Introduction
The Vedic Period is one of the most important phases of ancient Indian history. It is generally divided into two parts:
- Early Vedic Period (1500–1000 BCE) – Based mainly on the Rigveda and characterized by pastoral life.
- Later Vedic Period (1000–600 BCE) – Marked by agricultural expansion, social stratification, and the composition of later Vedic texts.
The Vedic literature includes Vedas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, which give us information about society, religion, economy, and political life during this time.
Understanding the Vedic and Later Vedic periods is essential for exams because many questions are frequently asked from topics like Vedic literature, social structure, political institutions, religion, economy, and philosophy.
- The Vedic period is mainly known from which source?
A. Archaeological remains
B. Buddhist texts
C. Vedic literature
D. Foreign travelers
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Vedic period is mainly known from the Vedas and related texts, which contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical ideas describing the society and culture of the Aryans. - Which is the oldest Veda?
A. Yajurveda
B. Samaveda
C. Rigveda
D. Atharvaveda
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Rigveda is the oldest Vedic text and contains 1028 hymns dedicated to various gods. - The Vedic civilization flourished mainly in which region initially?
A. Ganga Valley
B. Sapta-Sindhu region
C. Deccan Plateau
D. Vindhya Mountains
Answer: B
Explanation:
The early Aryans lived in the Sapta Sindhu region (land of seven rivers) which includes Punjab and surrounding areas. - The word “Veda” means:
A. Knowledge
B. Prayer
C. Book
D. Philosophy
Answer: A
Explanation:
“Veda” comes from the Sanskrit root ‘Vid’ meaning knowledge. - Which Veda is known as the “Book of Hymns”?
A. Rigveda
B. Samaveda
C. Yajurveda
D. Atharvaveda
Answer: A
Explanation:
Rigveda consists of hymns praising various gods like Indra and Agni. - The term “Arya” means: A. Noble B. War C. Priest D. King Answer: A. Noble Explanation: Arya means noble or respectable.
- The Rigveda mainly deals with A. Agriculture B. Trade C. Religious hymns D. Medicine Answer: C. Religious hymns Explanation: Rigveda contains hymns praising natural forces and gods.
- Which river is mentioned most frequently in the Rigveda?
A. Ganga
B. Yamuna
C. Saraswati
D. Indus
Answer: C. Saraswati
Explanation: Saraswati is praised as the most sacred river in Rigveda. - Who was the chief god in the Rigvedic period?
A. Vishnu
B. Indra
C. Brahma
D. Shiva
Answer: B. Indra
Explanation: Indra was the god of thunder and rain and the most powerful deity. - The famous battle mentioned in Rigveda is
A. Battle of Kurukshetra
B. Battle of Ten Kings
C. Battle of Panipat
D. Battle of Kalinga
Answer: B. Battle of Ten Kings
Explanation: This battle was fought on the banks of the Ravi River. - The Rigveda contains how many Mandalas?
A. 8
B. 9
C. 10
D. 12
Answer: C
Explanation:
The Rigveda is divided into 10 Mandalas (books). - Which Veda is related to music and chanting?
A. Rigveda
B. Samaveda
C. Yajurveda
D. Atharvaveda
Answer: B
Explanation:
The Samaveda is mainly composed of melodies used during sacrificial rituals. - The Atharvaveda deals mainly with:
A. Ritual chants
B. Magical spells and charms
C. Sacrificial formulas
D. War hymns
Answer: B
Explanation:
Atharvaveda includes charms, spells, and healing rituals. - The Yajurveda contains:
A. Philosophical teachings
B. Sacrificial formulas
C. Stories of kings
D. Medical knowledge
Answer: B
Explanation:
Yajurveda gives rules and procedures for performing yajnas (sacrifices). - Which Vedic text explains rituals in detail?
A. Brahmanas
B. Upanishads
C. Puranas
D. Aranyakas
Answer: A
Explanation:
Brahmanas are prose texts explaining rituals and ceremonies associated with Vedic hymns. - The basic unit of society in the Rigvedic period was:
A. Gram
B. Kula
C. Vish
D. Jana
Answer: B
Explanation:
The family (Kula) was the smallest unit of society. - The head of the family was called:
A. Rajan
B. Grihapati
C. Senani
D. Purohit
Answer: B
Explanation:
The eldest male member acted as the Grihapati (head of family). - Early Vedic society was mainly:
A. Agricultural
B. Urban
C. Pastoral
D. Industrial
Answer: C
Explanation:
The early Vedic economy relied heavily on cattle rearing and pastoral life. - Wealth in the Rigvedic period was measured by:
A. Gold
B. Cattle
C. Land
D. Silver
Answer: B
Explanation:
Cattle were the main measure of wealth. - The word “Gavishti” in the Rigveda means:
A. Agriculture
B. Cow protection
C. Search for cows (battle)
D. Trade
Answer: C
Explanation:
Many wars were fought for cattle. - Which assembly existed in the Rigvedic period?
A. Sabha
B. Samiti
C. Both
D. None
Answer: C
Explanation:
Sabha and Samiti were political assemblies advising the king. - The king in the Rigvedic period was called:
A. Raja
B. Samrat
C. Chakravarti
D. Adhiraja
Answer: A - Which god was the most important in the Rigveda?
A. Agni
B. Indra
C. Varuna
D. Vishnu
Answer: B
Explanation:
Indra, the god of rain and war, is praised in the largest number of hymns. - Agni was the god of:
A. Water
B. Fire
C. Wind
D. Sun
Answer: B - Varuna was associated with:
A. Moral order (Rita)
B. Fire
C. Agriculture
D. War
Answer: A
Explanation:
Varuna upheld cosmic law and order (Rita). - Women in the Rigvedic period:
A. Had no rights
B. Could attend assemblies
C. Were slaves
D. Could not study
Answer: B
Explanation:
Women could participate in Sabha and Samiti. - Who was the political head of the tribe in the Vedic period?
A. Purohit
B. Senani
C. Raja
D. Gramani
Answer: C. Raja
Explanation: The Raja (king) was the chief political authority who protected the tribe and led them in wars. - The term “Rajan” in the Vedic period refers to
A. Priest
B. King
C. Merchant
D. Farmer
Answer: B. King
Explanation: The term Rajan was used for the ruler or king of a tribe. - Which assembly in the Vedic period consisted mainly of elders and nobles?
A. Samiti
B. Sabha
C. Vidatha
D. Parishad
Answer: B. Sabha
Explanation: The Sabha was an assembly of respected elders and nobles who advised the king. - The popular assembly of the Vedic period was called
A. Sabha
B. Samiti
C. Gana
D. Sangha
Answer: B. Samiti
Explanation: The Samiti was a general assembly representing the people of the tribe. - Which institution was both political and religious in nature during the early Vedic period?
A. Sabha
B. Samiti
C. Vidatha
D. Parishad
Answer: C. Vidatha
Explanation: The Vidatha was an early assembly where religious, social, and military matters were discussed. - The chief priest who advised the king was called
A. Gramani
B. Senani
C. Purohit
D. Vishpati
Answer: C. Purohit
Explanation: The Purohit performed religious rituals and advised the king on important matters. - The commander of the army in the Vedic period was called
A. Gramani
B. Senani
C. Vishpati
D. Rajguru
Answer: B. Senani
Explanation: The Senani was responsible for leading the army during wars. - The head of a village in the Vedic period was known as
A. Vishpati
B. Gramani
C. Grihapati
D. Senani
Answer: B. Gramani
Explanation: The Gramani was the village leader responsible for administration and order. - The head of the clan (Vish) was called
A. Vishpati
B. Gramani
C. Senani
D. Purohit
Answer: A. Vishpati
Explanation: The Vishpati was the leader of the clan. - The main duty of the Vedic king was to
A. Collect taxes
B. Protect the tribe
C. Conduct trade
D. Manage agriculture
Answer: B. Protect the tribe
Explanation: The king’s main responsibility was protection and leadership in war. - The king in the early Vedic period was
A. Absolute ruler
B. Elected leader
C. Hereditary ruler
D. Religious head
Answer: B. Elected leader
Explanation: Early Vedic kings were often chosen or approved by the tribal assembly. - The authority of the king was limited by
A. Sabha and Samiti
B. Army
C. Priests only
D. Traders
Answer: A. Sabha and Samiti
Explanation: These assemblies controlled and advised the king, preventing absolute rule. - The term “Bali” in the Vedic period refers to
A. War tax
B. Tribute or tax paid to the king
C. Religious ritual
D. Army training
Answer: B. Tribute or tax paid to the king
Explanation: People offered Bali (tribute) voluntarily to support the king. - Which institution gradually lost importance in the Later Vedic period?
A. Monarchy
B. Sabha and Samiti
C. Army
D. Priesthood
Answer: B. Sabha and Samiti
Explanation: With the rise of strong monarchies, these assemblies declined. - The king’s court in the Later Vedic period was assisted by
A. Ministers
B. Officials
C. Priests
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: The king had several advisors and officials to help in administration. - Which royal sacrifice symbolized the king’s supremacy?
A. Rajasuya
B. Vajapeya
C. Ashvamedha
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: These sacrifices strengthened the political authority of kings. - The Ashvamedha sacrifice symbolized
A. Religious power
B. Agricultural prosperity
C. Political supremacy
D. Military defeat
Answer: C. Political supremacy
Explanation: The Ashvamedha Yajna was performed to demonstrate imperial power. - The Rajasuya sacrifice was performed for
A. Marriage
B. Coronation of the king
C. Harvest
D. War victory
Answer: B. Coronation of the king
Explanation: Rajasuya was a royal ceremony confirming kingship. - The Vajapeya sacrifice was associated with
A. Royal authority
B. Agriculture
C. Trade
D. Education
Answer: A. Royal authority
Explanation: It was another ritual enhancing kingly prestige. - Which officer collected taxes in the Later Vedic period?
A. Senani
B. Sangrahitri
C. Gramani
D. Purohit
Answer: B. Sangrahitri
Explanation: The Sangrahitri was responsible for collecting revenue. - The official who managed the royal treasury was called
A. Bhagadugha
B. Sangrahitri
C. Senani
D. Gramani
Answer: B. Sangrahitri
Explanation: He handled the king’s treasury and finances. - Bhagadugha was responsible for
A. Military command
B. Collecting the king’s share of produce
C. Religious rituals
D. Village administration
Answer: B. Collecting the king’s share of produce - The king’s authority became stronger during
A. Early Vedic period
B. Later Vedic period
C. Mauryan period
D. Gupta period
Answer: B. Later Vedic period
Explanation: Political power became more centralized. - The political system in the early Vedic period was mainly
A. Tribal monarchy
B. Empire
C. Democracy
D. Republic
Answer: A. Tribal monarchy - Which kingdom became powerful in the Later Vedic period?
A. Kuru
B. Panchala
C. Both A and B
D. Magadha
Answer: C. Both A and B - The council of ministers in the Later Vedic period was called
A. Sabha
B. Samiti
C. Parishad
D. Gana
Answer: C. Parishad - The role of priests in politics was
A. Insignificant
B. Very important
C. Limited
D. Nonexistent
Answer: B. Very important - Kingship in the Later Vedic period became
A. Elective
B. Hereditary
C. Democratic
D. Temporary
Answer: B. Hereditary - Which of the following helped strengthen monarchy?
A. Military power
B. Royal sacrifices
C. Control over land
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above - The decline of tribal assemblies led to
A. Democratic rule
B. Strong monarchy
C. Republic system
D. Foreign rule
Answer: B. Strong monarchy
Explanation: As the Sabha and Samiti lost power, the king’s authority increased, leading to stronger monarchies. - The four varnas were first mentioned in A. Atharvaveda B. Samaveda C. Rigveda D. Yajurveda Answer: C. Rigveda Explanation: The Purusha Sukta hymn in Rigveda mentions the four varnas.
- The Varna system in the Rigvedic period was based on
A. Birth
B. Occupation
C. Wealth
D. Religion
Answer: B. Occupation
Explanation: In early Vedic society, varna was flexible and based on profession. - Which of the following women were scholars in the Vedic period?
A. Gargi
B. Maitreyi
C. Lopamudra
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation: Women enjoyed education and participated in philosophical debates. - The status of women in the Rigvedic period was
A. Very low
B. Moderate
C. High
D. Slavery
Answer: C. High
Explanation: Women had the right to education, marriage choice, and religious participation. - Which practice was absent in the Rigvedic period?
A. Widow remarriage
B. Child marriage
C. Education for women
D. Participation in rituals
Answer: B. Child marriage
Explanation: Child marriage appeared later in the Later Vedic period. - Education in the Vedic period was given through
A. School system
B. Gurukul system
C. Temple schools
D. Government schools
Answer: B. Gurukul system
Explanation: Students lived with their teacher (Guru) and studied various subjects. - The Later Vedic period is generally dated between
A. 2000–1500 BCE
B. 1500–1000 BCE
C. 1000–600 BCE
D. 600–300 BCE
Answer: C. 1000–600 BCE
Explanation: Historians divide the Vedic age into two phases:
Early Vedic Period: 1500–1000 BCE
Later Vedic Period: 1000–600 BCE
During the Later Vedic period, Aryans expanded eastward into the Ganga–Yamuna Doab, agriculture increased, and political power became more centralized. - Agriculture became the main occupation during
A. Early Vedic period
B. Later Vedic period
C. Mauryan period
D. Gupta period
Answer: B. Later Vedic period
Explanation:
In the Early Vedic period, the economy was mainly pastoral (cattle rearing). However, in the Later Vedic period, agriculture expanded significantly because people settled permanently and cultivated crops such as rice, wheat, and barley. - Iron was widely used during the
A. Early Vedic period
B. Later Vedic period
C. Indus Valley period
D. Mauryan period
Answer: B. Later Vedic period
Explanation:
Iron technology appeared during the Later Vedic period and was called “Krishna Ayas” or “Shyam Ayas.” Iron tools helped people clear forests and expand agriculture, especially in the fertile Ganga valley. - Iron in the Vedic texts was called
A. Krishna Ayas
B. Shyam Ayas
C. Both A and B
D. Loh
Answer: C. Both A and B
Explanation:
The Later Vedic texts refer to iron as Krishna Ayas (black metal) or Shyam Ayas. These terms indicate the use of iron tools and weapons during that period. - Which crops became important in the Later Vedic period?
A. Rice
B. Wheat
C. Barley
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation:
Agriculture diversified in the Later Vedic period. Important crops included:
Rice (especially in the Ganga valley)
Wheat
Barley
The use of iron tools helped increase agricultural productivity. - Which kingdoms became powerful in the Later Vedic period?
A. Kuru
B. Panchala
C. Both A and B
D. Magadha
Answer: C. Both A and B
Explanation:
During the Later Vedic period, several tribal groups united to form larger kingdoms. Among them, the Kuru and Panchala kingdoms became the most powerful political centers in northern India. - The Painted Grey Ware culture is associated with
A. Early Vedic period
B. Later Vedic period
C. Mauryan period
D. Gupta period
Answer: B. Later Vedic period
Explanation:
The Painted Grey Ware (PGW) pottery culture is archaeologically linked with the Later Vedic period and is found mainly in regions of Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. - The Later Vedic period saw the emergence of
A. Large kingdoms
B. Tribal groups only
C. Republics only
D. Foreign colonies
Answer: A. Large kingdoms
Explanation:
Unlike the Early Vedic period, which was dominated by tribes, the Later Vedic period witnessed the rise of large territorial kingdoms, which eventually led to the formation of Mahajanapadas around 600 BCE. - The Varna system became rigid during
A. Early Vedic period
B. Later Vedic period
C. Mauryan period
D. Gupta period
Answer: B. Later Vedic period
Explanation:
In the Early Vedic period, the Varna system was flexible and based on occupation. During the Later Vedic period, it became rigid and based on birth, creating a strict social hierarchy. - The Shudras were mainly engaged in
A. Teaching
B. Trade
C. Service to other varnas
D. Warfare
Answer: C. Service to other varnas
Explanation:
In the Later Vedic social structure, Shudras were placed at the lowest position and were expected to serve the other three varnas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas. - The status of women in the Later Vedic period
A. Improved
B. Declined
C. Remained the same
D. Became equal to men
Answer: B. Declined
Explanation:
Women gradually lost many rights they had earlier. Their participation in education and public life decreased, and society became more patriarchal. - Which social practice appeared during the Later Vedic period?
A. Widow remarriage
B. Child marriage
C. Women education
D. Freedom in marriage
Answer: B. Child marriage
Explanation:
The Later Vedic period saw the beginning of child marriage and other restrictions on women. - Polygamy in the Later Vedic period was mainly practiced by
A. Farmers
B. Priests
C. Kings and nobles
D. Traders
Answer: C. Kings and nobles
Explanation:
While common people usually had one wife, kings and wealthy nobles often practiced polygamy. - Society in the Later Vedic period became more
A. Democratic
B. Patriarchal
C. Equal
D. Liberal
Answer: B. Patriarchal
Explanation:
Men dominated social and family life, and women’s rights were restricted.
Vedic Literature - The total number of Vedas is
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
Answer: C. Four
Explanation:
The four Vedas are:
Rigveda
Samaveda
Yajurveda
Atharvaveda
These are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. - Which Veda is considered the oldest?
A. Samaveda
B. Rigveda
C. Yajurveda
D. Atharvaveda
Answer: B. Rigveda
Explanation:
The Rigveda is the earliest Vedic text and contains 1028 hymns dedicated to various gods. - The Samaveda is mainly related to
A. War
B. Music and chants
C. Trade
D. Medicine
Answer: B. Music and chants
Explanation:
The Samaveda contains melodies and hymns used during religious ceremonies. - The Yajurveda mainly deals with
A. Philosophy
B. Rituals and sacrifices
C. Music
D. Trade
Answer: B. Rituals and sacrifices
Explanation:
The Yajurveda explains the procedures and formulas used in sacrificial rituals (Yajnas). - The Atharvaveda contains
A. Magical spells
B. Medical knowledge
C. Both A and B
D. None
Answer: C. Both A and B
Explanation:
The Atharvaveda contains hymns about magic, healing, medicine, and everyday life. - The Brahmanas explain
A. Philosophy
B. Rituals and sacrifices
C. War strategies
D. Agriculture
Answer: B. Rituals and sacrifices
Explanation:
The Brahmanas are prose texts that explain the rituals and ceremonies mentioned in the Vedas. - The Aranyakas are known as
A. Forest books
B. War books
C. Ritual books
D. Trade books
Answer: A. Forest books
Explanation:
The Aranyakas were written by sages living in forests and deal with meditation and philosophical interpretations of rituals. - The Upanishads mainly deal with
A. Trade and economy
B. Rituals
C. Philosophy and spiritual knowledge
D. Warfare
Answer: C. Philosophy and spiritual knowledge
Explanation:
The Upanishads focus on philosophical ideas such as Brahman (universal soul), Atman (individual soul), Karma, and Moksha. - The concept of Brahman is mainly discussed in
A. Vedas
B. Brahmanas
C. Upanishads
D. Sutras
Answer: C. Upanishads
Explanation:
The Upanishads discuss deep philosophical ideas. Brahman refers to the ultimate universal reality or supreme cosmic power. - The term Atman refers to
A. Body
B. Soul
C. Fire
D. Sky
Answer: B. Soul
Explanation:
In Vedic philosophy, Atman means the individual soul or inner self. The Upanishads emphasize the unity of Atman and Brahman. - The theory of Karma means
A. Worship of gods
B. Action and its consequences
C. Fate and destiny
D. Sacrifice
Answer: B. Action and its consequences
Explanation:
The Karma doctrine states that every action has consequences that determine a person’s future life or rebirth. - The ultimate goal of life according to Vedic philosophy is
A. Wealth
B. Power
C. Moksha
D. Kingdom
Answer: C. Moksha
Explanation:
Moksha means liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara). - Moksha means
A. Heaven
B. Liberation from rebirth
C. Wealth
D. Knowledge
Answer: B. Liberation from rebirth
Explanation:
Achieving Moksha frees the soul from the cycle of life and death. - The main form of worship in the early Vedic period was
A. Idol worship
B. Temple worship
C. Sacrifices (Yajnas)
D. Meditation
Answer: C. Sacrifices (Yajnas)
Explanation:
Vedic religion mainly involved fire sacrifices and rituals performed by priests. - The Vedic gods mainly represented
A. Natural forces
B. Kings
C. Animals
D. Planets
Answer: A. Natural forces
Explanation:
Many Vedic gods represented natural elements such as Indra (rain), Agni (fire), and Varuna (water). - The sacred drink mentioned in the Vedas is
A. Soma
B. Amrit
C. Madhu
D. Jal
Answer: A. Soma
Explanation:
Soma was a sacred ritual drink offered to gods and consumed during religious ceremonies. - The main wealth of Rigvedic people was
A. Gold
B. Land
C. Cattle
D. Silver
Answer: C. Cattle
Explanation:
Cattle were considered the main measure of wealth and prosperity in the Rigvedic society. - Trade in the Vedic period was mainly conducted through
A. Coins
B. Barter system
C. Credit system
D. Banking
Answer: B. Barter system
Explanation:
Goods were exchanged directly for other goods because coins were not widely used. - Nishka in the Vedic period was
A. A coin
B. An ornament
C. Both coin and ornament
D. A weapon
Answer: C. Both coin and ornament
Explanation:
Nishka was originally a gold ornament, but later it was also used as a form of currency. - Which of the following crafts existed in the Vedic period?
A. Carpentry
B. Pottery
C. Metalwork
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation:
Various crafts like carpentry, pottery, weaving, and metalwork were practiced by artisans. - Agriculture expanded in the Later Vedic period mainly because of
A. Irrigation systems
B. Iron tools
C. Trade expansion
D. Population growth
Answer: B. Iron tools
Explanation:
Iron axes and ploughs helped clear forests and increase farming. - Land ownership in the early Vedic period was mainly
A. Private
B. Collective
C. Royal
D. Temple
Answer: B. Collective
Explanation:
Land generally belonged to the tribal community rather than individuals. - The Vaishyas were mainly engaged in
A. Warfare
B. Teaching
C. Trade and agriculture
D. Administration
Answer: C. Trade and agriculture
Explanation:
Vaishyas were responsible for economic activities like farming, trade, and cattle rearing. - Taxes in the Later Vedic period were mainly paid by
A. Brahmins
B. Kshatriyas
C. Vaishyas
D. Shudras
Answer: C. Vaishyas
Explanation:
The Vaishyas supported the state economy by paying taxes and producing goods.
More Jobs Details :
- SECL Recruitment 2026: Complete Details, Apply Online 1,055 vacancies in Technical & Supervisory Grade C positions
- Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti Recruitment 2026–27: Complete Details for Contract Teachers (PGT, TGT, Librarian & Staff Nurse)
- PSPCL Assistant Lineman Recruitment 2026 – Complete Details, Apply Online 3000 Post’s
- Indian Bank Specialist Officer Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online 350 Vaccancies
- UPSSSC Excise Constable Recruitment 2026 – Complete Details
- IFFCO Trainee (Accounts) Recruitment 2026 – Complete Details
- Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) Recruitment 2026 – Complete Details, Apply Online for 577 Vacancies
| WHAT’SAPP LINK | CLICK HERE |
| TELEGRAM LINK | CLICK HERE |
| FACEBOOK LINK | CLICK HERE |
| MORE UPDATES | CLICK HERE |
Table of Contents
Priyadarshani Palei is a Content Executive at OnlyAspirants.in, responsible for researching and publishing the latest government and private job updates. With over 2 years of experience in job research and recruitment news writing, he/she ensures that all information shared on the platform is accurate, verified, and easy to understand.
He/She completed Graduation and has a strong interest in competitive exams, career opportunities, and employment trends in India. His/Her focus is to help students and job seekers stay updated with timely notifications, eligibility details, important dates, and application procedures.
Through consistent research and dedication, he/she contributes to making OnlyAspirants.in a trusted platform for aspirants looking for reliable job updates and career guidance.
