1. State two significant features of inscriptions for providing information about the Cholas. 2. Who established the rule of the Cholas? Name the capital of his empire. 3. Why did Rajaraja undertake a naval expedition against Ceylon and Maldives? 4. Name any two great rulers of the Chola dynasty. 5. Give any two achievements of Rajendra Chola. 6. Name the new capital built by Rajendra Chola. In which present-day state is it situated? 7. Why did the Cholas build a strong naval fleet? 8. What made the Chola administration strong and effective? 9. Name the two languages promoted by the Cholas. 10. Name any two features of temples built bythe Cholas. 1. Significant Features of Inscriptions for Providing Information about the Cholas - **Detailed Records**: Inscriptions provide detailed records of political events, military campaigns, administrative measures, and land grants made by Chola rulers. They often document the names of rulers, their achievements, and their contributions to society and religion. - **Royal Decrees and Grants**: They contain royal decrees, such as land grants and temple donations, which give insights into the Chola administrative system and the economic and social policies of the time. ### 2. Establishment of Chola Rule - **Founder**: The rule of the Cholas was established by **Vijayalaya Chola**. - **Capital**: His capital was **Thanjavur**.### 3. Rajaraja Chola’s Naval Expedition - **Reasons for Naval Expedition**: - **Expansion of Influence**: Rajaraja Chola undertook naval expeditions to expand Chola influence and control over the island territories of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and the Maldives, enhancing trade and political power in the region. - **Control Over Trade Routes**: Securing these territories helped control important maritime trade routes and promote Chola dominance in the Indian Ocean region. ### 4. Great Rulers of the Chola Dynasty - **Two Great Rulers**: 1. **Rajaraja Chola I** 2. **Rajendra Chola I** ### 5. Achievements of Rajendra Chola - **Military Campaigns**: Rajendra Chola | led successful military campaigns into the northernregions of India, including the Gangetic plains, and extended Chola influence far beyond the traditional southern boundaries. - **Naval Dominance**: He established a powerful naval fleet and conducted expeditions across the Bay of Bengal, which solidified Chola control over the eastern maritime trade routes and brought territories like the Maldives under Chola influence. ##+# 6. New Capital Built by Rajendra Chola - **New Capital**: Rajendra Chola | built the new capital **Gangaikonda Cholapuram**. - **Present-Day State**: It is situated in **Tamil Nadu**. ### 7. Chola Naval Fleet - **Reasons for a Strong Naval Fleet**: - **Maritime Trade Control**: The Cholas built a strong naval fleet to dominate maritime trade routes, protect their trade interests, and facilitate the movement of goods and militaryexpeditions. - **Expansion of Empire**: The fleet enabled the Cholas to project power across the Indian Ocean, extending their empire’s influence to distant lands such as the Maldives and parts of Southeast Asia. ### 8. Strength and Effectiveness of Chola Administration - **Centralized Administration**: The Chola administration was highly centralized, with the king at the top supported by a well-organized bureaucracy. This included a system of local self- governance where village assemblies played a significant role. - **Efficient Revenue System**: An effective and detailed system of land revenue and taxation ensured a steady income for the state, which facilitated large-scale public works and military campaigns. ##+# 9. Languages Promoted by the Cholas- **Two Languages**: 1. **Tamil**: Promoted in literature and administration. 2. **Sanskrit**: Used in inscriptions, religious texts, and official documents. ### 10. Features of Chola Temples - **Architectural Features**: - **Granite Structures**: Chola temples are renowned for their massive granite structures and intricate carvings, including detailed depictions of Hindu deities and mythological scenes. - **Gopurams**: They often feature large, ornate gateways called gopurams, which are richly decorated with sculptures and serve as the entrance to the temple complex. 1. Who was Fa-hien? What did he say about India? 2. Who was the ruler when Fa-hien visited India? Name the three places of pilgrimage that Fa- hien visited in India.3. Name two dramas written by Kalidasa. 4. Why is the Gupta Period known as the Golden Age of Indian culture? 5. How was Samudragupta a bold and great conqueror? 6. Name the famous university that existed during the Gupta period. In which present day state is it? 7. Name any two titles adopted by the Gupta rulers. 8. During the Gupta period name the officer who (i) collected toll tax; and (ii) the one who was incharge of a province or bhukti. 9. Name any two famous literary figures of the Gupta Age. 10. What contribution did Aryabhatta make in the field of science?### 1. Fa-hien - **Who Was Fa-hien**: Fa-hien was a Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, and traveler who visited India during the early 5th century CE. - **What He Said About India**: Fa-hien praised India for its advanced state of Buddhism, its rich cultural and intellectual life, and its well- established monasteries. He noted the high regard in which Buddhism was held and commented on the flourishing of Buddhist practices and the prominence of monasteries. ### 2. Ruler During Fa-hien's Visit and Places of Pilgrimage - **Ruler**: Fa-hien visited India during the reign of **Chandragupta II** (also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya) of the Gupta Empire. - **Places of Pilgrimage**: 1. **Bodh Gaya**: The place where Buddha attained enlightenment.2. **Sarnath**: The site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. 3. **Kushinagar**: The location where Buddha passed away. ### 3. Dramas by Kalidasa iad W.OD Mell Sima 1. **"Shakuntala"** (also known as “Abhijnanashakuntala") 2. **"Vikramorvashi"** ##+# 4. Gupta Period as the Golden Age - **Golden Age**: The Gupta Period is known as the Golden Age of Indian culture due to its significant achievements in art, literature, science, and philosophy. The period saw the flourishing of classical Sanskrit literature, advancements in mathematics and astronomy, and a high level of artistic and architectural development. The stability and prosperity of the Gupta Empire provided a conducive environment for cultural and intellectual growth.##+# 5. Samudragupta as a Bold and Great Conqueror - **Achievements**: Samudragupta, also known as the "Indian Napoleon," was a formidable military leader who expanded the Gupta Empire through extensive campaigns. His conquests included the defeat of numerous kingdoms and territories in northern and central India. He is celebrated for his military prowess, strategic acumen, and successful annexation of diverse regions, which helped consolidate Gupta rule and extend the empire's influence. ##+# 6. Famous University During the Gupta Period - **University**: The famous university was **Nalanda University**. - **Present-Day State**: Bihar. ##+# 7. Titles Adopted by Gupta Rulersa eelWOitlesia: 1. **"Chakravartin"**: Universal monarch. 2. **"Paramabhattaraka"**: Supreme overlord. ### 8. Gupta Period Officers - **(j) Collected Toll Tax**: **"Sannidhata"** or **"Sannidhikar"**. - **(jij) In Charge of a Province or Bhukti**: **"Uparika"** or **"Bhukti-pala"**. ##+# 9. Famous Literary Figures of the Gupta Age - **Two Figures**: 1. **Kalidasa**: Renowned for his contributions to Sanskrit literature, including plays and poems. 2. **Bhaskara I**: Noted for his works in mathematics and astronomy. ### 10. Aryabhatta's Contribution to Science - **Contribution**: Aryabhatta made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy. He is well-known for his work on the concept ofzero, the approximation of tt (pi), and his detailed treatment of the lunar and solar eclipses. His work in trigonometry and his theory of the rotation of the Earth laid important foundations for future developments in these fields. 1. With reference to the sources of information about the Gupta Age, write short notes on the following: (a) Accounts of Fa-hien (b) The Allahabad Pillar Inscription 2. With reference to the Age of the Guptas, answer the following questions: (c) Nalanda University (a) Explain the extent of Samudragupta's Empire based on the information given in the Allahabad Pillar Inscription. (b) Explain how Chandragupta II expanded his empire.(c) Briefly mention any four observations of Fa- hien about the reign of Chandragupta Il. 3. With reference to the administrative system of the Guptas, answer the following questions: (a) Explain the position and powers of the king during the Gupta Age. (b) Describe briefly the administration of villages during the Gupta period. (c) According to the Allahabad Pillar, which kinds of rulers were there? How did Samudragupta deal with them? 4. With reference to the picture given alongside, answer the following: (a) Identify the temple given in the picture. Where is it located? To which God is this temple dedicated?(b) Mention the architectural features of this temple. (c) Briefly describe the educational institution set up during this period ##+# Sources of Information about the Gupta Age (a) **Accounts of Fa-hien**: Fa-hien was a Chinese Buddhist monk who visited India during the Gupta period. His accounts provide valuable insights into the social, religious, and political conditions of the time. He praised the prosperity and stability of the Gupta Empire under Chandragupta II, noting the flourishing of Buddhism and the well- organized administration. His descriptions of Indian society, religious practices, and the condition of Buddhist monasteries highlight the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of the Gupta period. (b) **The Allahabad Pillar Inscription**:The Allahabad Pillar Inscription, also known as the Allahabad Prasasti, was issued by Samudragupta and is a crucial source of information about his reign. It details his military conquests, diplomatic achievements, and administrative reforms. The inscription celebrates Samudragupta's victories over various kingdoms and his skill in consolidating and expanding his empire. It also reflects the king's patronage of the arts and support for various religious communities. ##+# Age of the Guptas (a) **Extent of Samudragupta’s Empire**: According to the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, Samudragupta’s empire extended across a vast region. His conquests included territories in northern and central India, from the eastern Bengal to the western regions of present-day Rajasthan and the south up to the Deccan. The inscription records his victories over the major kingdoms of the time, including those of the north and south, and his establishment of Guptasuzerainty over a wide area. (b) **Chandragupta II’s Expansion**: Chandragupta II, also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya, expanded his empire through a combination of military conquests and strategic alliances. He strengthened Gupta control in northern and central India and extended influence into the western regions through successful campaigns against the Saka rulers. His marriage alliances with powerful families further consolidated his power and facilitated the expansion of the empire. (c) **Four Observations of Fa-hien about Chandragupta II**: 1. **Prosperity**: Fa-hien observed that under Chandragupta Il’s rule, India was prosperous and well-administered. 2. **Buddhism**: He noted that Buddhism thrived during this period, with many monasteries and Buddhist institutions being well-maintained. 3. **Administration**: Fa-hien remarked on theefficient and just administration, which contributed to the stability of the empire. 4. **Cultural Flourishing**: The period saw a flourishing of cultural and intellectual activities, with great support for learning and the arts. ### Administrative System of the Guptas (a) **Position and Powers of the King**: During the Gupta Age, the king held a central position of authority, combining executive, legislative, and judicial powers. The king was regarded as the supreme ruler and was responsible for the administration, law and order, and military command. The king's role was to uphold dharma (moral law) and ensure the prosperity and stability of the kingdom. He was supported by a council of ministers and officials who helped in governing the vast empire. (b) **Administration of Villages**: Villages during the Gupta period were administered by local officials known as *grama- patis* or village heads. These officials wereresponsible for local governance, including tax collection, maintaining law and order, and overseeing village affairs. The administration was characterized by a system of local self- governance where villagers played an active role in decision-making. The village council, or *sabha*, handled issues related to land disputes, social norms, and community welfare. (c) **Kinds of Rulers and Samudragupta’s Actions**: According to the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, Samudragupta dealt with various kinds of rulers: 1. **Independent Kings**: He defeated and annexed the territories of independent kings. 2. **Vassal Rulers**: He brought some rulers under his suzerainty, making them his vassals. 3. **Tributary States**: He established control over regions that paid tribute to the Gupta Empire. Samudragupta’s approach combined military prowess with diplomatic strategies to integrate diverse regions into his empire, therebyconsolidating Gupta power and extending influence. ### Picture Reference (a) **Temple Identification**: - **Temple**: The temple depicted is likely the **Dashavatara Temple**. - **Location**: It is located in **Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh**. - **Dedication**: The temple is dedicated to **Vishnu**, (b) **Architectural Features**: - **Mandapa**: The temple features a spacious hall or mandapa with intricately carved pillars. - **Shikhara**: The temple has a curvilinear tower or shikhara that rises above the sanctum sanctorum, typical of Gupta temple architecture. - **Carvings**: The temple is adorned with detailed carvings depicting various Hindu deities and mythological scenes. (c) **Educational Institution**:- **Nalanda University**: Established during the Gupta period, Nalanda University was a prominent center of learning known for its advanced studies in various disciplines, including Buddhism, philosophy, and science. It attracted scholars from across Asia and played a crucial role in the dissemination of knowledge and intellectual exchange during the Gupta era. 1. State any two sources of information about the Mauryan Empire. 2. Who wrote Arthashastra? What is its importance? 3. What is the importance of Ashoka's edicts? 4. Who wrote the Indika? What does it contain? 5. What is a stupa? Name one stupa built by Ashoka. 6. How did Chandragupta Maurya establish theMauryan dynasty? 7. What is the importance of the Kalinga war in the personal life of Ashoka? 8. What was the impact of Ashoka embracing the policy of Dhammagosha? 9. Name the two taxes mentioned in the Edicts of Ashoka. 10. How did the king keep himself abreast with whatever was happening in his kingdom? 11. What is meant by Ashoka's Dhamma? 12. Give the basic principles of Ashoka's Dhamma. 13. What was the impact of Dhamma on Ashoka's policies? 1. **Sources of Information about the Mauryan Empire**:- Ancient texts such as the *Arthashastra* by Kautilya. - Historical accounts by Greek historians like Megasthenes, who wrote the *Indika*. 2. **Author and Importance of the *Arthashastra***: - The *Arthashastra* was written by Kautilya, also known as Chanakya. - Its importance lies in its detailed analysis of political and economic governance, including statecraft, military strategy, and diplomacy. 3. **Importance of Ashoka's Edicts**: - Ashoka's edicts provide valuable insights into his reign, policies, and philosophy. - They reflect his commitment to Dhamma and his efforts to promote moral values, social justice, and welfare. 4. **Author and Contents of the *Indika***: - The *Indika* was written by Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador to the Mauryan court. - It describes the social, political, and economicaspects of the Mauryan Empire and offers a glimpse into Indian society of that period. 5. **What is a Stupa? Name of One Built by Ashoka**: - A stupa is a Buddhist monument, usually a dome-shaped structure, used to house relics of the Buddha or other important figures. - One stupa built by Ashoka is the Sanchi Stupa. 6. **Chandragupta Maurya’s Establishment of the Mauryan Dynasty**: - Chandragupta Maurya established the Mauryan dynasty by overthrowing the Nanda dynasty with the help of his mentor Kautilya. - He consolidated power through military conquests and strategic alliances, ultimately founding the Mauryan Empire. 7. **Importance of the Kalinga War in Ashoka's lifes: - The Kalinga War was a turning point for Ashoka, leading him to embrace Buddhism and adopt a policy of non-violence and Dhamma.- The immense loss of life and suffering caused during the war profoundly affected him. 8. **Impact of Ashoka Embracing the Policy of Dhammagosha**: - Dhammagosha, or the propagation of Dhamma, led Ashoka to focus on moral and ethical governance. - It resulted in policies promoting social welfare, tolerance, and non-violence, as well as the spread of Buddhism. 9. **Two Taxes Mentioned in the Edicts of Ashoka**: - The *Bhaga* (a land tax) and the *Ujjavala* (a tax on trade and commerce). 10. **How the King Kept Abreast of Kingdom Events**: - Kings kept themselves informed through a network of spies and emissaries. - They also relied on reports from local officials and administrators.11. **Meaning of Ashoka's Dhnamma**: - Ashoka's Dhamma refers to his commitment to moral and ethical principles derived from Buddhism, emphasizing righteousness, compassion, and non-violence. 12. **Basic Principles of Ashoka's Dhamma**: - Non-violence (Ahimsa). - Truthfulness and justice. - Respect for all religious sects and tolerance. - Compassion and welfare for all beings. 13. **Impact of Dhamma on Ashoka’s Policies**: - Dhamma influenced Ashoka to adopt a more benevolent and humane approach to governance. - It led to the promotion of public welfare programs, support for Buddhism, and efforts to maintain social harmony and ethical conduct. 1. With reference to the sources of information on the Mauryan Empire, explain briefly the significance of the following:(a) Arthashastra b) Indika ( (c) Sanchi Stupa . With reference to Mauryan Empire, answer the following questions: 2 (a) Give a brief account of how Chandragupta established the Mauryan Empire. (b) Give a brief account of the Kalinga war and its consequences. (c) Name four important ways in which Buddhism spread under the royal patronage during the Mauryan times. 3. With reference to Mauryan administration, answer the following questions: (a) Why is Chandragupta Maurya regarded as the chief architect of the system of administration?(b) Briefly describe the main features of civil and military administration under Mauryan rule. ### 1. Significance of the Sources on the Mauryan Empire (a) **Arthashastra**: Written by Kautilya (Chanakya), the Arthashastra is a significant ancient Indian text on statecraft, economics, and military strategy. It provides insights into the administrative practices, political strategies, and economic policies of the Mauryan Empire. The text highlights the role of the king, the importance of espionage, and the management of state affairs, reflecting the sophisticated governance and political acumen of the Mauryan period. (b) **Indika**: Written by Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador to the Mauryan court, Indika offers a detailed account of the Mauryan Empire,particularly under Chandragupta Maurya. His observations provide valuable information about the political, social, and economic conditions of the empire, including the administration, culture, and the king's court. Indika is an important external source that complements Indian texts and inscriptions. (c) **Sanchi Stupa**: The Sanchi Stupa is a significant Buddhist monument from the Mauryan period, constructed under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka. It represents the spread and influence of Buddhism during Ashoka's reign. The stupa and its intricate carvings illustrate the impact of Buddhism on art and architecture, and they serve as a testament to the emperor's commitment to promoting and preserving Buddhist teachings. ### 2. Key Aspects of the Mauryan Empire (a) **Establishment of the Mauryan Empire**: Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire around 322 BCE after overthrowing theNanda Dynasty. He was supported by his advisor Kautilya, who played a crucial role in his rise to power. Chandragupta consolidated his rule through a combination of military conquests and strategic alliances, ultimately establishing a vast empire that extended across much of the Indian subcontinent. (b) **Kalinga War and its Consequences**: The Kalinga War (circa 261 BCE) was a significant conflict fought by Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor, against the kingdom of Kalinga. The war was marked by severe casualties and widespread suffering. The aftermath deeply affected Ashoka, leading to his conversion to Buddhism and a commitment to non-violence and humanitarianism. Consequently, Ashoka promoted Buddhism both within and beyond his empire, leading to the spread of Buddhist teachings and principles. (c) **Ways Buddhism Spread under Mauryan Patronage**:1. **Royal Patronage**: Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism and his support for the religion significantly promoted its growth. He made Buddhist teachings central to his administration. 2. **Missionary Activities**: Ashoka sent missionaries, including his own children, to various regions of India and beyond to spread Buddhism. 3. **Construction of Stupas and Monasteries**: Ashoka commissioned the construction of numerous stupas, monasteries, and other Buddhist monuments, which facilitated the spread and practice of Buddhism. 4. **Edicts and Inscriptions**: Ashoka’s edicts, inscribed on pillars and rocks throughout his empire, communicated Buddhist principles and moral teachings, reaching a wide audience. ### 3. Mauryan Administration (a) **Chandragupta Maurya as the Chief Architect**: Chandragupta Maurya, supported by Kautilya, established a highly organizedsystem of administration that included a centralized bureaucracy and a well-defined hierarchy. His system encompassed revenue collection, law and order, and military organization, setting a foundation for future Indian empires. (b) **Features of Civil and Military Administration**: - **Cjvil Administration**: The Mauryan administration was highly centralized with the emperor at the top. It included a vast bureaucracy, with officers appointed to manage various aspects of governance such as taxation, justice, and public works. Local administration was overseen by provincial governors and officials. - **Military Administration**: The Mauryan military was well-organized and included a standing army. The administration of the military was under the direct control of the emperor, with a detailed structure including infantry, cavalry,and elephants. There was also an emphasis on espionage and intelligence to maintain control and security. ### 1. Tirukkural - **Author**: The Tirukkural was authored by Thiruvalluvar. - **Three Sections**: The Tirukkural is divided into three sections: 1. **Aram (Virtue)**: Focuses on moral values and ethical living. 2. **Porul (Wealth)**: Deals with political and economic aspects of Life. 3. **Inbam (Love)**: Explores the themes of love and relationships. ### 2.Megaliths - **Definition**: Megaliths are large stone structures or monuments constructed in prehistoric times. - **Reason for the Name**: The term "megalith"comes from Greek, where "mega" means large and "lithos" means stone, reflecting their large stone construction. ### 3. Divisions (Tinais) in Sangam Literature = OUlEDIVISIONS mis 1. **Kurinji**: The mountainous region, associated with love and romance. 2. **Mullai**: The forest area, associated with pastoral and agricultural life. 3. **Marutham*™*: The fertile plains, associated with agriculture and prosperity. 4. **Neidhal**: The coastal region, associated with trade and seafaring. ### 4. Vellalars - **Definition**: During the Sangam Age, the Vellalars were an important agricultural class, primarily landowners and cultivators. ##+# 5. Main Crops During the Sangam Period- **Main Crops**: a **kRice** - **Millets** - **Sugarcane** - **Various pulses** ### 6. Cotton Trade Centre and Exports - **Centre**: **Kaveripattinam** (also known as **Poompuhar**). - **Products Exported**: Cotton textiles, spices, and gems. ##+# 7. Social Divisions and Occupations - **Social Divisions and Occupations**: 1. **Kshatriyas**: Warriors and rulers. 2. **Brahmins**: Priests and scholars. 3. **Vellalars**: Agriculturalists and landowners. 4. **Artisans and Traders**: Craftsmen, merchants, and traders involved in various industries.### Structured Questions 1. **Picture Reference** (a) **Statue Identification**: The statue likely represents **Kannagi**, the heroine of the Tamil epic *Silappatikaram*. She is revered for her unwavering devotion and justice. (b) **Position of Women**: During the Sangam Age, women were generally respected and had a significant role in society, with various social and cultural rights. They were involved in both domestic and public life. (c) **Tolkappiyam on Ways of Living**: The *Tolkappiyam* describes the ways of living of people in Sangam society, highlighting the importance of agriculture, trade, and the distinct regional lifestyles associated with the different *tinais*. 2. **Sangam Age**(a) **Naming of the Sangam Age**: The period is named after the Sangams, which were academies of poets and scholars in ancient Tamil Nadu that flourished under patronage from local kings. (b) ** Three Kingdoms and Capitals**: 1. **Chera Kingdom**: Capital was **Vanchi** (modern-day Karur). 2. **Chola Kingdom**: Capital was **Uraiyur**. 3. **Pandya Kingdom**: Capital was **Madurai**. (c) **Achievements**: - **Cheran Senguttuvan**: Known for his military conquests and patronage of literature. His reign saw the flourishing of Tamil culture. - **Chola Karikalan**: Noted for his military prowess, particularly in defeating rival kingdoms, and for his contributions to infrastructure and administration. 3. **Economy During the Sangam Age**(a) **Main Occupation**: The main occupation was agriculture, with activities including cultivation, irrigation, and trade. Landowners and cultivators formed the backbone of the economy. (b) **Organisation of Internal Trade**: Internal trade was well-organized with markets, trade routes, and regulated pricing. Goods were exchanged through local markets and fairs, and the economy was supported by a complex network of traders and artisans. (c) **Extent and Significance of External Trade**: External trade extended to regions as far as the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia. Key exports included textiles, spices, and gems, which enhanced the economic prosperity and cultural exchange between South India and other ancient civilizations.