300 Questions from Medieval Indian History: SSC Practice Set
Q.1) Who was the first Arab to lead a successful military expedition to Sindh in 712 CE?
Answer: Muhammad bin Qasim
Explanation: He was the commander of the Umayyad Caliphate who defeated Raja Dahir, marking the beginning of Islamic influence in the Indian subcontinent.
Q.2) Which Hindu Shahi ruler of Punjab committed ritual suicide after being defeated by Mahmud of Ghazni?
Answer: Jayapala
Explanation: After his defeat in the Battle of Peshawar (1001 CE), Jayapala felt deeply humiliated and immolated himself, succeeded by his son Anandapala.
Q.3) How many times did Mahmud of Ghazni invade India between 1000 and 1027 CE?
Answer: 17 times
Explanation: His primary motive was to plunder the immense wealth of Indian temples to finance his empire-building in Central Asia.
Q.4) Which famous temple was destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025 CE?
Answer: Somnath Temple
Explanation: Located in Gujarat, the Somnath temple was one of the wealthiest shrines in India; its destruction remains one of the most significant events of early medieval history.
Q.5) Who was the court poet of Mahmud of Ghazni and the author of the 'Shahnameh'?
Answer: Firdausi
Explanation: Firdausi is known as the "Homer of the East," and his epic poem 'Shahnameh' is the national epic of Greater Iran.
Q.6) Al-Biruni, the great scholar, came to India with which invader?
Answer: Mahmud of Ghazni
Explanation: Al-Biruni studied Sanskrit and Indian sciences and wrote the encyclopaedic work 'Kitab-ul-Hind'.
Q.7) In which year was the First Battle of Tarain fought?
Answer: 1191 CE
Explanation: It was fought between the Rajput confederacy led by Prithviraj Chauhan and the Ghurid forces of Muhammad Ghori, resulting in a Rajput victory.
Q.8) Who defeated Muhammad Ghori in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE?
Answer: Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan
Explanation: The second battle was a decisive turning point that established Muslim rule in Northern India.
Q.9) Which general of Muhammad Ghori is responsible for the destruction of the Nalanda and Vikramshila Universities?
Answer: Bakhtiyar Khilji
Explanation: He led the eastern campaigns of the Ghurids, conquering Bihar and Bengal and destroying great centres of Buddhist learning.
Q.10) Who was the founder of the Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty in 1206 CE?
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak
Explanation: Originally a slave of Muhammad Ghori, he became the first Sultan of Delhi after Ghori's death.
Q.11) Which Sultan of Delhi was known as 'Lakh Baksh' (Giver of Lakhs) for his generosity?
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak
Explanation: He was known for his charitable nature, though his reign was short-lived.
Q.12) Qutubuddin Aibak died while playing which sport?
Answer: Chaugan (Polo)
Explanation: He fell from his horse while playing the game in Lahore in 1210 CE.
Q.13) Who is considered the "Real Consolidator" of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Shamsuddin Iltutmish
Explanation: He saved the Sultanate from Mongol invasions, introduced the Iqta system, and shifted the capital to Delhi.
Q.14) What were the two types of coins introduced by Iltutmish?
Answer: Tanka (Silver) and Jital (Copper)
Explanation: These remained the standard currency for much of the Sultanate period.
Q.15) Who was the first and only woman to sit on the throne of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Razia Sultan
Explanation: The daughter of Iltutmish, she ruled from 1236 to 1240 CE despite heavy opposition from the Turkish nobility.
Q.16) The "Turkan-i-Chahalgani" (The Forty) was a group of powerful nobles created by whom?
Answer: Iltutmish
Explanation: This elite corps of 40 Turkish slave officers held immense political power during the early Sultanate.
Q.17) Which Sultan of Delhi followed the policy of "Blood and Iron" to crush his enemies?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban
Explanation: He was a stern ruler who abolished 'The Forty' and introduced Persian customs like 'Sijda' and 'Paibos'.
Q.18) Who was the founder of the Khilji Dynasty?
Answer: Jalaluddin Khilji
Explanation: He overthrew the last of the Slave dynasty rulers but was later murdered by his nephew Alauddin.
Q.19) Which Sultan was the first to cross the Vindhyas and invade the Deccan?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji
Explanation: His general Malik Kafur led successful expeditions against the Yadavas, Kakatiyas, and Hoysalas.
Q.20) What was the 'Dag' and 'Chehra' system introduced by Alauddin Khilji?
Answer: Branding of horses and descriptive roll of soldiers
Explanation: These reforms were aimed at preventing corruption and maintaining a strong standing army.
Q.21) Which Sultan introduced market control and price regulation reforms in Delhi?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji
Explanation: He fixed the prices of all essential commodities to maintain a large army at low cost.
Q.22) Who was the founder of the Tughlaq Dynasty?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
Explanation: He took the title 'Ghazi' and founded the city of Tughlaqabad.
Q.23) Which Sultan is known as the "Wisest Fool" in Indian history?
Answer: Muhammad bin Tughlaq
Explanation: Despite being a profound scholar, his ambitious projects like the capital shift and token currency ended in disaster.
Q.24) Muhammad bin Tughlaq shifted his capital from Delhi to which city?
Answer: Daulatabad (Devagiri)
Explanation: He wanted a more central location to control the Deccan, but the forced migration of the entire population of Delhi was a failure.
Q.25) Who was the Moroccan traveller who visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq?
Answer: Ibn Battuta
Explanation: He served as the Qazi (Judge) of Delhi for eight years and wrote the travelogue 'Rihla'.
Q.26) Which Sultan of Delhi established the department of agriculture called 'Diwan-i-Amirkohi'?
Answer: Muhammad bin Tughlaq
Explanation: This was an early attempt at state-sponsored agricultural improvement through loans to farmers.
Q.27) Who was the founder of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 CE?
Answer: Harihara and Bukka
Explanation: These two brothers established the empire on the banks of the Tungabhadra River during the decline of the Tughlaqs.
Q.28) The Bahmani Kingdom (1347 CE) was founded by whom?
Answer: Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (Zafar Khan)
Explanation: It was the first independent Islamic kingdom in the Deccan.
Q.29) Which Sultan of Delhi is famous for building a large network of canals for irrigation?
Answer: Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Explanation: He also founded several cities like Hisar, Fatehabad, and Firozabad (Delhi).
Q.30) Who was the last Sultan of the Tughlaq Dynasty during whose reign Timur (Tamerlane) invaded India?
Answer: Nasiruddin Mahmud Tughlaq
Explanation: Timur’s invasion in 1398 CE dealt a death blow to the Tughlaq dynasty.
Q.31) Which dynasty was founded by Khizr Khan in 1414 CE?
Answer: Sayyid Dynasty
Explanation: Khizr Khan claimed to be a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and ruled as a deputy of Timur’s son.
Q.32) Who was the first Afghan ruler of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Bahlul Lodi
Explanation: He founded the Lodi Dynasty, the last dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate.
Q.33) Which Lodi Sultan founded the city of Agra in 1504 CE?
Answer: Sikandar Lodi
Explanation: He shifted the capital from Delhi to Agra to better control the warring Rajput chiefs.
Q.34) Who was the last Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Ibrahim Lodi
Explanation: He was defeated and killed by Babur in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE.
Q.35) In which year was the First Battle of Panipat fought?
Answer: 1526 CE
Explanation: This battle marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate and the beginning of the Mughal Empire.
Q.36) Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, belonged to which Central Asian clan?
Answer: Timurid (Chaghatai Turk)
Explanation: He was a descendant of Timur on his father's side and Genghis Khan on his mother's side.
Q.37) What was the main reason for Babur's victory at Panipat?
Answer: Use of Artillery and Tulughma (war strategy)
Explanation: Babur was the first to use cannons (artillery) on a large scale in Northern India.
Q.38) In which battle did Babur defeat the Rajput confederacy led by Rana Sanga?
Answer: Battle of Khanwa (1527)
Explanation: This victory consolidated Mughal power in North India.
Q.39) Who wrote the 'Baburnama', the autobiography of Babur?
Answer: Babur (Self-authored)
Explanation: Originally written in Chaghatai Turkic, it is considered one of the most honest autobiographies in history.
Q.40) Who succeeded Babur as the second Mughal Emperor?
Answer: Humayun
Explanation: His reign was marked by struggles against Afghan rivals and his own brothers.
Q.41) Who founded the Sur Empire and defeated Humayun in the Battle of Chausa?
Answer: Sher Shah Suri
Explanation: He was a brilliant administrator who ruled for only five years but left a lasting legacy.
Q.42) Which Mughal Emperor spent 15 years in exile after being defeated by Sher Shah?
Answer: Humayun
Explanation: He regained the throne in 1555 CE with the help of the Safavid Shah of Persia.
Q.43) What was the original name of Sher Shah Suri?
Answer: Farid
Explanation: He was given the title 'Sher Khan' after killing a tiger single-handedly.
Q.44) Which famous road was rebuilt by Sher Shah Suri, connecting Sonargaon to Attock?
Answer: Grand Trunk (GT) Road
Explanation: He also introduced the 'Rupia', which is the ancestor of the modern Rupee.
Q.45) Where is the tomb of Sher Shah Suri located?
Answer: Sasaram (Bihar)
Explanation: It is a magnificent example of Indo-Islamic architecture built in the middle of a lake.
Q.46) In which year was the Second Battle of Panipat fought?
Answer: 1556 CE
Explanation: Akbar's forces, led by Bairam Khan, defeated the Hindu general Hemu.
Q.47) Who was the regent of Akbar during his early years (1556-1560)?
Answer: Bairam Khan
Explanation: He played a crucial role in consolidating the Mughal empire for the young Akbar.
Q.48) Which system of administration was introduced by Akbar for civil and military services?
Answer: Mansabdari System
Explanation: It was a grading system where every officer (Mansabdar) was assigned a 'Zat' (rank) and 'Sawar' (number of cavalry).
Q.49) Who was the revenue minister of Akbar who introduced the 'Zabti' system?
Answer: Raja Todar Mal
Explanation: The 'Dahshala' system involved an average of the last ten years' produce and prices to fix land revenue.
Q.50) What was the name of the new religion/code of conduct started by Akbar in 1582?
Answer: Din-i-Ilahi
Explanation: It was a syncretic belief system intended to unite the diverse subjects of the empire.
Q.51) Who was the only Hindu to accept Akbar's Din-i-Ilahi?
Answer: Birbal
Explanation: Birbal was one of the 'Navaratnas' and Akbar's closest companion.
Q.52) In which battle did Akbar defeat Maharana Pratap in 1576?
Answer: Battle of Haldighati
Explanation: Although the Mughals won, Maharana Pratap continued his resistance from the hills of Mewar.
Q.53) Which building was constructed by Akbar at Fatehpur Sikri to commemorate his victory over Gujarat?
Answer: Buland Darwaza
Explanation: It is the highest gateway in the world.
Q.54) Who was the author of 'Akbarnama' and 'Ain-i-Akbari'?
Answer: Abul Fazl
Explanation: He was one of Akbar’s Navaratnas and his official court historian.
Q.55) Which Mughal Emperor is known for his "Chain of Justice" (Zanjir-i-Adl)?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: He installed a golden chain with bells outside his palace for any aggrieved person to seek royal justice.
Q.56) During whose reign did the British Captain William Hawkins and Sir Thomas Roe visit the Mughal court?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: They came to seek trade concessions for the English East India Company.
Q.57) Who was the powerful empress of Jahangir who practically ran the administration?
Answer: Nur Jahan (Mehr-un-Nissa)
Explanation: She was the only Mughal empress to have coins struck in her name.
Q.58) Which Mughal Emperor is known as the "Engineer King" or "Prince of Builders"?
Answer: Shah Jahan
Explanation: His reign is considered the Golden Age of Mughal architecture.
Q.59) In memory of which queen did Shah Jahan build the Taj Mahal?
Answer: Mumtaz Mahal
Explanation: She died during childbirth, and her tomb (Taj Mahal) took 22 years to complete.
Q.60) Who was the eldest son of Shah Jahan who translated the Upanishads into Persian?
Answer: Dara Shikoh
Explanation: He was a scholar of Sufism and Vedantic philosophy but was killed by his brother Aurangzeb.
Q.61) Which Mughal Emperor assumed the title 'Alamgir' (Conqueror of the World)?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: He was the last of the "Great Mughals" and ruled for almost 50 years.
Q.62) Which Sikh Guru was executed by Aurangzeb in 1675?
Answer: Guru Tegh Bahadur
Explanation: He was the 9th Sikh Guru and was executed for refusing to convert to Islam.
Q.63) Aurangzeb re-introduced which tax on non-Muslims in 1679?
Answer: Jizya
Explanation: Akbar had abolished it in 1564, but Aurangzeb brought it back as part of his orthodox policies.
Q.64) Who was the founder of the Maratha Empire and a major rival of Aurangzeb?
Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Explanation: He used guerrilla warfare tactics to challenge Mughal authority in the Deccan.
Q.65) Which Mughal Emperor is buried at Khuldabad (near Aurangabad) in a simple grave?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: Unlike his predecessors, he requested a simple tomb paid for by his own earnings from sewing caps.
Q.66) Who was the last Mughal Emperor to sit on the Peacock Throne?
Answer: Muhammad Shah 'Rangeela'
Explanation: The throne was carried away by Nadir Shah of Persia during his invasion in 1739.
Q.67) Who was the founder of the Bhakti Movement in South India?
Answer: Alvars (Vaishnavite) and Nayanars (Shaivite)
Explanation: They popularized the path of devotion (Bhakti) among the common people.
Q.68) Which Bhakti saint was a contemporary of Sikandar Lodi and emphasized the unity of God?
Answer: Kabir
Explanation: His verses are found in the 'Bijak' and are also included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
Q.69) Who was the female Bhakti saint from Rajasthan dedicated to Lord Krishna?
Answer: Meerabai
Explanation: She composed many 'Bhajans' in Braj Bhasha and Marwari.
Q.70) Who founded the Sikh religion in the 15th century?
Answer: Guru Nanak Dev
Explanation: He emphasized the concept of 'Ek Onkar' (One God) and social equality.
Q.71) The 'Adi Granth' was compiled by which Sikh Guru?
Answer: Guru Arjan Dev
Explanation: He was the 5th Sikh Guru and also built the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib).
Q.72) Who was the founder of the Chishti Silsila (order) in India?
Answer: Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
Explanation: His dargah is located in Ajmer and is a major pilgrimage site.
Q.73) Which Sufi saint was known as 'Mahbub-i-Ilahi' (Beloved of God)?
Answer: Nizamuddin Auliya
Explanation: He was the most famous saint of the Chishti order in Delhi.
Q.74) Who was the court poet and disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya, known as 'Tuti-e-Hind' (Parrot of India)?
Answer: Amir Khusrau
Explanation: He is credited with inventing the Sitar and the Tabla.
Q.75) Which traveller visited the Vijayanagara Empire during the reign of Deva Raya II?
Answer: Abdur Razzaq (Persian)
Explanation: He wrote a detailed account of the city’s wealth and architecture.
Q.76) Who was the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire (Tuluva Dynasty)?
Answer: Krishnadeva Raya
Explanation: His reign is considered the Golden Age of Telugu literature.
Q.77) What was the name of the group of eight Telugu poets in the court of Krishnadeva Raya?
Answer: Ashtadiggajas
Explanation: The most famous among them was Tenali Rama.
Q.78) In which battle was the Vijayanagara Empire decisively defeated in 1565?
Answer: Battle of Talikota (Rakshasa Tangadi)
Explanation: A confederacy of Deccan Sultanates defeated the Vijayanagara forces.
Q.79) Who built the 'Gol Gumbaz' at Bijapur, which has one of the largest domes in the world?
Answer: Muhammad Adil Shah
Explanation: It is famous for its 'Whispering Gallery'.
Q.80) The 'Charminar' in Hyderabad was built by which ruler?
Answer: Quli Qutub Shah
Explanation: It was built in 1591 to commemorate the end of a plague.
Q.81) Which Maratha ruler used the 'Ashtapradhan' council of ministers?
Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Explanation: The council was led by the 'Peshwa' (Prime Minister).
Q.82) What were the two types of taxes collected by the Marathas?
Answer: Chauth and Sardeshmukhi
Explanation: Chauth was 1/4th of the revenue paid for protection from Maratha raids.
Q.83) Who was the first Peshwa to become the real power behind the Maratha throne?
Answer: Balaji Vishwanath
Explanation: He marked the transition of power from the Chhatrapatis to the Peshwas.
Q.84) Which Peshwa is famous for his "Forward Policy" and never losing a battle?
Answer: Baji Rao I
Explanation: He expanded the Maratha Empire to the gates of Delhi.
Q.85) In which year was the Third Battle of Panipat fought?
Answer: 1761 CE
Explanation: Ahmad Shah Abdali (Afghan) defeated the Marathas, halting their expansion.
Q.86) Who was the last Great Maratha Peshwa who tried to restore Maratha power?
Answer: Madhav Rao I
Explanation: His untimely death in 1772 was a major setback for the Marathas.
Q.87) Which Mughal Emperor was known as 'Shah-i-Bekhabar'?
Answer: Bahadur Shah I
Explanation: He was given this nickname because of his negligence toward state affairs.
Q.88) Who were the 'Sayyid Brothers' in the later Mughal period?
Answer: Abdullah Khan and Hussain Ali Khan
Explanation: They were known as "Kingmakers" who controlled several Mughal emperors.
Q.89) Which Persian ruler invaded India in 1739 and sacked Delhi?
Answer: Nadir Shah
Explanation: He defeated Muhammad Shah at the Battle of Karnal.
Q.90) Who founded the autonomous state of Hyderabad in 1724?
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk (Asaf Jah I)
Explanation: He was a prominent noble in the Mughal court who declared independence.
Q.91) Who founded the state of Awadh in 1722?
Answer: Saadat Khan (Burhan-ul-Mulk)
Explanation: He was appointed the Governor of Awadh by the Mughal emperor.
Q.92) Who was the founder of the independent state of Bengal?
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan
Explanation: He shifted the capital from Dacca to Murshidabad.
Q.93) Which Battle in 1757 marked the beginning of British rule in India?
Answer: Battle of Plassey
Explanation: Robert Clive defeated the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah.
Q.94) Who was the last Mughal Emperor who was deposed and exiled to Rangoon?
Answer: Bahadur Shah Zafar
Explanation: He was the symbolic leader of the 1857 Revolt.
Q.95) What was the official language of the Mughal court?
Answer: Persian
Explanation: While the emperors spoke Turkic, Persian was the language of administration and literature.
Q.100) The 'Hampi' ruins are associated with which medieval empire?
Answer: Vijayanagara Empire
Explanation: Hampi was the capital of the empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Q.101) Which medieval traveler compared the city of Vijayanagara to Rome in terms of its size and prosperity?
Answer: Domingo Paes (Portuguese)
Explanation: He visited the court of Krishnadeva Raya and left a vivid description of the city’s markets, military strength, and fortifications.
Q.102) The 'Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri' was written in which language?
Answer: Persian
Explanation: Unlike his great-grandfather Babur, who wrote in Turkic, Jahangir wrote his memoirs in the official court language, Persian.
Q.103) Who was the Mughal architect responsible for the design of the Taj Mahal?
Answer: Ustad Ahmad Lahori
Explanation: He is credited as the chief architect of both the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Red Fort in Delhi.
Q.104) Which Sikh Guru was the first to militarise the community by establishing the 'Akal Takht'?
Answer: Guru Hargobind
Explanation: He was the 6th Guru and introduced the concept of Miri (temporal power) and Piri (spiritual power) after the execution of Guru Arjan Dev.
Q.105) Which Mughal Emperor shifted the capital from Agra to Delhi and built the city of Shahjahanabad?
Answer: Shah Jahan
Explanation: He built the Red Fort and Jama Masjid as the centerpieces of this new imperial capital.
Q.106) The 'Shalimar Bagh' in Srinagar was built by which Mughal Emperor?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: Jahangir was a great lover of nature and aesthetics, creating several famous gardens in Kashmir.
Q.107) What was the name of the administrative unit under the Mughals that consisted of a group of villages?
Answer: Pargana
Explanation: The empire was divided into Subas (provinces), Sarkars (districts), and Parganas (sub-districts).
Q.108) Who was the Persian painter brought to India by Humayun, who laid the foundation of the Mughal school of painting?
Answer: Mir Sayyid Ali (and Abdus Samad)
Explanation: These masters were invited from the Safavid court of Persia to train Indian artists.
Q.109) Which Mughal Emperor prohibited the use of tobacco in 1617?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: Although tobacco was introduced to India during his reign (by the Portuguese), he banned its consumption due to its addictive nature.
Q.110) The 'Golkonda Fort' was the capital of which Deccan Sultanate?
Answer: Qutub Shahi Dynasty
Explanation: It was world-famous for its diamond trade, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor.
Q.111) Which battle in 1658 led to the decisive victory of Aurangzeb over his brother Dara Shikoh?
Answer: Battle of Samugarh
Explanation: This victory essentially cleared Aurangzeb's path to the Mughal throne.
Q.112) Who was the French traveller and physician who served in the court of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb?
Answer: François Bernier
Explanation: His work 'Travels in the Mughal Empire' provides a critical European perspective on Indian society.
Q.113) Which Rajput ruler of Amber was sent by Aurangzeb to sign the Treaty of Purandar with Shivaji?
Answer: Raja Jai Singh I
Explanation: He was a brilliant diplomat and general who compelled Shivaji to cede 23 forts to the Mughals in 1665.
Q.114) The 'Bibi Ka Maqbara' in Aurangabad was built by whom?
Answer: Azam Shah (son of Aurangzeb)
Explanation: It was built in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum, and is often called the "Poor Man’s Taj" or "Taj of the Deccan."
Q.115) Who was the Maratha queen who led the resistance against Aurangzeb after the death of Rajaram?
Answer: Tarabai
Explanation: She served as the regent for her son and successfully defended the Maratha state against Mughal onslaughts for years.
Q.116) Which Mughal Emperor granted the 'Golden Farman' to the British East India Company in 1717?
Answer: Farrukhsiyar
Explanation: This farman (royal decree) gave the British valuable duty-free trading rights in Bengal.
Q.117) The 'Battle of Karnal' (1739) was fought between Muhammad Shah and which foreign invader?
Answer: Nadir Shah
Explanation: The Mughal army was easily defeated, leading to the brutal sack of Delhi.
Q.118) Which Sikh leader founded the 'Khalsa' in 1699?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh
Explanation: He was the 10th and last human Guru, who transformed the Sikhs into a martial community of "Saint-Soldiers."
Q.119) Who was the first Sikh leader to issue coins in the name of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh?
Answer: Banda Singh Bahadur
Explanation: He led a massive revolt against the Mughals after the death of the 10th Guru.
Q.120) The 'Amuktamalyada', a Telugu epic on statecraft, was written by which king?
Answer: Krishnadeva Raya
Explanation: It is considered one of the five great Telugu kavyas and describes the life of Andal, the Alvar saint.
Q.121) Which Bahmani ruler was known as 'Wali' (Saint) because of his association with Sufi saints?
Answer: Ahmad Shah Wali
Explanation: He shifted the Bahmani capital from Gulbarga to Bidar.
Q.122) Who was the celebrated queen of Gondwana who died fighting the Mughal forces of Akbar?
Answer: Rani Durgavati
Explanation: She was the regent of the Garha-Katanga kingdom and refused to submit to Akbar’s expansionism.
Q.123) Which official in the Mughal administration was responsible for the military and payment of salaries?
Answer: Mir Bakshi
Explanation: He was the head of the military department and also handled the intelligence agency of the empire.
Q.124) The 'Ibadat Khana' (House of Worship) at Fatehpur Sikri was built by Akbar for what purpose?
Answer: Religious discussions
Explanation: Initially intended for Muslims, it was later opened to leaders of all religions (Hinduism, Christianity, Jainism, Zoroastrianism).
Q.125) Who was the author of the Persian translation of the Mahabharata, known as 'Razmnama'?
Answer: Faizi (and others under Akbar's direction)
Explanation: Akbar established a translation bureau to bring Sanskrit classics into Persian.
Q.126) Which Mughal Emperor is known for introducing the concept of 'Sulah-i-Kul' (Universal Peace)?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: This policy of religious tolerance was a cornerstone of his empire’s stability.
Q.127) Who was the last Hindu general to occupy the throne of Delhi before the Mughals consolidated their power?
Answer: Hemu (Hem Chandra Vikramaditya)
Explanation: He declared himself emperor after capturing Delhi and Agra but was defeated at the Second Battle of Panipat.
Q.128) The 'Padmavat', an epic poem about Padmini of Chittor, was written by whom?
Answer: Malik Muhammad Jayasi
Explanation: It was written in Awadhi during the reign of Sher Shah Suri (1540 CE).
Q.129) Which medieval Bhakti saint was a disciple of Ramananda and belonged to the weaver community?
Answer: Kabir
Explanation: His teachings rejected the caste system and idol worship, influencing both Hindus and Muslims.
Q.130) Who founded the 'Pushti Marg' (Path of Grace) and the Shuddhadvaita school of philosophy?
Answer: Vallabhacharya
Explanation: He was a major figure in the Bhakti movement, focusing on the worship of Krishna.
Q.131) Which Sufi order (Silsila) was most popular in India during the Sultanate period?
Answer: Chishti Silsila
Explanation: It was popularised by saints like Moinuddin Chishti and Nizamuddin Auliya due to its simple and inclusive approach.
Q.132) The 'Qutub Minar' was completed by which Sultan?
Answer: Iltutmish
Explanation: While Aibak started the base, Iltutmish added three more storeys, and Firoz Shah Tughlaq later repaired the top.
Q.133) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to impose 'Ghari' (House tax) and 'Chari' (Pasture tax)?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji
Explanation: These were part of his rigorous revenue reforms to extract maximum wealth from the peasantry and nobility.
Q.134) What was the name of the agricultural department created by Firoz Shah Tughlaq?
Answer: Diwan-i-Kohi (Repurposed from Muhammad bin Tughlaq)
Explanation: Firoz Shah focused heavily on improving agrarian infrastructure to increase the state's tax base.
Q.135) Who was the founder of the Sharqi Dynasty of Jaunpur?
Answer: Malik Sarwar (Khwaja-i-Jahan)
Explanation: Jaunpur became known as the "Shiraz of the East" due to its patronage of art and literature.
Q.136) The 'Atala Masjid', a masterpiece of the Jaunpur style of architecture, was built by whom?
Answer: Ibrahim Shah Sharqi
Explanation: It features a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements.
Q.137) Which king of Mewar built the 'Vijay Stambha' (Tower of Victory) at Chittorgarh?
Answer: Rana Kumbha
Explanation: It was built to commemorate his victory over the combined armies of Malwa and Gujarat in 1448.
Q.138) Who was the Bhakti saint of Maharashtra who wrote 'Amrutanubhav' and a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita?
Answer: Sant Dnyaneshwar (Jnandeva)
Explanation: He is considered the founder of the Varkari sect.
Q.139) Which Sikh Guru introduced the 'Gurmukhi' script?
Answer: Guru Angad Dev
Explanation: He was the 2nd Guru and formalised the script to record the teachings of Guru Nanak.
Q.140) The 'Zafar Namah' (Epistle of Victory) was a letter written in Persian by Guru Gobind Singh to which Mughal Emperor?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: In this letter, the Guru rebuked Aurangzeb for his broken promises and religious intolerance.
Q.141) Who was the founder of the 'Kartar Singh' Misls and the Sikh Empire in the late 18th century?
Answer: Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Explanation: He unified the various Sikh Misls into a powerful sovereign state with Lahore as its capital.
Q.142) What was the 'Chauth' collected by the Marathas?
Answer: 25% (one-fourth) of the land revenue
Explanation: It was a protection tax levied on non-Maratha territories to save them from Maratha raids.
Q.143) Who was the 'Ashtapradhan' member responsible for foreign affairs?
Answer: Sumant (Dabir)
Explanation: Each of the eight ministers had a specific portfolio in Shivaji's administration.
Q.144) Which Maratha ruler was captured and executed by Aurangzeb in 1689?
Answer: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Explanation: The son of Shivaji, his brave death galvanized the Maratha resistance against the Mughals.
Q.145) Who was the first Peshwa to make the office hereditary?
Answer: Balaji Vishwanath
Explanation: He played a vital role in the civil war between Shahu and Tarabai.
Q.146) The 'Treaty of Salbai' (1782) ended which war between the British and the Marathas?
Answer: First Anglo-Maratha War
Explanation: It resulted in a 20-year peace between the two powers.
Q.147) Who was the 'Tiger of Mysore' who died fighting the British in 1799?
Answer: Tipu Sultan
Explanation: He was a pioneer of rocket artillery and a fierce opponent of British colonialism.
Q.148) Which Mughal Emperor was known as 'Lumpat Saudagar'?
Answer: Jahandar Shah
Explanation: He was a weak ruler who was heavily influenced by his mistress, Lal Kunwar.
Q.149) Who was the first Governor-General of Bengal under the Regulating Act of 1773?
Answer: Warren Hastings
Explanation: This marked the transition of the East India Company from a merchant body to a territorial power.
Q.150) The 'Battle of Buxar' (1764) was fought between the British and which combined forces?
Answer: Mir Qasim (Bengal), Shuja-ud-Daulah (Awadh), and Shah Alam II (Mughal)
Explanation: The British victory led to the Treaty of Allahabad and the grant of Diwani rights over Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha.
Q.151) Who was the poet-saint of Bengal who popularized 'Kirtans' (devotional songs) in the 16th century?
Answer: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
Explanation: He was a major figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism movement.
Q.152) Which traveller from Italy visited the Vijayanagara Empire in 1420?
Answer: Nicolo Conti
Explanation: He was one of the earliest Europeans to provide a detailed account of the empire’s culture and customs.
Q.153) The 'Hampi' temples are primarily built in which architectural style?
Answer: Vijayanagara style (a sub-type of Dravida)
Explanation: It is characterized by ornate pillars (Kalyana Mandapa) and the use of hard granite.
Q.154) Who was the author of the 'Tabaqat-i-Nasiri', a major source for the history of the early Sultanate?
Answer: Minhaj-us-Siraj
Explanation: It was dedicated to Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud of the Slave dynasty.
Q.155) Which Sultan of Delhi introduced the 'Sajda' (Prostration) and 'Paibos' (Kissing the feet of the Sultan)?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban
Explanation: These were Persian court etiquettes designed to establish the absolute authority of the Sultan.
Q.156) The 'Hauz Khas' in Delhi was originally built as a water tank for which Sultan's fort?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji (for the Siri Fort)
Explanation: It was later expanded and beautified by Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
Q.157) Who was the last ruler of the Bahmani Kingdom before it split into five Sultanates?
Answer: Kalimullah Shah
Explanation: The five resulting sultanates were Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda, Berar, and Bidar.
Q.158) Which Deccan Sultanate was the first to declare independence from the Bahmani Kingdom?
Answer: Bijapur (Adil Shahi Dynasty)
Explanation: It was founded by Yusuf Adil Shah in 1489.
Q.159) Who was the founder of the 'Nizam Shahi' dynasty of Ahmednagar?
Answer: Malik Ahmad
Explanation: He founded the city of Ahmednagar in 1494.
Q.160) The 'Adina Masjid' in Pandua, Bengal, was built by which ruler?
Answer: Sikandar Shah
Explanation: At the time of its construction, it was one of the largest mosques in the Indian subcontinent.
Q.161) Which medieval king is known as the 'Akbar of Kashmir'?
Answer: Zain-ul-Abidin
Explanation: He was known for his religious tolerance, abolition of Jizya, and patronage of Sanskrit literature.
Q.162) Who was the first person to use gunpowder in a war in the Deccan?
Answer: Muhammad Shah I (Bahmani Sultan)
Explanation: He used it against the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century.
Q.163) The 'Tughlaqabad Fort' was built by whom?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
Explanation: It was the third city of Delhi, though it was quickly abandoned due to water shortages.
Q.164) Who was the author of 'Futuh-us-Salatin', a history of the Muslim rulers of India up to the mid-14th century?
Answer: Isami
Explanation: He wrote this work under the patronage of the first Bahmani Sultan.
Q.165) Which Sultan of Delhi refused to accept the spiritual authority of the Caliph?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji (and later Mubarak Khilji)
Explanation: Alauddin believed the Sultan’s authority was supreme and did not need external validation.
Q.166) The 'Lodi Gardens' in Delhi contain the tombs of which two Sultans?
Answer: Sikandar Lodi and Muhammad Shah (Sayyid)
Explanation: The gardens were landscaped during the British era around these medieval tombs.
Q.167) Who was the Maratha 'Chhatrapati' who was released from Mughal custody by Bahadur Shah I?
Answer: Shahu Maharaj
Explanation: He was the grandson of Shivaji and his release triggered a power struggle within the Maratha state.
Q.168) Which Maratha official was the 'Sari-i-Naubat'?
Answer: Commander-in-Chief (Military)
Explanation: He was responsible for recruitment, training, and military discipline.
Q.169) The 'Treaty of Bassein' (1802) was signed between the British and which Peshwa?
Answer: Baji Rao II
Explanation: This treaty made the Peshwa a subsidiary ally of the British, effectively ending Maratha independence.
Q.170) Who was the French general who trained the infantry of the Maratha leader Mahadji Scindia?
Answer: Benoit de Boigne
Explanation: This modernisation allowed Scindia to dominate North Indian politics in the late 18th century.
Q.171) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to be born in the Indian subcontinent?
Answer: Akbar (born at Umarkot, Sindh)
Explanation: All subsequent Mughal emperors were born in India, unlike Babur and Humayun.
Q.172) The 'Moti Masjid' inside the Agra Fort was built by whom?
Answer: Shah Jahan
Explanation: It is made entirely of white marble and is known for its elegant design.
Q.173) Which Mughal Emperor wrote a poem on the 'Koh-i-Noor' diamond?
Answer: Shah Jahan
Explanation: He was deeply fascinated by precious stones and incorporated them into his architecture and the Peacock Throne.
Q.174) Who was the author of 'Muntakhab-ut-Tawarikh', a critical account of Akbar's reign?
Answer: Abdul Qadir Badauni
Explanation: He was an orthodox Muslim who strongly disagreed with Akbar's religious experiments.
Q.175) Which English traveler visited the court of Jahangir and provided a detailed account of the 'Navroz' festival?
Answer: William Hawkins
Explanation: He lived in the Mughal court for several years and was given a title and a salary by Jahangir.
Q.176) The 'Ibadat Khana' was located in which city?
Answer: Fatehpur Sikri
Explanation: It was the short-lived capital of Akbar before he moved back to Agra.
Q.177) Which Mughal princess wrote 'Humayun-nama'?
Answer: Gulbadan Begum
Explanation: She was the sister of Humayun and wrote the biography at the request of her nephew, Akbar.
Q.178) What was the 'Zat' and 'Sawar' in the Mansabdari system?
Answer: Zat (Personal rank) and Sawar (Cavalry rank)
Explanation: The Zat determined the officer's salary and status, while the Sawar determined the number of troops he had to maintain.
Q.179) Which Mughal Emperor abolished the 'Jizya' tax for the first time?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: He abolished it in 1564 to integrate his Hindu subjects into the imperial fabric.
Q.180) Who was the head of the intelligence and postal department during the Mughal era?
Answer: Daroga-i-Dak Chauki
Explanation: This official managed the flow of information through a network of runners and horses.
Q.181) The 'Panch Mahal' at Fatehpur Sikri is inspired by which architectural style?
Answer: Buddhist Vihara style
Explanation: It is a five-storeyed open pavilion used by the royal women for relaxation.
Q.182) Which Mughal Emperor shifted the royal painting atelier from the court to the general public?
Answer: Jahangir (partially) and later decline under Aurangzeb.
Explanation: While Jahangir focused on nature and individual portraits, Aurangzeb's lack of interest forced artists to seek work elsewhere.
Q.183) Who was the poet laureate (Malik-ush-Shu'ara) in the court of Shah Jahan?
Answer: Abu Talib Kalim
Explanation: He was a famous Persian poet who wrote many panegyrics for the Emperor.
Q.184) Which Mughal Emperor was known for his 'Fatawa-e-Alamgiri', a compilation of Islamic laws?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: It was one of the most comprehensive legal digests in the Islamic world at the time.
Q.185) The 'Jantar Mantar' observatories were built by which Rajput king?
Answer: Sawai Jai Singh II
Explanation: He built five observatories, including the famous ones in Delhi and Jaipur.
Q.186) Who was the founder of the 'Rohilla' state in the mid-18th century?
Answer: Ali Muhammad Khan
Explanation: The Rohillas were Afghans who settled in the fertile plains of North India.
Q.187) Which battle in 1760 between the British and the French effectively ended French power in India?
Answer: Battle of Wandiwash
Explanation: The British under Eyre Coote defeated the French under Comte de Lally.
Q.188) Who was the last independent Nawab of Bengal?
Answer: Siraj-ud-Daulah
Explanation: His defeat at Plassey opened the floodgates for British imperialism.
Q.189) The 'Double Dome' feature in Indian architecture was first introduced in which building?
Answer: Tomb of Humayun
Explanation: It was a Persian architectural element that gave the dome a more majestic height.
Q.190) Which medieval writer authored 'Prithviraj Vijay'?
Answer: Jayanaka
Explanation: Unlike the better-known 'Prithviraj Raso', this work is considered more historically accurate.
Q.191) The 'Kalachuri' style of temple architecture is primarily found in which region?
Answer: Central India (Madhya Pradesh)
Explanation: The Kalachuris were a major power between the ancient and medieval periods.
Q.192) Who was the author of 'Nuskha-i-Dilkusha', a valuable source for the history of the Deccan under Aurangzeb?
Answer: Bhimsen
Explanation: He was a Hindu officer in the Mughal service and provided a detailed eyewitness account.
Q.193) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to issue coins with a 'Sanskrit' legend on one side?
Answer: Mahmud of Ghazni (though not a Sultan of Delhi, his coins circulated in North India).
Explanation: Some of his silver coins featured a translation of the Kalima in Sanskrit.
Q.194) The 'Siri Fort' in Delhi was built by Alauddin Khilji for what primary reason?
Answer: To protect Delhi from Mongol invasions.
Explanation: It was the second city of Delhi.
Q.195) Who was the Bahmani minister who was a great scholar of Persian and built a famous Madrasa at Bidar?
Answer: Mahmud Gawan
Explanation: He was a brilliant administrator whose execution led to the decline of the Bahmani kingdom.
Q.196) Which medieval state was known for its 'Paik' system of forced labor?
Answer: Ahom Kingdom (Assam)
Explanation: This system allowed the Ahom kings to mobilize large armies and build massive public works.
Q.197) Who was the Ahom general who defeated the Mughals at the Battle of Saraighat in 1671?
Answer: Lachit Borphukan
Explanation: He is a national hero in Assam for his strategic defense of the Brahmaputra valley.
Q.198) The 'Bhakti' saint Narsinh Mehta belonged to which state?
Answer: Gujarat
Explanation: He wrote the famous hymn 'Vaishnav Jan To', which was a favorite of Mahatma Gandhi.
Q.199) Which Sufi order was known for its rigorous asceticism and yoga-like practices?
Answer: Shatari Silsila
Explanation: They sought to bridge the gap between Islamic mysticism and Indian yogic traditions.
Q.200) Who was the first Mughal Emperor to come into contact with the Portuguese?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: He invited Portuguese Jesuits from Goa to his court at Fatehpur Sikri for religious discussions.
Q.201) In the Mughal administration, what was the function of the 'Mustaufi'?
Answer: Auditor General
Explanation: He was responsible for inspecting the state accounts and ensuring that the income and expenditure were properly recorded.
Q.202) Which medieval ruler introduced the 'Kabuliyat' and 'Patta' as agricultural settlement documents?
Answer: Sher Shah Suri
Explanation: The 'Patta' was a title deed given to the peasant, and 'Kabuliyat' was the agreement by which the peasant accepted the tax obligation.
Q.203) The 'Charbagh' style of gardening was introduced in India by which ruler?
Answer: Babur
Explanation: This Persian-style layout divides a garden into four parts using walkways or flowing water. The first such garden was the Ram Bagh in Agra.
Q.204) Which medieval historian wrote the 'Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi', providing an account of the Tughlaq era?
Answer: Ziauddin Barani
Explanation: Barani was a contemporary of Muhammad bin Tughlaq and Firoz Shah Tughlaq and provided a critical view of their policies.
Q.205) The 'Hauz-i-Alai' (later known as Hauz Khas) was built by which Sultan?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji
Explanation: It was a massive reservoir built to supply water to the newly established Siri Fort.
Q.206) Which Mughal Emperor's reign saw the highest percentage of Hindu Mansabdars in the administration?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: Despite his orthodox religious policies, nearly 33% of his Mansabdars were Hindus (mostly Marathas and Rajputs) due to political necessity.
Q.207) Who was the head of the royal household and harem under the Mughals?
Answer: Khan-i-Saman
Explanation: He was responsible for the management of the royal karkhanas (factories), stores, and palace requirements.
Q.208) The 'Gital' and 'Sistani' were types of weights and measures used during whose reign?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji
Explanation: He standardised weights and measures to strictly enforce his market control policy.
Q.209) Which Sufi saint of the Naqshbandi order was a strong critic of Akbar's religious policies?
Answer: Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi
Explanation: Known as 'Mujaddid Alif Sani', he advocated for a return to orthodox Islamic practices.
Q.210) The 'Jama Masjid' in Delhi, the largest mosque in India at the time, was completed in which year?
Answer: 1656 CE
Explanation: It was commissioned by Shah Jahan and built using red sandstone and white marble.
Q.211) Who was the Persian traveler who visited India during the 15th century and described the 'Dasara' festival of Vijayanagara?
Answer: Abdur Razzaq
Explanation: He was the ambassador of Shah Rukh of Persia and was amazed by the grandeur of the Mahanavami Dibba.
Q.212) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to formalise the 'Pietra Dura' (inlay of precious stones in marble) technique?
Answer: Jahangir (first seen in Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb)
Explanation: It reached its perfection later under Shah Jahan in the Taj Mahal.
Q.213) The 'Dahshala' system of land revenue was based on the average produce of how many years?
Answer: Ten years
Explanation: It was implemented by Raja Todar Mal to ensure a stable income for the state and prevent yearly fluctuations for farmers.
Q.214) Which Maratha official was responsible for the royal correspondence and draftings?
Answer: Shurunavis (Sacheev)
Explanation: He checked the royal letters and modified them to ensure they adhered to proper protocol.
Q.215) The 'Sultangarhi' tomb in Delhi is considered the first Islamic mausoleum in India. Who built it?
Answer: Iltutmish
Explanation: He built it for his eldest son, Nasiruddin Mahmud, in 1231 CE.
Q.216) Which official in the Sultanate period was the head of the state news agency?
Answer: Barid-i-Mumaalik
Explanation: He managed the network of spies and news-writers who kept the Sultan informed about the nobles and the public.
Q.217) The 'Vithala Temple' at Hampi is famous for which unique architectural feature?
Answer: Musical Pillars
Explanation: The temple contains 56 musical pillars that emit musical notes when tapped.
Q.218) Who was the author of 'Nisab-us-Sibyan', the earliest Persian-Hindustani dictionary?
Answer: Amir Khusrau
Explanation: He is often considered the 'Father of Urdu literature' for blending Persian with local Hindavi.
Q.219) Which Mughal Emperor banned the practice of 'Jharokha Darshan' (appearing at the balcony)?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: He considered it a superstitious practice and contrary to Islamic principles.
Q.220) The 'Jamat Khana Masjid' in Delhi was built during the reign of which dynasty?
Answer: Khilji Dynasty
Explanation: It is located in the Nizamuddin Dargah complex and is the earliest mosque in India built according to true Islamic principles.
Q.221) What was the term used for the 'land given for charitable purposes' during the Mughal period?
Answer: Madad-i-Maash (or Suyurghal)
Explanation: These lands were usually tax-free and granted to scholars, saints, and religious institutions.
Q.222) Which Mughal official served as the link between the Emperor and the Mansabdars?
Answer: Mir Bakshi
Explanation: He presented candidates for appointments and promotions to the Emperor.
Q.223) The 'Dara Shikoh Library' is located in which city?
Answer: Delhi
Explanation: It was built by the scholarly prince who was a great patron of the arts and the synthesis of Hindu-Muslim philosophy.
Q.224) Which Deccan Sultanate never joined the confederacy against Vijayanagara in the Battle of Talikota?
Answer: Berar (Imad Shahi)
Explanation: While Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda, and Bidar joined forces, Berar remained absent due to regional rivalries.
Q.225) The 'Amir-i-Akhur' during the Sultanate period was the officer in charge of what?
Answer: Royal Stables (Horses)
Explanation: This was a highly prestigious position; Razia Sultan famously appointed Yakut to this post.
Q.226) Who was the first Mughal to enter the Deccan plateau for conquest?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: He conquered Ahmednagar (partially) and Khandesh towards the end of his reign.
Q.227) The 'Golgumbaz' features a circular gallery known as the:?
Answer: Whispering Gallery
Explanation: A sound made at one end can be heard clearly at the other end, 37 metres away, repeated several times.
Q.228) Which medieval traveler noted that the Indian farmers were very hardworking but were oppressed by high taxes?
Answer: Francisco Pelsaert (Dutch)
Explanation: He visited India during Jahangir's reign and wrote 'Remonstrantie', highlighting the gap between the rich and the poor.
Q.229) The 'Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula' is often called the 'Draft of the Taj'. Where is it located?
Answer: Agra
Explanation: It was built by Nur Jahan for her father and was the first Mughal structure to be built entirely of white marble.
Q.230) Who was the Hindu general of the Bijapur Sultanate who was defeated and killed by Shivaji at Pratapgad?
Answer: Afzal Khan
Explanation: This event in 1659 was a major milestone in the rise of Shivaji's power.
Q.231) What was the 'Polaj' land in the Mughal land classification?
Answer: Land that was cultivated every year.
Explanation: Akbar classified land into Polaj, Parauti, Chachar, and Banjar based on the frequency of cultivation.
Q.232) The 'Rauhini' was a type of silver coin used in which medieval Indian state?
Answer: Mewar
Explanation: Regional kingdoms often maintained their own coinage systems alongside the imperial Sultanate currency.
Q.233) Which Sikh Guru started the 'Langar' (community kitchen) system on a permanent basis?
Answer: Guru Angad Dev
Explanation: While started by Guru Nanak, it was formalised and expanded by Guru Angad to promote social equality.
Q.234) The 'Qutub Minar' features inscriptions in which two languages?
Answer: Arabic and Nagari (Sanskrit script)
Explanation: The Nagari inscriptions record the names of the masons and the repairs carried out by later Hindu and Muslim rulers.
Q.235) Who was the author of 'Hamir-Mada-Mardana', a play about the defeat of the Mongols?
Answer: Jayasimha Suri
Explanation: It is an important source for the history of Gujarat during the medieval period.
Q.236) The 'Jagir' system was a form of which system practiced during the Sultanate?
Answer: Iqta System
Explanation: While the names changed, the concept of assigning land revenue to officers in lieu of cash salary remained the same.
Q.237) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to face the 'Revolt of the Satnamis' in 1672?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: The Satnamis were a sect of peasants and artisans who rose against the oppressive agrarian policies.
Q.238) Who was the Mughal princess who wrote 'Monis-ul-Arwah', a biography of Moinuddin Chishti?
Answer: Jahanara Begum
Explanation: The daughter of Shah Jahan, she was a highly educated Sufi follower.
Q.239) The 'Srinagar' in the Garhwal hills served as a refuge for which Mughal prince fleeing from Aurangzeb?
Answer: Suleiman Shikoh (son of Dara Shikoh)
Explanation: He was eventually betrayed by the local Raja and handed over to Aurangzeb.
Q.240) Which Sufi saint is associated with the 'Naqshbandi' Silsila and was known for his orthodox views?
Answer: Khwaja Baqi Billah
Explanation: He introduced the Naqshbandi order in India in the late 16th century.
Q.241) The 'Adham Khan's Tomb' in Delhi is popularly known as:?
Answer: Bhul-bhulaiyan (The Labyrinth)
Explanation: It was built by Akbar for his foster-brother; the structure has several confusing corridors inside its thick walls.
Q.242) Which medieval battle in 1529 was the first to be fought on both 'Land and Water'?
Answer: Battle of Ghagra
Explanation: Babur defeated the joint forces of the Afghans and the Sultan of Bengal on the banks of the Ghagra river.
Q.243) The 'Hawa Mahal' in Jaipur was built in 1799 by which ruler?
Answer: Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh
Explanation: (Transition to modern) It was built to allow royal women to observe street festivities without being seen from outside.
Q.244) Who was the Persian poet who served in the court of Akbar and wrote 'Nal Daman'?
Answer: Faizi
Explanation: He was the brother of Abul Fazl and the poet laureate of Akbar's court.
Q.245) The 'Zila' (District) was introduced as an administrative unit by which medieval system?
Answer: Sarkar (under the Mughals)
Explanation: The term Zila became more prominent during the British era, but its roots lie in the Mughal 'Sarkar'.
Q.246) Which Mughal Emperor began the practice of 'Tuladan' (weighing the King against gold and silver)?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: This was another tradition he adopted from Indian culture to increase royal prestige.
Q.247) Who was the founder of the 'Rathore' dynasty of Marwar (Jodhpur)?
Answer: Rao Siha
Explanation: The Rathores were one of the most powerful Rajput clans throughout the medieval period.
Q.248) The 'Khutba' was a sermon read in the name of the ruler during:?
Answer: Friday Prayers
Explanation: Inclusion of a ruler's name in the Khutba and on coins was the primary sign of sovereignty.
Q.249) Which Mughal Emperor was a contemporary of the English Queen Elizabeth I?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: Both ruled in the late 16th century and oversaw golden ages in their respective countries.
Q.250) The 'Chand Minar' at Daulatabad was built to commemorate the conquest of the fort by which dynasty?
Answer: Bahmani Dynasty
Explanation: It is one of the tallest towers in India, inspired by the Qutub Minar.
Q.251) In the Delhi Sultanate, what was the function of the 'Mustaufi-i-Mamalik'?
Answer: Auditor General
Explanation: He was responsible for checking the state accounts prepared by the Mushrif-i-Mamalik (Accountant General).
Q.252) Which traveler provided the earliest description of the 'Sati' system in medieval India?
Answer: Ibn Battuta
Explanation: He witnessed the practice in the 14th century and recorded the societal and religious pressure involved.
Q.253) Who founded the city of 'Jaunpur' in memory of Muhammad bin Tughlaq?
Answer: Firoz Shah Tughlaq
Explanation: He named it Jaunpur because Muhammad bin Tughlaq's original name was Jauna Khan.
Q.254) The 'Lodi' style of architecture is best known for the introduction of which structural feature?
Answer: Double Dome
Explanation: It was designed to give a majestic height to the exterior while keeping the interior ceiling at a lower, more aesthetic level.
Q.255) Which Mughal Emperor discontinued the 'Mansabdari' system in its original form and shifted to 'Ijara' (farming of revenue)?
Answer: Farrukhsiyar (and the Later Mughals)
Explanation: The decline of central authority forced the state to auction off revenue collection rights, leading to peasant exploitation.
Q.256) Who was the author of 'Niamat-khana-i-Nasirshahi', a medieval Indian cookbook?
Answer: Ghiyas Shah (Sultan of Malwa)
Explanation: It provides a rare glimpse into the culinary habits and luxury of the medieval provincial courts.
Q.257) The 'Dahshala' system was also known by which other name?
Answer: Bandobast System
Explanation: It provided a fixed settlement for ten years, giving farmers predictability in their tax payments.
Q.258) Which Sikh Guru established the town of 'Amritsar' after receiving land from Akbar?
Answer: Guru Ram Das
Explanation: He was the 4th Guru, and the land was originally a gift to his wife, Bibi Bhani.
Q.259) The 'Gaj-i-Ilahi' was a unit of length measurement introduced by whom?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: It replaced the 'Gaj-i-Sikandari' and remained the standard unit of measurement for centuries.
Q.260) Who was the Mughal general who conquered 'Assam' and 'Chittagong' during the early reign of Aurangzeb?
Answer: Mir Jumla
Explanation: He was the Governor of Bengal and secured the northeastern frontiers of the empire.
Q.261) The 'Panch-Hazari' Mansab was usually reserved for whom?
Answer: Princes of the Royal Blood (and very high nobles)
Explanation: Over time, the number of high-rank Mansabdars increased, leading to the "Jagirdari crisis".
Q.262) Which medieval saint's verses are known as 'Abhangs'?
Answer: Tukaram (and other Varkari saints)
Explanation: Abhangs are a form of Marathi devotional poetry dedicated to Lord Vitthal.
Q.263) The 'Tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq' is unique because of its:?
Answer: Sloping Walls (Battered walls)
Explanation: This feature, borrowed from military architecture, gave the building a massive and sturdy appearance.
Q.264) Who was the head of the town administration (Police) under the Mughals?
Answer: Kotwal
Explanation: He was responsible for maintaining law and order, checking weights and measures, and monitoring the city's gates.
Q.265) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to use 'Gopurams' in his architecture in the South?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji (influenced by the Pandyas)
Explanation: While he was a destroyer, his later influence combined Indo-Islamic and local Dravidian elements.
Q.266) The 'Varkari' sect of Maharashtra was centered around the worship of which deity?
Answer: Vitthal (Vithoba) at Pandharpur
Explanation: It was a non-ritualistic, egalitarian movement that involved an annual pilgrimage (Wari).
Q.267) Who was the Persian scholar who translated the 'Atharvaveda' into Persian during Akbar's reign?
Answer: Haji Ibrahim Sarhindi
Explanation: This was part of Akbar's grand project to understand the core philosophies of different religions.
Q.268) The 'Bada Imambara' at Lucknow was built for what purpose?
Answer: Famine Relief
Explanation: Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula commissioned it to provide employment to the people during the great famine of 1784.
Q.269) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to allow the English to build a factory at 'Surat'?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: He issued the farman in 1613 after Captain Thomas Best defeated the Portuguese.
Q.270) The 'Suri' architecture is considered a transition between which two styles?
Answer: Lodi and Mughal
Explanation: It combined the sturdiness of the Lodis with the decorative elegance later seen in Mughal buildings.
Q.271) Who was the author of 'Tarikh-i-Alai', which describes the conquests of Alauddin Khilji?
Answer: Amir Khusrau
Explanation: He accompanied Alauddin on several campaigns and wrote about them in poetic prose.
Q.272) The 'Tomb of Salim Chishti' is located inside the complex of which building?
Answer: Jama Masjid of Fatehpur Sikri
Explanation: It is a delicate white marble structure with exquisite jaali (lattice) work.
Q.273) Which official in the Mughal court was responsible for the 'Ceremonies and Protocol'?
Answer: Mir-i-Tuzuk
Explanation: He ensured that the nobles maintained proper decorum in the presence of the Emperor.
Q.274) The 'Battle of Samugarh' (1658) was fought between which two brothers?
Answer: Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh
Explanation: It was the decisive battle in the War of Succession that led to the imprisonment of Shah Jahan.
Q.275) Who was the Maratha 'Peshwa' who signed the 'Treaty of Palkhed' with the Nizam of Hyderabad?
Answer: Baji Rao I
Explanation: This victory established the Maratha supremacy in the Deccan over the Nizam.
Q.276) The 'Kanch Mahal' near Akbar's tomb was used as:?
Answer: A Hunting Lodge (Shikargah) for Jahangir.
Explanation: It is famous for its beautiful tile work and carvings.
Q.277) Which medieval traveller described India as a 'Country of Gold and Silver' because of its export surplus?
Answer: François Bernier
Explanation: He noted that while the world sent its gold and silver to India for spices and textiles, the wealth remained locked in the treasury.
Q.278) Who was the Sufi saint who said 'Hanoz Dilli Door Ast' (Delhi is still far away)?
Answer: Nizamuddin Auliya
Explanation: He said this to Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, who was returning from Bengal and had threatened the saint.
Q.279) The 'Red Fort' of Delhi was completed in which year?
Answer: 1648 CE
Explanation: It served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years.
Q.280) Which Mughal Emperor was known as the 'Zinda Pir' (Living Saint)?
Answer: Aurangzeb
Explanation: He was given this title because of his simple lifestyle and strict adherence to Islamic law.
Q.281) The 'Ashtapradhan' member responsible for the religious grants and charities was:?
Answer: Panditrao
Explanation: He looked after the welfare of scholars and managed the state's religious expenditures.
Q.282) Who was the founder of the 'Khalsa' and the initiator of the 'Five Ks'?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh
Explanation: (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan) these were the physical symbols of the Khalsa identity.
Q.283) The 'Battle of Colachel' (1741) was a rare defeat of a European power (Dutch) by which Indian state?
Answer: Travancore (under Marthanda Varma)
Explanation: It checked the Dutch expansion in India and established Travancore as a major power.
Q.284) Who was the author of 'Chahar Gulshan', a geographical and historical account of the Mughal empire?
Answer: Chatarman Rai
Explanation: It provides valuable statistics about the Subas during the 18th century.
Q.285) The 'Buland Darwaza' was built to commemorate the conquest of:?
Answer: Gujarat
Explanation: It stands 54 metres high and is the main entrance to the Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikri.
Q.286) Which Mughal Emperor's name was 'Muazzam'?
Answer: Bahadur Shah I
Explanation: He took the title Bahadur Shah I after winning the war of succession against his brothers.
Q.287) The 'Dharmashastra' were translated into Persian under the title 'Ayar-i-Danish' by whom?
Answer: Abul Fazl
Explanation: (Clarification: Ayar-i-Danish was actually a translation of the Panchatantra/Kalila wa Dimna).
Q.288) Who was the first Mughal Emperor to issue coins in 'Zodiac' signs?
Answer: Jahangir
Explanation: He issued a series of gold and silver coins featuring different astrological signs.
Q.289) The 'Nayak' system of administration was prevalent in which medieval kingdom?
Answer: Vijayanagara Empire
Explanation: Nayakas were military chiefs who were given land (Amaram) in return for military service.
Q.290) Who was the Maratha leader who escaped from the 'Siege of Panhala' using a body double?
Answer: Shivaji Maharaj
Explanation: Shiva Kashid, a barber who looked like him, sacrificed his life to allow the king to escape.
Q.291) The 'Sufi' term 'Zikir' refers to:?
Answer: Chanting or remembrance of God.
Explanation: It is a core practice in Sufi meditation to achieve spiritual closeness to the Divine.
Q.292) Which medieval king is known for building the 'Purana Qila' in Delhi?
Answer: Sher Shah Suri (built on the site of Humayun's Dinpanah).
Explanation: It is one of the oldest forts in Delhi.
Q.293) Who was the Mughal Governor of the Deccan who founded the 'Asaf Jahi' dynasty?
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk
Explanation: He served as the Wazir of the empire before moving to the Deccan to establish an independent state.
Q.294) The 'Kandariya Mahadeva Temple' at Khajuraho was built by which dynasty?
Answer: Chandela Dynasty
Explanation: (Chronological note: Built around 1030 CE, during the transition into the medieval era).
Q.295) Which Mughal Emperor's mother was a Rajput princess named Hamida Banu Begum?
Answer: Akbar
Explanation: (Correction: Hamida Banu was a Persian-origin noble; Akbar's wife Harkha Bai was the Rajput princess who was mother to Jahangir).
Q.296) The 'Tobacco' plant was brought to India from the New World by which European power?
Answer: Portuguese
Explanation: They introduced it to the Mughal court during the late 16th century.
Q.297) Who was the author of 'Padshah Nama', the official history of the reign of Shah Jahan?
Answer: Abdul Hamid Lahori
Explanation: It contains detailed descriptions and magnificent illustrations of the court ceremonies.
Q.298) The 'Mughal-Ahom' war of 1662-1663 was settled by which treaty?
Answer: Treaty of Ghilajharighat
Explanation: The Ahoms had to cede territory and pay a heavy indemnity to the Mughals.
Q.299) Which medieval Bhakti saint was a contemporary of Chaitanya and wrote 'Sur Sagar'?
Answer: Surdas
Explanation: He was a blind poet dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna (Shrinathji).
Q.300) The 'Battle of Buxar' (1764) effectively made which European power the masters of North India?
Answer: The British East India Company
Explanation: It ended any remaining independent challenge from the Mughals and the Nawabs of Bengal and Awadh.