Medieval India

16 UPSC Mains GS I questions on Medieval India, 2013 to 2026, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Medieval India toppers answered.

1. 2026 Q11Vijayanagara architecture exemplifies the amalgamation of past traditions with contemporary practices. Elucidate with examples.15 marks · 250 words
2. 2025 Q2Examine the main aspects of Akbar’s religious syncretism.10 marks · 150 words
3. 2025 Q3‘The sculptors filled the Chandella artform with resilient vigor and breadth of life.’ Elucidate.10 marks · 150 words
4. 2024 Q11“Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture.” Comment.15 marks · 250 words
5. 2023 Q12What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?15 marks · 250 words
6. 2022 Q1How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days ?10 marks · 150 words
7. 2022 Q12Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture.15 marks · 250 words
8. 2021 Q1Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture.10 marks · 150 words
9. 2020 Q12Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.15 marks · 250 words
10. 2018 Q2Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.10 marks · 150 words
11. 2018 Q11The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.15 marks · 250 words
12. 2017 Q2Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity.10 marks · 150 words
13. 2016 Q2Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.12.5 marks · 200 words
14. 2014 Q4The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat ?10 marks · 150 words
15. 2014 Q5Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu / Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment.10 marks · 150 words
16. 2013 Q2(b)Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.5 marks · 100 words

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.