Q1. Who were the Panis in the Rig Veda?
- Worshippers of Indra
- Enemies who stole cattle
- Priests of fire rituals
- Charioteers
Correct Option: 2. Enemies who stole cattle
Explanation: The Panis were described as enemies of the Aryans in the Rig Veda:
• They were known to steal or hide cattle, which was a vital economic resource.
• This led to battles like Gavisthi (search for cows).
• The Panis may have been non-Aryan tribes, and their conflicts symbolize Aryan expansion into new territories.
Q2. Which goddess is most frequently mentioned in the Rig Veda?
- Aditi
- Prithvi
- Ushas
- Sarasvati
Correct Option: 3. Ushas
Explanation: Ushas, the goddess of dawn, is one of the most celebrated female deities in the Rig Veda:
• She is mentioned 300 times, with 20 hymns dedicated to her.
• Represents the coming of light, hope, and prosperity.
• Unlike other goddesses, Ushas has an active role, and her descriptions are poetic and detailed.
Q3. Which deity in the Rig Veda is associated with law, order, and punishing wrongdoers?
- Indra
- Varuna
- Agni
- Soma
Correct Option: 2. Varuna
Explanation: Varuna is the god of cosmic order (rita) and moral law:
• He oversees the natural and ethical order.
• Uses fetters (ropes) to bind wrongdoers.
• Often associated with sovereignty, truth, and justice.
• Varuna is seen as an all-seeing deity, knowing the deeds and thoughts of all.
Q4. Which of the following is NOT a priestly function mentioned in the Rig Veda?
- Hotri
- Potri
- Mahishi
- Adhvaryu
Correct Option: 3. Mahishi
Explanation: • Hotri: Recites hymns during yajnas
• Potri: Prepares the sacrificial space
• Adhvaryu: Manages physical details of the yajna
• Mahishi: Is NOT a priest; she is the chief queen of the Rajan
This shows the specialized roles of sacrificial priests in Vedic rituals.
Q5. Which of the following statements is false regarding women in the Rig Vedic period?
- Women composed hymns
- Child marriage was prevalent
- They attended assemblies
- They could choose their husbands
Correct Option: 2. Child marriage was prevalent
Explanation: Rig Vedic women had:
• Access to education and Upanayana (initiation).
• Composed hymns, e.g., Lopamudra, Ghosha, Apala.
• Participated in assemblies (Vidatha).
• Practiced Swayamvara—choosing their husband.
• There is no mention of child marriage, sati, or purdah in the Rig Veda.