Chandela

37. Mahmud attacked Kalinjar during:
A. 1009–10 CE
B. 1021–22 CE
C. 1014–15 CE
D. 1025–26 CE

38. The ruler of Gujarat during Mahmud’s Somnath invasion was:
A. Vidyadhar
B. Rajyapala
C. Bhima I
D. Mahipala I

39. The Somnath temple was situated in:
A. Bengal
B. Punjab
C. Kathiawar coast
D. Rajasthan

40. Mahmud’s most famous invasion was directed against:
A. Mathura
B. Kannauj
C. Thanesar
D. Somnath

41. Match List I with List II regarding historians and their opinions.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(iii)
C. a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(i)
D. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(ii)

42. Approximately how many defenders reportedly died at Somnath?
A. 10,000
B. 25,000
C. 50,000
D. 75,000

43. Mahmud’s last Indian expedition was against the:
A. Rajputs
B. Chandelas
C. Pratiharas
D. Jats

44. Mahmud’s punitive expedition against the Jats took place in:
A. 1023 CE
B. 1024 CE
C. 1025 CE
D. 1026–27 CE

45. Assertion (A): Mahmud permanently annexed large parts of South India.
Reason (R): His main aim was territorial expansion in the Deccan.

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

46. Which of the following was NOT patronized by Mahmud?
A. Firdausi
B. Al-Biruni
C. Unsuri
D. Kalhana

47. Mahmud established which institution in Ghazni?
A. Parliament
B. Navy Academy
C. University and Library
D. Buddhist monastery

48. According to Lane-Poole, Mahmud was:
A. A poor commander
B. A great soldier but not a far-sighted statesman
C. A weak ruler
D. A democratic monarch

49. The title ‘Ghazi’ conferred on Mahmud signifies:
A. Great king
B. Empire builder
C. Slayer of infidels
D. Defender of trade

50. Which development marked the decline of the Ghaznavids and rise of the Ghurids?
A. Battle of Tarain
B. Fall of Multan
C. Mahmud’s death
D. Alauddin Hussain Shah’s destruction of Ghazni

51. Who among the following was the Seljuqid ruler during the rise of the Ghurids?
A. Alauddin Hussain Shah
B. Bahram Shah
C. Sanjar
D. Masud

52. The region of Ghur was located between:
A. Punjab and Sindh
B. Ghaznavid Empire and Seljuqid Empire
C. Balkh and Herat
D. Kabul and Lahore

53. Which occupation was predominant in Ghur due to its hilly terrain?
A. Maritime trade
B. Textile industry
C. Cattle rearing and agriculture
D. Gold mining

54. Assertion (A): Ghur was one of the least developed regions of Afghanistan.
Reason (R): It was a fertile river valley with advanced urbanization.

A. Both A and R are true, and R explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

55. The Ghurid ruler Alauddin Hussain Shah earned the title ‘Jahan Soz’ because he:
A. Defeated the Seljuqs
B. Conquered Multan
C. Patronized Persian culture
D. Destroyed Ghazni thoroughly

56. Match List I with List II regarding Ghaznavid and Ghurid personalities.

A. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv)
B. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(iii), d-(ii)
D. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iii)

57. Which statement about the Ghaznavid dynasty is correct?
A. It originated in South India
B. It was entirely Arab in culture
C. It was Turkish in origin but Persianized in culture
D. It ruled only Punjab

58. The Yamini dynasty is another name for:
A. Slave dynasty
B. Lodhi dynasty
C. Ghurid dynasty
D. Ghaznavid dynasty

59. Pirai became ruler of Ghazni in:
A. 963 CE
B. 968 CE
C. 972 CE
D. 980 CE

60. Who invited Abu Ali Lawik to invade Ghazni due to dissatisfaction with Pirai?
A. Rajputs
B. Cholas
C. Subjects of Ghazni
D. Seljuqs

61. Assertion (A): Jaipala pursued an aggressive policy against Sabuktigin.
Reason (R): He recognized the danger posed by the rise of Islam on his borders.

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

62. Sabuktigin laid the foundation of the Yamini dynasty in:
A. 963 CE
B. 972 CE
C. 977 CE
D. 998 CE

63. Which of the following Rajput rulers supported Jaipala against Sabuktigin?
A. Cholas
B. Certain Rajput rulers who sent contingents
C. Palas
D. Chandelas only

64. Mahmud was educated in:
A. Astronomy and Medicine only
B. Hindu philosophy
C. Persian literature alone
D. Islamic theology and jurisprudence

65. Match List I with List II regarding Mahmud’s campaigns.

A. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv)
C. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iii)
D. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)

66. Which ruler refused passage to Mahmud during his Multan expedition?
A. Jaipala
B. Anandapala
C. Bhimapala
D. Vidyadhar

67. Nawasa Shah revolted against Mahmud during:
A. Mahmud’s Gujarat expedition
B. Mahmud’s Mathura invasion
C. Mahmud’s engagement with Seljuq-Turks
D. Mahmud’s return from Somnath

68. Which Hindu kingdom persistently resisted Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Kannauj
B. Bengal
C. Hindushahi kingdom
D. Gujarat

69. Trilochanapala sought refuge in:
A. Bengal
B. Gujarat
C. Kashmir
D. Delhi

70. Which ruler of Kashmir assisted Trilochanapala against Mahmud?
A. Bhima I
B. Kashmir ruler (unnamed in passage)
C. Rajyapala
D. Mahipala I

71. Assertion (A): Bhimapala retained the royal title till his death.
Reason (R): The Hindushahi kingdom remained strong after Trilochanapala.

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

72. The ruler defeated by Mahmud at Narayanpur was:
A. Rajyapala
B. Jaipala
C. Ruler of Narayanpur
D. Bhima I

73. Which chief was defeated before Mahmud looted Thanesar?
A. Vidyadhar
B. Rajyapala
C. Anandapala
D. Rama, chief of Dera

74. Mahmud described the grandeur of which city’s temples in his memoirs?
A. Kannauj
B. Somnath
C. Mathura
D. Lahore

75. Assertion (A): Rajyapala resisted Mahmud bravely at Kannauj.
Reason (R): Rajyapala fled from Kannauj during Mahmud’s invasion.

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

76. Rajyapala was killed by:
A. Mahmud
B. Anandapala
C. Bhima I
D. Vidyadhar in alliance with Gwalior ruler

77. Mahmud lost courage at the sight of whose army according to the passage?
A. Jaipala’s
B. Anandapala’s
C. Vidyadhar’s Chandela army
D. Bhima I’s army

78. Vidyadhar later offered how many elephants as tribute to Mahmud?
A. 50
B. 100
C. 200
D. 300

79. Which statement is NOT correct regarding Somnath temple?
A. It had immense wealth
B. One thousand Brahmanas served there
C. It had income from ten thousand villages
D. It was located in Multan

80. Match List I with List II regarding places and rulers.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
C. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
D. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(iii)

81. The devotees of Somnath believed Mahmud could not harm the deity because:
A. Cholas would defend it
B. Somnath enjoyed divine supremacy over northern deities
C. Mahmud feared Shiva
D. Ghaznavids avoided temples

82. Mahmud returned safely from Somnath despite trouble caused by:
A. Rajputs
B. Seljuqs
C. Hindu guides misleading his army in desert
D. Cholas

83. Which social group was considered lower than the Sudras?
A. Brahmanas
B. Kshatriyas
C. Vaisyas
D. Antyajas

84. According to Al-Biruni, Vaisyas were prohibited from:
A. Farming
B. Temple entry
C. Studying religious texts
D. Trade

85. Assertion (A): Child marriage and Sati had become widespread in higher castes.
Reason (R): Widow remarriage was generally permitted.

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 true, but R is false

86. Which among the following were categorized as out-castes and untouchables?
A. Brahmanas and Kshatriyas
B. Vaisyas and Sudras
C. Hadis, Doms and Chandalas
D. Rajputs and artisans

87. The practice of Devadasis in temples was viewed in the passage as:
A. Spiritual upliftment
B. Artistic innovation
C. A form of corruption
D. Political symbolism

88. Which temples symbolize cultural deterioration according to the passage?
A. Meenakshi and Brihadeeswara
B. Konark and Jagannath
C. Puri and Khajuraho
D. Somnath and Thanesar

89. The principal military weakness of Hindu rulers was overdependence on:
A. Archers
B. Navy
C. Cavalry
D. Elephants

90. Match List I with List II regarding social conditions in India.

A. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iii), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iv)
D. a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iii)

91. Which weapon remained principal among Hindu armies?
A. Gunpowder
B. Spear
C. Sword
D. Crossbow

92. Hindu rulers neglected building forts in:
A. South India
B. Bengal
C. Central India
D. North-West frontier

93. According to Al-Biruni, Hindus believed:
A. Foreign knowledge superior
B. No nation or science equaled theirs
C. Islam was supreme
D. Trade mattered more than religion

94. Assertion (A): India’s wealth attracted Mahmud’s invasions.
Reason (R): Agriculture, industries and trade were prosperous.

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 correct explanation
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

95. Mahmud never suffered defeat in India because:
A. Indian rulers united against him
B. Political disunity weakened resistance
C. Cholas supported him
D. He avoided warfare

96. Which territories were annexed by Mahmud to his empire?
A. Bengal and Gujarat
B. Deccan and Malwa
C. Afghanistan, Punjab, Sindh and Multan
D. Kashmir and Rajasthan

97. Mahmud died in:
A. 1026 CE
B. 1027 CE
C. 1030 CE
D. 1035 CE

98. Which Persian epic poet was patronized by Mahmud?
A. Utbi
B. Baihaki
C. Farabi
D. Firdausi

99. Which famous work was composed by Firdausi?
A. Kitab-i-Hind
B. Tarikh-i-Yamini
C. Shahnama
D. Tabaqat-i-Nasiri

100. Assertion (A): Mahmud established a stable empire with lasting institutions.
Reason (R): His empire crumbled soon after his death.

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

101. Which historian described Mahmud as a “great soldier but not a constructive statesman”?
A. Muhammad Habib
B. Jafar
C. Lane-Poole
D. Havell

102. Mahmud’s empire extended in the west up to:
A. River Indus
B. Mediterranean Sea
C. Iraq and the Caspian Sea
D. Red Sea

103. Which of the following scholars was NOT associated with Mahmud’s court?
A. Baihaki
B. Unsuri
C. Farabi
D. Kalhana

104. Assertion (A): Mahmud maintained peace and order in his empire.
Reason (R): He developed an efficient police force and permanent administration.

A. Both A and R are true, and R explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

105. Mahmud punished his own nephew because:
A. He revolted against him
B. He looted treasury funds
C. He had illicit relations with another man’s wife
D. He refused military service

106. Match List I with List II regarding scholars patronized by Mahmud.

A. a-(iii), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(i)
D. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(iii)

107. Which title did contemporary Muslims bestow upon Mahmud?
A. Amir-ul-Hind
B. Shahanshah
C. Ghazi
D. Muhtasib

108. Mahmud’s intolerance was particularly directed toward:
A. Sunnis
B. Buddhists only
C. Jains only
D. Shias

109. According to the passage, Mahmud’s destruction of temples had:
A. Only religious motives
B. Only economic motives
C. Both economic and religious motives
D. No clear motive

110. Which famous Persian poet allegedly refused Mahmud’s silver payment for his work?
A. Unsuri
B. Firdausi
C. Farrukhi
D. Tusi

111. Assertion (A): Firdausi was immediately rewarded with gold dinars after presenting the Shahnama.
Reason (R): Mahmud initially offered silver dinars instead of gold.

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

112. Professor Brown remarked that Mahmud:
A. Was the greatest statesman of Asia
B. Tried to acquire wealth by every possible means
C. Was an unsuccessful military commander
D. Ignored scholarship

113. Which criticism is made against Mahmud as an administrator?
A. He failed to patronize scholars
B. He neglected military reforms
C. He failed to establish lasting institutions
D. He opposed trade

114. Mahmud’s empire collapsed soon after his death because:
A. Cholas attacked Ghazni
B. Rajputs conquered Punjab
C. No stable institutions had been developed
D. Mongols invaded immediately

115. Match List I with List II regarding historians and comments.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
C. a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(i)
D. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(ii)

116. According to the passage, Ghazni became a center of:
A. Hindu learning
B. Maritime trade
C. Islamic scholarship and fine arts
D. Buddhist philosophy only

117. Mahmud established which of the following in Ghazni?
A. Parliament and Senate
B. Museum and Library
C. Monastic universities only
D. Naval dockyard

118. Mahmud’s ministers lacked freedom because of his:
A. Democratic leadership
B. Weak personality
C. Religious neutrality
D. Autocratic and self-willed behavior

119. Which statement best describes Mahmud in Indian historiography?
A. Nation-builder of India
B. Peaceful ruler of Punjab
C. Foreign plunderer and destroyer
D. Patron of Hindu temples

120. Assertion (A): Mahmud cared deeply about administering Punjab and Sindh efficiently.
Reason (R): These regions mainly served as military bases for deeper invasions into 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 A and R are false

121. According to the passage, Mahmud forcibly converted people to Islam and:
A. Established democratic institutions
B. Built Hindu temples
C. Destroyed cities and temples
D. Abolished slavery

122. Which factor weakened Indian morale against later invasions?
A. Strong navy
B. Mahmud’s repeated victories
C. Religious unity
D. Economic collapse of Ghazni

123. The fall of the Hindushahis resulted in the loss of:
A. Bengal gateway
B. Chola navy
C. Khyber Pass gateway
D. Gujarat ports

124. According to D.C. Ganguly, the inclusion of Punjab and Afghanistan in Ghazni made:
A. Chola expansion easy
B. Trade impossible
C. Islamic conquest comparatively easier
D. Rajput unity stronger

125. Assertion (A): Mahmud’s invasions had no permanent impact on India.
Reason (R): Punjab, Sindh and Multan later became bases for future Turk invasions.

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

126. Muhammad of Ghur first entered India mainly to:
A. Spread Buddhism
B. Capture Punjab, Sindh and Multan from Ghaznavids
C. Conquer Bengal directly
D. Ally with Rajputs

127. Which statement reflects Al-Biruni’s observation on Hindu attitudes?
A. Hindus admired foreign sciences
B. Hindus believed no country or king was superior to theirs
C. Hindus welcomed social reform
D. Hindus encouraged intercultural exchange

128. The temples and Buddhist monasteries became centers of:
A. Military activity
B. Trade monopolies
C. Corruption
D. Scientific research

129. Which of the following books is mentioned as reflecting deteriorating cultural taste?
A. Rajatarangini
B. Arthashastra
C. Kutini-Matama
D. Akbarnama

130. Match List I with List II regarding India’s weaknesses at the time of Mahmud.

A. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(i)
D. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(iii)

131. Which Muslim states existed in India during Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Gujarat and Bengal
B. Punjab and Kashmir
C. Multan and Sindh
D. Delhi and Lahore

132. The Pratihara ruler of Kannauj during Mahmud’s invasion was:
A. Mahipala I
B. Bhima I
C. Rajyapala
D. Anandapala

133. Mahipala I ruled:
A. Gujarat
B. Malwa
C. Bengal
D. Punjab

134. Which South Indian dynasties were powerful during Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Satavahanas and Pallavas
B. Guptas and Vakatakas
C. Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas
D. Later Chalukyas and Cholas

135. Assertion (A): Rajput rulers were completely indifferent to Islamic expansion.
Reason (R): Some Rajput rulers supported Jaipala against Sabuktigin.

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

136. Which region lay west of Ghazni and east of Herat?
A. Punjab
B. Ghur
C. Multan
D. Balkh

137. The Ghurid rulers belonged to the:
A. Yamini dynasty
B. Ghaznavid clan
C. Shansabanid family
D. Abbasid family

138. Ghur was Islamicized by:
A. Cholas
B. Seljuqs
C. Ghaznavids
D. Mongols

139. The Ghaznavids poisoned the brother of:
A. Mahmud
B. Alauddin Hussain Shah
C. Sanjar
D. Jaipala

140. Assertion (A): Alauddin Hussain Shah captured Ghazni after defeating Bahram Shah.
Reason (R): Bahram Shah was a Ghurid ruler.

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

141. Which dynasty ultimately replaced the Ghaznavids?
A. Slave dynasty
B. Khilji dynasty
C. Ghurid dynasty
D. Tughlaq dynasty

142. The Ghaznavids ruled approximately from:
A. 800–1000 CE
B. 977–1186 CE
C. 1000–1300 CE
D. 1206–1526 CE

143. The Ghaznavids were originally of:
A. Arab origin
B. Persian origin only
C. Afghan tribal origin
D. Mamluk Turkish origin

144. Mahmud’s campaigns against India were undertaken between:
A. 977–1000 CE
B. 1000–1027 CE
C. 1025–1040 CE
D. 998–1010 CE

145. Assertion (A): Mahmud desired fame through conquests.
Reason (R): Temple destruction enhanced his fame as an idol-breaker.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

146. Which Hindu ruler fought Mahmud near Waihind in 1009 CE?
A. Jaipala
B. Trilochanapala
C. Anandapala
D. Bhimapala

147. Mahmud conquered Khurasan after consolidating his position in:
A. Bengal and Punjab
B. Herat, Balkh and Bust
C. Sindh and Multan
D. Gujarat and Malwa

148. The annual tribute accepted from Daud of Multan amounted to:
A. 10,000 dirhams
B. 20,000 dirhams
C. 25,000 dinars
D. 50,000 dirhams

149. Which Chandela fort was besieged by Mahmud?
A. Chittor
B. Gwalior
C. Kalinjar
D. Ranthambore

150. Match List I with List II regarding invasions of Mahmud.

A. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iii)
D. a-(iii), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iv)

151. Who among the following rulers was contemporary to Mahmud of Ghazni in Bengal?
A. Rajyapala
B. Bhima I
C. Mahipala I
D. Vidyadhar

152. The Hindushahi kingdom mainly covered:
A. Gujarat and Rajasthan
B. East Afghanistan and Punjab
C. Bengal and Bihar
D. Kashmir and Sindh

153. Which battle resulted in Jaipala becoming a prisoner of Mahmud?
A. Battle of Thanesar
B. Battle near Peshawar (1001 CE)
C. Battle of Waihind (1009 CE)
D. Battle of Kalinjar

154. Assertion (A): Mahmud invaded India every year according to an oath.
Reason (R): It is said he took such an oath at the time of his investiture.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

155. Which of the following rulers of Ghazni ruled only for three years?
A. Sabuktigin
B. Ishaq (Ishmael/Ismail)
C. Mahmud
D. Pirai

156. Match List I with List II regarding important rulers and places.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(i), b-(iii), c-(ii), d-(iv)
D. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(ii)

157. Mahmud’s attack on Bhatia occurred in:
A. 1002 CE
B. 1004 CE
C. 1008 CE
D. 1013 CE

158. The ruler of Bhatia who resisted Mahmud heroically was:
A. Daud
B. Rajyapala
C. Baji Rai (Biji Rai)
D. Trilochanapala

159. Mahmud annexed Multan after defeating:
A. Jaipala
B. Daud and Nawasa Shah
C. Bhimapala
D. Rajyapala

160. The siege of Kalinjar ended when Vidyadhar:
A. Defeated Mahmud decisively
B. Escaped to Kashmir
C. Agreed to tribute and submission
D. Allied with Cholas

161. Assertion (A): Mahmud’s campaigns in India were solely religious.
Reason (R): Historians also point toward economic motives behind his invasions.

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

162. Which ruler fled from Anhilwara during Mahmud’s Somnath campaign?
A. Rajyapala
B. Jaipala
C. Bhima I
D. Mahipala I

163. The Somnath temple had permanent income from approximately:
A. 100 villages
B. 1,000 villages
C. 5,000 villages
D. 10,000 villages

164. Which of the following correctly describes Somnath temple?
A. Buddhist monastery
B. Jain shrine
C. Temple of Shiva
D. Temple of Surya

165. Match List I with List II regarding Mahmud’s objectives.

A. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iv), d-(iii)
C. a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(i)
D. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(ii)

166. According to the passage, one major political weakness of India was:
A. Absence of wealth
B. Lack of population
C. Division into many competing kingdoms
D. Strong central monarchy

167. Which caste was denied access to religious education according to Al-Biruni?
A. Brahmanas
B. Kshatriyas
C. Vaisyas
D. Chandalas

168. Which among the following reflected social rigidity in India?
A. Trade guilds
B. Naval warfare
C. Untouchability and caste divisions
D. Agricultural expansion

169. Which of the following customs indicated deterioration in women’s position?
A. Widow remarriage
B. Female inheritance
C. Sati and child marriage
D. Equal education rights

170. Assertion (A): Corruption in temples and monasteries weakened Indian society.
Reason (R): Religion became an instrument for worldly desires.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

171. Which educational institutions were also affected by corruption?
A. Madrasas only
B. Monasteries only
C. Temples only
D. Educational institutions in general

172. Hindu military strategy at the time of Mahmud was mainly:
A. Naval offensive
B. Guerrilla warfare
C. Defensive policy
D. Gunpowder warfare

173. According to the passage, why did Indians fail to improve militarily?
A. Lack of iron resources
B. Ignorance and false pride
C. Absence of cavalry
D. Chola invasions

174. Which statement best summarizes India’s condition during Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Politically united and militarily strong
B. Socially equal and religiously progressive
C. Economically weak but militarily advanced
D. Politically, socially and militarily weak

175. Assertion (A): India lacked wealth during Mahmud’s invasions.
Reason (R): Agriculture, industries and trade remained in good condition.

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. Mahmud reportedly invaded India how many times?
A. 10
B. 12
C. 17
D. 25

177. Mahmud’s first expedition mainly resulted in:
A. Defeat at Somnath
B. Occupation of frontier fortresses
C. Capture of Kannauj
D. Annexation of Bengal

178. The battle against Anandapala in 1009 CE led Mahmud to conquer:
A. Mathura
B. Multan
C. Nagarkot
D. Bengal

179. After Anandapala’s defeat, the Hindushahi capital shifted to:
A. Lahore
B. Waihind
C. Nandana
D. Kalinjar

180. Match List I with List II regarding Hindushahi rulers.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
C. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv)
D. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(ii), d-(i)

181. Mahmud attacked Nandana in:
A. 1008 CE
B. 1010 CE
C. 1013 CE
D. 1019 CE

182. Trilochanapala was assassinated during:
A. 1013 CE
B. 1018 CE
C. 1021–22 CE
D. 1030 CE

183. Which temple city was looted for nearly twenty days?
A. Somnath
B. Kannauj
C. Thanesar
D. Mathura

184. Mahmud praised the architecture of Mathura by saying it would require:
A. Fifty years to rebuild
B. Immense wealth and about 200 years
C. One generation only
D. Persian architects exclusively

185. Assertion (A): Rajyapala was punished for cowardice.
Reason (R): He abandoned Kannauj without resistance.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

186. Which ruler of Gwalior submitted to Mahmud during his Kalinjar expedition?
A. Bhima I
B. Rajyapala
C. Ruler of Gwalior
D. Anandapala

187. The principal deity of Somnath temple was represented by:
A. Vishnu idol
B. Surya idol
C. Buddha image
D. Shiva-linga

188. Around how many Brahmanas were appointed for worship at Somnath?
A. 100
B. 500
C. 1000
D. 5000

189. The chain attached to Somnath temple bell reportedly weighed:
A. 50 maunds of gold
B. 100 maunds of gold
C. 200 maunds of gold
D. 500 maunds of gold

190. Match List I with List II regarding temple characteristics.

A. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(ii)
D. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(iii)

191. Mahmud punished the Jats because they:
A. Supported Rajputs
B. Refused conversion
C. Obstructed his return from Somnath
D. Attacked Ghazni

192. Which of the following best describes Mahmud’s army?
A. Entirely Turkish
B. Entirely Afghan
C. Only Muslim soldiers
D. Multi-ethnic including Hindus

193. Mahmud transformed a small inheritance into an empire extending from:
A. Punjab to Bengal only
B. Gujarat to Tamil Nadu
C. Iraq and Caspian Sea to the Ganges
D. Kabul to Delhi only

194. Which quality helped Mahmud unify diverse nationalities in his army?
A. Weak discipline
B. Religious neutrality alone
C. Leadership and administrative ability
D. Democratic practices

195. Assertion (A): Mahmud was uncultured and opposed learning.
Reason (R): He patronized scholars, artists, and built 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

196. Ghazni became beautiful due to:
A. Chola architects only
B. Mahmud inviting artists from many regions
C. Rajput patronage
D. Buddhist monks

197. Mahmud’s sense of justice is illustrated by:
A. Building Hindu temples
B. Freeing prisoners
C. Forcing Prince Masud to repay debt
D. Ending taxation

198. Contemporary Muslims regarded Mahmud as:
A. Opponent of Islam
B. Champion of Islam
C. Buddhist protector
D. Weak ruler

199. According to Muhammad Habib, Mahmud’s superiority among contemporaries was due to:
A. Religious zeal
B. Noble character
C. Ability rather than character
D. Military weakness

200. Assertion (A): Ghazni became a center of Islamic culture under Mahmud.
Reason (R): Mahmud patronized education, scholarship, and fine arts.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

201. Mahmud of Ghazni was born on:
A. 1 January 970 CE
B. 15 March 972 CE
C. 1 November 971 CE
D. 10 October 973 CE

202. Which of the following territories did Sabuktigin conquer before confronting the Hindushahis?
A. Bengal and Gujarat
B. Bust, Dawar and Ghur
C. Kashmir and Punjab
D. Malwa and Kannauj

203. Sabuktigin succeeded whom as ruler of Ghazni?
A. Ismail
B. Balkatigin
C. Pirai
D. Jaipala

204. Assertion (A): Sabuktigin successfully checked the military expansion of the Hindushahis.
Reason (R): He conquered territories between Lamghan and Peshawar.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

205. Which of the following best explains Jaipala’s policy toward Ghazni?
A. Isolationist diplomacy
B. Religious neutrality
C. Aggressive resistance against a rising Muslim state
D. Alliance with Seljuqs

206. Match List I with List II regarding Ghaznavid succession.

A. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv)
C. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
D. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iii)

207. Mahmud first consolidated power in which regions after ascending the throne?
A. Punjab, Gujarat and Kashmir
B. Sindh, Bengal and Malwa
C. Herat, Balkh and Bust
D. Lahore, Multan and Delhi

208. Which Caliph recognized Mahmud as ruler of Afghanistan and Khurasan?
A. Al-Mansur
B. Harun al-Rashid
C. Al-Mutawakkil
D. Al-Qadir Billah

209. Which title besides Yamin-ud-Daulah was conferred upon Mahmud?
A. Amir-ul-Mulk
B. Sultan-ul-Islam
C. Amin-ul-Millat
D. Ghazi-ul-Hind

210. Which historian argued that Mahmud could have looted Baghdad if wealth existed there?
A. Muhammad Habib
B. Jafar
C. Nazim
D. Havell

211. Assertion (A): Jafar believed Mahmud attacked temples for religious reasons only.
Reason (R): Jafar emphasized Mahmud’s desire for wealth.

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. Which historian emphasized that Mahmud looted Muslim rulers in Central Asia as well?
A. Jafar
B. Nazim
C. Havell
D. Lane-Poole

213. Utbi, Mahmud’s court historian, interpreted Mahmud’s invasions as:
A. Diplomatic missions
B. Economic campaigns
C. Holy wars (Jihads)
D. Defensive expeditions

214. Which factor encouraged Mahmud to penetrate deeper into India?
A. Rajput alliances
B. Chola support
C. Success against the Hindushahis
D. Mongol invasions

215. Match List I with List II regarding historians and views.

A. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv)
B. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
C. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iii)
D. a-(i), b-(iv), c-(iii), d-(ii)

216. Which among the following was NOT an independent kingdom in India during Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Gujarat
B. Malwa
C. Bundelkhand
D. Delhi Sultanate

217. Which kingdom maintained family relations with the Hindushahis?
A. Gujarat
B. Bengal
C. Kashmir
D. Cholas

218. The later Chalukyas and Cholas were important powers in:
A. North-West India
B. Bengal region
C. South India
D. Punjab

219. Which section of society included hunters, weavers and shoemakers?
A. Brahmanas
B. Sudras
C. Vaisyas
D. Antyajas

220. Assertion (A): Hindu society was internally divided at the time of Mahmud.
Reason (R): The rigid caste structure weakened social unity.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

221. Which social practice was NOT permitted according to the passage?
A. Child marriage
B. Polygamy
C. Widow remarriage
D. Sati

222. According to the passage, Islam gained converts partly because:
A. Hindu rulers supported Islam
B. Indian society had weakened internally
C. Cholas converted people
D. Buddhism disappeared completely

223. Which religious institutions became centers of corruption?
A. Mosques only
B. Churches only
C. Gurudwaras only
D. Temples and Buddhist monasteries

224. Which literary work mentioned in the passage is described as a biography of a prostitute?
A. Kitab-i-Hind
B. Shahnama
C. Samaya-Matraka
D. Rajatarangini

225. Assertion (A): Indian rulers invested heavily in defending the North-West frontier.
Reason (R): Forts were systematically built to stop invasions.

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

226. Which pass became permanently lost after the fall of the Hindushahis?
A. Bolan Pass
B. Zoji La
C. Nathula
D. Khyber Pass

227. Mahmud’s repeated success created among Indians a belief that Turks were:
A. Weak invaders
B. Invincible
C. Temporary raiders
D. Politically divided

228. Which of the following regions became easier routes for later Turk invasions?
A. Bengal and Bihar
B. Gujarat and Rajasthan
C. Punjab, Sindh and Multan
D. Chola territories

229. Muhammad of Ghur initially entered India to challenge:
A. Rajputs
B. Cholas
C. Delhi rulers
D. Ghaznavids

230. Match List I with List II regarding consequences of Mahmud’s invasions.

A. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
B. a-(ii), b-(i), c-(iii), d-(iv)
C. a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(iv), d-(i)
D. a-(iv), b-(iii), c-(ii), d-(i)

231. Ghur was located in present-day:
A. Pakistan
B. India
C. Iran
D. Afghanistan

232. Which river valley made Ghur fertile?
A. Indus River
B. Ganga River
C. Herat/Hari River
D. Oxus River

233. The Ghurids tried to assert supremacy by intervening in:
A. Punjab
B. Ghazni
C. Herat
D. Multan

234. Assertion (A): Ghaznavids felt threatened by Ghurid activities.
Reason (R): Ghurids intervened in Herat after a rebellion against Seljuqs.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

235. Which Ghaznavid ruler was defeated by Alauddin Hussain Shah?
A. Mahmud
B. Masud
C. Bahram Shah
D. Ismail

236. Why was Alauddin Hussain Shah called “Jahan Soz”?
A. He spread Persian literature
B. He united Afghanistan
C. He burnt and devastated Ghazni
D. He conquered Multan

237. Which statement about Mahmud’s rule is most appropriate?
A. He was a farsighted nation-builder
B. He was a powerful conqueror but weak institution-builder
C. He ruled India permanently
D. He avoided warfare

238. Which scholar criticized Mahmud’s religious intolerance?
A. Firdausi
B. Al-Biruni
C. Utbi
D. Farrukhi

239. Mahmud was considered the first ruler to deserve the title of:
A. Padshah
B. Khalifa
C. Sultan
D. Amir

240. Assertion (A): Mahmud spent wealth generously after acquiring it.
Reason (R): He patronized scholars, architecture and fine arts.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

241. Mahmud’s dominions mainly enjoyed:
A. Democratic administration
B. Religious equality
C. Peace and order during his lifetime
D. Strong police system

242. Which prince was compelled to appear in court for failing to repay debt?
A. Ismail
B. Bahram Shah
C. Masud
D. Nawasa Shah

243. Mahmud’s empire survived strongly after his death because:
A. Institutions were stable
B. Rajputs supported successors
C. Cholas protected Ghazni
D. None of the above

244. Which of the following best reflects Mahmud’s military greatness?
A. He avoided difficult wars
B. He defeated enemies in India, Iran and Central Asia
C. He ruled only Punjab
D. He depended only on elephants

245. Assertion (A): Mahmud was regarded positively by Muslim chroniclers.
Reason (R): He was seen as a champion of Islam.

A. Both A and R are true, and R correctly explains A
B. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A
C. A is true, but R is false
D. A is false, but R is true

246. Which of the following was a long-term result of Mahmud’s invasions?
A. Permanent Rajput unity
B. Destruction of all Indian kingdoms
C. Preparation for later Turkish conquest
D. Chola supremacy in North India

247. Mahmud’s invasions revealed India’s:
A. Naval strength
B. Religious equality
C. Political fragmentation
D. Administrative unity

248. According to the passage, Indian civilization after Mahmud’s invasions was described as:
A. Completely destroyed forever
B. Unaffected
C. Fatally wounded and bleeding
D. Militarily stronger

249. Which among the following BEST summarizes Mahmud’s character?
A. Only religious fanatic
B. Only economic plunderer
C. Weak military ruler
D. A capable conqueror with mixed motives and administrative limitations

250. Match List I with List II regarding overall assessment of Mahmud.

A. a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i)
B. a-(iv), b-(i), c-(ii), d-(iii)
C. a-(i), b-(ii), c-(iii), d-(iv)
D. a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(i), d-(ii)