ICSE – Grade 9 – History – Ch 02 – QA

Questions & Answers

ICSE - Grade - 9

Subject: History

Chapter - 02 - The Vedic Period

Types of Questions

MCQ

  1. The term ‘Veda’ means:
     A) Ritual
     B) Knowledge
     C) Song
     D) Hymn
     Answer: B) Knowledge


  2. The Vedic period is broadly divided into:
     A) Rig and Sama period
     B) Brahmana and Upanishad period
     C) Early and Later Vedic period
     D) Ancient and Medieval period
     Answer: C) Early and Later Vedic period


  3. The Early Vedic Period lasted from:
     A) 1200–800 BCE
     B) 1500–1000 BCE
     C) 1000–600 BCE
     D) 600–300 BCE
     Answer: B) 1500–1000 BCE


  4. Which Veda is considered the oldest?
     A) Sama Veda
     B) Atharva Veda
     C) Rig Veda
     D) Yajur Veda
     Answer: C) Rig Veda


  5. Sama Veda is mainly associated with:
     A) Battle hymns
     B) Music and chants
     C) Philosophical texts
     D) Domestic rituals
     Answer: B) Music and chants


  6. The Vedas were written in which language?
     A) Pali
     B) Prakrit
     C) Tamil
     D) Sanskrit
     Answer: D) Sanskrit


  7. The Brahmanas are:
     A) Poems
     B) Grammar books
     C) Prose texts explaining rituals
     D) War chronicles
     Answer: C) Prose texts explaining rituals


  8. The Aranyakas are also called:
     A) Forest Books
     B) Warrior Hymns
     C) Law Codes
     D) Historical Records
     Answer: A) Forest Books


  9. Upanishads are primarily:
     A) Ritual manuals
     B) Philosophical discourses
     C) Battle songs
     D) Genealogies
     Answer: B) Philosophical discourses


  10. The Upanishads mark the beginning of:
     A) Agriculture
     B) Animal sacrifice
     C) Indian philosophy
     D) Ritual worship
     Answer: C) Indian philosophy


  11. Which text discusses Atman and Brahman?
     A) Brahmanas
     B) Ramayana
     C) Upanishads
     D) Ashtadhyayi
     Answer: C) Upanishads


  12. Ayurveda is part of which category of Vedic literature?
     A) Vedangas
     B) Upavedas
     C) Darshanas
     D) Dharmashastras
     Answer: B) Upavedas


  13. The epic Ramayana was composed by:
     A) Vyasa
     B) Panini
     C) Valmiki
     D) Patanjali
     Answer: C) Valmiki


  14. The Mahabharata contains:
     A) Manusmriti
     B) Arthashastra
     C) Bhagavad Gita
     D) Yoga Sutras
     Answer: C) Bhagavad Gita


  15. The battle of Kurukshetra is described in the:
     A) Rig Veda
     B) Upanishads
     C) Ramayana
     D) Mahabharata
     Answer: D) Mahabharata


  16. Later Vedic people used tools made of:
     A) Bronze
     B) Copper
     C) Iron
     D) Stone
     Answer: C) Iron


  17. Painted Grey Ware pottery was used during:
     A) Indus Valley period
     B) Early Vedic period
     C) Later Vedic period
     D) Gupta period
     Answer: C) Later Vedic period


  18. Which settlement emerged during the Vedic period?
     A) Mohenjo-daro
     B) Pataliputra
     C) Hastinapur
     D) Taxila
     Answer: C) Hastinapur


  19. Vedic society was:
     A) Matriarchal
     B) Patriarchal
     C) Socialist
     D) Democratic
     Answer: B) Patriarchal


  20. The Vedic social order was divided into:
     A) Tribes
     B) Clans
     C) Varnas
     D) Castes
     Answer: C) Varnas


  21. The four varnas include all except:
     A) Brahmins
     B) Kshatriyas
     C) Vaishyas
     D) Dalits
     Answer: D) Dalits


  22. In the early Vedic period, the position of women was:
     A) Ignored
     B) Respected
     C) Abolished
     D) Feared
     Answer: B) Respected


  23. Which system allowed women to choose their husbands?
     A) Gurukul
     B) Ashrama
     C) Swayamvar
     D) Samaveda
     Answer: C) Swayamvar


  24. The status of women declined during the:
     A) Early Vedic period
     B) Later Vedic period
     C) Gupta period
     D) Harappan period
     Answer: B) Later Vedic period


  25. The first stage in the Ashrama system is:
     A) Grihastha
     B) Sannyasa
     C) Brahmacharya
     D) Vanaprastha
     Answer: C) Brahmacharya


  26. Education during the Vedic period was imparted through:
     A) Temples
     B) Books
     C) Shruti (oral tradition)
     D) Public schools
     Answer: C) Shruti (oral tradition)


  27. Centres of learning during Vedic times were called:
     A) Ashrams
     B) Gurukuls
     C) Pathshalas
     D) Vidyapeeths
     Answer: B) Gurukuls


  28. A unit of wealth during the Vedic period was:
     A) Gold
     B) Cow
     C) Land
     D) Silver
     Answer: B) Cow


  29. Occupations during the Vedic age included all except:
     A) Pottery
     B) Weaving
     C) Metalwork
     D) Banking
     Answer: D) Banking


  30. Nishka refers to:
     A) Coin
     B) Cow
     C) Tax
     D) Land
     Answer: A) Coin


  31. Yajnas were performed to:
     A) Amuse people
     B) Worship nature gods
     C) Feed the poor
     D) Train soldiers
     Answer: B) Worship nature gods


  32. Indra was worshipped as the god of:
     A) Sun
     B) Fire
     C) Rain and war
     D) Wealth
     Answer: C) Rain and war


  33. Agni symbolised:
     A) Fire
     B) Wind
     C) Sky
     D) Water
     Answer: A) Fire


  34. Varuna represented:
     A) Earth
     B) Sun
     C) Water
     D) Sky
     Answer: C) Water


  35. Later Vedic religion became more:
     A) Liberal
     B) Ritualistic
     C) Secular
     D) Monotheistic
     Answer: B) Ritualistic


  36. The main crop grown during the Vedic period:
     A) Rice
     B) Wheat
     C) Barley
     D) Maize
     Answer: C) Barley


  37. The father in a Vedic family had:
     A) Equal rights with mother
     B) No role
     C) Supreme authority
     D) Only ritual rights
     Answer: C) Supreme authority


  38. Vedangas were developed to:
     A) Decorate temples
     B) Understand Vedas
     C) Record wars
     D) Create trade policies
     Answer: B) Understand Vedas


  39. Darshanas are:
     A) Law codes
     B) Philosophical schools
     C) Tribal stories
     D) Cooking texts
     Answer: B) Philosophical schools


  40. Dharmashastras are:
     A) Medical texts
     B) Religious chants
     C) Law books
     D) Epics
     Answer: C) Law books


  41. Panini authored:
     A) Arthashastra
     B) Ashtadhyayi
     C) Yajur Veda
     D) Ramayana
     Answer: B) Ashtadhyayi


  42. The language of Panini’s grammar was:
     A) Pali
     B) Prakrit
     C) Sanskrit
     D) Magadhi
     Answer: C) Sanskrit


  43. Which Upaveda deals with medicine?
     A) Dhanurveda
     B) Ayurveda
     C) Arthashastra
     D) Chandogya
     Answer: B) Ayurveda


  44. The concept of four Ashramas aimed at:
     A) Economic growth
     B) Political power
     C) Spiritual discipline
     D) Military training
     Answer: C) Spiritual discipline


  45. The main form of entertainment in the Vedic period included:
     A) Theatre
     B) Television
     C) Chariot racing
     D) Acrobatics
     Answer: C) Chariot racing


  46. The Gurukul system focused on:
     A) Group reading
     B) Practical learning
     C) Oral learning
     D) Distance education
     Answer: C) Oral learning


  47. The Ganga-Yamuna Doab became prominent in which Vedic phase?
     A) Early Vedic
     B) Later Vedic
     C) Post-Mauryan
     D) Gupta
     Answer: B) Later Vedic


  48. The Aryans first settled in:
     A) Ganga plains
     B) Vindhya hills
     C) Punjab region
     D) Bengal delta
     Answer: C) Punjab region


  49. Vedic sacrifices were performed:
     A) In temples
     B) On riverbanks
     C) In open altars
     D) In caves
     Answer: C) In open altars


  50. The Vedic period laid the foundation of:
     A) Western culture
     B) Islamic traditions
     C) Indian civilisation
     D) Colonial society
     Answer: C) Indian civilisation

Fill in the Blanks

  1. The Vedic Period is named after the __________.
     Answer: Vedas


  2. The Early Vedic Period lasted from __________.
     Answer: 1500 BCE to 1000 BCE


  3. The Later Vedic Period lasted from __________.
     Answer: 1000 BCE to 600 BCE


  4. The word ‘Veda’ means __________.
     Answer: Knowledge


  5. The Vedas were composed in the __________ language.
     Answer: Sanskrit


  6. The oldest Veda is the __________.
     Answer: Rig Veda


  7. The Veda that contains chants for musical rendering is the __________.
     Answer: Sama Veda


  8. The Veda containing sacrificial formulas is the __________.
     Answer: Yajur Veda


  9. The Atharva Veda deals with __________ and charms.
     Answer: Spells


  10. The Brahmanas are prose texts explaining __________ and rituals.
     Answer: Hymns


  11. The __________ are known as Forest Books.
     Answer: Aranyakas


  12. The transitional link between the Brahmanas and Upanishads is the __________.
     Answer: Aranyakas


  13. The Upanishads are also called __________.
     Answer: Vedanta


  14. The Upanishads discuss the concepts of Atman and __________.
     Answer: Brahman


  15. The beginning of Indian philosophy is marked by the __________.
     Answer: Upanishads


  16. The auxiliary sciences to understand the Vedas are called __________.
     Answer: Vedangas


  17. The brief ritual manuals are called __________.
     Answer: Sutras


  18. Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, etc., are examples of __________.
     Answer: Upavedas


  19. The philosophical schools of thought are called __________.
     Answer: Darshanas


  20. The law books dealing with duties and rights are called __________.
     Answer: Dharmashastras


  21. The Sanskrit grammar text written by Panini is called __________.
     Answer: Ashtadhyayi


  22. The __________ provides information about the religious and social life of the Aryans.
     Answer: Vedas


  23. The two main Indian epics are the __________ and Mahabharata.
     Answer: Ramayana


  24. The Ramayana was written by __________.
     Answer: Valmiki


  25. The Mahabharata was composed by __________.
     Answer: Vyasa


  26. The __________ is a part of the Mahabharata and contains philosophical teachings.
     Answer: Bhagavad Gita


  27. The Later Vedic people used tools made of __________.
     Answer: Iron


  28. The people of the Later Vedic Period used painted grey ware and __________ pottery.
     Answer: Black and red ware


  29. The Aryans first settled in the region of __________.
     Answer: Punjab


  30. Important Later Vedic settlements included Ayodhya, Kashi, and __________.
     Answer: Hastinapur


  31. The Vedic society was __________ in nature.
     Answer: Patriarchal


  32. The basic unit of Vedic society was the __________.
     Answer: Family


  33. The system where women could choose their husbands was called __________.
     Answer: Swayamvar


  34. Women were allowed to participate in __________ rituals during the early Vedic period.
     Answer: Religious


  35. The four varnas were Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and __________.
     Answer: Shudras


  36. The varna system was originally based on __________.
     Answer: Profession


  37. The first stage of life in the Ashrama system is __________.
     Answer: Brahmacharya


  38. The householder stage of life is known as __________.
     Answer: Grihastha


  39. The last stage of life is __________.
     Answer: Sannyasa


  40. Education in the Vedic period was imparted through the __________ tradition.
     Answer: Oral


  41. Centres of learning in Vedic times were called __________.
     Answer: Gurukuls


  42. Vedic students studied subjects like grammar, logic, philosophy, and __________.
     Answer: Astronomy


  43. Food during the Vedic period included barley, wheat, milk products, and __________.
     Answer: Meat


  44. People wore cotton and __________ clothes.
     Answer: Woollen


  45. Popular amusements during the Vedic period included music, dance, and __________ racing.
     Answer: Chariot


  46. People worshipped natural forces such as Indra, Agni, Surya, and __________.
     Answer: Varuna


  47. The Aryans performed religious sacrifices called __________.
     Answer: Yajnas


  48. In the Later Vedic period, religion became more __________ and ritualistic.
     Answer: Complex


  49. The economy was primarily based on agriculture and __________ husbandry.
     Answer: Animal


  50. The Vedic period laid the foundation of Indian __________.
     Answer: Civilisation

Name the Following

  1. Name the earliest literary records of Indian culture.
     Answer: Vedas


  2. Name the two phases of the Vedic Period.
     Answer: Early Vedic Period and Later Vedic Period


  3. Name the language in which the Vedas were composed.
     Answer: Sanskrit


  4. Name the oldest Veda.
     Answer: Rig Veda


  5. Name the Veda associated with chants and music.
     Answer: Sama Veda


  6. Name the Veda that contains sacrificial formulas.
     Answer: Yajur Veda


  7. Name the Veda that deals with spells and charms.
     Answer: Atharva Veda


  8. Name the prose texts that explain Vedic hymns.
     Answer: Brahmanas


  9. Name the transitional texts between Brahmanas and Upanishads.
     Answer: Aranyakas


  10. Name the books also known as ‘Forest Books’.
     Answer: Aranyakas


  11. Name the philosophical texts called the “Vedanta.”
     Answer: Upanishads


  12. Name the philosophical ideas discussed in the Upanishads.
     Answer: Atman and Brahman


  13. Name any one auxiliary science (Vedanga).
     Answer: Phonetics / Grammar / Astronomy (Any one is correct)


  14. Name the brief ritual rule texts.
     Answer: Sutras


  15. Name the subordinate Vedas that include Ayurveda and Dhanurveda.
     Answer: Upavedas


  16. Name the philosophical schools of thought.
     Answer: Darshanas


  17. Name the law books dealing with duties and rights.
     Answer: Dharmashastras


  18. Name the grammar book written by Panini.
     Answer: Ashtadhyayi


  19. Name the epic composed by Valmiki.
     Answer: Ramayana


  20. Name the epic composed by Vyasa.
     Answer: Mahabharata


  21. Name the scripture that contains the Bhagavad Gita.
     Answer: Mahabharata


  22. Name the two great epics of India.
     Answer: Ramayana and Mahabharata


  23. Name any one settlement of the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: Hastinapur / Ayodhya / Kashi (Any one is correct)


  24. Name the metal widely used during the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: Iron


  25. Name the two types of pottery used during the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: Painted Grey Ware and Black and Red Ware


  26. Name the unit of society in Vedic civilisation.
     Answer: Family


  27. Name the head of the Vedic family.
     Answer: Father


  28. Name the system that allowed women to choose their husbands.
     Answer: Swayamvar


  29. Name the four varnas of Vedic society.
     Answer: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras


  30. Name the ashrama that represents student life.
     Answer: Brahmacharya


  31. Name the ashrama that represents householder’s life.
     Answer: Grihastha


  32. Name the ashrama that means life of renunciation.
     Answer: Sannyasa


  33. Name the ashrama that comes after householder’s life.
     Answer: Vanaprastha


  34. Name the place where students received education.
     Answer: Gurukul


  35. Name any two subjects taught in Vedic education.
     Answer: Grammar and Astronomy / Logic and Philosophy (Any two)


  36. Name any two food items consumed in Vedic times.
     Answer: Barley and Wheat / Milk and Meat (Any two)


  37. Name the types of clothes worn during the Vedic period.
     Answer: Cotton and Woollen clothes


  38. Name any two amusements during the Vedic period.
     Answer: Music and Dance / Chariot Racing and Gambling (Any two)


  39. Name the deity of rain worshipped by the Aryans.
     Answer: Indra


  40. Name the god of fire in the Vedic religion.
     Answer: Agni


  41. Name the sun god in the Vedic period.
     Answer: Surya


  42. Name the god associated with water and morality.
     Answer: Varuna


  43. Name the religious ritual important in the Vedic age.
     Answer: Yajna


  44. Name the economic base of the Vedic period.
     Answer: Agriculture and Animal Husbandry


  45. Name the animal that was considered a unit of wealth.
     Answer: Cow


  46. Name the coin mentioned in Vedic texts.
     Answer: Nishka


  47. Name two common occupations during the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: Weaving and Pottery / Carpentry and Smithy (Any two)


  48. Name any two trade items of the Vedic period.
     Answer: Horses and Spices / Cloth and Pottery (Any two)


  49. Name the tradition in which education was transmitted orally.
     Answer: Shruti tradition


  50. Name the Indian civilisation that developed from the Vedic period.
     Answer: Hindu civilisation / Indian civilisation

Answer in One Word

  1. What is the meaning of the word ‘Veda’?
     Answer: Knowledge


  2. In which language were the Vedas written?
     Answer: Sanskrit


  3. Which is the oldest Veda?
     Answer: Rigveda


  4. Which Veda deals with music and chants?
     Answer: Samaveda


  5. Which Veda contains sacrificial formulas?
     Answer: Yajurveda


  6. Which Veda deals with spells and charms?
     Answer: Atharvaveda


  7. Which text explains rituals and ceremonies?
     Answer: Brahmanas


  8. What are the ‘Forest Books’ called?
     Answer: Aranyakas


  9. Which texts are also called Vedanta?
     Answer: Upanishads


  10. Who is the soul according to the Upanishads?
     Answer: Atman


  11. What is the universal soul called in Upanishads?
     Answer: Brahman


  12. What are auxiliary Vedic sciences called?
     Answer: Vedangas


  13. What are brief ritual manuals called?
     Answer: Sutras


  14. What is the collective name for subordinate Vedas?
     Answer: Upavedas


  15. What are philosophical schools of thought called?
     Answer: Darshanas


  16. What are law books in the Vedic literature called?
     Answer: Dharmashastras


  17. Who wrote Ashtadhyayi?
     Answer: Panini


  18. Name the epic written by Valmiki.
     Answer: Ramayana


  19. Name the epic written by Vyasa.
     Answer: Mahabharata


  20. Which sacred text is part of the Mahabharata?
     Answer: Bhagavadgita


  21. What metal was widely used in the Later Vedic period?
     Answer: Iron


  22. Which region did Aryans initially settle in?
     Answer: Punjab


  23. Which type of pottery was used in Later Vedic times?
     Answer: Greyware


  24. What was the main occupation during the Vedic period?
     Answer: Agriculture


  25. What animal was considered a unit of wealth?
     Answer: Cow


  26. What was the name of the coin mentioned in Vedic texts?
     Answer: Nishka


  27. What was the basic unit of Vedic society?
     Answer: Family


  28. Who was the head of the Vedic family?
     Answer: Father


  29. What system allowed women to choose husbands?
     Answer: Swayamvar


  30. What is the first stage of life in the Ashrama system?
     Answer: Brahmacharya


  31. What is the householder stage called?
     Answer: Grihastha


  32. What is the stage of renunciation called?
     Answer: Sannyasa


  33. What were centres of education called?
     Answer: Gurukuls


  34. What tradition was education based on?
     Answer: Shruti


  35. Which crop was commonly grown in Vedic times?
     Answer: Barley


  36. What kind of clothes did Vedic people wear?
     Answer: Cotton


  37. Name one common amusement in Vedic period.
     Answer: Chariot


  38. Who was the god of rain and war?
     Answer: Indra


  39. Who was the fire god?
     Answer: Agni


  40. Who was the sun god?
     Answer: Surya


  41. Who was the god of water?
     Answer: Varuna


  42. What were the religious sacrifices called?
     Answer: Yajnas


  43. What type of society was Vedic society?
     Answer: Patriarchal


  44. What was the social classification called?
     Answer: Varna


  45. Which Varna included priests and scholars?
     Answer: Brahmins


  46. Which Varna consisted of warriors?
     Answer: Kshatriyas


  47. Which Varna included farmers and traders?
     Answer: Vaishyas


  48. Which Varna served the other three?
     Answer: Shudras


  49. What civilisation grew out of the Vedic period?
     Answer: Hindu


  50. What kind of religion developed in the Later Vedic period?
     Answer: Ritualistic

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    Ch 11 – Hydrosphere
    Ch 12 – Composition and Structure of the Atmosphere
    Ch 13 – Insolation
    Ch 14 – Atmospheric Pressure and Winds
    Ch 15 – Humidity
    Ch 16 – Pollution
    Ch 17 – Sources of Pollution
    Ch 18 – Effects of Pollution
    Ch 19 – Preventive Measures
    Ch 20 – Natural Regions of the World

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Find the Odd Man Out

  1. Indra, Agni, Surya, Panini
     Answer: Panini
     Explanation: Panini was a grammarian, others are Vedic deities.


  2. Rigveda, Samaveda, Mahabharata, Yajurveda
     Answer: Mahabharata
     Explanation: Mahabharata is an epic, others are Vedas.


  3. Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Sannyasa, Varna
     Answer: Varna
     Explanation: Varna is a social division, others are stages of life (Ashramas).


  4. Cow, Iron tools, Horses, Nishka
     Answer: Iron tools
     Explanation: Iron tools are implements, others were units of trade/wealth.


  5. Sutras, Vedangas, Upavedas, Ramayana
     Answer: Ramayana
     Explanation: Ramayana is an epic, others are allied Vedic texts.


  6. Barley, Wheat, Rice, Silver
     Answer: Silver
     Explanation: Silver is a metal, others are crops.


  7. Valmiki, Vyasa, Panini, Surya
     Answer: Surya
     Explanation: Surya is a god, others are authors/scholars.


  8. Indra, Agni, Kshatriya, Varuna
     Answer: Kshatriya
     Explanation: Kshatriya is a social class, others are deities.


  9. Gurukul, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, Sannyasa
     Answer: Gurukul
     Explanation: Gurukul is an educational institution, others are life stages.


  10. Brahmanas, Aranyakas, Upanishads, Nishka
     Answer: Nishka
     Explanation: Nishka is a coin, others are sacred texts.


  11. Weaving, Tanning, Sacrifice, Carpentry
     Answer: Sacrifice
     Explanation: Sacrifice is a religious activity, others are occupations.


  12. Ayodhya, Kashi, Hastinapur, Pataliputra
     Answer: Pataliputra
     Explanation: Pataliputra rose later; others are Vedic settlements.


  13. Shruti, Samhita, Sutras, Shudras
     Answer: Shudras
     Explanation: Shudras are a varna, others are Vedic literature.


  14. Indra, Varuna, Agni, Panini
     Answer: Panini
     Explanation: Panini was a grammarian, others are gods.


  15. Music, Dance, Chariot racing, Vedangas
     Answer: Vedangas
     Explanation: Vedangas are texts, others are forms of amusement.


  16. Swayamvar, Varnas, Sacrifice, Cow
     Answer: Swayamvar
     Explanation: Swayamvar is a marriage system, others relate to economy/society.


  17. Agriculture, Animal husbandry, Barley, Brahmacharya
     Answer: Brahmacharya
     Explanation: Brahmacharya is a life stage, others are economic activities.


  18. Indra, Agni, Surya, Sutras
     Answer: Sutras
     Explanation: Sutras are texts, others are gods.


  19. Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Vedanta
     Answer: Vedanta
     Explanation: Vedanta (Upanishads) is literature, others are varnas.


  20. Ashtadhyayi, Sutras, Samaveda, Nishka
     Answer: Nishka
     Explanation: Nishka is a coin, others are literary texts.


  21. Barley, Wheat, Gambling, Iron
     Answer: Gambling
     Explanation: Gambling is amusement, others are resources.


  22. Cow, Grain, Nishka, Indra
     Answer: Indra
     Explanation: Indra is a deity, others are economic assets.


  23. Shruti, Rigveda, Samaveda, Ramayana
     Answer: Ramayana
     Explanation: Ramayana is an epic, others are sacred oral texts.


  24. Kashi, Hastinapur, Ayodhya, Kurukshetra
     Answer: Kurukshetra
     Explanation: Kurukshetra is a battlefield, others are cities.


  25. Sannyasa, Grihastha, Brahmacharya, Vaishyas
     Answer: Vaishyas
     Explanation: Vaishyas are a varna, others are life stages.


  26. Rigveda, Samaveda, Ramayana, Yajurveda
     Answer: Ramayana
     Explanation: Ramayana is an epic, others are Vedas.


  27. Upanishads, Brahmanas, Nishka, Aranyakas
     Answer: Nishka
     Explanation: Nishka is a coin, others are scriptures.


  28. Painted Grey Ware, Black and Red Ware, Terracotta toys, Iron tools
     Answer: Terracotta toys
     Explanation: Not mentioned in Vedic context.


  29. Gurukul, Temple, Grammar, Astronomy
     Answer: Temple
     Explanation: Education was conducted in Gurukuls, not temples.


  30. Iron, Bronze, Painted Grey Ware, Agriculture
     Answer: Bronze
     Explanation: Iron was prominent, not bronze in Later Vedic period.


  31. Chariot racing, Music, Sacrifice, Dance
     Answer: Sacrifice
     Explanation: Sacrifice is religious, others are amusements.


  32. Sanskrit, Pali, Upanishads, Sutras
     Answer: Pali
     Explanation: Pali is not a Vedic language.


  33. Kshatriya, Shudra, Panini, Vaishya
     Answer: Panini
     Explanation: Panini was a grammarian, others are social classes.


  34. Ayodhya, Kashi, Pataliputra, Hastinapur
     Answer: Pataliputra
     Explanation: Developed post-Vedic era.


  35. Shruti, Vedanta, Sannyasa, Brahmanas
     Answer: Sannyasa
     Explanation: Sannyasa is a life stage, others are texts.


  36. Ramayana, Mahabharata, Yajurveda, Bhagavad Gita
     Answer: Yajurveda
     Explanation: Yajurveda is a Veda; others are epic-related.


  37. Women education, Swayamvar, Female priests, Decline of women status
     Answer: Female priests
     Explanation: Not explicitly mentioned in the chapter.


  38. Philosophy, Grammar, Astronomy, Banking
     Answer: Banking
     Explanation: Not a Vedic subject of study.


  39. Cow, Iron, Barley, Copper
     Answer: Copper
     Explanation: Iron was used, copper less emphasized in Later Vedic.


  40. Upanishads, Brahmanas, Ramayana, Panini
     Answer: Panini
     Explanation: Panini was a grammarian, others are texts.


  41. Brahmin, Kshatriya, Drona, Shudra
     Answer: Drona
     Explanation: Drona is a character, others are social classes.


  42. Valmiki, Vyasa, Indra, Panini
     Answer: Indra
     Explanation: Indra is a god, others are authors/scholars.


  43. Ritual, Philosophy, War, Sacrifice
     Answer: War
     Explanation: War is not a primary theme in Vedic religion.


  44. Grammar, Logic, Politics, Astronomy
     Answer: Politics
     Explanation: Politics was not a focus in Vedic education.


  45. Gurukul, Ashrama, Varna, Nishka
     Answer: Nishka
     Explanation: Nishka is a coin, others relate to social systems.


  46. Agni, Surya, Varuna, Vyasa
     Answer: Vyasa
     Explanation: Vyasa is an author, others are deities.


  47. Householder, Renunciation, Iron-making, Student life
     Answer: Iron-making
     Explanation: Others are stages of life.


  48. Rituals, Spells, Sacrifices, Coins
     Answer: Coins
     Explanation: Others are religious practices.


  49. Shudra, Vaishya, Nishka, Brahmin
     Answer: Nishka
     Explanation: Nishka is currency, others are varnas.


  50. Upanishads, Sutras, Shruti, Vaishyas
     Answer: Vaishyas
     Explanation: Vaishyas are a varna, others are texts/traditions.

Match the Pair

Set 1 – Match the Literary Sources

Column A

  1. Rig Veda
  2. Sama Veda
  3. Yajur Veda
  4. Atharva Veda
  5. Upanishads

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Deals with spells and charms
 b. Hymns in praise of gods
 c. Discusses Atman and Brahman
 d. Musical chants
 e. Sacrificial formulas

Correct Answers:
 1 → b
 2 → d
 3 → e
 4 → a
 5 → c



Set 2 – Match the Authors and Works

Column A

  1. Valmiki
  2. Vyasa
  3. Panini
  4. Composer of Rig Veda
  5. Rishi Yajnavalkya

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Mahabharata
 b. Ramayana
 c. Ashtadhyayi
 d. No single author
 e. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

Correct Answers:
 1 → b
 2 → a
 3 → c
 4 → d
 5 → e



Set 3 – Match the Epics and Features

Column A

  1. Ramayana
  2. Mahabharata
  3. Bhagavad Gita
  4. Kurukshetra
  5. Swayamvar

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Practice where women chose husbands
 b. Part of Mahabharata
 c. Composed by Valmiki
 d. Battle described in Mahabharata
 e. Composed by Vyasa

Correct Answers:
 1 → c
 2 → e
 3 → b
 4 → d
 5 → a



Set 4 – Match the Deities and Domains

Column A

  1. Indra
  2. Agni
  3. Surya
  4. Varuna
  5. Vayu

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. God of fire
 b. God of sun
 c. God of rain and war
 d. God of wind
 e. God of cosmic order and water

Correct Answers:
 1 → c
 2 → a
 3 → b
 4 → e
 5 → d



Set 5 – Match the Allied Texts

Column A

  1. Vedangas
  2. Upavedas
  3. Sutras
  4. Darshanas
  5. Dharmashastras

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Law books
 b. Rules on rituals
 c. Auxiliary sciences
 d. Philosophical schools
 e. Ayurveda and Dhanurveda

Correct Answers:
 1 → c
 2 → e
 3 → b
 4 → d
 5 → a



Set 6 – Match Ashramas and Stages of Life

Column A

  1. Brahmacharya
  2. Grihastha
  3. Vanaprastha
  4. Sannyasa
  5. Ashrama

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Householder stage
 b. Retirement stage
 c. Concept of four stages of life
 d. Renunciation stage
 e. Student stage

Correct Answers:
 1 → e
 2 → a
 3 → b
 4 → d
 5 → c



Set 7 – Match Key Settlements

Column A

  1. Hastinapur
  2. Ayodhya
  3. Kashi
  4. Ganga-Yamuna Doab
  5. Punjab

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Later Vedic expansion
 b. Early Aryan settlement region
 c. Vedic city on Ganga
 d. Capital in Mahabharata
 e. Associated with Lord Rama

Correct Answers:
 1 → d
 2 → e
 3 → c
 4 → a
 5 → b



Set 8 – Match Economic Aspects

Column A

  1. Barley
  2. Cow
  3. Nishka
  4. Iron tools
  5. Weaving

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Used for agriculture
 b. Used as currency
 c. Important occupation
 d. Used for clearing forests
 e. Unit of wealth

Correct Answers:
 1 → a
 2 → e
 3 → b
 4 → d
 5 → c



Set 9 – Match Education and Institutions

Column A

  1. Gurukul
  2. Shruti
  3. Grammar
  4. Astronomy
  5. Logic

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Oral tradition
 b. Subject taught in Vedic period
 c. Centre of learning
 d. Part of Vedic syllabus
 e. Study of celestial objects

Correct Answers:
 1 → c
 2 → a
 3 → b
 4 → e
 5 → d



Set 10 – Match Women and Society

Column A

  1. Early Vedic women
  2. Later Vedic women
  3. Swayamvar
  4. Religious participation
  5. Female education

Column B (Shuffled)
 a. Right declined
 b. Marriage choice
 c. Allowed in early period
 d. Encouraged in early Vedic society
 e. Status was high

Correct Answers:
 1 → e
 2 → a
 3 → b
 4 → c
 5 → d

Short Answer Questions  

  1. What does the word ‘Veda’ mean?
     Answer: The word ‘Veda’ means knowledge.


  2. In which language were the Vedas composed?
     Answer: The Vedas were composed in Sanskrit.


  3. Which is the oldest among the four Vedas?
     Answer: The Rig Veda is the oldest Veda.


  4. What does the Sama Veda contain?
     Answer: The Sama Veda contains chants for musical rendering.


  5. What is the main content of the Yajur Veda?
     Answer: The Yajur Veda contains sacrificial formulas.


  6. What kind of content is found in the Atharva Veda?
     Answer: The Atharva Veda deals with spells, charms, and practical life.


  7. What are the Brahmanas?
     Answer: The Brahmanas are prose texts explaining the meaning of Vedic hymns and rituals.


  8. What are the Aranyakas known as?
     Answer: The Aranyakas are known as ‘Forest Books’.


  9. What philosophical ideas are discussed in the Upanishads?
     Answer: The Upanishads discuss the ideas of Atman and Brahman.


  10. What are Vedangas?
     Answer: Vedangas are six auxiliary sciences that help understand the Vedas.


  11. What are the Sutras?
     Answer: Sutras are brief aphorisms about rituals and domestic duties.


  12. Name any two Upavedas.
     Answer: Ayurveda and Dhanurveda are two examples of Upavedas.


  13. What are Darshanas?
     Answer: Darshanas are philosophical schools of thought.


  14. What are Dharmashastras?
     Answer: Dharmashastras are law books dealing with duties and rights.


  15. Who wrote the Ashtadhyayi?
     Answer: Panini wrote the Ashtadhyayi.


  16. Who composed the Ramayana?
     Answer: The Ramayana was composed by Valmiki.


  17. Who composed the Mahabharata?
     Answer: The Mahabharata was composed by Vyasa.


  18. Which scripture is a part of the Mahabharata?
     Answer: The Bhagavad Gita is part of the Mahabharata.


  19. Name two important epics of the Vedic period.
     Answer: Ramayana and Mahabharata are the two important epics.


  20. What metal was widely used in the Later Vedic period?
     Answer: Iron was widely used in the Later Vedic period.


  21. Name any two types of pottery used during the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: Painted Grey Ware and Black and Red Ware were used.


  22. Where did the Aryans initially settle?
     Answer: The Aryans initially settled in the Punjab region.


  23. Name any two Vedic settlements.
     Answer: Ayodhya and Hastinapur were two Vedic settlements.


  24. What was the basic unit of Vedic society?
     Answer: The family was the basic unit of Vedic society.


  25. Who was the head of the Vedic family?
     Answer: The father was the head of the Vedic family.


  26. What was the status of women in the Early Vedic period?
     Answer: Women were respected and allowed to participate in rituals.


  27. What was Swayamvar?
     Answer: Swayamvar was the system where a woman could choose her husband.


  28. What happened to the status of women in the Later Vedic period?
     Answer: The status of women declined in the Later Vedic period.


  29. How many Varnas were there in Vedic society?
     Answer: There were four Varnas in Vedic society.


  30. Name the four Varnas.
     Answer: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.


  31. On what basis was the Varna system initially founded?
     Answer: The Varna system was initially based on profession.


  32. Name the first stage in the Ashrama system.
     Answer: Brahmacharya was the first stage.


  33. What was the final stage in the Ashrama system?
     Answer: Sannyasa was the final stage.


  34. Where was education imparted during the Vedic period?
     Answer: Education was imparted in Gurukuls.


  35. What was the method of education in the Vedic period?
     Answer: Education was based on the oral Shruti tradition.


  36. Name any two subjects taught in the Vedic period.
     Answer: Grammar and Astronomy were taught.


  37. What was the staple food grain during the Vedic period?
     Answer: Barley was the staple food grain.


  38. What kind of clothes did Vedic people wear?
     Answer: Vedic people wore cotton and woollen clothes.


  39. Name any two amusements during the Vedic period.
     Answer: Music and chariot racing were common amusements.


  40. Name any two Vedic deities.
     Answer: Indra and Agni were Vedic deities.


  41. Who was the Vedic god of rain and war?
     Answer: Indra was the god of rain and war.


  42. Who was the god of fire in the Vedic period?
     Answer: Agni was the god of fire.


  43. What were yajnas?
     Answer: Yajnas were religious sacrifices offered to the gods.


  44. Who was worshipped as the sun god?
     Answer: Surya was worshipped as the sun god.


  45. Who was Varuna?
     Answer: Varuna was the god of water and cosmic order.


  46. What was the main occupation during the Vedic period?
     Answer: Agriculture was the main occupation.


  47. What was considered a unit of wealth in the Vedic period?
     Answer: The cow was considered a unit of wealth.


  48. What is Nishka?
     Answer: Nishka was a type of coin used during the Vedic period.


  49. Name any two occupations during the Vedic period.
     Answer: Weaving and carpentry were common occupations.


  50. What did the Vedic period lay the foundation of?
     Answer: The Vedic period laid the foundation of Indian civilisation.

Puzzles

  1. I am the oldest religious book in Sanskrit, full of hymns to gods. What am I?
     Answer: Rig Veda


  2. I carry fire to the gods in every Vedic ritual. Who am I?
     Answer: Agni


  3. My name means “knowledge”, and I come in four forms. Who am I?
     Answer: Veda


  4. I am a metal coin mentioned in Later Vedic texts. What am I?
     Answer: Nishka


  5. I am the epic that tells the story of Rama’s exile. Which one am I?
     Answer: Ramayana


  6. I explore the idea of Atman and Brahman. What texts am I?
     Answer: Upanishads


  7. You hear me but never write me. I am Vedic knowledge passed orally. What am I?
     Answer: Shruti


  8. I am the Veda used to sing hymns in rituals. What am I?
     Answer: Sama Veda


  9. I am the forest book between Brahmanas and Upanishads. Who am I?
     Answer: Aranyakas


  10. I was composed by Vyasa and include the Bhagavad Gita. What am I?
     Answer: Mahabharata


  11. I divide life into four stages. What system am I?
     Answer: Ashrama system


  12. I am the occupation of the majority in Later Vedic life. What am I?
     Answer: Agriculture


  13. I represent rain and war and was the chief deity in Rig Veda. Who am I?
     Answer: Indra


  14. I was the most common schooling system in Vedic times. What am I?
     Answer: Gurukul


  15. I am a painted type of pottery used in the Later Vedic period. What am I?
     Answer: Painted Grey Ware


  16. I am the name for “law books” in Vedic literature. Who am I?
     Answer: Dharmashastras


  17. I reflect the philosophical schools of thought. What am I?
     Answer: Darshanas


  18. I am a grammar book by Panini. What is my name?
     Answer: Ashtadhyayi


  19. I am the god of cosmic order and water. Who am I?
     Answer: Varuna


  20. I represent the sun god in Vedic beliefs. Who am I?
     Answer: Surya


  21. I am the fire altar ritual performed to please gods. What am I?
     Answer: Yajna


  22. I allow a woman to choose her husband. What am I?
     Answer: Swayamvar


  23. I was the social unit headed by the father. What am I?
     Answer: Family


  24. I am the Vedic stage where you renounce worldly life. Who am I?
     Answer: Sannyasa


  25. I represent warriors in the Varna system. Who am I?
     Answer: Kshatriya


  26. I was a major Later Vedic city mentioned in Mahabharata. What am I?
     Answer: Hastinapur


  27. I am a deity of fire and the messenger of gods. Who am I?
     Answer: Agni


  28. I am the auxiliary sciences of the Vedas. What am I?
     Answer: Vedangas


  29. I am the Veda dealing with sacrifices. What am I?
     Answer: Yajur Veda


  30. I am a female who could study in the early Vedic period. What was I called?
     Answer: Brahmavadini


  31. I am the system where professions were based on work, not birth. What was it?
     Answer: Varna system


  32. I am the symbolic wealth of Vedic people. What am I?
     Answer: Cow


  33. I am the name of trade currency used in Vedic texts. What am I?
     Answer: Nishka


  34. I am the Veda dealing with daily life charms and spells. What am I?
     Answer: Atharva Veda


  35. I am the goddess of learning in Vedic tradition. Who am I?
     Answer: Saraswati


  36. I am a form of early written code for domestic duties. What am I?
     Answer: Sutras


  37. I am the stage of life for a student. What am I?
     Answer: Brahmacharya


  38. I am the key value taught in the Bhagavad Gita. What am I?
     Answer: Dharma


  39. I was worshipped through fire sacrifices in the Vedic period. What am I?
     Answer: Nature gods


  40. I was the priestly class in Vedic society. Who am I?
     Answer: Brahmins


  41. I am the philosophy of non-violence, later derived from Vedic spiritualism. What am I?
     Answer: Ahimsa


  42. I am the key duty of a Kshatriya. What am I?
     Answer: Warfare and protection


  43. I am the Vedic belief in universal soul. What am I?
     Answer: Brahman


  44. I am the Vedic term for individual soul. What am I?
     Answer: Atman


  45. I am the Vedic education technique based on memorisation. What am I?
     Answer: Oral tradition


  46. I was used to clear forests in Later Vedic period. What tool am I?
     Answer: Iron axe


  47. I was the deity praised most in Rig Veda. Who am I?
     Answer: Indra


  48. I am the category of people who served the upper varnas. Who am I?
     Answer: Shudras


  49. I was considered impure and excluded from Vedic rituals. Which varna am I?
     Answer: Shudras


  50. I am the ancient Indian text that discusses duty through dialogue in a battlefield. What am I?
     Answer: Bhagavad Gita

Difference Between:

  1. Difference between Early Vedic Period and Later Vedic Period
  • Early Vedic Period (1500–1000 BCE): Aryans were semi-nomadic; economy was pastoral; simple social life; women enjoyed high status.
  • Later Vedic Period (1000–600 BCE): Aryans were settled agriculturists; complex social divisions; increased ritualism; women’s status declined.

 

  1. Difference between Rig Veda and Sama Veda
  • Rig Veda: Oldest Veda; contains hymns praising gods.
  • Sama Veda: Collection of musical chants used in rituals.

 

  1. Difference between Yajur Veda and Atharva Veda
  • Yajur Veda: Contains sacrificial formulas and procedures for yajnas.
  • Atharva Veda: Contains charms, spells, and rituals of practical life.

 

  1. Difference between Brahmanas and Aranyakas
  • Brahmanas: Explain rituals and sacrificial ceremonies.
  • Aranyakas: Deal with symbolic and philosophical interpretations of rituals.

 

  1. Difference between Upanishads and Epics
  • Upanishads: Philosophical texts discussing soul (Atman) and universal soul (Brahman).
  • Epics: Narratives like Ramayana and Mahabharata with ethical and cultural messages.

 

  1. Difference between Ramayana and Mahabharata
  • Ramayana: Written by Valmiki; story of Lord Rama’s life and ideals.
  • Mahabharata: Written by Vyasa; story of Kauravas and Pandavas, includes Bhagavad Gita.

 

  1. Difference between Shruti and Smriti
  • Shruti: Divine revelation; not written down; includes Vedas.
  • Smriti: Remembered texts written by humans; includes epics and law books.

 

  1. Difference between Vedic religion and later ritualism
  • Vedic Religion: Focused on nature worship and yajnas.
  • Later Ritualism: Emphasised formal sacrifices, priestly dominance, and idol worship.

 

  1. Difference between Gurukul and Modern School
  • Gurukul: Teacher’s home; oral learning, free education; personal attention.
  • Modern School: Institutionalised setting; written curriculum and exams.

 

  1. Difference between Swayamvar and Arranged Marriage
  • Swayamvar: Bride chose her husband in a public ceremony.
  • Arranged Marriage: Marriage decided by family elders.

 

  1. Difference between Brahmacharya and Grihastha Ashrama
  • Brahmacharya: Student life; dedicated to learning.
  • Grihastha: Householder life; family and social responsibilities.

 

  1. Difference between Vanaprastha and Sannyasa Ashrama
  • Vanaprastha: Retired life; withdrawal from worldly duties.
  • Sannyasa: Renunciation; pursuit of spiritual liberation.

 

  1. Difference between Brahmins and Kshatriyas
  • Brahmins: Priests, scholars, teachers; performed rituals.
  • Kshatriyas: Warriors, rulers; protected society and upheld dharma.

 

  1. Difference between Vaishyas and Shudras
  • Vaishyas: Traders, farmers, artisans; economically productive.
  • Shudras: Servants; served the upper three varnas.

 

  1. Difference between Painted Grey Ware and Black and Red Ware
  • Painted Grey Ware: Found in Later Vedic sites; finely painted designs.
  • Black and Red Ware: Older, utilitarian pottery with dual colour.

 

  1. Difference between Agriculture and Animal Husbandry in Vedic Economy
  • Agriculture: Main occupation in Later Vedic period; use of iron ploughs.
  • Animal Husbandry: Important in Early Vedic period; cattle as wealth.

 

  1. Difference between Vedangas and Upavedas
  • Vedangas: Six auxiliary sciences to understand Vedas.
  • Upavedas: Sub-Vedas; include Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, etc.

 

  1. Difference between Darshanas and Dharmashastras
  • Darshanas: Philosophical schools of thought.
  • Dharmashastras: Law books defining social duties and ethics.

 

  1. Difference between Atman and Brahman (as per Upanishads)
  • Atman: Individual soul or inner self.
  • Brahman: Universal soul or ultimate reality.

 

  1. Difference between Iron and Copper tools in Vedic Period
  • Iron Tools: Used in Later Vedic period; enabled forest clearing and agriculture.
  • Copper Tools: Used earlier; limited use in agriculture.

Assertion and Reason

  • A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is true, but R is false
  • D. A is false, but R is true
  • E. Both A and R are false
  1. Assertion (A): The Vedas are considered the earliest literary records of Indian culture.
     Reason (R): The Vedas were written in Pali language.
     Answer: C


  2. Assertion (A): The Rig Veda is the oldest among the four Vedas.
     Reason (R): It contains hymns in praise of various deities.
     Answer: A


  3. Assertion (A): Sama Veda is known for its musical chants.
     Reason (R): It was mainly used for performing yajnas.
     Answer: B


  4. Assertion (A): The Upanishads are called Vedanta.
     Reason (R): They come at the end portion of the Vedic texts.
     Answer: A


  5. Assertion (A): The Later Vedic period saw the use of iron.
     Reason (R): Iron tools helped in forest clearing and agricultural expansion.
     Answer: A


  6. Assertion (A): The Vedas contain scientific laws and modern technology.
     Reason (R): Vedic people used computers and machinery.
     Answer: E


  7. Assertion (A): Panini wrote the grammar book Ashtadhyayi.
     Reason (R): He was a noted warrior during the Vedic period.
     Answer: C


  8. Assertion (A): The Aryans first settled in the region of Punjab.
     Reason (R): Punjab offered fertile plains and river access.
     Answer: A


  9. Assertion (A): Aranyakas are also known as Forest Books.
     Reason (R): They were composed in the forests and contain philosophical reflections.
     Answer: A


  10. Assertion (A): The Mahabharata was written by Valmiki.
     Reason (R): It is based on the life of Lord Krishna.
     Answer: D


  11. Assertion (A): The Vedic society was matriarchal.
     Reason (R): Women held higher authority than men.
     Answer: E


  12. Assertion (A): The Brahmanas explain rituals and sacrifices.
     Reason (R): They are prose texts that elaborate on Vedic hymns.
     Answer: A


  13. Assertion (A): Nishka was a coin used during the Vedic age.
     Reason (R): It was made from iron and used in yajnas.
     Answer: C


  14. Assertion (A): Swayamvar allowed women to select their husbands.
     Reason (R): It was a common practice in the early Vedic period.
     Answer: A


  15. Assertion (A): The status of women improved in the Later Vedic period.
     Reason (R): They were restricted from education and rituals.
     Answer: D


  16. Assertion (A): The Ramayana describes the war of Kurukshetra.
     Reason (R): It contains the Bhagavad Gita.
     Answer: D


  17. Assertion (A): Painted Grey Ware pottery was popular in the Later Vedic period.
     Reason (R): It was both artistic and utilitarian.
     Answer: A


  18. Assertion (A): The Ashrama system guided an individual’s life stages.
     Reason (R): It helped in moral and spiritual discipline.
     Answer: A


  19. Assertion (A): Upavedas deal with rituals and sacrifices.
     Reason (R): They include Ayurveda and Dhanurveda.
     Answer: C


  20. Assertion (A): Agriculture was the main occupation in the Vedic period.
     Reason (R): The use of iron helped in ploughing and clearing land.
     Answer: A


  21. Assertion (A): Surya was worshipped as the god of water.
     Reason (R): He was associated with sunlight and brightness.
     Answer: C


  22. Assertion (A): Gurukuls were institutions of higher learning.
     Reason (R): They taught subjects like astronomy and philosophy.
     Answer: A


  23. Assertion (A): Upanishads promote idol worship.
     Reason (R): They focus on rituals rather than philosophy.
     Answer: E


  24. Assertion (A): Vedangas are six auxiliary sciences.
     Reason (R): They help in understanding the Vedas.
     Answer: A


  25. Assertion (A): Nishka was used as a currency.
     Reason (R): It was made of gold or other metals.
     Answer: A


  26. Assertion (A): The Varnas were determined by profession.
     Reason (R): Initially, the classification was not based on birth.
     Answer: A


  27. Assertion (A): Indra was the god of fire in the Vedic pantheon.
     Reason (R): He was associated with lightning and rain.
     Answer: C


  28. Assertion (A): The Vedic economy was dependent only on trade.
     Reason (R): There was no concept of agriculture in the Vedic era.
     Answer: E


  29. Assertion (A): Ramayana was written in Sanskrit.
     Reason (R): It reflects ideal duties and relationships.
     Answer: A


  30. Assertion (A): Gambling was a popular amusement during the Vedic period.
     Reason (R): It was one of the forms of entertainment along with music and dance.
     Answer: A


  31. Assertion (A): Brahmins were warriors in Vedic society.
     Reason (R): Their role was to protect and rule the people.
     Answer: E


  32. Assertion (A): Women were completely excluded from all Vedic rituals.
     Reason (R): They were illiterate and lacked religious understanding.
     Answer: E


  33. Assertion (A): Yajnas were central to Vedic religious life.
     Reason (R): They were performed to appease nature gods.
     Answer: A


  34. Assertion (A): The Vedic civilisation declined due to foreign invasions.
     Reason (R): Vedic people were culturally weak.
     Answer: E


  35. Assertion (A): Education was oral in the Vedic age.
     Reason (R): Students memorised texts through the Shruti tradition.
     Answer: A


  36. Assertion (A): The Vedas provide historical accounts of kings.
     Reason (R): They are primarily religious and philosophical texts.
     Answer: C


  37. Assertion (A): Aranyakas were meant for forest dwellers.
     Reason (R): They contained meditative and mystical content.
     Answer: A


  38. Assertion (A): Painted Grey Ware was used in the Early Vedic period.
     Reason (R): It is a characteristic of the Indus Valley Civilisation.
     Answer: E


  39. Assertion (A): Vaishyas engaged in trade and agriculture.
     Reason (R): They formed the economic backbone of Vedic society.
     Answer: A


  40. Assertion (A): The Mahabharata was composed before the Vedas.
     Reason (R): It was the first religious text in Sanskrit.
     Answer: E


  41. Assertion (A): Later Vedic religion became ritualistic.
     Reason (R): Sacrifices and ceremonies became more complex.
     Answer: A


  42. Assertion (A): Women had access to education in the Early Vedic period.
     Reason (R): They participated in yajnas and composed hymns.
     Answer: A


  43. Assertion (A): Dhanurveda is a medical text.
     Reason (R): It deals with military science.
     Answer: C


  44. Assertion (A): Kashi and Hastinapur were Vedic settlements.
     Reason (R): These cities emerged during the Later Vedic period.
     Answer: A


  45. Assertion (A): Shruti means “that which is heard.”
     Reason (R): Vedic education relied on oral transmission.
     Answer: A


  46. Assertion (A): The Vedic society practiced idol worship from the beginning.
     Reason (R): Yajnas were replaced by image worship.
     Answer: E


  47. Assertion (A): Sutras are large poetic epics.
     Reason (R): They contain mythological stories and moral lessons.
     Answer: E


  48. Assertion (A): Darshanas are part of Vedic literature.
     Reason (R): They represent different philosophical viewpoints.
     Answer: A


  49. Assertion (A): The Four Ashramas guided an individual’s life conduct.
     Reason (R): They allowed balance between duty and spiritual goals.
     Answer: A


  50. Assertion (A): Brahmacharya was a phase for warriors only.
     Reason (R): It involved learning military skills only.
     Answer: E

True or False

  1. The term ‘Veda’ means truth.
     False


  2. The Vedas were composed in Sanskrit.
     True


  3. The Rig Veda is the youngest of all four Vedas.
     False


  4. The Sama Veda contains chants for musical rendering.
     True


  5. The Yajur Veda deals with medical science.
     False


  6. The Atharva Veda contains spells and charms.
     True


  7. The Brahmanas are collections of hymns.
     False


  8. The Aranyakas are called ‘Forest Books’.
     True


  9. The Upanishads are ritualistic guides.
     False


  10. The Upanishads discuss Atman and Brahman.
     True


  11. Vedangas are philosophical schools of thought.
     False


  12. Sutras are brief rules and instructions for rituals.
     True


  13. Ayurveda is a part of the Upavedas.
     True


  14. Darshanas are law books of the Vedic period.
     False


  15. Panini wrote the Ashtadhyayi, a grammar text.
     True


  16. The Ramayana was composed by Valmiki.
     True


  17. The Mahabharata was composed by Kalidasa.
     False


  18. The Bhagavad Gita is part of the Mahabharata.
     True


  19. Ramayana and Mahabharata are epics.
     True


  20. Iron tools were first used in the Early Vedic Period.
     False


  21. The Later Vedic people used Painted Grey Ware pottery.
     True


  22. The Aryans first settled in the Ganga plains.
     False


  23. Hastinapur was a major Later Vedic settlement.
     True


  24. Vedic society was matriarchal.
     False


  25. The family was the basic unit of Vedic society.
     True


  26. In the Early Vedic period, women had access to education.
     True


  27. Swayamvar allowed men to choose their brides.
     False


  28. The position of women improved in the Later Vedic period.
     False


  29. Varnas were based on birth from the beginning.
     False


  30. The Four Ashramas aimed at moral and spiritual discipline.
     True


  31. Brahmacharya was the stage of household duties.
     False


  32. Sannyasa was the final stage of life.
     True


  33. Gurukuls were schools attached to temples.
     False


  34. The oral tradition was known as Shruti.
     True


  35. Barley was one of the main crops during the Vedic period.
     True


  36. Vedic people wore synthetic clothes.
     False


  37. Gambling was a form of amusement during the Vedic period.
     True


  38. Vedic people worshipped only one god.
     False


  39. Indra was considered the god of rain and war.
     True


  40. Agni was the Vedic god of fire.
     True


  41. Surya represented the moon in Vedic mythology.
     False


  42. Varuna was associated with water and cosmic order.
     True


  43. Yajnas were elaborate sacrificial rituals.
     True


  44. The Later Vedic period witnessed more complex rituals.
     True


  45. Agriculture and animal husbandry were primary occupations.
     True


  46. Cow was considered a unit of wealth in the Vedic period.
     True


  47. Nishka was a unit of land measurement.
     False


  48. Weaving and carpentry were practiced during the Vedic period.
     True


  49. The Vedic period laid the foundation of Indian civilisation.
     True


  50. Vedic texts contain historical details like the Indus Valley seals.
     False

Long Answer Questions

  1. Describe the division of the Vedic period and its significance.
    Answer:
    The Vedic period is broadly divided into two phases: the Early Vedic Period (1500 BCE – 1000 BCE) and the Later Vedic Period (1000 BCE – 600 BCE). The Early Vedic Period represents the nomadic and pastoral phase when the Aryans settled in the Punjab region. The Later Vedic Period marks the transition to agriculture, permanent settlements, and social stratification. This division helps in understanding the evolution of Aryan society, economy, religion, and culture.

 

  1. What are the main literary sources of the Vedic period?
    Answer:
    The literary sources of the Vedic period include the four Vedas (Rig, Sama, Yajur, Atharva), the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and the Upanishads. Additionally, allied literature such as the Vedangas, Upavedas, Sutras, Darshanas, and Dharmashastras provide information on rituals, sciences, philosophy, law, and grammar. These texts help reconstruct the religious, social, and philosophical life of the Vedic people.

 

  1. Describe the four Vedas and their contents.
    Answer:
    The Rig Veda is the oldest and contains hymns in praise of deities like Indra, Agni, and Varuna. The Sama Veda consists of musical chants used during sacrifices. The Yajur Veda includes sacrificial formulas and procedures. The Atharva Veda deals with spells, charms, and aspects of daily life. Collectively, the Vedas are the foundation of Vedic religion and culture.

 

  1. What are the Brahmanas? What is their importance?
    Answer:
    The Brahmanas are prose texts attached to each Veda. They explain the meaning of Vedic hymns and provide detailed instructions on rituals and sacrifices. They reflect the growing importance of rituals in Vedic life and provide insights into the religious beliefs and ceremonial practices of the Aryans.

 

  1. Write a note on Aranyakas.
    Answer:
    The Aranyakas, also called ‘Forest Books’, are philosophical texts composed by hermits in forest retreats. They form a transitional link between the ritualistic Brahmanas and the philosophical Upanishads. Aranyakas deal with symbolic meanings of rituals, meditation, and spiritual knowledge, indicating a shift from external rituals to internal realisation.

 

  1. What are the Upanishads? Explain their contribution to Indian philosophy.
    Answer:
    The Upanishads, also called Vedanta, are philosophical texts exploring metaphysical ideas such as Atman (soul) and Brahman (universal soul). They discuss the nature of reality, self, and ultimate truth, forming the foundation of Indian philosophy. The Upanishads emphasize knowledge, meditation, and renunciation over rituals.

 

  1. Explain the role of allied Vedic literature in understanding the Vedic period.
    Answer:
    Allied Vedic literature includes Vedangas (auxiliary sciences), Upavedas (subsidiary Vedas), Sutras (ritual manuals), Darshanas (philosophical schools), Dharmashastras (law books), and Panini’s Ashtadhyayi (grammar). These texts enrich our understanding of Vedic education, rituals, medicine, military science, ethics, and linguistics.

 

  1. Why are the Vedas considered important historical sources?
    Answer:
    The Vedas are considered vital historical sources because they provide authentic information about the social, religious, economic, and political life of the Aryans. They represent the oldest literary records of Indian civilisation and form the core of Hindu religious thought and Indian culture.

 

  1. Give an account of the Ramayana and its significance.
    Answer:
    The Ramayana, composed by Valmiki, narrates the life of Lord Rama, his exile, the abduction of Sita by Ravana, and her rescue. It upholds ideals of duty, loyalty, and righteousness. The epic offers insights into the values, social structure, and religious beliefs of the Later Vedic period.

 

  1. Describe the Mahabharata and its main theme.
    Answer:
    The Mahabharata, composed by Vyasa, describes the dynastic struggle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, culminating in the battle of Kurukshetra. It contains the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual discourse. The epic combines mythology, history, philosophy, and ethics, reflecting the complexity of Vedic society.

 

  1. What is the significance of the Bhagavad Gita?
    Answer:
    The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, is a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna. It teaches the principles of duty, righteousness, devotion, and selfless action. It is one of the most important spiritual and philosophical texts of Hinduism.

 

  1. Explain the archaeological sources of the Vedic period.
    Answer:
    Archaeological sources include iron tools, weapons, Painted Grey Ware and Black and Red Ware pottery, and settlement remains at Hastinapur, Ayodhya, and Kashi. These provide material evidence of technological progress, agriculture, trade, and urbanisation in the Later Vedic period.

 

  1. How did the use of iron tools affect Vedic life?
    Answer:
    The use of iron tools enabled forest clearance, improved agriculture, and expansion of settlements. This led to the transformation from pastoral to agrarian life, boosting population and economic growth during the Later Vedic period.

 

  1. Describe the social organisation of Vedic society.
    Answer:
    Vedic society was patriarchal, with the family as the basic unit. It was divided into four varnas based on occupation: Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (traders/farmers), and Shudras (servants). The system aimed to organise society but later became rigid.

 

  1. What was the position of women in Vedic society?
    Answer:
    In the Early Vedic Period, women were respected, educated, and participated in religious rituals and Swayamvar. In the Later Vedic Period, their status declined due to increased ritualism and patriarchy, limiting their education and public participation.

 

  1. Explain the Varna system. Was it based on birth?
    Answer:
    The Varna system initially was based on profession, not birth. It divided society into four groups for functional organisation. Over time, it became hereditary, leading to social inequality and rigid caste divisions.

 

  1. What were the Four Ashramas? Describe their purpose.
    Answer:
    The Four Ashramas were stages of life: Brahmacharya (student), Grihastha (householder), Vanaprastha (retired), and Sannyasa (renunciate). They guided individuals through a balanced life of learning, responsibility, detachment, and spiritual liberation.

 

  1. Describe the system of education during the Vedic period.
    Answer:
    Education was oral (Shruti) and imparted in Gurukuls. Students memorised hymns and texts. Subjects included grammar, astronomy, logic, and philosophy. Discipline, devotion to the teacher, and spiritual growth were emphasised.

 

  1. What were the major occupations during the Vedic period?
    Answer:
    Occupations included agriculture, animal husbandry, weaving, pottery, carpentry, tanning, and metalwork. In the Later Vedic Period, trade and the use of Nishka coins also became prominent, indicating economic advancement.

 

  1. How was agriculture important in Vedic life?
    Answer:
    Agriculture became the chief occupation, especially in the Later Vedic period. The use of iron ploughs and oxen improved productivity. Agricultural surplus supported urban growth and religious institutions.

 

  1. Explain the system of trade during the Vedic period.
    Answer:
    Trade developed during the Later Vedic period with the use of Nishka coins for exchange. Goods like horses, cloth, spices, and pottery were traded. Trade routes expanded, and crafts like metalwork, carpentry, and chariot-making supported the economy.

 

  1. Describe the food habits of the Vedic people.
    Answer:
    Vedic people consumed barley, wheat, milk products, vegetables, fruits, and occasionally meat. Food was mostly simple and prepared from locally available ingredients. Offerings to gods during yajnas included grains, butter, and milk.

 

  1. What kind of clothes and ornaments did the Vedic people wear?
    Answer:
    People wore clothes made of cotton and wool, typically unstitched garments draped around the body. Ornaments made of gold, silver, and beads were worn by both men and women, reflecting their status and artistry.

 

  1. What were the amusements of the Vedic people?
    Answer:
    Popular amusements included music, dance, gambling, chariot racing, and festivals. These not only provided entertainment but were also connected to rituals and social gatherings, showcasing community life and artistic expression.

 

  1. Describe the religious beliefs of the Early Vedic people.
    Answer:
    Early Vedic people worshipped forces of nature like Indra (rain), Agni (fire), Surya (sun), and Varuna (water). Rituals and yajnas were central to their religion, which was based on hymns and sacrifice rather than idol worship.

 

  1. How did religious beliefs change in the Later Vedic period?
    Answer:
    The Later Vedic period saw the rise of ritualism and formal sacrifices. Priests (Brahmins) gained dominance, and idolatry began to emerge. Philosophical ideas in the Upanishads questioned the ritualistic system and promoted introspection.

 

  1. What role did yajnas play in Vedic religion?
    Answer:
    Yajnas, or sacrificial rituals, were the most important religious practice. They were conducted to appease gods, ensure prosperity, and maintain cosmic order. They involved offerings of ghee, grains, and soma, conducted by priests with strict procedures.

 

  1. What was the importance of Indra in Vedic religion?
    Answer:
    Indra was the king of gods and the god of rain and war. He was the most frequently mentioned deity in the Rig Veda and was believed to control thunder and storms, essential for agriculture and protection.

 

  1. Describe the contributions of Agni and Varuna in Vedic beliefs.
    Answer:
    Agni, the fire god, was the mediator between humans and gods, receiving offerings during yajnas. Varuna, the god of cosmic order and water, was believed to watch over moral conduct and uphold divine law.

 

  1. How did the use of iron revolutionise the Later Vedic economy?
    Answer:
    Iron tools and weapons allowed forest clearance, better agriculture, and construction of stronger settlements, transforming the economy from pastoral to agrarian. This led to surplus production, population growth, and trade expansion.

 

  1. Explain the importance of the cow in Vedic society.
    Answer:
    The cow was a symbol of wealth and a unit of exchange. It was valued for its milk, agricultural utility, and religious significance. Cow slaughter was restricted, and owning many cows indicated prosperity.

 

  1. Write a note on Nishka.
    Answer:
    Nishka was a metallic currency, likely made of gold or silver, used for trade and offerings. It is mentioned in Vedic texts and indicates the beginning of a monetised economy during the Later Vedic period.

 

  1. What are the key features of Early Vedic society?
    Answer:
    The Early Vedic society was tribal, pastoral, and egalitarian. It respected women, encouraged education, had less rigid varna divisions, and followed nature worship. Life was simple, and rituals were minimal.

 

  1. What are the key features of Later Vedic society?
    Answer:
    Later Vedic society became complex and stratified, with a rigid varna system, declining status of women, expansion of rituals, rise of priestly dominance, and the formation of larger kingdoms and settlements.

 

  1. Compare the status of women in Early and Later Vedic periods.
    Answer:
    In the Early Vedic period, women were respected, educated, and participated in rituals. In the Later Vedic period, they faced restrictions, were excluded from education and yajnas, and had a declining social status.

 

  1. What were Gurukuls, and how did they function?
    Answer:
    Gurukuls were forest-based residential schools where students lived with their teacher (guru), followed a strict routine, studied scriptures, and performed daily chores. Education was oral, and emphasis was placed on discipline and moral values.

 

  1. What was the Shruti tradition in Vedic education?
    Answer:
    Shruti means ‘that which is heard’. In the Vedic education system, knowledge was transmitted orally from teacher to student through memorisation and recitation, preserving sacred texts across generations.

 

  1. Which subjects were taught during the Vedic period?
    Answer:
    Subjects included grammar, astronomy, logic, philosophy, mathematics, and ethics. The focus was on developing the mind, understanding the cosmos, and preparing for life as a householder or seeker of truth.

 

  1. What kind of economy existed during the Vedic period?
    Answer:
    The economy was agrarian and pastoral, with cattle as wealth. It later expanded to include trade, crafts, metalwork, and use of coins (Nishka). Land ownership and occupational specialisation grew in the Later Vedic phase.

 

  1. What types of pottery were used in the Later Vedic period?
    Answer:
    Two prominent types were Painted Grey Ware (PGW) and Black and Red Ware (BRW). PGW was associated with elites and rituals, while BRW was common and used for daily purposes. Both were artistic and functional.

 

  1. Describe the town of Hastinapur during the Vedic period.
    Answer:
    Hastinapur, mentioned in the Mahabharata, was an important Later Vedic settlement. Excavations show signs of Painted Grey Ware culture and urban planning, suggesting it was a centre of political and cultural activity.

 

  1. What role did music and dance play in Vedic life?
    Answer:
    Music and dance were forms of amusement and worship. Chants (from Sama Veda) and instruments accompanied yajnas. These arts were considered divine and were performed during festivals and rituals.

 

  1. What were the ethical teachings of the epics?
    Answer:
    The epics taught values like truth, loyalty, duty (dharma), self-control, and sacrifice. Characters like Rama and Krishna exemplified moral conduct, ideal behaviour, and upholding righteousness despite adversity.

 

  1. What do the Upanishads teach about the soul?
    Answer:
    The Upanishads teach that the Atman (individual soul) is identical to the Brahman (universal soul). Realising this unity leads to moksha (liberation). They encourage meditation, self-inquiry, and renunciation.

 

  1. Why are the Vedas considered sacred in Hinduism?
    Answer:
    The Vedas are seen as divine revelations containing hymns, rituals, and spiritual wisdom. They guide religion, ethics, and philosophy, forming the foundation of Hindu beliefs and practices across time.

 

  1. What are Dharmashastras? What do they contain?
    Answer:
    Dharmashastras are ancient law books that define duties, rights, moral conduct, social laws, and codes of behaviour for individuals and communities. They helped in regulating Vedic social and legal systems.

 

  1. How did urban life develop in the Later Vedic period?
    Answer:
    With iron tools, surplus agriculture, and increased trade, people built permanent settlements, leading to townships like Hastinapur and Ayodhya. Division of labour and occupational specialisation emerged.

 

  1. What are Vedangas and why are they important?
    Answer:
    Vedangas are six auxiliary disciplines (e.g., phonetics, grammar, astronomy) developed to interpret and preserve the Vedas. They systematised ritual practices and enhanced scholarly understanding of Vedic knowledge.

 

  1. How does the Vedic period reflect Indian culture?
    Answer:
    The Vedic period laid the foundation of Indian spiritual, philosophical, linguistic, and social traditions, influencing Hinduism, Sanskrit literature, education, and family systems that continue today.

 

  1. Summarise the contribution of the Vedic period to Indian civilisation.
    Answer:
    The Vedic period contributed literature (Vedas, epics), religion (yajnas, gods), philosophy (Upanishads), social systems (varna, ashrama), education (gurukuls), and economy (agriculture, trade), laying the groundwork for Indian civilisation.

Give Reasons

  1. Give reason: The Vedic Age is considered important in Indian history.
    Answer: Because it laid the foundation of Indian civilisation in terms of religion, philosophy, language, society, and culture.

 

  1. Give reason: The Rig Veda is considered the oldest text in the world.
    Answer: Because it was composed around 1500 BCE and contains the earliest hymns in praise of natural forces and deities.

 

  1. Give reason: The Vedas are called ‘Shruti’.
    Answer: Because they were passed down orally and were ‘heard’ by sages during deep meditation.

 

  1. Give reason: The Vedas are primary sources of Vedic civilisation.
    Answer: Because they provide direct evidence of the religious beliefs, rituals, and social life of the Aryans.

 

  1. Give reason: Sama Veda is important in Vedic rituals.
    Answer: Because it contains musical chants used in sacrificial ceremonies.

 

  1. Give reason: The Yajur Veda is called the book of rituals.
    Answer: Because it contains sacrificial formulas and procedural instructions for conducting yajnas.

 

  1. Give reason: Atharva Veda differs from other Vedas.
    Answer: Because it deals with daily life, spells, charms, and medicinal practices.

 

  1. Give reason: The Brahmanas help us understand Vedic rituals.
    Answer: Because they are prose texts explaining the meaning and method of performing Vedic yajnas.

 

  1. Give reason: Aranyakas are called ‘Forest Books’.
    Answer: Because they were composed by hermits in forests and discuss meditative aspects of rituals.

 

  1. Give reason: The Upanishads are philosophical in nature.
    Answer: Because they explore metaphysical concepts like the soul (Atman) and the universal soul (Brahman).

 

  1. Give reason: Vedangas are important to understand the Vedas.
    Answer: Because they provide grammatical, phonetic, and astronomical knowledge necessary for interpreting Vedic texts.

 

  1. Give reason: Ramayana reflects ideal relationships.
    Answer: Because it portrays Rama as an ideal son, husband, and ruler, promoting dharma and moral conduct.

 

  1. Give reason: Mahabharata is a comprehensive epic.
    Answer: Because it combines mythology, philosophy, warfare, and moral dilemmas through the story of the Kurukshetra war.

 

  1. Give reason: Bhagavad Gita is spiritually significant.
    Answer: Because it teaches devotion, duty, and selfless action as paths to liberation.

 

  1. Give reason: Epics are valuable historical sources.
    Answer: Because they reflect social norms, ethical values, and religious beliefs of the Vedic people.

 

  1. Give reason: Iron tools were significant during the Later Vedic period.
    Answer: Because they enabled forest clearance, improved farming, and expansion of settlements.

 

  1. Give reason: Aryans expanded to the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.
    Answer: Because fertile land and the use of iron tools made large-scale agriculture possible.

 

  1. Give reason: Hastinapur is an important Vedic site.
    Answer: Because archaeological evidence confirms its role as a prominent Later Vedic settlement.

 

  1. Give reason: Vedic society was patriarchal.
    Answer: Because the family was headed by the father who had authority over social and religious matters.

 

  1. Give reason: Women’s status declined in the Later Vedic period.
    Answer: Because ritualism increased and societal roles became more male-dominated.

 

  1. Give reason: Swayamvar was a progressive institution.
    Answer: Because it gave women the right to choose their own husbands.

 

  1. Give reason: The Varna system initially promoted harmony.
    Answer: Because it was based on work and skill, not birth, ensuring occupational organisation.

 

  1. Give reason: The Varna system became rigid.
    Answer: Because over time it became hereditary, restricting mobility and social equity.

 

  1. Give reason: The Ashrama system ensured a balanced life.
    Answer: Because it divided human life into four stages focusing on learning, responsibility, detachment, and salvation.

 

  1. Give reason: Education was considered sacred in the Vedic period.
    Answer: Because it was meant for spiritual development and moral training, not just knowledge acquisition.

 

  1. Give reason: Students lived in Gurukuls during the Vedic period.
    Answer: Because close contact with the guru enabled discipline, moral teaching, and personal instruction.

 

  1. Give reason: Oral transmission was reliable in the Vedic period.
    Answer: Because students memorised texts with accuracy using repetition and recitation under strict supervision.

 

  1. Give reason: Agriculture became dominant in the Later Vedic period.
    Answer: Because iron tools increased productivity and supported permanent settlements.

 

  1. Give reason: Cow was considered a unit of wealth.
    Answer: Because it provided milk, fuel (dung), and was essential for ploughing and barter.

 

  1. Give reason: Trade flourished in the Later Vedic period.
    Answer: Because of surplus production, use of metallic coins like Nishka, and demand for goods like cloth and spices.

 

  1. Give reason: Painted Grey Ware pottery is archaeologically significant.
    Answer: Because it is associated with Later Vedic settlements and helps date the civilisation.

 

  1. Give reason: The Vedic people enjoyed music and dance.
    Answer: Because they were part of religious ceremonies and social entertainment.

 

  1. Give reason: Gambling was a popular pastime in Vedic times.
    Answer: Because it was often played during festivals and royal assemblies, as reflected in the epics.

 

  1. Give reason: Indra was the chief deity in the Rig Veda.
    Answer: Because he was the god of rain and war, essential for agriculture and tribal victory.

 

  1. Give reason: Agni was a central figure in Vedic yajnas.
    Answer: Because he was the fire god who carried offerings to the other deities.

 

  1. Give reason: Surya was worshipped as the Sun God.
    Answer: Because the Sun was vital for life, timekeeping, and crop growth.

 

  1. Give reason: Varuna was feared and revered.
    Answer: Because he was the god of cosmic order and punished wrongdoers.

 

  1. Give reason: Yajnas were essential in Vedic religion.
    Answer: Because they maintained cosmic harmony and pleased the gods for prosperity.

 

  1. Give reason: The Later Vedic period shows a rise in priestly power.
    Answer: Because rituals became complex and only Brahmins were allowed to perform them.

 

  1. Give reason: Philosophical thought began in the Later Vedic age.
    Answer: Because dissatisfaction with ritualism led thinkers to explore deeper meanings of life and soul.

 

  1. Give reason: The Upanishads mark a spiritual revolution.
    Answer: Because they shift focus from external rituals to internal realisation of the Self.

 

  1. Give reason: Law and order were maintained in Vedic society.
    Answer: Because Dharmashastras prescribed moral and legal codes for individuals and communities.

 

  1. Give reason: The role of kings expanded in Later Vedic period.
    Answer: Because larger kingdoms emerged requiring administration, military, and taxation.

 

  1. Give reason: Social mobility reduced in Later Vedic society.
    Answer: Because caste became hereditary and profession-based varna changed into a birth-based system.

 

  1. Give reason: Literature was memorised instead of written.
    Answer: Because writing was either undeveloped or sacred knowledge was meant to be preserved orally.

 

  1. Give reason: Gurus were respected highly in Vedic culture.
    Answer: Because they were seen as spiritual guides and transmitters of sacred knowledge.

 

  1. Give reason: The epics served as moral textbooks.
    Answer: Because they portrayed ideal characters and situations reflecting ethical conduct and duty.

 

  1. Give reason: Nishka indicates economic development.
    Answer: Because it was a standardised coin used in trade, reflecting organised economy and surplus.

 

  1. Give reason: The Aryans moved from west to east in India.
    Answer: Because of the fertility of the Indo-Gangetic plains and need for better agricultural land.

 

  1. Give reason: The Vedic period is the root of Indian civilisation.
    Answer: Because it influenced India’s language, religion, literature, social structure, and philosophy.

Arrange the Words 

Case Studies

Case Study 1
 A teacher is instructing students orally in grammar, logic, and astronomy without using any books.
 Question: What was this form of education called in the Vedic period?
 Answer: Oral education or Shruti tradition.

 

Case Study 2
 Excavators uncover Painted Grey Ware and iron sickles in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.
 Question: Which Vedic phase does this discovery belong to?
 Answer: Later Vedic Period.

 

Case Study 3
 A text discusses spiritual concepts such as the universal soul (Brahman) and the individual soul (Atman).
 Question: Which type of Vedic literature is this?
 Answer: Upanishads.

 

Case Study 4
 In a royal court, a princess chooses her husband in a public ceremony.
 Question: What does this tradition represent in Early Vedic society?
 Answer: Swayamvar – a woman’s freedom in marriage.

 

Case Study 5
 A Vedic priest performs elaborate sacrificial rituals using chants from sacred texts.
 Question: Which Veda was mainly used for such rituals?
 Answer: Yajur Veda.

 

Case Study 6
 A sage meditates in the forest, contemplating the meaning of rituals.
 Question: Which Vedic text might include such forest-based meditations?
 Answer: Aranyakas.

 

Case Study 7
 A king offers cows to a Brahmin as a gift. Cows are seen as a sign of prosperity.
 Question: What does this tell us about the economic unit of wealth?
 Answer: Cow was considered a unit of wealth.

 

Case Study 8
 A trader uses a currency called “Nishka” to buy horses and pottery.
 Question: What was Nishka?
 Answer: An early Vedic form of currency.

 

Case Study 9
 A group of people performs yajnas to please Agni and Indra.
 Question: What was the purpose of such rituals?
 Answer: To appease nature gods and seek blessings.

 

Case Study 10
 A boy leaves home to live with his guru and study scriptures.
 Question: Which stage of life is this?
 Answer: Brahmacharya Ashrama.

 

Case Study 11
 A ruler governs based on the advice of priests and performs yajnas for political legitimacy.
 Question: Which class of people helped maintain rituals and authority?
 Answer: Brahmins.

 

Case Study 12
 A craftsman is found making iron tools and weapons in a settled community.
 Question: Which Vedic period does this reflect?
 Answer: Later Vedic Period.

 

Case Study 13
 A poet composes a hymn praising natural forces like fire and wind.
 Question: Which Veda contains such hymns?
 Answer: Rig Veda.

 

Case Study 14
 In a village, people wear cotton and woollen garments and adorn themselves with ornaments.
 Question: What does this tell us about Vedic clothing and lifestyle?
 Answer: People wore simple cotton/wool garments and used ornaments.

 

Case Study 15
 A woman is no longer allowed to participate in religious ceremonies or receive formal education.
 Question: What phase of the Vedic period does this reflect?
 Answer: Later Vedic Period – decline in women’s status.

 

Case Study 16
 A philosopher discusses six schools of thought concerning reality and liberation.
 Question: What are these philosophical schools called?
 Answer: Darshanas.

 

Case Study 17
 A student asks about a text explaining the rituals in the Rig Veda hymns.
 Question: Which type of text would he study?
 Answer: Brahmanas.

 

Case Study 18
 A chariot race is held during a religious festival. The audience cheers loudly.
 Question: What form of amusement does this represent in the Vedic period?
 Answer: Chariot racing.

 

Case Study 19
 A household head divides his life into student life, family life, retirement, and renunciation.
 Question: What system is being followed here?
 Answer: The Four Ashramas.

 

Case Study 20
 A philosopher claims that the universe is pervaded by one eternal soul.
 Question: What Vedic idea does this reflect?
 Answer: Concept of Brahman in the Upanishads.

Numericals

Numeric problems are not available for this chapter.

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