100 Medieval Indian History MCQs with Answers and Explanations
Table of Contents
100 Medieval Indian History MCQs with Answers and Explanations
For UPSC, SSC, Railway, Banking, State PSC, Defence, and other competitive examinations
This practice set covers major dynasties, rulers, battles, administration, architecture, literature, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, the Vijayanagara Empire, the Bhakti and Sufi movements, and regional kingdoms.
Each question includes four options, the correct answer, and an analytical explanation to help you understand the historical facts and revise effectively.
Section 1: Early Medieval India and Regional Kingdoms (1–15)
1. Who founded the Pala dynasty in Bengal?
A. Dharmapala B. Gopala C. Devapala D. Mahipala
Correct Answer: B. Gopala
Explanation: Gopala founded the Pala dynasty in the eighth century CE. He is traditionally associated with being elected ruler by local chiefs during a period of political instability in Bengal.
2. Who was the most famous ruler of the Rashtrakuta dynasty?
A. Dantidurga B. Amoghavarsha I C. Krishna III D. Indra III
Correct Answer: B. Amoghavarsha I
Explanation: Amoghavarsha I was one of the most prominent Rashtrakuta rulers. He was known for his patronage of literature and Jainism and for his association with the Kannada literary work Kavirajamarga.
3. Which dynasty built the Kailasa Temple at Ellora?
A. Chola B. Pallava C. Rashtrakuta D. Pala
Correct Answer: C. Rashtrakuta
Explanation: The magnificent Kailasa Temple at Ellora was commissioned under Rashtrakuta king Krishna I. It was carved out of a single rock and is an outstanding example of Indian rock-cut architecture.
4. Who founded the Chola imperial power in the ninth century?
A. Rajaraja I B. Vijayalaya Chola C. Rajendra I D. Kulottunga I
Correct Answer: B. Vijayalaya Chola
Explanation: Vijayalaya Chola established the medieval Chola dynasty’s power in the ninth century by capturing Thanjavur. His successors transformed the kingdom into a major South Indian empire.
5. Which Chola ruler built the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur?
A. Rajendra I B. Rajaraja I C. Vijayalaya D. Aditya I
Correct Answer: B. Rajaraja I
Explanation: Rajaraja Chola I commissioned the Brihadeeswara Temple, dedicated to Shiva, in the early eleventh century. It is one of the finest examples of Chola architecture.
6. Who established the city of Gangaikonda Cholapuram?
A. Rajaraja I B. Rajendra Chola I C. Kulottunga I D. Parantaka I
Correct Answer: B. Rajendra Chola I
Explanation: Rajendra Chola I founded Gangaikonda Cholapuram after his successful northern expedition. He established it as an important capital and commissioned a grand Shiva temple there.
7. The tripartite struggle was mainly fought for control over which city?
A. Delhi B. Kannauj C. Madurai D. Kanchi
Correct Answer: B. Kannauj
Explanation: The Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas competed for control of Kannauj in northern India. Its strategic position and political prestige made it a valuable prize.
8. Which dynasty ruled much of western and northern India and resisted Arab expansion in the region?
A. Gurjara-Pratiharas B. Palas C. Senas D. Hoysalas
Correct Answer: A. Gurjara-Pratiharas
Explanation: The Gurjara-Pratiharas were a major power in northern India. They resisted Arab expansion eastward from Sindh and participated in the tripartite struggle for Kannauj.
9. Who was the famous ruler of the Chahamana dynasty associated with the Second Battle of Tarain?
A. Prithviraja III B. Bhoja I C. Jayachandra D. Mihira Bhoja
Correct Answer: A. Prithviraja III
Explanation: Prithviraja III, commonly known as Prithviraj Chauhan, fought Muhammad Ghori at Tarain. He won the First Battle in 1191 but was defeated in the Second Battle in 1192.
10. Which ruler is associated with the construction of the Sun Temple at Modhera?
A. Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty B. Rajaraja I C. Narasimhadeva I D. Bhoja of Malwa
Correct Answer: A. Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty
Explanation: The Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat was built during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya, or Solanki, dynasty in the eleventh century.
11. The Khajuraho temples were mainly constructed by which dynasty?
A. Chandela B. Pala C. Sena D. Paramara
Correct Answer: A. Chandela
Explanation: The Chandela rulers of central India built the famous Khajuraho temple complex, particularly between the tenth and eleventh centuries. The temples are renowned for their Nagara-style architecture and sculptures.
12. Which dynasty ruled the region around Dhar in medieval India?
A. Paramara B. Pala C. Chola D. Kakatiya
Correct Answer: A. Paramara
Explanation: The Paramaras ruled the Malwa region, with Dhar as an important political and cultural centre. King Bhoja was their best-known ruler and a celebrated patron of learning.
13. Who was the famous Hoysala ruler associated with military expansion in southern India?
A. Vishnuvardhana B. Gopala C. Devapala D. Dantidurga
Correct Answer: A. Vishnuvardhana
Explanation: Vishnuvardhana strengthened the Hoysala kingdom during the twelfth century. The Hoysalas are especially known for ornate temple architecture at sites such as Belur and Halebidu.
14. The famous Jagannath Temple at Puri is traditionally associated with which dynasty’s ruler?
A. Eastern Ganga dynasty B. Pala dynasty C. Rashtrakuta dynasty D. Chola dynasty
Correct Answer: A. Eastern Ganga dynasty
Explanation: Anantavarman Chodaganga is traditionally associated with the construction of the Jagannath Temple at Puri, Odisha. The temple became a major centre of religious life and pilgrimage.
15. Which medieval Indian ruler was renowned for scholarship and authored or patronised many works, including Samarangana Sutradhara?
A. Raja Bhoja B. Iltutmish C. Alauddin Khalji D. Babur
Correct Answer: A. Raja Bhoja
Explanation: Raja Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty ruled Malwa in the eleventh century. He was celebrated as a scholar and patron of literature, philosophy, architecture, and other fields of learning.
Section 2: The Delhi Sultanate (16–35)
16. Who established the Mamluk, or Slave, dynasty in Delhi?
A. Iltutmish B. Qutb-ud-din Aibak C. Balban D. Razia Sultan
Correct Answer: B. Qutb-ud-din Aibak
Explanation: Qutb-ud-din Aibak established the Mamluk dynasty in 1206 after the death of Muhammad Ghori. He laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate.
17. Who completed the construction of the Qutub Minar?
A. Qutb-ud-din Aibak B. Iltutmish C. Alauddin Khalji D. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Correct Answer: B. Iltutmish
Explanation: Qutb-ud-din Aibak began constructing the Qutub Minar, and Iltutmish added further storeys. Later rulers repaired and restored the monument.
18. Who was the first woman to rule the Delhi Sultanate in her own right?
A. Nur Jahan B. Razia Sultan C. Chand Bibi D. Rani Durgavati
Correct Answer: B. Razia Sultan
Explanation: Razia Sultan ruled Delhi from 1236 to 1240. She attempted to exercise sovereign authority despite opposition from powerful Turkish nobles.
19. Which Delhi Sultan introduced significant market-control measures to regulate prices?
A. Balban B. Alauddin Khalji C. Sikandar Lodi D. Ibrahim Lodi
Correct Answer: B. Alauddin Khalji
Explanation: Alauddin Khalji established market regulations for essential commodities, horses, and other goods. These policies helped maintain a large army at controlled costs.
20. Who introduced the policy commonly known as “blood and iron” in the Delhi Sultanate?
A. Balban B. Iltutmish C. Muhammad bin Tughlaq D. Bahlul Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Balban
Explanation: Balban pursued a strong policy of royal authority and harsh punishment against rebellion. His approach is commonly described as the policy of “blood and iron.”
21. Which Sultan shifted the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad?
A. Alauddin Khalji B. Muhammad bin Tughlaq C. Firoz Shah Tughlaq D. Sikandar Lodi
Correct Answer: B. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
Explanation: Muhammad bin Tughlaq attempted to shift the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad in the Deccan. The forced relocation caused hardship, and the policy was eventually abandoned.
22. Who introduced token currency in the Delhi Sultanate?
A. Iltutmish B. Alauddin Khalji C. Muhammad bin Tughlaq D. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Correct Answer: C. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
Explanation: Muhammad bin Tughlaq introduced token currency made from base metals, intended to function at a value comparable to precious-metal coins. Counterfeiting and administrative difficulties contributed to its failure.
23. Which Sultan is associated with the construction of canals and public welfare projects?
A. Firoz Shah Tughlaq B. Ibrahim Lodi C. Qutb-ud-din Aibak D. Aram Shah
Correct Answer: A. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Explanation: Firoz Shah Tughlaq constructed irrigation canals, gardens, and public buildings. He also established charitable institutions and supported certain educational activities.
24. Who founded the city of Agra in 1504?
A. Sikandar Lodi B. Ibrahim Lodi C. Babur D. Sher Shah Suri
Correct Answer: A. Sikandar Lodi
Explanation: Sikandar Lodi founded Agra in 1504 and developed it as an important administrative centre. Agra later became a major Mughal capital.
25. The First Battle of Panipat in 1526 was fought between whom?
A. Babur and Rana Sanga B. Babur and Ibrahim Lodi C. Akbar and Hemu D. Sher Shah Suri and Humayun
Correct Answer: B. Babur and Ibrahim Lodi
Explanation: Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526. The victory ended the Lodi dynasty’s rule in Delhi and established Mughal power in northern India.
26. Who was the last ruler of the Lodi dynasty?
A. Bahlul Lodi B. Sikandar Lodi C. Ibrahim Lodi D. Daulat Khan Lodi
Correct Answer: C. Ibrahim Lodi
Explanation: Ibrahim Lodi was defeated and killed by Babur in 1526. His death marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate’s Lodi dynasty.
27. Which dynasty immediately preceded the Lodi dynasty in Delhi?
A. Khalji B. Tughlaq C. Sayyid D. Mughal
Correct Answer: C. Sayyid
Explanation: The Sayyid dynasty preceded the Lodi dynasty. Bahlul Lodi established Lodi rule in 1451 after the final Sayyid ruler, Alam Shah, relinquished effective control of Delhi.
28. Who introduced the silver tanka as a standard coin of the Delhi Sultanate?
A. Iltutmish B. Balban C. Alauddin Khalji D. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
Correct Answer: A. Iltutmish
Explanation: Iltutmish standardised important coinage, including the silver tanka and copper jital. His reforms strengthened the monetary and administrative foundations of the Sultanate.
29. Which Sultan is associated with the introduction of the dagh and chehra military systems?
A. Alauddin Khalji B. Balban C. Firoz Shah Tughlaq D. Ibrahim Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Alauddin Khalji
Explanation: Dagh involved branding horses, while chehra referred to descriptive identification records of soldiers. These measures helped prevent military fraud and improve army supervision.
30. Which traveller visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq?
A. Marco Polo B. Ibn Battuta C. Al-Biruni D. Megasthenes
Correct Answer: B. Ibn Battuta
Explanation: Ibn Battuta, a Moroccan traveller, arrived in India during Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign. He served as a qazi and described Indian society and administration in his travel account, the Rihla.
31. Who founded the Tughlaq dynasty?
A. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq B. Muhammad bin Tughlaq C. Firoz Shah Tughlaq D. Nasiruddin Mahmud
Correct Answer: A. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
Explanation: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded the Tughlaq dynasty in 1320 after overthrowing the final Khalji ruler. His reign preceded that of his son, Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
32. Who was the first Sultan of Delhi to establish a major southern expedition against the Yadavas and Kakatiyas?
A. Alauddin Khalji B. Balban C. Iltutmish D. Sikandar Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Alauddin Khalji
Explanation: Alauddin Khalji expanded Sultanate influence into the Deccan through military campaigns led by commanders such as Malik Kafur. These expeditions targeted southern kingdoms, including the Yadavas and Kakatiyas.
33. Which Sultan attempted to conquer Mongol-held territories and faced repeated Mongol invasions?
A. Alauddin Khalji B. Ibrahim Lodi C. Bahlul Lodi D. Aram Shah
Correct Answer: A. Alauddin Khalji
Explanation: Alauddin Khalji strengthened Delhi’s defences and military organisation to counter repeated Mongol attacks. His reign saw major efforts to secure the northwestern frontier.
34. Who founded the city of Tughlaqabad near Delhi?
A. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq B. Balban C. Iltutmish D. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Correct Answer: A. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
Explanation: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded Tughlaqabad as a fortified city. Its massive stone walls and defensive design reflect the military priorities of the early Tughlaq period.
35. Which Sultanate dynasty ruled Delhi from 1290 to 1320?
A. Mamluk B. Khalji C. Tughlaq D. Sayyid
Correct Answer: B. Khalji
Explanation: The Khalji dynasty ruled from 1290 to 1320. Jalaluddin Khalji founded the dynasty, and Alauddin Khalji became its most powerful ruler.
Section 3: The Mughal Empire (36–60)
36. Who founded the Mughal Empire in India?
A. Akbar B. Babur C. Humayun D. Jahangir
Correct Answer: B. Babur
Explanation: Babur established Mughal rule in northern India after defeating Ibrahim Lodi in 1526. He was a descendant of Timur through his father and of Genghis Khan through his mother.
37. The Battle of Khanwa was fought in 1527 between Babur and whom?
A. Ibrahim Lodi B. Rana Sanga C. Sher Shah Suri D. Hemu
Correct Answer: B. Rana Sanga
Explanation: Babur defeated Rana Sanga, the ruler of Mewar, at Khanwa in 1527. This victory strengthened Babur’s position in northern India.
38. Who defeated Humayun at the Battle of Chausa in 1539?
A. Akbar B. Sher Shah Suri C. Bahadur Shah of Gujarat D. Rana Sanga
Correct Answer: B. Sher Shah Suri
Explanation: Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun at Chausa in 1539 and again at Kannauj in 1540. Humayun lost control of his Indian territories and went into exile.
39. Who established the Sur Empire after defeating Humayun?
A. Islam Shah Suri B. Sher Shah Suri C. Adil Shah Suri D. Sikandar Suri
Correct Answer: B. Sher Shah Suri
Explanation: Sher Shah Suri established Sur rule after defeating Humayun in 1540. His administration, road improvements, and monetary reforms influenced later Mughal governance.
40. Which ruler is associated with the introduction of the silver rupee in its influential medieval form?
A. Sher Shah Suri B. Babur C. Akbar D. Ibrahim Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Sher Shah Suri
Explanation: Sher Shah Suri standardised a silver coin known as the rupiya. The coinage system influenced the monetary practices of later rulers, including the Mughals.
41. Who restored Mughal rule in India in 1555?
A. Akbar B. Humayun C. Jahangir D. Shah Jahan
Correct Answer: B. Humayun
Explanation: Humayun regained Delhi and Agra in 1555 after the weakening of Sur power. He died in 1556 after falling on the stairs of his library building.
42. Who became Mughal emperor after Humayun’s death?
A. Jahangir B. Akbar C. Shah Jahan D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: B. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar succeeded Humayun in 1556 while still a teenager. Bairam Khan initially served as his regent and helped consolidate Mughal power.
43. The Second Battle of Panipat in 1556 was fought between Akbar’s forces and whom?
A. Rana Sanga B. Hemu C. Sher Shah Suri D. Ibrahim Lodi
Correct Answer: B. Hemu
Explanation: Akbar’s forces, led by commanders under Bairam Khan, defeated Hemu in 1556. The victory helped secure Mughal control over Delhi and Agra.
44. Which Mughal emperor abolished the jizya tax in 1564?
A. Babur B. Akbar C. Jahangir D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: B. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar abolished the jizya, a tax traditionally imposed on non-Muslims under certain Islamic states, in 1564. This formed part of his broader policy of political inclusion and religious accommodation.
45. Who introduced the mansabdari system in its Mughal imperial form?
A. Akbar B. Babur C. Sher Shah Suri D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: A. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar developed the mansabdari system to rank imperial officials and military commanders. Ranks were associated with status, responsibilities, and obligations relating to military service.
46. Which Mughal emperor is associated with the religious discussion hall called the Ibadat Khana?
A. Jahangir B. Akbar C. Shah Jahan D. Humayun
Correct Answer: B. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar established the Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri in 1575. It became a venue for religious and philosophical discussions involving scholars from different traditions.
47. Who wrote the Akbarnama?
A. Faizi B. Abul Fazl C. Amir Khusrau D. Badauni
Correct Answer: B. Abul Fazl
Explanation: Abul Fazl was Akbar’s court historian and author of the Akbarnama. Its third volume, the Ain-i-Akbari, provides detailed information about the emperor’s administration and the Mughal Empire.
48. Which Mughal emperor constructed Fatehpur Sikri as an imperial capital?
A. Akbar B. Babur C. Humayun D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: A. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar developed Fatehpur Sikri into an imperial capital in the sixteenth century. Its monuments include the Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Jama Masjid.
49. Who succeeded Akbar as Mughal emperor?
A. Shah Jahan B. Jahangir C. Aurangzeb D. Bahadur Shah I
Correct Answer: B. Jahangir
Explanation: Jahangir, born Prince Salim, succeeded Akbar in 1605. His reign is known for painting, court culture, and the continued development of Mughal administration.
50. Which Mughal emperor wrote the memoir known as the Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri?
A. Akbar B. Jahangir C. Shah Jahan D. Babur
Correct Answer: B. Jahangir
Explanation: The Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri, also called the Jahangirnama, records the emperor’s observations, court events, and aspects of his reign.
51. Who built the Taj Mahal?
A. Akbar B. Jahangir C. Shah Jahan D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: C. Shah Jahan
Explanation: Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal at Agra as a mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal. Built mainly of white marble, it is one of the most celebrated monuments of Mughal architecture.
52. Which Mughal emperor built the Red Fort in Delhi?
A. Akbar B. Shah Jahan C. Aurangzeb D. Humayun
Correct Answer: B. Shah Jahan
Explanation: Shah Jahan commissioned the Red Fort when he developed Shahjahanabad as his new capital in the seventeenth century. The fort served as a major imperial residence.
53. Which Mughal emperor was known for his long military campaigns in the Deccan?
A. Babur B. Akbar C. Aurangzeb D. Jahangir
Correct Answer: C. Aurangzeb
Explanation: Aurangzeb spent many years campaigning in the Deccan against the Deccan sultanates and the Marathas. These prolonged wars placed substantial demands on the empire’s finances and administration.
54. Who was the last major Mughal emperor before the empire’s decline accelerated in the eighteenth century?
A. Aurangzeb B. Bahadur Shah Zafar C. Farrukhsiyar D. Muhammad Shah
Correct Answer: A. Aurangzeb
Explanation: Aurangzeb died in 1707. After his death, succession conflicts, regional challenges, and administrative and fiscal pressures weakened central Mughal authority.
55. Who founded the Mughal garden-tomb tradition in India with Humayun’s Tomb serving as a major early example?
A. Akbar B. Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begum, commissioned the tomb C. Jahangir D. Babur
Correct Answer: B. Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begum, commissioned the tomb
Explanation: Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi was commissioned by Hamida Banu Begum and completed in the sixteenth century. Its garden layout and architectural features influenced later Mughal mausoleums.
56. Which Mughal ruler is associated with the translation of Sanskrit works into Persian at court?
A. Akbar B. Aurangzeb C. Bahadur Shah Zafar D. Ibrahim Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar supported a translation programme that brought important Sanskrit texts into Persian. These efforts included the Mahabharata, translated as the Razmnama, and encouraged cultural exchange.
57. Who was the Mughal emperor when the English East India Company received permission to trade at Surat in the early seventeenth century?
A. Akbar B. Jahangir C. Shah Jahan D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: B. Jahangir
Explanation: The English East India Company established a trading presence at Surat during Jahangir’s reign. English commercial activity expanded through negotiations with Mughal authorities and other regional powers.
58. Which Mughal emperor was associated with the Peacock Throne?
A. Shah Jahan B. Babur C. Humayun D. Bahadur Shah Zafar
Correct Answer: A. Shah Jahan
Explanation: Shah Jahan commissioned the celebrated Peacock Throne, renowned for its lavish decoration and precious stones. Nadir Shah carried it away during his invasion of Delhi in 1739.
59. Who invaded Delhi in 1739 and defeated the Mughal forces at the Battle of Karnal?
A. Ahmad Shah Abdali B. Nadir Shah C. Timur D. Mahmud of Ghazni
Correct Answer: B. Nadir Shah
Explanation: Nadir Shah of Persia defeated Mughal forces at Karnal in 1739 and subsequently entered Delhi. His invasion exposed the severe weakness of the Mughal Empire.
60. Who was the last Mughal emperor, exiled after the Revolt of 1857?
A. Akbar II B. Shah Alam II C. Bahadur Shah Zafar D. Muhammad Shah
Correct Answer: C. Bahadur Shah Zafar
Explanation: Bahadur Shah Zafar was the last Mughal emperor. After the Revolt of 1857, the British deposed him and exiled him to Rangoon, where he died in 1862.
Section 4: Vijayanagara, Bahmani and Other Regional Kingdoms (61–75)
61. Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336?
A. Harihara I and Bukka Raya I B. Krishnadevaraya and Achyuta Raya C. Deva Raya I and Deva Raya II D. Saluva Narasimha and Tuluva Narasa Nayaka
Correct Answer: A. Harihara I and Bukka Raya I
Explanation: Harihara I and Bukka Raya I founded the Vijayanagara Empire in southern India in 1336. The empire became a major political, commercial, and cultural power.
62. Which was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire?
A. Madurai B. Hampi C. Warangal D. Kanchipuram
Correct Answer: B. Hampi
Explanation: Hampi, located in present-day Karnataka, was the imperial centre of Vijayanagara. Its temples, royal structures, markets, and fortifications reflect the empire’s wealth and architectural achievements.
63. Who was the most famous ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire?
A. Krishnadevaraya B. Harihara II C. Bukka Raya I D. Rama Raya
Correct Answer: A. Krishnadevaraya
Explanation: Krishnadevaraya ruled from 1509 to 1529 and belonged to the Tuluva dynasty. He expanded the empire, supported literature, and patronised temple construction.
64. Which battle in 1565 severely weakened the Vijayanagara Empire?
A. Battle of Talikota B. First Battle of Panipat C. Battle of Plassey D. Battle of Khanwa
Correct Answer: A. Battle of Talikota
Explanation: At the Battle of Talikota in 1565, a coalition of Deccan sultanates defeated Vijayanagara’s forces. The defeat and subsequent sack of the capital severely damaged the empire, although successor states continued to rule.
65. Who wrote the Telugu literary work Amuktamalyada?
A. Krishnadevaraya B. Allasani Peddana C. Tenali Ramakrishna D. Nannaya
Correct Answer: A. Krishnadevaraya
Explanation: Krishnadevaraya authored Amuktamalyada, a celebrated Telugu poem about Andal, the Tamil Vaishnava saint. The work reflects his literary interests and patronage of regional languages.
66. Who founded the Bahmani Sultanate in the Deccan in 1347?
A. Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah B. Muhammad bin Tughlaq C. Yusuf Adil Shah D. Ibrahim Adil Shah II
Correct Answer: A. Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah
Explanation: Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah, also known as Hasan Gangu in some historical traditions, founded the Bahmani Sultanate in 1347. Gulbarga initially served as its capital.
67. Which city became the later capital of the Bahmani Sultanate after Gulbarga?
A. Bidar B. Agra C. Lahore D. Delhi
Correct Answer: A. Bidar
Explanation: The Bahmani capital was transferred from Gulbarga to Bidar in the fifteenth century, during the reign of Ahmad Shah I Wali. Bidar subsequently became an important centre of Deccan politics and culture.
68. Which kingdom emerged from the breakup of the Bahmani Sultanate?
A. Bengal Sultanate B. Bijapur Sultanate C. Delhi Sultanate D. Kashmir Sultanate
Correct Answer: B. Bijapur Sultanate
Explanation: Bijapur was one of the successor states that emerged from the disintegration of the Bahmani Sultanate. Other important Deccan sultanates included Ahmadnagar, Golconda, Bidar, and Berar.
69. Which dynasty ruled the kingdom of Mewar during the time of Rana Sanga?
A. Sisodia B. Chandela C. Pala D. Lodi
Correct Answer: A. Sisodia
Explanation: Rana Sanga was a prominent ruler of Mewar belonging to the Sisodia branch of the Guhila dynasty. He was one of the most influential Rajput rulers of the early sixteenth century.
70. Who was the famous queen of Gondwana who resisted Mughal expansion?
A. Razia Sultan B. Rani Durgavati C. Rani Padmini D. Chand Bibi
Correct Answer: B. Rani Durgavati
Explanation: Rani Durgavati governed Gondwana as regent for her son. She resisted Mughal forces under Asaf Khan in 1564 and died during the conflict rather than surrender.
71. Chand Bibi is associated with the defence of which Deccan kingdom against the Mughals?
A. Ahmadnagar B. Bengal C. Mewar D. Kashmir
Correct Answer: A. Ahmadnagar
Explanation: Chand Bibi played an important role in defending Ahmadnagar against Mughal attacks in the late sixteenth century. Her leadership made her one of the notable women in Deccan political history.
72. Which kingdom was ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty?
A. Warangal B. Kannauj C. Ajmer D. Patna
Correct Answer: A. Warangal
Explanation: The Kakatiyas ruled from Warangal in the Telugu-speaking region. Their best-known rulers included Ganapatideva and Rudramadevi, and their kingdom was conquered by the armies of the Delhi Sultanate in the fourteenth century.
73. Who was Rudramadevi?
A. A Chola queen B. A Kakatiya ruler C. A Mughal empress D. A Pala princess
Correct Answer: B. A Kakatiya ruler
Explanation: Rudramadevi was a prominent ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty in the thirteenth century. Her reign is notable for her political leadership and military challenges.
74. Which dynasty ruled Kashmir during much of the fourteenth century before the rise of the Shah Mir Sultanate?
A. Lohara B. Khalji C. Lodi D. Tuluva
Correct Answer: A. Lohara
Explanation: The Lohara dynasty ruled Kashmir during the late early-medieval period. The Shah Mir dynasty established the Kashmir Sultanate in the fourteenth century, marking a major political transition.
75. Which ruler of Malwa was celebrated for his learning and patronage of scholars?
A. Raja Bhoja B. Sher Shah Suri C. Balban D. Babur
Correct Answer: A. Raja Bhoja
Explanation: Raja Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty was renowned for supporting scholarship, literature, architecture, and philosophy. His legacy remains important in the cultural history of medieval central India.
Section 5: Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Literature and Culture (76–90)
76. Who was the famous Bhakti saint associated with the worship of Rama and the composition of devotional poetry in Hindi?
A. Tulsidas B. Kalidasa C. Banabhatta D. Amir Khusrau
Correct Answer: A. Tulsidas
Explanation: Tulsidas was a major devotional poet associated with Rama worship. His Ramcharitmanas, composed in Awadhi, retells the story of Rama and became influential in North Indian religious and literary traditions.
77. Who was the prominent Bhakti saint associated with the Nirguna tradition and criticism of ritualism?
A. Kabir B. Surdas C. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu D. Andal
Correct Answer: A. Kabir
Explanation: Kabir emphasised devotion to a formless divine reality and criticised religious hypocrisy and empty rituals. His verses influenced both Hindu and Muslim devotional traditions.
78. Which Bhakti saint is particularly associated with Krishna devotion and the Sursagar tradition?
A. Surdas B. Kabir C. Basavanna D. Namdev
Correct Answer: A. Surdas
Explanation: Surdas is celebrated for devotional poetry about Krishna, particularly his childhood and divine play. The Sursagar is traditionally associated with him, although its surviving textual history is complex.
79. Who founded the Gaudiya Vaishnava movement centred on devotion to Krishna?
A. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu B. Ramanuja C. Madhvacharya D. Vallabhacharya
Correct Answer: A. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
Explanation: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu popularised ecstatic devotion to Krishna, especially through congregational chanting. His movement became influential in Bengal, Odisha, and other parts of India.
80. Which philosopher is associated with the doctrine of Vishishtadvaita?
A. Shankaracharya B. Ramanuja C. Madhvacharya D. Basavanna
Correct Answer: B. Ramanuja
Explanation: Ramanuja developed Vishishtadvaita, or qualified non-dualism. His philosophical tradition emphasises devotion to a personal God while understanding individual souls and the world in relation to Brahman.
81. Who is associated with the Dvaita philosophy?
A. Ramanuja B. Madhvacharya C. Shankaracharya D. Kabir
Correct Answer: B. Madhvacharya
Explanation: Madhvacharya developed Dvaita, or dualism, which maintains a fundamental distinction between God, individual souls, and matter. His tradition places particular emphasis on devotion to Vishnu.
82. Which Sufi order became especially influential in medieval North India through figures such as Nizamuddin Auliya?
A. Chishti B. Qadiri C. Naqshbandi D. Shattari
Correct Answer: A. Chishti
Explanation: The Chishti order became influential through its emphasis on spiritual discipline, devotion, service, and interaction with local communities. Nizamuddin Auliya was among its best-known Indian spiritual leaders.
83. Who was the famous Sufi saint associated with Delhi and the Chishti order?
A. Nizamuddin Auliya B. Guru Gobind Singh C. Tulsidas D. Raja Bhoja
Correct Answer: A. Nizamuddin Auliya
Explanation: Nizamuddin Auliya lived in Delhi during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. His teachings emphasised compassion, humility, spiritual devotion, and service to people.
84. Amir Khusrau was associated with the court and spiritual circle of which Sufi saint?
A. Nizamuddin Auliya B. Moinuddin Chishti only C. Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi D. Shah Waliullah
Correct Answer: A. Nizamuddin Auliya
Explanation: Amir Khusrau was a celebrated Persian-language poet, musician, and court intellectual who shared a close spiritual association with Nizamuddin Auliya. He contributed significantly to Indo-Persian literary culture.
85. Which language became a major literary and administrative language under the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals?
A. Persian B. Latin C. Greek D. French
Correct Answer: A. Persian
Explanation: Persian was widely used in courtly administration, historical writing, poetry, and diplomacy under many Sultanate and Mughal rulers. Regional languages also developed rich literary traditions during this period.
86. Which text provides important information about Akbar’s administration and revenue arrangements?
A. Ain-i-Akbari B. Rajatarangini C. Arthashastra D. Indica
Correct Answer: A. Ain-i-Akbari
Explanation: The Ain-i-Akbari, written by Abul Fazl as part of the Akbarnama, documents imperial administration, revenue, the army, court organisation, and other aspects of Akbar’s empire.
87. Who wrote the historical work Tabaqat-i-Nasiri?
A. Minhaj-us-Siraj B. Abul Fazl C. Ziauddin Barani D. Amir Khusrau
Correct Answer: A. Minhaj-us-Siraj
Explanation: Minhaj-us-Siraj wrote Tabaqat-i-Nasiri in the thirteenth century. It is an important Persian historical source for the early Delhi Sultanate and other contemporary Islamic dynasties.
88. Which historian wrote Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi?
A. Ziauddin Barani B. Babur C. Tulsidas D. Kalhana
Correct Answer: A. Ziauddin Barani
Explanation: Ziauddin Barani was a fourteenth-century historian who wrote Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi. His work provides information about the Delhi Sultanate, particularly the Khalji and early Tughlaq periods.
89. Which literary tradition flourished under the Vijayanagara rulers, especially Krishnadevaraya?
A. Telugu literature B. Latin literature C. Old Norse literature D. Classical Greek literature
Correct Answer: A. Telugu literature
Explanation: Telugu literature flourished under Vijayanagara patronage. Krishnadevaraya was himself a Telugu literary figure, while his court supported poets and scholars writing in several languages.
90. Which Sikh Guru founded the Khalsa in 1699?
A. Guru Nanak B. Guru Arjan C. Guru Gobind Singh D. Guru Tegh Bahadur
Correct Answer: C. Guru Gobind Singh
Explanation: Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib in 1699. The institution formalised a distinct collective Sikh identity and established important religious and disciplinary commitments.
Section 6: Battles, Administration, Architecture and Important Facts (91–100)
91. The Battle of Haldighati was fought in 1576 between Maharana Pratap and the forces of which Mughal emperor?
A. Babur B. Akbar C. Jahangir D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: B. Akbar
Explanation: The Battle of Haldighati took place in 1576 between Maharana Pratap of Mewar and Mughal forces commanded by Raja Man Singh I. Although the Mughals held the battlefield, Maharana Pratap continued resisting Mughal authority.
92. Which Rajput ruler fought Babur at the Battle of Khanwa?
A. Rana Sanga B. Rana Kumbha C. Maharana Pratap D. Raja Man Singh I
Correct Answer: A. Rana Sanga
Explanation: Rana Sanga was the ruler of Mewar who challenged Babur’s expanding power. His defeat at Khanwa in 1527 strengthened Babur’s position in northern India.
93. Which system was used by Sher Shah Suri to improve road communication and facilitate travel?
A. Construction and improvement of major roads B. Abolition of all land revenue C. Introduction of a naval-only transport system D. Closure of trade routes
Correct Answer: A. Construction and improvement of major roads
Explanation: Sher Shah Suri improved major roads, including the route later known as the Grand Trunk Road. He also established facilities such as roadside inns and arrangements that supported communication, trade, and administration.
94. What was the principal function of a muqti or iqtadar under the Delhi Sultanate?
A. Managing an assigned territorial revenue and administrative unit B. Serving exclusively as a royal poet C. Leading religious ceremonies only D. Supervising temple sculpture
Correct Answer: A. Managing an assigned territorial revenue and administrative unit
Explanation: An iqta was an assignment of revenue from a territory, often granted in return for administrative and military responsibilities. The official responsible was commonly called a muqti or iqtadar.
95. What was the jizya?
A. A tax historically imposed on certain non-Muslim subjects B. A land measurement instrument C. A military rank D. A type of Mughal painting
Correct Answer: A. A tax historically imposed on certain non-Muslim subjects
Explanation: Jizya was a poll tax imposed on certain non-Muslim subjects in various Islamic states, subject to historical and legal variations. Akbar abolished it in 1564, and Aurangzeb reinstated it in 1679.
96. Which architectural style is especially associated with the medieval temples of Khajuraho?
A. Nagara B. Dravida C. Indo-Greek D. Gothic
Correct Answer: A. Nagara
Explanation: The Khajuraho temples are celebrated examples of the Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture. Their distinctive features include curvilinear towers, elaborate sculptural programmes, and carefully designed temple structures.
97. Which monument in Delhi was built by Humayun’s widow and is an important precursor to later Mughal garden tombs?
A. Humayun’s Tomb B. Charminar C. Gateway of India D. Sanchi Stupa
Correct Answer: A. Humayun’s Tomb
Explanation: Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned by Hamida Banu Begum and completed in the sixteenth century. Its symmetrical garden setting and monumental architecture influenced the development of later Mughal tombs, including the Taj Mahal.
98. Which Mughal emperor is associated with the construction of the Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri?
A. Akbar B. Jahangir C. Shah Jahan D. Aurangzeb
Correct Answer: A. Akbar
Explanation: Akbar commissioned the Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri. The monumental gateway is traditionally associated with his Gujarat victory and is a prominent example of Mughal imperial architecture.
99. Which European power established an important early trading settlement at Goa in 1510?
A. Portuguese B. French C. Dutch D. Danish
Correct Answer: A. Portuguese
Explanation: The Portuguese captured Goa under Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Goa became a major centre of Portuguese power and maritime trade on India’s western coast.
100. Which event is commonly used to mark the beginning of Mughal rule in India?
A. Battle of Talikota, 1565 B. First Battle of Panipat, 1526 C. Battle of Plassey, 1757 D. Battle of Buxar, 1764
Correct Answer: B. First Battle of Panipat, 1526
Explanation: Babur’s victory over Ibrahim Lodi at the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 is conventionally regarded as the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India. It established the basis for the expansion of Mughal rule.
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