Emperor Ashoka the Great (c. 268–232 BCE) stands as one of the most remarkable monarchs in global history, transforming the Mauryan Empire from a ruthless military state into a moral empire guided by compassion. Deeply traumatized by the immense bloodshed of the Kalinga War, Ashoka embraced Buddhism and pioneered a universal moral code known as Dhamma, which he famously propagated by carving edicts onto colossal stone pillars and natural rock faces across the Indian subcontinent. Written predominantly in Prakrit using Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts, these inscriptions remain invaluable archaeological milestones that illuminate ancient governance, religious tolerance, and state welfare.
1. Who was the founder of the Mauryan Empire and the grandfather of Ashoka?
Correct Answer: b) Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation:
Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire in 322 BCE, which was later ruled by his son Bindusara, and subsequently by his grandson Ashoka.
2. Who was the father of Ashoka?
Correct Answer: b) Bindusara
Explanation:
Bindusara was the second Mauryan emperor and the father of Ashoka. He expanded the empire further into the Indian subcontinent.
3. According to Buddhist traditions, what was the name of Ashoka's mother?
Correct Answer: c) Subhadrangi
Explanation:
According to the Ashokavadana, Ashoka's mother was Queen Subhadrangi, also known as Dharma, who was a daughter of a Brahmin from Champa.
4. Before becoming the emperor, Ashoka served as the viceroy of which two important provinces?
Correct Answer: a) Taxila and Ujjain
Explanation:
During his father Bindusara's reign, Ashoka served as the provincial governor (viceroy) of Ujjain and successfully quelled a rebellion in Taxila.
5. In which year did the Kalinga War take place?
Correct Answer: b) 261 BCE
Explanation:
The Kalinga War, one of the most significant and bloody battles in ancient Indian history, took place in 261 BCE, eight years after Ashoka's coronation.
6. What was the capital of the Mauryan Empire during Ashoka's reign?
Correct Answer: c) Pataliputra
Explanation:
Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) served as the imperial capital of the Mauryan Empire under Ashoka.
7. Which title did Ashoka most commonly use to refer to himself in his edicts?
Correct Answer: b) Devanampiya Piyadasi
Explanation:
In most of his inscriptions, Ashoka refers to himself as 'Devanampiya Piyadasi', which translates to 'Beloved of the Gods, He who looks on with affection'.
8. Which Major Rock Edict describes the horrors of the Kalinga War and Ashoka's subsequent remorse?
Correct Answer: c) Major Rock Edict XIII
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XIII provides a detailed account of the Kalinga War, the tremendous loss of life, and Ashoka's deep remorse and conversion to the path of Dhamma.
9. Which religion did Ashoka embrace after the devastating Kalinga War?
Correct Answer: d) Buddhism
Explanation:
Deeply moved by the bloodshed of the Kalinga War, Ashoka abandoned military conquest (Digvijaya) and embraced Buddhism, adopting the policy of Dhammavijaya (conquest by Dhamma).
10. Who is traditionally believed to have initiated Ashoka into Buddhism?
Correct Answer: b) Upagupta
Explanation:
According to Buddhist traditions, notably the Ashokavadana, a Buddhist monk named Upagupta was responsible for Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism.
11. Which Buddhist Council was convened by Ashoka?
Correct Answer: c) Third Buddhist Council
Explanation:
Ashoka patronized the Third Buddhist Council, which was held at Pataliputra around 250 BCE to purify the Sangha and compile the Abhidhamma Pitaka.
12. Who presided over the Third Buddhist Council during Ashoka's reign?
Correct Answer: c) Moggaliputta Tissa
Explanation:
The Third Buddhist Council at Pataliputra was presided over by the respected elder monk Moggaliputta Tissa.
13. In 1837, who became the first scholar to decipher the Brahmi script used in Ashoka's edicts?
Correct Answer: c) James Prinsep
Explanation:
James Prinsep, an official of the East India Company, deciphered the Brahmi script in 1837, allowing the world to read Ashoka's edicts for the first time.
14. Which script was predominantly used for Ashoka's edicts in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent?
Correct Answer: b) Kharoshthi
Explanation:
While Brahmi was used across most of India, the edicts found in the northwest (like Shahbazgarhi and Mansehra) were written in the Kharoshthi script.
15. The bilingual edict of Ashoka found at Kandahar is written in which two languages?
Correct Answer: b) Greek and Aramaic
Explanation:
The Kandahar Rock Inscription is a famous bilingual edict written in Greek and Aramaic, targeting the diverse populations of the region.
16. Which rock edict explicitly mentions the name 'Ashoka' instead of just 'Devanampiya Piyadasi'?
Correct Answer: a) Maski Edict
Explanation:
The Maski minor rock edict (in Karnataka) was a breakthrough discovery because it confirmed that 'Devanampiya Piyadasi' was indeed Emperor Ashoka, as it mentioned his personal name.
17. Ashoka appointed special officers to propagate Dhamma and look after the welfare of the people. What were they called?
Correct Answer: c) Dhamma Mahamatras
Explanation:
Ashoka created a new cadre of officials known as 'Dhamma Mahamatras' in his 14th regnal year to spread the message of Dhamma and ensure social welfare.
18. Which Major Rock Edict deals with the prohibition of animal sacrifice?
Correct Answer: a) Major Rock Edict I
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict I prohibits animal sacrifice and festive gatherings (Samaja) where meat was consumed, reflecting Ashoka's commitment to Ahimsa (non-violence).
19. What policy did Ashoka famously replace 'Bherighosha' (sound of war drums) with?
Correct Answer: b) Dhammaghosha
Explanation:
As stated in Major Rock Edict IV, Ashoka replaced the sound of war drums (Bherighosha) with the sound of Dhamma (Dhammaghosha), signifying his shift from military conquest to moral conquest.
20. Which Ashokan edict records his visit to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautama Buddha?
Correct Answer: b) Rummindei Pillar Edict
Explanation:
The Rummindei Pillar Edict marks Ashoka's pilgrimage to Lumbini. It states that he exempted the village from heavy taxes and fixed it at one-eighth of the produce out of respect for Buddha's birthplace.
21. How many Major Rock Edicts constitute Ashoka's primary set of rock inscriptions?
Correct Answer: c) 14
Explanation:
Ashoka's Major Rock Edicts consist of a set of 14 separate edicts inscribed on large boulders, found at various sites across his empire.
22. Major Rock Edict II mentions Ashoka providing medical treatment for both humans and animals. Which neighboring kingdoms are explicitly mentioned in this edict?
Correct Answer: a) Cholas, Pandyas, Satiyaputras, and Keralaputras
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict II is crucial as it mentions the independent southern kingdoms of the Cholas, Pandyas, Satiyaputras, and Keralaputras (Cheras) where Ashoka initiated welfare measures.
23. In which edict does Ashoka express his desire for religious tolerance and state that 'all sects deserve reverence for one reason or another'?
Correct Answer: b) Major Rock Edict XII
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XII is a profound plea for religious tolerance. Ashoka requests his subjects to respect all sects and avoid praising one's own sect while criticizing others.
24. Which group of edicts was issued specifically to warn Buddhist monks and nuns against creating divisions in the Sangha?
Correct Answer: b) The Schism Edicts
Explanation:
The Schism Edicts (found at Sarnath, Sanchi, and Kosambi) contain Ashoka's stern warning to Buddhist monks and nuns that anyone causing a schism in the Sangha would be expelled.
25. The famous 'Lion Capital' which is the national emblem of modern India, was originally erected by Ashoka at which location?
Correct Answer: c) Sarnath
Explanation:
The Lion Capital of Ashoka, featuring four Asiatic lions standing back to back, was erected at Sarnath to commemorate the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
26. Which animal is NOT featured on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital?
Correct Answer: b) Tiger
Explanation:
The abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital features an elephant, a galloping horse, a bull, and a lion, separated by intervening wheels (chakras). It does not feature a tiger.
27. What did the 'Dharma Chakra' on the Ashokan pillars represent?
Correct Answer: b) The Wheel of Law or Truth
Explanation:
The Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Dharma) represents the Buddha's teaching of the law of truth and righteousness. Ashoka used it extensively as a symbol of Dhammavijaya.
28. According to Major Rock Edict VIII, Ashoka replaced royal pleasure tours (Vihara Yatras) with what?
Correct Answer: c) Dhamma Yatras
Explanation:
Ashoka replaced Vihara Yatras (pleasure tours for hunting) with Dhamma Yatras (pious tours) during which he visited holy places, gave gifts to Brahmins and ascetics, and interacted with subjects.
29. Which contemporary Hellenistic king is mentioned in Major Rock Edict XIII as 'Antiyoka'?
Correct Answer: c) Antiochus II Theos
Explanation:
Ashoka mentions five Greek kings to whom he sent Dhamma missions. 'Antiyoka' refers to Antiochus II Theos of the Seleucid Empire.
30. In the Kalinga Edicts (Separate Rock Edicts found at Dhauli and Jaugada), Ashoka famously declares:
Correct Answer: b) All men are my children.
Explanation:
In the Separate Rock Edicts meant specifically for the Kalinga region, Ashoka adopted a paternalistic approach to administration, declaring 'Saba munisa me paja' (All men are my children).
31. Ashoka donated the Barabar Caves to which ascetic sect?
Correct Answer: c) Ajivikas
Explanation:
Despite being a devout Buddhist, Ashoka practiced profound religious tolerance and donated the rock-cut Barabar Caves in Bihar to the monks of the Ajivika sect.
32. Which of Ashoka's offspring were famously sent to Sri Lanka (Ceylon) to spread Buddhism?
Correct Answer: b) Mahendra and Sanghamitra
Explanation:
Ashoka sent his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to the court of King Devanampiya Tissa of Sri Lanka to propagate Buddhism. They carried a sapling of the original Bodhi tree with them.
33. What is the language used in the vast majority of Ashoka's edicts across India?
Correct Answer: c) Prakrit
Explanation:
To ensure that his edicts could be read and understood by the common people, Ashoka used Prakrit (specifically regional dialects like Magadhi Prakrit) rather than the elite Sanskrit.
34. Which Major Rock Edict stresses the appointment of 'Rajukas' and 'Pradesikas' for a tour of inspection every five years?
Correct Answer: a) Major Rock Edict III
Explanation:
In Major Rock Edict III, Ashoka orders his officials like the Yuktas, Rajukas, and Pradesikas to go on administrative and Dhamma tours (Anusamyana) every five years.
35. In which edict does Ashoka emphasize that he is available to attend to state business at all hours, even when he is in his private chambers or eating?
Correct Answer: b) Major Rock Edict VI
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict VI underscores Ashoka's dedication to his duties, where he instructs his reporters (Pativedakas) to bring him reports of the people's affairs at any time and any place.
36. Which of Ashoka's pillar edicts specifically provides a long list of animals and birds that were prohibited from being killed?
Correct Answer: c) Pillar Edict V
Explanation:
Pillar Edict V contains a comprehensive list of specific animals, birds, and fish that Ashoka declared protected and banned from slaughter, either completely or on specific days.
37. The concept of Ashoka's 'Dhamma' is best described as:
Correct Answer: b) A secular, ethical code of conduct for social harmony.
Explanation:
Ashoka's Dhamma was not a rigid religious dogma but a broad ethical code emphasizing respect for elders, non-violence, truthfulness, and tolerance, aimed at holding his diverse empire together.
38. Where is the famous Ashokan rock edict of Shahbazgarhi located?
Correct Answer: c) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Explanation:
The Shahbazgarhi edict is located in the Peshawar basin in modern-day Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and is notable for being inscribed in the Kharoshthi script.
39. Which text is an essential primary source, besides the edicts, for reconstructing the life of Ashoka?
Correct Answer: c) Ashokavadana
Explanation:
The Ashokavadana (part of the Divyavadana) is a prominent Sanskrit Buddhist text that contains many legends and biographical details regarding Emperor Ashoka.
40. What is the total number of Ashokan Pillar Edicts (the main set) found erected across the empire?
Correct Answer: b) 7
Explanation:
There are 7 main Pillar Edicts of Ashoka. They were inscribed on highly polished monolithic sandstone pillars erected in the later part of his reign.
41. In the Bhabru (or Bairat) Edict, Ashoka explicitly states his faith in what?
Correct Answer: c) The Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha
Explanation:
The Bhabru Minor Rock Edict is highly significant because it is the only edict where Ashoka explicitly declares his deep faith in the Buddhist Triratna: Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha.
42. Which of the following is NOT one of the 14 Major Rock Edict locations?
Correct Answer: c) Sanchi
Explanation:
While Sanchi is famous for its Stupa and an Ashokan pillar (Schism edict), it is not one of the sites where the 14 Major Rock Edicts were carved.
43. Ashoka's empire was divided into several provinces. What was the capital of the southern province (Dakshinapatha)?
Correct Answer: c) Suvarnagiri
Explanation:
Suvarnagiri ('Golden Mountain') in present-day Karnataka served as the provincial capital of the southern part of the Mauryan Empire.
44. Ashoka expanded his empire primarily by conquering Kalinga. What was the capital of Kalinga during this period?
Correct Answer: b) Tosali
Explanation:
Tosali was the administrative capital of the Kalinga region, where Ashoka later placed one of his provincial administrations and carved a Major Rock Edict.
45. In Pillar Edict IV, Ashoka delegates judicial powers to which class of officials to grant reprieves and show mercy?
Correct Answer: b) Rajukas
Explanation:
Ashoka granted the Rajukas (rural administrators and judicial officers) independent authority in judicial matters, encouraging them to be fair and merciful.
46. Major Rock Edict IX critiques which popular social practice?
Correct Answer: b) Superstitious ceremonies and trivial rituals
Explanation:
In Major Rock Edict IX, Ashoka criticizes the various trivial and meaningless ceremonies performed by people (especially women) during illnesses, marriages, or births, advising them to practice the 'ceremony of Dhamma' instead.
47. According to Major Rock Edict XI, what is described as the highest form of gift?
Correct Answer: c) Gift of Dhamma
Explanation:
Ashoka proclaims in Major Rock Edict XI that there is no gift comparable to the gift of Dhamma (Dhammadana) and the sharing of Dhamma.
48. Ashoka's edicts frequently use the word 'Pasanda'. What does this term refer to in the context of his edicts?
Correct Answer: b) A religious sect or denomination
Explanation:
In Ashokan inscriptions, 'Pasanda' refers to religious sects or philosophical schools. Ashoka advocated for tolerance and harmony among all Pasandhas.
49. What is the primary theme of Major Rock Edict VII?
Correct Answer: a) Tolerance and harmony among all sects
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict VII states Ashoka's desire that people of all sects should reside everywhere in his empire, as they all desire self-control and purity of heart.
50. Which Ashokan edict records that Ashoka enlarged the stupa of Buddha Konakamana?
Correct Answer: b) Nigali Sagar Pillar Edict
Explanation:
The Nigali Sagar Pillar Edict in Nepal records that Ashoka enlarged the stupa of a former Buddha, Konakamana, and later visited the site to worship.
51. The earliest deciphered Ashokan edicts were written in the Brahmi script. Brahmi is written in which direction?
Correct Answer: b) Left to Right
Explanation:
Unlike Kharoshthi which is written from right to left, the Brahmi script is written from left to right. It is the ancestor of most modern Indian scripts.
52. Kharoshthi, used in Ashoka's northwestern edicts, was heavily influenced by which foreign script?
Correct Answer: b) Aramaic
Explanation:
The Kharoshthi script was derived from the Aramaic alphabet, which was brought to the region during the earlier Achaemenid Persian rule.
53. Who was the Greek king 'Turamaya' mentioned in Ashoka's Major Rock Edict XIII?
Correct Answer: b) Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt
Explanation:
'Turamaya' refers to Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the contemporary Hellenistic ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt, to whom Ashoka sent Dhamma emissaries.
54. The highly polished, monolithic stone pillars erected by Ashoka are widely believed to have been quarried from which specific location?
Correct Answer: a) Chunar
Explanation:
The sandstone used for Ashoka's magnificent pillars was primarily quarried from Chunar, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.
55. Which of the following queens of Ashoka is explicitly mentioned in one of his edicts (the Queen's Edict)?
Correct Answer: c) Kaurwaki
Explanation:
Queen Kaurwaki (Karuvaki) is the only queen of Ashoka mentioned in his inscriptions. The 'Queen's Edict' on the Allahabad pillar requests that her charitable donations be officially recorded.
56. The 'Queen's Edict' on the Allahabad-Kosambi pillar also mentions the name of Ashoka's son. What was his name?
Correct Answer: b) Tivala (Tivara)
Explanation:
The Queen's Edict specifically identifies Kaurwaki as the mother of Prince Tivala (or Tivara). He is the only son of Ashoka explicitly mentioned in the edicts.
57. Which famous ancient structure at Sanchi was originally commissioned by Ashoka?
Correct Answer: b) The Great Stupa
Explanation:
The core of the Great Stupa at Sanchi, originally a simple brick hemispherical structure containing relics of the Buddha, was built by Emperor Ashoka.
58. According to tradition, how many Stupas is Ashoka said to have built across his empire?
Correct Answer: c) 84,000
Explanation:
Buddhist legends, such as those in the Ashokavadana, claim that Ashoka opened seven of the original eight relic stupas and redistributed the Buddha's relics to build 84,000 stupas across the world.
59. Which Minor Rock Edict provides evidence of Ashoka's close association with the Buddhist Sangha, stating he had been a 'Upasaka' for more than two and a half years?
Correct Answer: c) Minor Rock Edict I
Explanation:
In Minor Rock Edict I, Ashoka gives a brief personal history of his association with Buddhism, mentioning he was a lay disciple (Upasaka) for over two and a half years and later drew closer to the Sangha.
60. What architectural feature typically topped an Ashokan pillar?
Correct Answer: c) An animal capital
Explanation:
Ashokan pillars were invariably topped with a meticulously carved animal capital, such as a lion, bull, or elephant, sitting on an inverted lotus or bell-shaped base.
61. The Rampurva Bull Capital, known for its masterful sculpting, is an example of Ashokan art. It currently resides in:
Correct Answer: c) Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi
Explanation:
The magnificent Rampurva Bull Capital is currently placed at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence) in New Delhi.
62. What is the historical significance of the 'Yerragudi' rock edict?
Correct Answer: b) It exhibits Boustrophedon writing style in some lines.
Explanation:
The Yerragudi minor rock edict (in Andhra Pradesh) is unique because parts of it are written in boustrophedon style (lines written in alternating directions, right-to-left then left-to-right).
63. Which of Ashoka's rock edicts mentions the 'Antas' or borderers?
Correct Answer: a) Major Rock Edict II
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict II refers to the 'Antas' (unconquered borderers) in the south (Cholas, Pandyas, etc.) and the Hellenistic kings in the west.
64. Which of Ashoka's edicts is considered an 'index' to the rest of the rock edicts, stating why they were written?
Correct Answer: d) Major Rock Edict XIV
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XIV serves as an epilogue. Ashoka explains that his edicts have been inscribed concisely, at medium length, or fully, depending on the context, so people may act upon them.
65. Ashoka’s title 'Piyadasi' translates roughly to:
Correct Answer: b) One who looks upon the world with compassion/affection
Explanation:
Piyadasi (Priyadarshi in Sanskrit) literally means 'one who looks with kind regard' or 'one who looks on with affection'.
66. Which Ashokan Pillar bears inscriptions of three different emperors from different eras?
Correct Answer: b) Allahabad-Kosambi Pillar
Explanation:
The Allahabad pillar is remarkable as it contains the edicts of Ashoka, the prashasti of Gupta emperor Samudragupta (written by Harishena), and later inscriptions by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
67. Which medieval Indian ruler was so fascinated by Ashoka's pillars that he ordered two of them to be transported to Delhi?
Correct Answer: c) Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Explanation:
Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq transported two Ashokan pillars (from Topra and Meerut) to Delhi and erected them in his new capital, Firozabad.
68. The concept of 'Ahimsa' promoted by Ashoka meant:
Correct Answer: b) Non-injury to living beings and banning of animal sacrifice.
Explanation:
Ashoka's Ahimsa focused on non-violence toward humans and animals, notably restricting animal sacrifice and royal hunts. He did not completely disband his army or abandon the death penalty.
69. Which Sri Lankan chronicle provides extensive details about Ashoka's life, his conversion, and the dispatch of Buddhist missionaries?
Correct Answer: b) Mahavamsa
Explanation:
The Mahavamsa (and the Dipavamsa), the great chronicles of Sri Lanka, are vital historical sources detailing Ashoka's reign and his role in spreading Buddhism to the island.
70. What does Ashoka state regarding the death penalty in his edicts?
Correct Answer: b) He granted a three-day respite to prisoners sentenced to death.
Explanation:
In Pillar Edict IV, Ashoka does not abolish the death penalty but provides a three-day grace period for prisoners condemned to death, allowing their relatives to appeal for their lives or the prisoners to prepare for the afterlife.
71. The Maurya administration under Ashoka included officials called 'Pradesikas'. What was their primary role?
Correct Answer: b) Provincial administrators and revenue collectors
Explanation:
Pradesikas were high-level provincial officials responsible for revenue collection, maintaining law and order, and, under Ashoka, undertaking five-yearly tours to inspect and propagate Dhamma.
72. Which text refers to Ashoka as 'Chandashoka' (Ashoka the Fierce) before his conversion to Buddhism?
Correct Answer: b) Ashokavadana
Explanation:
The Ashokavadana portrays Ashoka in his early years as a cruel and tyrannical ruler ('Chandashoka'), a narrative device designed to highlight the profound transformative power of his later conversion to Buddhism ('Dhammashoka').
73. Ashoka's inscriptions are generally classified into how many main categories?
Correct Answer: d) Five (Adding Cave Inscriptions)
Explanation:
Ashokan inscriptions are broadly classified into Major Rock Edicts, Minor Rock Edicts, Major Pillar Edicts, Minor Pillar Edicts, and Cave Inscriptions.
74. In which state of modern India is the famous Dhauli rock edict located?
Correct Answer: c) Odisha
Explanation:
The Dhauli Major Rock Edict is located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha. It is one of the sites where the Special Kalinga Edicts replace Edicts XI, XII, and XIII.
75. Why did Ashoka omit Major Rock Edict XIII (describing the Kalinga war) at Dhauli and Jaugada in Kalinga?
Correct Answer: b) To avoid reopening the psychological wounds of the conquered Kalinga people.
Explanation:
Ashoka deliberately replaced Edicts 11, 12, and 13 (which graphically detailed the war and conquest) with two Separate Rock Edicts at Dhauli and Jaugada to avoid alienating the newly conquered people and to reassure them of his paternal care.
76. Which Ashokan edict warns the forest tribes (Atavikas) of his power, despite his commitment to non-violence?
Correct Answer: b) Major Rock Edict XIII
Explanation:
In Major Rock Edict XIII, while expressing remorse for the Kalinga war, Ashoka issues a stern warning to the forest-dwelling tribes (Atavikas), urging them to reform or face punishment, showing his pragmatic approach to statecraft.
77. What is the meaning of the term 'Samaja' which Ashoka restricted in Major Rock Edict I?
Correct Answer: b) A festive gathering involving feasting and animal slaughter
Explanation:
In Edict I, Ashoka objected to certain 'Samajas'—merrymaking festivals that involved significant animal sacrifice, meat consumption, and activities he deemed unwholesome for Dhamma.
78. Ashoka’s grandson, who succeeded him and also patronized the Ajivikas, was:
Correct Answer: a) Dasharatha
Explanation:
Dasharatha Maurya succeeded Ashoka. Following his grandfather's policy of religious tolerance, he also dedicated caves in the Nagarjuni Hills to the Ajivikas.
79. Who was the last ruler of the Mauryan Empire, who was assassinated by his own commander-in-chief?
Correct Answer: d) Brihadratha
Explanation:
Brihadratha was the final Mauryan emperor. He was assassinated in 185 BCE during a military parade by his Brahmin general, Pushyamitra Shunga, who then founded the Shunga dynasty.
80. How did Ashoka's policy of 'Dhammavijaya' fundamentally alter Mauryan foreign policy?
Correct Answer: b) It replaced military campaigns against neighbors with cultural and moral missions.
Explanation:
Dhammavijaya (conquest by piety) replaced military expansion. Instead of sending armies, Ashoka sent Dhamma emissaries to neighboring kingdoms in India and Hellenistic states.
81. Which modern country was known as 'Tambapanni' in Ashoka's edicts?
Correct Answer: b) Sri Lanka
Explanation:
In his inscriptions (e.g., Major Rock Edict II and XIII), Ashoka refers to Sri Lanka as 'Tambapanni' (Tamraparni), to which he sent his Dhamma missionaries.
82. Who was the Greek ambassador in the court of Bindusara, Ashoka’s father?
Correct Answer: b) Deimachus
Explanation:
Deimachus of Plataea was a Greek ambassador sent by Antiochus I of the Seleucid Empire to the court of Bindusara, maintaining the diplomatic relations established during Chandragupta's reign.
83. Which of Ashoka's edicts is considered the longest?
Correct Answer: b) Major Rock Edict XIII
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XIII is the longest of Ashoka's edicts. It comprehensively details the Kalinga War, his remorse, his adoption of Dhamma, and lists foreign kings who received his emissaries.
84. Which Ashokan edict explicitly commands the officers (Yuktas) to record the expenses and revenues of the state?
Correct Answer: a) Major Rock Edict III
Explanation:
In Major Rock Edict III, Ashoka instructs the Yuktas (subordinate officers) to record the empire's revenues and expenditures, acting under the instructions of the higher council.
85. Which Mauryan official mentioned in Ashoka's edicts was responsible for women's welfare?
Correct Answer: b) Stri-Adhyaksha Mahamatra
Explanation:
Ashoka appointed specialized officials known as 'Stri-Adhyaksha Mahamatras' or 'Ithijhika Mahamatras' (Superintendents of Women) to look after the welfare and moral conduct of women.
86. Ashoka's edicts emphasize the concept of 'Dhammadana'. How is it different from ordinary charity?
Correct Answer: b) It involves sharing the ethical teachings of Dhamma with others.
Explanation:
Ashoka defined 'Dhammadana' not as material charity, but as the sharing of ethical principles, good counsel, and moral instruction with relatives, friends, and the public.
87. Where is the only Ashokan edict located that contains a carving of an elephant along with the inscription, labeled 'Gajatame'?
Correct Answer: a) Kalsi
Explanation:
At Kalsi (Uttarakhand), an outline of an elephant is carved below the edicts with the Brahmi label 'Gajatame' (the most excellent elephant), symbolizing the Buddha (who supposedly entered his mother's womb as a white elephant).
88. In the context of Mauryan administration under Ashoka, what was a 'Yukta'?
Correct Answer: b) A subordinate revenue officer or clerk
Explanation:
Yuktas were subordinate officials primarily engaged in secretarial work and revenue collection, working under the Rajukas and Pradesikas.
89. Which Buddhist sect is often associated with the Third Buddhist Council held during Ashoka's reign?
Correct Answer: c) Theravada (Vibhajjavada)
Explanation:
The Third Council under Ashoka was dominated by the Vibhajjavada school, which is considered the precursor to the modern Theravada tradition of Buddhism.
90. Which Greek historian and ambassador wrote the 'Indica', providing a description of Mauryan administration, albeit during Chandragupta's reign?
Correct Answer: c) Megasthenes
Explanation:
Megasthenes was the Greek ambassador to Chandragupta Maurya's court. His work 'Indica' remains one of the most vital contemporary sources for understanding the administrative structure Ashoka inherited.
91. How did Ashoka address the issue of the harsh justice system he inherited?
Correct Answer: c) He mandated uniformity in legal procedure and punishments across the empire.
Explanation:
In Pillar Edict IV, Ashoka establishes 'Dandasamata' (uniformity of punishment) and 'Vyavaharasamata' (uniformity of legal procedure) to ensure fair justice throughout his vast empire.
92. Which of Ashoka’s Minor Rock Edicts is uniquely known to have been inscribed on a natural rock resembling a sleeping elephant?
Correct Answer: b) Dhauli
Explanation:
At Dhauli (Odisha), the rock containing the edicts is sculpted at the top into the forepart of an elephant emerging from the stone, a masterful piece of early Mauryan art.
93. According to Major Rock Edict X, what did Ashoka consider to be the true measure of glory?
Correct Answer: c) The moral elevation of his people through Dhamma
Explanation:
In Major Rock Edict X, Ashoka explicitly denounces traditional fame and glory, stating that a king's true glory lies only in his subjects following the path of Dhamma.
94. Who was Ashoka's brother whom he allegedly defeated to secure the Mauryan throne?
Correct Answer: a) Susima
Explanation:
According to Buddhist legends, Ashoka fought a fierce war of succession against his half-brothers, principally defeating his eldest half-brother, Susima, to capture the throne.
95. How many years after his coronation did Ashoka conquer Kalinga?
Correct Answer: b) Eight years
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XIII clearly states that Ashoka conquered Kalinga eight years after his coronation.
96. According to the legends in the Ashokavadana, what was Ashoka's physical appearance described as?
Correct Answer: b) Ugly with rough skin
Explanation:
Buddhist texts like the Ashokavadana mention that Ashoka was physically unattractive and had rough skin, which initially made him unfavored by his father, Bindusara.
97. Ashoka's inscriptions use the phrase 'Devanampiya'. Which later Sri Lankan king adopted this same title, showing Ashoka's cultural influence?
Correct Answer: c) Devanampiya Tissa
Explanation:
King Tissa of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka adopted the title 'Devanampiya' (Beloved of the Gods) in admiration of Ashoka, reflecting the deep Mauryan cultural and religious influence on the island.
98. Which of these Ashokan edict sites is located in modern-day Afghanistan?
Correct Answer: c) Kandahar
Explanation:
The Kandahar edict (bilingual rock inscription in Greek and Aramaic) is located in southern Afghanistan, demonstrating the vast northwestern extent of the Mauryan empire.
99. Ashoka’s Pillar Edicts were primarily erected in the _______ part of his empire.
Correct Answer: c) Gangetic plains (Northern and Central)
Explanation:
The majestic stone Pillar Edicts were predominantly erected in the Gangetic plains, in regions like modern-day Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana.
100. What is the subject of Major Rock Edict V?
Correct Answer: b) Appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict V records the creation of the post of 'Dhamma Mahamatras' (Ministers of Dhamma) in Ashoka's 14th regnal year to promote morality and welfare.
101. In addition to humans, Ashoka provided medical care for animals. He also mentions planting what for the comfort of travelers and animals?
Correct Answer: b) Banyan trees and digging wells
Explanation:
In Pillar Edict VII, Ashoka proudly lists his public works, including planting Banyan trees for shade, creating mango groves, and digging wells at regular intervals along the roads.
102. Which text claims that Ashoka built the city of Srinagar in Kashmir?
Correct Answer: a) Rajatarangini
Explanation:
Kalhana's 'Rajatarangini', a 12th-century chronicle of the kings of Kashmir, credits Emperor Ashoka with the founding of the city of Srinagari (modern Srinagar).
103. Ashoka sent a Dhamma mission to the Hellenistic king 'Maka' or 'Magas'. Where did Magas rule?
Correct Answer: d) Cyrene (North Africa)
Explanation:
Major Rock Edict XIII mentions 'Maka', who has been identified as Magas, the Greek king of Cyrene in present-day Libya (North Africa).
104. Which of Ashoka’s Minor Rock Edicts was discovered by a British engineer in 1915, conclusively linking the titles 'Devanampiya Piyadasi' to Ashoka?
Correct Answer: a) Maski Edict
Explanation:
Discovered by C. Beadon in 1915, the Maski inscription in Karnataka explicitly uses the phrase 'Devanampiya Asoka', solving the long-standing mystery of who 'Piyadasi' was.
