Odisha MCQ 1
Odisha MCQ 1
Odisha MCQ 1
A. Somavamsis
B.Guptas
C.Gangas
D.Sailodvavas✓
Answer (d)
Soln: The Sailodbhava dynasty, which ruled over parts of Odisha from the 6th to the 8th century
CE, were devout followers of Shiva. They played a significant role in the development and
popularization of Shiva worship in the region.
Devotion to Shiva: The Sailodbhava rulers were ardent devotees of Shiva. They considered him their
primary deity and patronized the construction and maintenance of numerous Shiva temples.
Construction of Shiva Temples: The dynasty is credited with building several important Shiva
temples, including the Bharateswar Temple in Bhubaneswar. This temple, dating back to the 6th
century, is one of the earliest surviving temples in Odisha and showcases the architectural brilliance
of the Sailodbhava period.
Promotion of Shaivite Beliefs: The Sailodbhavas actively promoted Shaivite beliefs and
practices. They encouraged the study of Shaiva scriptures, organized religious festivals, and
supported the activities of Shaiva ascetics and scholars.
Integration of Local Traditions: The Sailodbhava rulers skillfully integrated local traditions and
beliefs into their Shiva worship practices. This helped to strengthen the connection between the
people and the divine, fostering a sense of religious unity and cultural identity.
Soln: Mahakantara (500 BC to 500 AD): In the beginning of the Christian era probably it was
known as Mahavana.[1] During the 4th century AD the territory was referred to as Mahakantara
(Greater forest). Both Mahavana and Mahakantara are synonymous terms representing the
same land. Mahakantara and Kosala (or South Kosala) comprising Sambalpur, Bilaspur and
Raipur were two distinct but neighboring territories. Originally these two geographical units
were known as Kantara and Kosala in Ramayana and Mahabharata. In the 4th century AD
Vyaghraraja was ruling over Mahakantara comprising Kalahandi, undivided Koraput and Bastar
region.
A) The contact between Odisha and the Gupta Empire began during the northern campaign
of Samudragupta.
B) The whole of Odisha was not affected by Samudragupta's capmpaign.
C) The Harisena Prasasti of Allahabad makes it clear that Samudragupta did not establish his
rule over the conquered territories in the south.
D) During Samudragupta's military campaign Odisha was divided into many small
and independent states.
Answer (d)
Soln: Odisha was not a unified kingdom during Samudragupta's time, the Harisena Prasasti, a key
source of information about his conquests, suggests that he defeated several rulers in the region.
These rulers, though independent, were likely not numerous and powerful enough to resist the
might of the Gupta Empire.
Therefore, while Odisha may have been politically fragmented, it wasn't necessarily divided into
"many small and independent states.”
A) Vyaghraraj
B) Swamidatta
C) Mahendra
D) Kubera
Answer (c)
Soln: The ruler of Kosala during Samudragupta's military campaign was Mahendra. This
information is primarily derived from the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, also known as the Prayag
Prashasti. This inscription, composed by Harisena, provides a detailed account of Samudragupta's
conquests, including his campaigns in the south. It specifically mentions Mahendra as the ruler
of Kosala whom Samudragupta defeated.
Vyaghraraj: He was the ruler of Mahakantara, another region that Samudragupta conquered.
5. Who among the following Mathara rulers assumed the title of 'Sakala Kalingadhipati'?
A) Saktivarman
B) Prabhanjanavarman
C) Chandravarman
D) Sankaravarman
Answer b
Soln: Prabhanjanavarman, a Mathara ruler, assumed the title "Sakala Kalingadhipati," which
translates to "Lord of the Entire Kalinga." This title indicates his ambition to control the entire
Kalinga region.
While other Mathara rulers like Shaktivarman held the title "Kalingadhipati," it was
Prabhanjanavarman who aimed for a more comprehensive dominion over Kalinga.
Soln: The Mahavaladhikrita was not specifically a military official. Instead, they were
a high-ranking civil official, often serving as a minister or a chief advisor to the king.
The military hierarchy during the Mathara period typically involved:
Dandanayak: The Commander-in-chief
Mahadanda Nayak: Assistant Commander
Dandaneta: Commander of a group of soldiers
These designations reflect the importance of military power during the Mathara period.
7. Consider the followings: In the latter half of the sixth century A.D:
TRUE?
A) Only 1
B) Only 2
C) Only 1 and 3
D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer A
Soln: Only statement 1 is True.
True: The Vigraha dynasty did rule the northern part of Kalinga, known as Kalingarastra, during the
latter half of the 6th century AD.
False: The Eastern Ganga dynasty emerged later, in the 11th century AD.
False: There is no historical evidence to suggest that the Durjayas ruled any part of Kalinga during
the 6th century AD.
Therefore, only statement 1 is correct.
8. The Nala Kingdom comprised of the moderns districts of Bastar (Chhattisgarh) and two
districts in Odisha. Which of the pair of districts was the two districts included in Nala Kingdom?
Answer A
Soln: Old Koraput and Kandhamal.
The Nala Kingdom, during its peak, extended over parts of present-day Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
In Odisha, their territory primarily encompassed the regions of Old Koraput and Kandhamal.
A) Sripur
C) Puskari
B) Vijaya Simhapur
D) Adhikari
Answer b
Soln: The capital city of the Nala dynasty was Pushkari. It is identified with the modern Garhdhanora
in Bastar district, Chhattisgarh.
C) The Ekamra Purana, Kapila Samhita and Svamadri Mahodaya bear some account of
the Sailodbhavas.
Answer d
A) Sailodbhavas emerged at the advent of the seventh century A.D., as the Sailodbhava dynasty
rose to power in the 6th-8th centuries AD.
B) The name of 'Saildobhava ' literally means 'born out of rocks': This is a common interpretation
of the name, suggesting a divine origin.
C) The Ekamra Purana, Kapila Samhita and Svamadri Mahodaya bear some account of the
Sailodbhavas: These ancient texts provide valuable insights into the history and culture of
the Sailodbhava dynasty.
Therefore, all the given statements are true regarding the Sailodbhavas in Odisha.
A) Eastern
B) Northern
C) Southern
D) Western
Answer a
Soln: The Sailodbhavas primarily ruled over the eastern part of Odisha. Their kingdom was centered
around the Kongoda region, which roughly corresponds to the modern-day Ganjam, Khordha, and
Puri districts.
12. Who among the following was said to be the founder ruler of the Sailodbhava dynasty?
A) Dramaraja-I
B) Madhavaraja-l
C) Charamparaja
D) Madhdavaraja-II
Answer c
Soln: The founder ruler of the Sailodbhava dynasty is Dharmaraja I, also known as Ranabhita. He is
considered the first known historical ruler of the dynasty.
13. Which of the following is INCORRECT about the Sailodbhavas in Odisha?
C) The Sailodbhava kings used names ending in bhita which appears to be their family surname
Answer d
Soln: They were the feudatories. The Sailodbhavas were an independent dynasty ruling over a
significant portion of Odisha. They were not feudatories under any other power.
B) A number of Saiva temples were built in Odisha during this period: The Sailodbhavas
were patrons of Shaivism, and many Shiva temples were constructed during their reign.
C) The Sailodbhava kings used names ending in bhita which appears to be their family surname:
This is a characteristic feature of the Sailodbhava dynasty's naming convention.
14. Which craft is common to Raghurajpur of Puri district, Kakarudrapur & Kenduvilwa in
Khurda district, Kendupali (Kalapathar) in Cuttack district and Old town area of Bhubaneswar?
a) Cane work
b) Horn work
d) Dhokra casting
Answer -C
Soln: Palm leaf engraving, also known as Talapatra Chitra, is a traditional art form in Odisha,
particularly prominent in Raghurajpur, Puri district. This ancient technique involves engraving
intricate designs and stories onto dried palm leaves using a sharp stylus.
Natural materials: Palm leaves are used as the canvas, and natural dyes and pigments are used for
coloring.
Durable: The engravings on palm leaves are surprisingly durable and can last for centuries if
properly preserved.
Cultural significance: Palm leaf engravings have deep cultural significance, reflecting the rich
heritage and traditions of Odisha.
Temples Built by
Indraratha Answer
Soln: The incorrect statement is A) The Muktesvara Temple was built by Yayati
II. The Muktesvara Temple was actually built by Yayati I of the Somavamshi
List-l List-ll
A Ekavali 1. Jayadeva
Answer
D) None of the
above Answer a
Soln: Odisha's temple architecture, unique to the region, blends Nagara and Dravida styles into a
distinctive Kalinga style. Renowned for intricate carvings, graceful proportions, and durable
construction, iconic examples include the Lingaraja Temple, Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple,
and Mukteswar Temple. These temples showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of
Odisha.
A) Kapilendradeva
B) Purushottamdeva
C) Prataparudradeva
D) Kaluadeva
Answer c
Soln: Lolla Laxmidhar Pandit was an important luminary of the court of Prataparudra who composed
several works such as Vachaspativilasa, Yogadipika, Manva Dharmasastra Dipika, Karnavatamsa and
Saundaryalahari Vyakhya. Divakara, a grammarian and poet who wrote Lakshnadarsa, Ohurtacarita,
Parijataharana Nataka and Rasamanjari. Jivadava's Bhakti Bhagavata was a milestone in Sanskrit
literature during that period. Ramananda Raya wrote Jagannatha Vallabha.
D) Ananda Vilasa
Prataprudradeva Answer
Soln
B) The rulers of these principalities owed allegiance to greater powers b like Bhaumakaras
and Suryavamsis etc.
C) They had their own army and issued charters without even referring 3 to their overlords.
D) All the
above Answer
This is a core characteristic of the mandala system. While these principalities were part of a larger
political structure, they enjoyed a significant degree of autonomy.
B) The rulers of these principalities owed allegiance to greater powers like Bhaumakaras and
Suryavamsis etc. These principalities often acknowledged the supremacy of larger powers, but
this
acknowledgment was more symbolic than practical. They maintained a significant degree of
independence in their internal affairs.
C) They had their own army and issued charters without even referring to their overlords.
This demonstrates the practical autonomy of these principalities. They had the capacity to
defend themselves and issue official documents without seeking approval from their
overlords.
Therefore, all three statements accurately describe the nature of mandala states.
A) The Bhaumakaras
B) The Gangas
C) The Somavamsis
D) The
Suryavamsis
Answer A
Soln:
The Bhaumakara dynasty, which ruled over parts of Odisha from the 8th to the 10th centuries
CE, was known for its patronage of Jainism. During their reign, Bhubaneswar emerged as a
significant center of Jainism, with several temples and monasteries being built in the region.
The Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves, located near Bhubaneswar, are a prime example of the
Jain heritage of this period. These caves, with their intricate carvings and inscriptions,
showcase the artistic and religious significance of Jainism during the Bhaumakara era.
A ) Tapasu and Bhallika were believed to have been the first men to accept Buddhism from Utkal.
D) The Buddhist texts nowhere mentions about the visit of Lord Buddha To Odisha during his
life time.
Answer b
Soln: The incorrect statement is B) Buddhism was non-existent in Odisha during Ashoka's invasion.
While it's true that there's no direct evidence of Buddhism being widespread in Odisha before
Ashoka's reign, it's unlikely that the region was completely devoid of Buddhist influence. Ashoka's
empire extended to parts of Odisha, and his patronage of Buddhism would have undoubtedly had
an impact on the region.
23. Who among the following officials was in charge of the Praganas under the
Maratha dispensation?
A) Fauzdars
B) Amils
C) Kanungoes
D) Talukdar
s Answer b
Amils were the key officials in charge of Praganas (districts) during the Maratha rule. They were
responsible for revenue collection, law and order, and overall administration within their respective
jurisdictions.
collectors Answer d
Soln: Nankar in Maratha administration referred to rent-free lands given to revenue collectors.
These land grants were provided to officials as a form of remuneration for their services. The
Nankar system was a common practice during the Maratha period, and it helped to incentivize and
motivate revenue officials.
A) The Afghans
B) The Marathas
C) The Nizams
D) The
British
Answer b
The 'Hustabad' settlement was a revenue system implemented by the Marathas during their rule in
Odisha. It involved a fixed annual payment to the state, regardless of the actual revenue collected.
This system often led to exploitation of the peasants and contributed to economic distress in the
region.
26. Which of the following was the strategic port in the south under the Maratha dispensation?
A) Barakul
B) Balugaon
C) Malud
D) Ganjam
Answer D
Ganjam was a strategically important coastal region in the south during the Maratha rule. It was a
vital port city and controlled trade routes, making it a crucial position for the Marathas to maintain
their influence in the region.
27. Which of the following was NOT correct about the Faujdars in Maratha Administration?
Answer d
Soln: The incorrect statement is D) He acted as the Subhadar in the latter's absence.
While Faujdars were powerful officials with both civil and military authority, they were subordinate
to the Subhadar, who was the highest-ranking official in a province. A Faujdar would not assume the
Subhadar's role in their absence.
1. Judical and revenue system was simple in Odisha under the Maratha dispensation.
3.Justice was administered on the basis of usage and custom than the rules and regulations.
Which of the above mentioned statements was/were CORRECT with regards to the Maratha
administration in Odisha?
A) 1 & 2
B) Only 3
C) 2 & 3
D) 1, 2, 3
Answer d
Soln: The correct answer is: 3. Justice was administered on the basis of usage and custom than the
rules and regulations.
During the Maratha rule in Odisha, the judicial system was characterized by a blend of formal laws
and informal customs. While there were established legal procedures, the actual administration of
justice often relied heavily on local customs and practices. This approach, while sometimes leading to
inconsistencies, often ensured that justice was delivered in a manner that was understood and
accepted by the local population.
However, it's important to note that the Maratha administration in Odisha, while having some
positive aspects, was also marked by corruption and exploitation. The judicial system, although
rooted in local customs, was not always free from these issues.
a) Agrarian uprising
b) Feudal uprising
c) Intellectual uprising
(b) Answer d
The Paika Rebellion was a complex uprising with both agrarian and feudal elements. The Paikas, a
military caste who had traditionally served the Khurda Kingdom, were affected by the British land
revenue policies, which disrupted their traditional sources of income. This agrarian dimension
was
coupled with a feudal aspect, as the Paikas were also fighting to protect their social status and
privileges as a warrior class.
Therefore, the rebellion was a multifaceted movement with both agrarian and feudal motivations.
2. Reduction in the prices of salt and the easy availability of the same.
3 he King of Khurda was assigned with the management of the Jagannath Temple at Puri
a) Only 1, 2 and 3
b) Only 2, 3 and 4
c) Only 2 and 4
d) 1, 2 , 3 and
4 Answer C
The Paika Rebellion, while a significant event in Odisha's history, did not directly lead to
the consequences mentioned in options 1 and 3.
Option 2: Reduction in the prices of salt and the easy availability of the same. This is
partially correct. While the British did implement reforms in the salt trade, these were more
a result of broader colonial policies than a direct consequence of the Paika Rebellion.
Option 4: Revenue burden on zamindars was reduced. This is also partially correct. The British did
make some adjustments to the revenue system, but these were often motivated by their own
fiscal interests rather than as a direct response to the rebellion.
The Paika Rebellion primarily highlighted the discontent of the local population with British policies
and the exploitation of the traditional land tenure system. While it did not lead to significant
long-term changes in terms of government appointments or the management of the Jagannath
Temple, it did spark a sense of Odia identity and resistance against colonial rule.
32. The Great Famine of 1866 is also gone in history as 'Na'Anka' as it:
d) None of the
above Answer b
Soln: The correct answer is b) Took place in the ninth regnal year of Gajapati Divyasinghadeva.
The Great Famine of 1866, locally known as "Na'Anka" (meaning "Nine Anka"), is named after the
ninth regnal year of Gajapati Divyasinghadeva. This famine was one of the most devastating
famines in Indian history, particularly affecting the region of Odisha.
33. Who among the following was the Commissioner of Odisha during the Famine of 18662
a) H. B Impey
b) A. B
Cumberledge CT. E
Ravenshaw
d) George
Campbell Answer c
Soln: The Commissioner of Odisha during the Famine of 1866 was T.E. Ravenshaw. His ineffective
handling of the crisis and delayed response contributed to the severity of the famine.
34. Which of the following was NOT a cause of the Famine 1866?
Answer d
Soln: Except option D, other 3 options are clear indications of the reasons for the great famine that
took place in 1866.
35. The Utkal Sammilani, the foremost Odia national organization came into being in the
year: a) 1895
b)
1901
(c)190
3 d)
1905
Answer c
The Utkal Sammilani, a pivotal organization in the Odia nationalist movement, was founded in 1903.
It played a crucial role in advocating for the unification of Odia-speaking regions and the formation
of a separate province of Odisha.
36. Which of the following was the primary objective of the Utkal Sammilani?
b) To make Odia as the official language To merge Odia - speaking tracts with the then Odisha
c) To merge Odia-speaking tracts with the then Odisha.
Answer c
Soln: The primary objective of the Utkal Sammilani was to merge Odia-speaking tracts with the then
Odisha. This was the core goal of the organization, and it played a crucial role in the formation of a
separate state of Odisha.
Kabi Answer d
Soln: Mayadhar Mansingh is known as Love poet and the designation of Prakruti kabi is awarded to
Gangadhar Meher.
a) 1858
b) 1867
C) 1877
d) 1881
Answer c
Soln: c)
1877
Gopabandhu Das, the revered "Utkal Mani," was born on October 9, 1877, in Suando village, near
Puri, Odisha.
38. Which of the following committee was appointed by the Government of British India to
assess the merger of Ganjam with Odisha?
a) Simon Commission
b) Phillip Committee
c) Phillip-Duff Committee
d) Attlee Committee
Answer c
This committee was appointed by the British Indian government in 1924 to assess the feasibility of
merging the Odia-speaking areas of Ganjam district with the then-existing province of Bihar and
Orissa.
38. Who among the Odia leaders were included in the Attlee Sub - committee to recommend for a
separate province of Odisha?
1. Madhusudan Das
3. Laxmidhar Mohanty
4. Biswanath Kar
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 2 and 4
d) 1, 2 and
3 Answer b
Soln: Rajendra Narayan Bhanjadeo and Laxmidhar Mohanty were the two Odia leaders included in
the Attlee Sub-committee.
39. Which of the following subcommittee was appointed by the Statutory Commission to
examine the case of a separate province of Odisha and recommend accordingly?
a) Phillip Committee
b) Beam Committee
c) Attlee Committee
d) Duff Committee
Answer c
The Attlee Committee was a sub-committee appointed by the Simon Commission to specifically
examine the case for a separate province of Odisha. It played a crucial role in recommending the
formation of the separate province.
4. They vary from 150m to 300m in elevation. Which of the above statements are CORRECT?
a)2,3, and 4
b) 1, 3 and 4
c) 1, 2 and 4
d) 2 and 4
only Answer-
(c)
Soln- Location: Located in the western and northwestern parts of Odisha, bordering the states of
Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.
Elevation: The uplands are lower in elevation compared to the plateaus, ranging from 150 to 300
meters above sea level.
Formation: Formed by the continuous action of rivers, resulting in a rolling landscape with fertile
soil.
Soil: Rich in nutrients, making it suitable for agriculture, particularly paddy cultivation.
River Basins: The uplands are situated in the basins of the upper Brahmani, Mahanadi, and Sabari
rivers.
Upland Divisions: The Western Rolling Uplands can be divided into several distinct regions,
including:
* Rajgangpur Uplands
* Jharsuguda Uplands
* Bhawanipatna Uplands
* Bargarh Uplands
* Balangir-Titlagarh Uplands
* Patnagarh Uplands
* Malkangiri Uplands
Vegetation: The uplands are partially covered by forests, providing habitat for various wildlife
species.
Bolangir Answer C
Answer -d
Soln: The incorrect statement is d. The mountainous regions receive copious rainfall from
the south-west monsoon.
While the coastal regions of Odisha do receive significant rainfall from the south-west monsoon, the
mountainous regions, particularly those in the western part of the state, often experience rainfall
from the north-east monsoon. These regions have a distinct rainfall pattern, and the south-west
monsoon may not be the primary source of rainfall for them.
43. Which type of forest in Odisha covers more than fifty percent of the total area under forest in
the State?
44. Which of the following soil covers the largest areas in the State?
a) Red soil
d) Yellow soil
c) Alluvial
soil Answer a
Soln Red soil is a significant soil type in Odisha, covering a substantial area. It is particularly
prevalent in the western and southern parts of the state, including districts like Koraput, Rayagada,
Nawrangpur, Malkangiri, Keonjhar, Ganjam, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Bolangir, Dhenkanal, and
Mayurbhanj.
Reddish Color: The distinctive red color of these soils is due to the presence of iron oxide.
Texture: The texture varies across different regions. In some areas, it is heavy and clayey, while in
others, it is lighter and sandy.
Fertility: Red soils are generally fertile, but they can be deficient in nitrogen, organic matter, and
certain micronutrients.
Drainage: These soils are well-drained, which can be beneficial for certain crops but can also lead to
nutrient leaching.
Crops: Red soils are suitable for cultivating a variety of crops, including millets, pulses, groundnuts,
and some horticultural crops. However, their fertility and moisture-holding capacity can limit their
suitability for some crops, especially those requiring high water content.
Mixed red and yellow soils are predominantly found in these districts of western Odisha. These soils
are formed due to the weathering of crystalline and metamorphic rocks. They are generally fertile
and suitable for cultivation of various crops like paddy, pulses, oilseeds, and millets.
46. The type of soil found in most of the coastal districts of Odisha is:
a) Red soils
b) Black soils
d) Alluvial soils
Answer - d) Alluvial soils are predominantly found in the coastal districts of Odisha. These fertile soils
are deposited by the major rivers like Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, and Rushikulya, making them
ideal for agriculture, especially paddy cultivation.
1. These soils occur sporadically in the districts of Puri, Ganjam, Malkangiri, Kalahandi,
Nuapada, Bolangir and Angul.
2. They are formed due to weathering of basic rocks in the low lying areas.
a) Red soils
b) Laterite soils
c) Black soils
d) Yellow soils
Laterite soils are formed due to intense leaching in tropical and subtropical areas. They are
characterized by their red color due to the presence of iron oxide. While they are not as fertile as
alluvial soils, they can be improved through proper soil management practices.
The crops mentioned in statement 3 are suitable for cultivation in laterite soils, especially with the
addition of organic matter and fertilizers.
48. The soil type that occur mostly in the forest areas of Phulbani, Rayagada and parts of Ganjam
and Nayagarh is called:
a) Brown soil
b) Red soil
c) Yellow soil
d) Black soil
Answer - b) Red soil is the predominant soil type found in the forest areas of Phulbani, Rayagada,
Ganjam, and Nayagarh. These soils are formed due to the weathering of crystalline and
metamorphic rocks. They are generally fertile and support various types of vegetation, including
forests.
a) Chilka
b) Sara
c) Ansupa
d) Patta
Answer - c) Ansupa is a horseshoe-shaped freshwater lake located in Cuttack district, Odisha. It's
known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.
Reservoirs Rivers
a) Hadagarh Salandi
b) Mandira Sankh
c) Balimela Bahuda
d) Rengali Brahmani
Answer -D The Bali mela reservoir is on the Sileru river. Others are correct.