Ancient and Medieval Indian Rulers

Ashoka commissioned the original Great Stupa at Sanchi in the 3rd century BC to enshrine the relics of the Buddha. Though later expanded by the Shungas, the core structure and its iconic carved gateways (toranas) were initiated during Ashoka's reign as part of his Buddhist patronage.

The Mantri Parishad (Council of Ministers) was the highest advisory body in the Mauryan administrative system, composed of experienced ministers who advised the King on matters of state. This council included important officials like the Mahamatras and played a crucial role in governance, policy-making, and administration of the vast empire.

Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) was the magnificent capital of the Mauryan Empire, located at the confluence of the Ganges and Son rivers. Chosen by Chandragupta Maurya for its strategic location and defensive advantages, it was one of the largest cities in the world during that time, described by Greek ambassador Megasthenes in his work Indika.

The Mauryan Dynasty was overthrown by Pushyamitra Sunga, the Brahmana commander-in-chief of the Mauryan army, who assassinated the last Mauryan ruler Brihadratha in around 185 BCE. This marked the end of the Mauryan Empire and the beginning of the Sunga Dynasty, which ruled central and eastern India for about a century.

This is the correct option. Gotami-puta Sri-Satakarni claimed to be an 'eka bamhana' and the destroyer of the Kshatriyas' pride.

This is the correct option. Sri-Satakarni and Sri-Vijaya- Satakarni were Gotami-putas.

The Nanda dynasty (4th century BCE) was the first to establish a large empire in the Indian subcontinent, unifying much of North India. While the Mauryas later built a more extensive empire under Chandragupta and Ashoka, the Nandas were the pioneering empire-builders.

The Magadha Empire (circa 6th century BCE) was the first great empire in India, with capitals at Rajgriha and later Pataliputra. It was founded by kings like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru. The Maurya Empire later emerged from Magadha. Gandhara, Avanti, and Kuru were mahajanapadas but not the first great empire.

Chandragupta Maurya, with the help of his advisor Chanakya (also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta), overthrew the Nanda dynasty around 321 BCE. This established the Mauryan Empire. Dhanananda was the last Nanda king who was overthrown. Bimbisara and Ashoka came from different periods.

This is the correct option. Kshatriyas were ideally expected to be rulers. 

This is the correct option. Bimbisara, Ajatasattu and Mahapadma Nanda were Magadha kings.

This is the correct option. The capital of Magadha was shifted to Pataliputra in fourth century BCE. 

This is the correct option. Suvarnagiri was important for tapping the gold mines of Karnataka.

This is the correct option as this statement is false. 

This is the correct option. Mathura was the bustling centre of commercial, cultural and political activities.