Question

Select the right order of dynasties starting from the oldest to newer one with reference to history of Indians sculptures
(A) Maurya
(B) Sunga
(C) Nanda
(D) Gupta
(E) Pallava
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (E), (C), (D), (A), (B)
• B. (C), (A), (B), (D), (E)
• C. (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)
• D. (B), (D), (A), (E), (C)

Hint:

A helpful mnemonic for early Magadhan empires is "Ha-Shi-Na-M-S-K": Haryanka, Shishunaga, Nanda, Maurya, Sunga, Kanva. This places Nanda before Maurya and Sunga correctly. The Guptas mark a later classical era.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Determine the chronological order of the specified ancient and early medieval Indian dynasties.

(C) Nanda Dynasty: c. 345–322 BCE. Preceded the Mauryas.
(A) Maurya Dynasty: c. 322–185 BCE. Founded by Chandragupta Maurya after the Nandas. Notable for Ashokan pillars.
(B) Sunga Dynasty: c. 185–73 BCE. Succeeded the Mauryas in Magadha. Associated with the art of Bharhut and Sanchi.
(D) Gupta Dynasty: c. 320–550 CE. Considered the "Classical Age" of Indian art.
(E) Pallava Dynasty: c. 275–897 CE. Emerged in the South, overlapping and outliving the late Guptas. Famous for rock-cut temples at Mahabalipuram.

Step 2: Order the dynasties from earliest to latest.The correct sequence is Nanda, Maurya, Sunga, Gupta, Pallava. This matches the sequence (C), (A), (B), (D), (E), which corresponds to option (2).