Rajput states MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Rajput states - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is option 2) i.e. Dharmapala.

• Vikramshila is an ancient site located 40 km away from the Bhagalpur city of Bihar.
• The small town is famous for housing Vikramshila University, which was built under the guidance of Dharmapala, a Pala king of 8th century AD.
• Situated on top of the hills along the banks of river Ganges, the university became a learning center of Tantric Buddhism.
• Over the years, Vikramshila became one of the most popular Buddhist destinations in India and a major tourist spot in Bihar.

The correct answer is - Rajput

Key Points

• Ragamala paintings are a significant part of Indian art tradition, representing a fusion of music and visual art.
• These paintings are primarily associated with the Rajput style of the 17th and 18th centuries, known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
• The Rajput style of art flourished in the princely states of Rajasthan, and these paintings often depicted themes of love, devotion, and nature.
• Each Ragamala painting corresponds to a specific raga (melodic mode) in Indian classical music and portrays the mood or essence of that raga through visual storytelling.
• Key features of the Rajput style include:
  • Use of bold, vibrant colors.
  • Depiction of figures in profile with expressive facial features.
  • Extensive use of natural landscapes as backgrounds.

Additional Information

• Other styles of Indian art that are sometimes confused with the Rajput style:
  • Deccan style: Originating in the Deccan plateau, this style emphasizes intricate patterns, Persian influence, and use of gold leaf in paintings.
  • Kangra style: Known for its association with the Pahari region, this style focuses on soft, naturalistic depictions, particularly romantic themes from Hindu mythology.
  • Pahari style: Encompasses miniature paintings from the Himalayan region, characterized by delicate brushwork and lyrical themes.
• Historical context of Rajput art:
  • The Rajput kingdoms were patrons of art and culture, resulting in the flourishing of miniature paintings during their rule.
  • The themes often reflected the rulers' devotion to Hindu deities like Krishna and Shiva, as well as their admiration for nature.
• Role of Ragamala paintings:
  • These paintings served as a visual representation of the ragas, enabling viewers to experience the emotional depth of the music.
  • They also played a significant role in the cultural and artistic heritage of medieval India, blending music, poetry, and painting.

The correct answer is Maldeo.

Key Points

• Rao Maldeo became the ruler of Marwar on 5th June 1531 after the death of his father Rao Ganga.
• He was one of the most prominent rulers of the Rathore dynasty in Marwar (present-day Jodhpur, Rajasthan).
• Rao Maldeo is known for his administrative and military capabilities, which helped expand and strengthen the Marwar kingdom.
• Under his reign, Marwar successfully resisted several invasions, including an attempted conquest by Sher Shah Suri.
• His rule is regarded as a period of prosperity and stability for the region.

Additional Information

• Rao Ganga:
  • Rao Ganga was the father of Maldeo and the previous ruler of Marwar.
  • He played a key role in consolidating the Rathore dynasty in Marwar before his death in 1531.
• Sher Shah Suri and Marwar:
  • During Maldeo's reign, Sher Shah Suri attempted to invade Marwar in 1544.
  • Though Sher Shah ultimately succeeded in capturing some parts, he is believed to have remarked that "he nearly lost the kingdom of India for a handful of millet," referring to the stiff resistance by Maldeo's forces.
• Rathore Dynasty:
  • The Rathore dynasty ruled Marwar and is known for its rich cultural and historical legacy.
  • They played a significant role in shaping the medieval history of Rajasthan.
• Marwar:
  • Marwar, meaning "region of death," is a historical region located in present-day Rajasthan, India.
  • It was known for its arid climate and the resilience of its rulers and people.

The correct answer is Kishangarh.

Key Points

• Sawant Singh was the ruler of the princely state of Kishangarh in Rajasthan during the 18th century.
• He was a renowned patron of art and literature, particularly miniature painting.
• Sawant Singh is famously associated with the Kishangarh style of painting, which is characterized by its refined and poetic aesthetics.
• The celebrated painting of "Bani Thani", often referred to as the "Mona Lisa of India," was created during his reign and symbolizes the Kishangarh art style.
• Sawant Singh was also a devout follower of Krishna and composed devotional poetry under the pseudonym "Nagari Das."

Additional Information

• Kishangarh Style of Painting:
  • The Kishangarh style is a prominent school of Rajasthani miniature painting.
  • It is known for its elongated features, graceful postures, and delicate use of colors.
  • The paintings often depict themes of Radha and Krishna with a spiritual and romantic undertone.
• Bani Thani:
  • Bani Thani is an iconic painting created by Nihal Chand, a court artist of Kishangarh.
  • This painting features a woman with exaggerated features like almond-shaped eyes and a serene expression, embodying idealized beauty.
  • It is considered a masterpiece of Kishangarh miniature art.
• Devotion to Krishna:
  • Sawant Singh's devotion to Lord Krishna heavily influenced his patronage of art and literature.
  • He composed several devotional poems and songs under the name "Nagari Das."
  • His spiritual inclinations helped shape the themes and imagery of Kishangarh art.
• Rajasthani Miniature Art:
  • Rajasthani miniature paintings flourished in the royal courts of Rajasthan.
  • They are known for their vibrant colors, intricate details, and depiction of royal life and religious themes.
  • Different regions, such as Kishangarh, Mewar, and Bundi, developed distinct styles within this tradition.

The correct answer is Jodhpur.

Key Points

• Krishna Kumari was a princess of the Marwar region, Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
• Her marriage controversy is one of the most famous events in Rajputana history that led to significant political unrest among Rajput clans.
• Several prominent Rajput rulers, including those of Jaipur and Mewar, competed for her hand in marriage, leading to conflicts and alliances.
• To end the turmoil, she was reportedly poisoned to avoid further bloodshed and political instability in the region.
• The incident symbolizes the complex interplay of politics, alliances, and honor in Rajputana during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Additional Information

• Rajputana and its political significance:
  • Rajputana refers to the region now known as Rajasthan, historically ruled by Rajput clans.
  • Rajputs were known for their valor, strong sense of honor, and frequent internecine conflicts.
  • The marriage alliances among Rajput clans often served as tools for political consolidation or rivalry.
• Marwar region (Jodhpur):
  • Marwar, with its capital in Jodhpur, was one of the largest princely states in Rajputana.
  • The rulers of Marwar played a key role in regional politics, often allying with or opposing neighboring Rajput states.
• Rajput honor and customs:
  • Rajputs followed strict codes of honor, which influenced their decisions in matters of war, politics, and personal relationships.
  • Instances like Krishna Kumari's poisoning reflect the extreme measures taken to preserve honor and prevent widespread conflict.
• Historical backdrop:
  • The incident occurred during a period of decline in Rajput power, coinciding with the increasing influence of the British in India.
  • Such conflicts highlighted the vulnerability of Rajput states during this transitional phase in Indian history.

The correct answer is Chandela Dynasty.

Key Points

• Chandel Kings built the Khajuraho temples.
• The temples at Khajuraho belong to two different religions Hinduism and Jainism.
• Chandella dynasty ruled the region in the 10th and 11th centuries CE.
• Most Khajuraho temples were built between 885 AD and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty.

Additional Information 

• The Chandelas were originally vassals of the Gurjara-Pratiharas.
• Nannuka was the founder of the Chandela dynasty of India. He ruled in the Jejakabhukti region (Bundelkhand in present-day Madhya Pradesh). 

Important Points

• Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty :
  • ​The Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty was an imperial power that ruled western India from the mid-8th century to the 11th century. They ruled Rajasthan and Gujrat region. 
  • Harishchandra founded the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. 
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
  • The Rashtrakuta Empire of Manyakheta was founded by Dantidurga (reigned 735-756 CE), also known as Dantivarman II.
  • Gulbarga was his capital in Karnataka.
• Pala Dynasty:
  • ​Gopala was the first ruler of the Pala Dynasty.
  • Pala Dynasty was originated in the region of Bengal during the Late Classical Period of the Indian historical era.

The correct answer is Rana Kumbha.

Key Points

• Rana Kumbha defeated Mahmud Khilji and erected the tower of victory (Vijay Stambha) in Chittorgarh.
• Situated in Chittor Fort of Chittorgarh or Vijay Stambh (1440-48) was built by Maharana Kumbha (King of Mewar).
• It is representative of victory because Maharana Kumbha defeated Mahmood Khilji in 1437.
• Its architect was Rao Jaita.
• It is also called Kriti Stambha/Kiriti Stambha or Vishnu Stambha.
• Mahmood Khilji had a combined army of Gujarat & Malwa which he had used in the Sarangpur war.
• The statue is the symbol of the Rajasthan Police & Secondary Education Board.

Additional Information

• Rana Kumbha achievements
  • Rana Kumbha defeated Sultan Mehmood Khilji​ of Malwa.
  • According to inscriptions, he brought Mehmood Khilji as a prisoner.
  • He kept him in prison for six months and sent him back to his Kingdom.
  • Later After making military preparations, Mehmood Khilji invaded Mewar.
  • He destroyed the temple at Kumbhalgarh but failed to conquer Mewar.

The correct answer is Marathas and ​Rajputs.

• Battle of Mandsaur took place in India between Marathas, commanded by Malharrao Holkar, and Jaisingh of Rajputs of Amber.
• Jaisingh was defeated in February 1733.
• Malhar Rao Holkar then conquered Bundelkhand and Bundi.

Key Points

• In 1732, Jai Singh was appointed the governor of Malwa.
  • At the beginning of 1733, Malhar Rao Holkar and Ranoji Shinde managed to encircle Jai Singh at Mandsor in Malwa.
  • Maratha forces cut off ‘grain and water supply’ to Jai Singh’s camp, forcing him to negotiate peace and agree to Maratha demands.
  • He was compelled to pay 6 lacs in cash and promised to cede 38 Paraganas in lieu of Chauth.
  • Once Malwa came under Maratha domination, Jai Singh failed to control Peshwa’s territorial ambitions further North. 

Additional Information

• The Maratha victory at the Battle of Mandsaur had the following consequences:
  • Scindias and Holkars were emboldened to renew their attack on Rajasthan.
  • Kota and Bundi were made the next targets in the same year by the Marathas. 

The correct answer is Tomara Rajputs.

Key Points

• The Tomara Rajputs, who were vanquished by the Chauhans (also known as Chahamanas) of Ajmer in the middle of the twelfth century, established Delhi as the capital of a kingdom.
• Delhi grew in importance as a commercial centre during the Tomaras and Chauhans.
• The city was home to many wealthy Jaina merchants who built multiple temples.
• The Dehliwal coins, which were made here, were widely circulated.
• The creation of the Delhi Sultanate in the early thirteenth century began the transition of Delhi into a city that governed broad swaths of the subcontinent.

Important Points

• The Chauhans were the feudatories of the Gurjar-Pratiharas, who helped Nagabhatta I defeat and safeguard the boundaries from Arab invasions during the Battle of Rajasthan.
• Ajayaraj Chauhan, the Chauhan king of Sakambhari, founded the city of Ajayameru, which later became known as Ajmer.
• The Slave dynasty's third and greatest Delhi sultan was Iltutmish. Iltutmish was sold into slavery, but he married the daughter of his master, Qutub ud-din Aibak, in 1211.
• Between 1290 to 1320, the Khilji dynasty governed the Delhi Sultanate, which included significant swaths of the Indian subcontinent. 

The correct answer is Prithviraja III .

Key Points

•  Prithviraja III
  • Prithviraja III was the best-known Chahamana ruler.
  • From 1177 to 1192 CE, Prithviraja III, sometimes referred to as Prithviraj Chauhan or Rai Pithora, ruled Sapadalaksha.
  • He belonged to the Chauhan (Chahamana) dynasty, and his capital was Ajmer in modern-day Rajasthan. In 1177 CE, when Prithviraj ascended the throne as a boy, he inherited a kingdom that ran from Thanesar in the north to Jahazpur (Mewar) in the south.
  • He sought to enlarge this realm by engaging in military operations against nearby countries, most notably by defeating the Chandelas.

Additional Information

•  In 1191 AD, Prithviraj oversaw a coalition of Rajput princes that routed Muhammad Ghori's Ghurid army near Taraori.
• However, Ghori reappeared with a force of mounted Turkish archers in 1192 CE and overcame the Rajput army there. However, Prithviraj was killed in the battlefield and lost the war.
• In numerous semi-legendary texts, most notably the Prithviraj Raso, his defeat at Tarain is described as a turning point in the Islamic conquest of India.

The correct answer is Maharana Pratap.

• The Battle of Haldighati was a battle fought on 18 June 1576 between Maharana Pratap of Mewar, and the Mughal emperor Akbar.
• The site of the battle was a narrow mountain pass at Haldighati near Gogunda in Rajasthan.
• The forces of Maharana Pratap consisted of cavalry and archers and the Mughal emperor Akbar's forces were led by Man Singh I of Amber.
• Technically the battle was won by the Mughals but it was not a true victory because Maharana Pratap was not captured and he continued his struggle and also took back most of the lost land. 
• The name of the Maharana Pratap's horse is Chetak. Although wounded, he carried Maharana Pratap safely away from the battleground, but then died of his wounds. 
• In 1582, Maharana Pratap attacked and occupied the Mughal post at Dewair (or Dawer). This led to the automatic liquidation of all 36 Mughal military outposts in Mewar. Maharana Pratap recovered Western Mewar including Kumbhalgarh, Udaipur, and Gogunda. After recovering these areas he also built a new capital, Chavand, near modern Udaipur.
• Finally, in 1597 Mahara Pratap died due to injuries from hunting.
• Basic Information about other Kings given in option:
  • Rana Amar Singh: Amar Singh I, the Maharana of Mewar, was the eldest son and successor of Maharana Pratap of Mewar. He became the ruler of Mewar in 1597 after the death of his father Maharana Pratap. He reigned till his death on 26 January 1620. He was the 14th Rana of the Mewar dynasty of Sisodia Rajputs and His capital was Udaipur.
  • Maharaja Udai Singh: Udai Singh II was the Maharana of Mewar and the founder of the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan. He was the 12th ruler of the Mewar dynasty. He was the fourth son of Rana Sanga and Rani Karnavati. He was the father of Maharana Pratap. He reigned from 1540 to 1572.
  • Raja Mansingh: Raja Man Singh I was the Kachwaha Rajput ruler of Amer, which is presently known as Jaipur in Rajputana. Raja Mansingh was the one who led Akbar's forces in the battle of Haldighati. He was one of the nine gems in Akbar's court. He reigned from 1589 to1614.

The correct answer is Suraj Mal.

Key Points

• Maharaja Suraj Mal was born in the year 1707 in Bharatpur, Rajasthan.
  • He was the son of Badan Singh.
  • He considered “India as one nation” and fought for the integration of the nation.
  • He was also called as "the Plato of the Jat people".
  • He created Bharatpur city.
  • Under his reign, Ballabhgarh became an important trading centre.​
  • He played important role in the 3rd Battle of Panipat.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Chandelas.

Chandelas clan once ruled over Bundelkhand.

Key Points

• The Chandelas:
  • They were the rulers of Central India called Bundelkhand.
  • They were also known as the Jejakabhukti dynasty.
  • They ruled from the 9th and the 13th centuries AD.
  • Nanuka was the founder of the Chandela dynasty.
  • They were well known for the architecture during their reign.
  • They built the famous Khajuraho temples.
  • A total of 85 Hindu temples and Jain temples were also built by the Chandelas.
    • Some of the famous Hindu temples are Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshman Temple, Chaturbhuja Temple and Chitragupta Temple.
    • Famous Jain temples are Adinatha Temple and Shantinatha Temple.

Additional Information

• The Rathores were the ruler of Kannauj.
• The Paramaras were the rulers of Malwa.
• The Chauhans were the ruler of Ajmer and Delhi.

The correct answer is 1191.

Key Points

• The First Battle of Tarain was fought in 1191 between the Ghurids against the Chauhan and their allies, near Tarain.
• The Chauhan king Prithiviraj Chauhan defeated the Ghurid king Muhammad Ghori, who avenged this defeat at the Second Battle of Tarain a year later.
  • Prithviraj Chauhan was the king of the Chauhan dynasty who ruled the kingdoms of Delhi and Ajmer during 1178-1192 AD.

Additional Information

• The Second Battle of Terrain
  • The second Battle of Terrain was also fought between the Rajput Chief Prithvi Raj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori in 1192 AD which laid the foundation of Muslim rule in India.
  • In the second Battle of Terrain, the army of Muhammad Ghori had attacked the army of Prithvi Raj Chauhan in the wee hours(very late at night or very early in the morning) due to which the army of Prithvi Raj Chauhan failed to defend themselves.
• The Third Battle of Panipat 
  • It took place on 14 January 1761 at Panipat between the Maratha Empire and the invading Afghan army (of Ahmad Shah Durrani), supported by four Indian allies i.e. the Rohillas under the command of Najib-ud-daulah, Afghans of the Doab region, the Amb, Suba Khan and the Nawab of Awadh, Shuja-ud-Daula.