UPSC Prelims 2025 Analysis

Explanation

The correct answer is B. Chandragupta II.

Fa-hien (Faxian), the Chinese Buddhist pilgrim, visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II (also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya) of the Gupta dynasty. He arrived around the early 5th century CE, seeking Buddhist texts and studying the practices of Buddhism in India. His travel accounts provide valuable information about Gupta India’s society, administration, and Buddhism.

The other rulers listed do not align with the period of Fa-hien’s visit.

Explanation

✅ I. Asmaka : Godavari

• Asmaka (or Assaka) was a Mahajanapada located in the Deccan region on the banks of the Godavari river. This pair is correctly matched.

❌ II. Kamboja : Vipas

• Kamboja was in the north-western part of the Indian subcontinent (around Afghanistan and Tajikistan). The river Vipas (Beas) flows in Punjab, so this pair is incorrectly matched.

❌ III. Avanti : Mahanadi

• Avanti was in western Madhya Pradesh with Ujjain as its capital. The main river there was the Kshipra, not the Mahanadi, so this pair is incorrect.

✅ IV. Kosala : Sarayu

• Kosala was a Mahajanapada in present-day eastern Uttar Pradesh, through which the Sarayu river flows. This pair is correct.

Explanation

✅ Ashokan inscriptions mention 'Pradesika', 'Rajuka', and 'Yukta' as important officers at the district (Pradesa) level.

• 'Pradesika' managed the district administration.
• 'Rajuka' handled revenue and judicial matters.
• 'Yukta' was a subordinate official involved in administration and record-keeping.

Explanation

The correct answer is C. Rajendra I (Chola).

Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja Chola I, led a famous naval expedition against the Srivijaya kingdom around 1025 CE. Srivijaya was a powerful maritime empire controlling the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and nearby islands. Rajendra I’s campaign asserted Chola naval dominance in the region and secured control over important sea trade routes.

The other rulers listed did not conduct campaigns against Srivijaya:

• Amoghavarsha (Rashtrakuta) focused mainly on the Deccan region.
• Prataparudra (Kakatiya) ruled much later and was centered in the Deccan.
• Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala) focused on South Indian affairs.

Explanation

The correct answer is A. Mahendravarman I.

Mahendravarman I, a 7th-century Pallava king, was known for his literary talent and artistic patronage. He adopted the titles ‘Mattavilasa’ (lover of playful sport), ‘Vichitrachitta’ (curious-minded or inventive), and ‘Gunabharata’ (full of virtues). He also authored the Sanskrit play Mattavilasa Prahasana, reflecting his cultural contributions.

The other rulers listed did not assume these titles.

Explanation

Correct answer: B. a large wheel with earthen pots tied to the outer ends of its spokes.

The Araghatta was an ancient Indian irrigation device consisting of a large wheel with earthen pots fixed around its rim. As the wheel rotated—usually powered by animals or humans—the pots dipped into a water source and lifted water for irrigation. This mechanism is distinct from leather bags or simple buckets pulled by hand and represents early mechanical water-lifting technology.