66th Prelims 2020

Explanation:

Furrows of ploughed fields have been discovered at Kalibangan, located on the Ghaggar River in Hanumangarh district, Rajasthan. Excavated by Amalanand Ghosh (1951) and B.B. Lal (1961), the site revealed ploughed fields, seven fire altars, decorated bricks, toy cart wheels, Mesopotamian cylindrical seals, camel bones, and circular and rectangular graves. Other Harappan cities like Dholavira, Mohenjo-daro, and Lothal have their unique features, such as water harvesting systems at Dholavira, the Great Bath and proto-Shiva seal at Mohenjo-daro, and dockyard facilities at Lothal. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

Triratna, or the Three Jewels—Right Faith (Samyak Shraddha), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Karma)—is a fundamental concept in Jainism. Right Faith refers to belief in the Tirthankaras; Right Knowledge is the understanding of Jain teachings; Right Conduct involves practicing the five vows of Jainism. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in 72 AD at Kundalana Vana, Kashmir, under the patronage of Kanishka of the Kushana dynasty. Vasumitra chaired the council, with Ashvagosha as vice-chairman. This council marked the division of Buddhism into Hinayana and Mahayana sects. Earlier councils include: First Council (483 BC, Rajagriha, chaired by Mahakassapa, patron Ajatashatru), Second Council (383 BC, Vaishali, chaired by Sabakami, patron Kalashoka), and Third Council (250 BC, Patliputra, chaired by Mogaliputta Tissa, patron Ashoka). [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

Vaisheshika, founded by Kanada, is known for propounding the Atom Theory. It recognizes two reliable means of knowledge: perception and inference. The school emphasizes naturalism and posits that all objects in the universe are reducible to paramanu (atoms), comprising five elements: fire, air, water, earth, and ether (sky). Vaisheshika philosophy contributed to the origins of physics. Other schools include Sankhya (Kapila, dualism of soul and matter), Yoga (Patanjali, self-discipline and emancipation), and Nyaya (Gautama, logical and scientific approach to knowledge). [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

Ghiyasuddin Balban (1266-1287 AD), also known as Ulugh Khan, implemented the 'blood and iron' policy, emphasizing ruthlessness against enemies, strict enforcement, and use of force. He previously served as Naib (regent) to Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud and ascended the throne after the Sultan died without an heir in 1266. Balban reduced the power of the 'Chalisa' nobility, assumed the title Zil-i-Ilahi (Shadow of God), introduced salutation forms like Sijda and Paibos, celebrated the Persian festival of Nauroz, and reorganized the army under Diwan-i-Ariz. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

The Chola Empire was renowned for its village-based local self-government. There were three types of village assemblies: 'Ur' (common village assembly for all landowners), 'Sabha' (Brahmin-only village assembly), and 'Nagaram' (assembly of merchants and traders). These assemblies managed local administration and ensured decentralized governance. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

Pietra dura refers to the art of inlaying colored, semi-precious stones into marble or sandstone to create intricate floral or geometric designs. This technique was widely used in Mughal architecture, including the Taj Mahal, for walls, cenotaphs, and marble jalis. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]

Explanation:

Akbar (1556-1605 AD) established 'Karkhanas', or workshops, for painting, including the 'Tasvir Khana' managed initially by Abdul Samad. Paintings depicted daily court events and portraits of notable personalities. Prominent painters included Daswant and Basawan. European painting techniques were introduced by Portuguese priests during Akbar's reign. [66th BPSC Prelims Exam 2020]