Easy2Siksha Sample Paper
GNDU Most Repeated (Important) Quesons
BBA 1st Semester
Punjab History & Culture
(Based on 4-Year GNDU Queson Paper Trend Analysis: 2021–2024)
Must-Prepare Quesons (80–100% Probability)
SECTION–A (Physical Features & Sources)
1. Physical Features of Punjab and their Impact on History (4 mes) 2021 (Q1), 2022
(Q1), 2023 (Q1), 2024 (Q1) Always appears as the rst queson in Secon A.
Guaranteed 100%.
2. Sources of Ancient History of Punjab – Religious / Literary / Indigenous / Foreign (4
mes) 2021 (Q2), 2022 (Q2), 2023 (Q2), 2024 (Q2) Consistently repeated in
every paper under slightly dierent wording.
2025 Smart Predicon Table
(Based on 4-Year GNDU Paper Trend: 2021–2024)
Secon
Queson Topic
Years
Appeared
Priority
A
Physical Features of Punjab & Impact
2021–24
Very High
(100%)
A
Sources of Ancient History (Religious /
Literary / Foreign)
2021–24
Very High
(100%)
Easy2Siksha Sample Paper
2025 GUARANTEED QUESTIONS (100% Appearance Trend)
Top 10 Must-Prepare (Appear All 4 Years):
1. Physical Features of Punjab and their Impact on History.
2. Sources of Ancient History of Punjab (Religious / Literary / Foreign).
BONUS HIGH-PRIORITY QUESTIONS (80–90%)
• Origin & Evoluon of the Caste System (2022).
• External Trade Relaons of Later Vedic Age (2023–24).
GNDU Most Repeated (Important) Answer
BBA 1st Semester
Punjab History & Culture
(Based on 4-Year GNDU Queson Paper Trend Analysis: 2021–2024)
Must-Prepare Quesons (80–100% Probability)
SECTION–A (Physical Features & Sources)
Physical Features of Punjab and their Impact on History (4 mes) 2021 (Q1),
2022 (Q1), 2023 (Q1), 2024 (Q1) Always appears as the rst queson in Secon A.
Guaranteed 100%.
Ans: Physical Features of Punjab and Their Impact on History
Introduction: The Land Where Rivers Tell Stories
If history were a living book, Punjab would be one of its most fascinating chapters — a
land where the rivers whisper stories of kings, warriors, saints, and farmers. The name
Punjab itself means “the land of five rivers.” These rivers — Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab,
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and Jhelum — are not just natural water bodies; they are the very lifelines that shaped
Punjab’s geography, economy, culture, and history.
To understand Punjab’s history, we must first understand its physical features — the
mountains that guard it, the rivers that nourish it, and the plains that have seen
countless civilizations rise and fall. The geography of Punjab is not just about soil and
stones — it is about how nature guided the destiny of its people.
1. The Meaning and Origin of the Word “Punjab”
The word Punjab comes from two Persian words — “Panj” meaning five, and “Ab”
meaning water or river. Hence, Punjab means “the land of five rivers.” These five rivers
— the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum — flow from the Himalayas, making the
land fertile and suitable for agriculture.
In ancient times, the area of Punjab was much larger than it is today. After the partition
of India in 1947, the region was divided between India and Pakistan, and now only the
eastern part of historical Punjab remains in India. Still, it continues to be one of the most
vibrant and agriculturally rich regions of the country.
2. Major Physical Divisions of Punjab
Punjab’s physical features can be divided into several natural divisions, each with its
unique characteristics and influence on history.
Let’s explore them one by one.
(a) The Shivalik Hills (Foothills of the Himalayas)
Located in the northeastern part of Punjab, the Shivalik Hills form the first range of the
mighty Himalayas. These low hills run through the districts of Pathankot, Hoshiarpur,
Ropar, and parts of Gurdaspur.
These hills are not very high but are rich in forests and minerals. They act as a natural
barrier protecting Punjab from the cold winds of the north. Many small rivers, known as
choes (seasonal streams), flow down from these hills and make the adjoining plains
fertile.
Historical Impact:
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• The Shivalik region was home to early Stone Age and Indus Valley settlements,
as archaeologists have discovered ancient tools and pottery here.
• During invasions, these hills provided safe shelter to the local population.
• In medieval times, many gurudwaras and forts were established in this region,
showing its historical importance.
(b) The Punjab Plains
The Punjab Plains are the heart of the region — a flat, fertile stretch of land nourished
by the five rivers. These plains are known for their rich alluvial soil, ideal for growing
wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton.
These plains are further divided by the rivers into Doabs, meaning “the land between
two rivers.” Each Doab has its own identity and played a significant role in shaping
Punjab’s past.
1. Bist Doab – between Beas and Sutlej rivers
2. Bari Doab – between Beas and Ravi rivers
3. Rachna Doab – between Ravi and Chenab rivers
4. Chaj Doab – between Chenab and Jhelum rivers
5. Sindh Sagar Doab – between Jhelum and Indus rivers
Historical Impact:
• The fertile plains made Punjab the granary of India, ensuring food security and
economic prosperity.
• The abundance of food and water led to early urbanization, as seen in Harappa
and Ropar, ancient sites of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• These plains were also the battlegrounds of history — from Alexander’s invasion
in 326 BCE to the battles of Panipat, the plains of Punjab have seen the rise and
fall of empires.
(c) The River System of Punjab
Punjab’s identity is incomplete without its rivers. The five rivers not only gave the region
its name but also shaped its destiny.
• Sutlej: The largest river, flowing through Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Ferozepur,
provides irrigation and supports agriculture.
• Beas: Known for its scenic beauty, it flows through Hoshiarpur and Amritsar.
• Ravi: Flowing near the border areas, it played a key role in the defense and trade
of the region.
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• Chenab and Jhelum: Now mostly in Pakistan, they were once central to Punjab’s
prosperity.
Historical Impact:
• Rivers acted as natural highways for trade and communication in ancient times.
• Many towns and capitals, such as Lahore, Amritsar, and Jalandhar, developed
near rivers.
• Rivers also determined the boundaries of kingdoms and influenced the
outcomes of battles.
(d) The Semi-Arid South-Western Region
The southern part of Punjab, including districts like Bathinda, Mansa, and Fazilka, has
less rainfall and more sandy soil. This region touches the Thar Desert of Rajasthan,
making it relatively dry and hot.
Historical Impact:
• This area faced frequent droughts in ancient times, which limited dense
population settlement.
• However, with the development of canal irrigation during British rule, this land
turned fertile, leading to agricultural development and population growth.
• Many historical trade routes passed through this region, connecting Punjab with
Rajasthan and Sindh.
3. Climate of Punjab
Punjab has an extreme climate — very hot summers and cold winters. The region
receives moderate rainfall, mostly during the monsoon season.
Impact on History:
• The fertile land and favorable climate made Punjab an attractive region for
settlers, traders, and conquerors.
• However, harsh summers and occasional floods also tested the resilience of its
people, shaping their hardworking and brave character.
• The climate allowed Punjab to produce abundant crops, making it a center of
agriculture and prosperity in every historical era.
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4. Impact of Physical Features on Punjab’s History
Let’s now understand how these natural features directly shaped Punjab’s political,
economic, cultural, and social history.
(a) Cradle of Civilizations
Punjab’s fertile plains and river valleys provided the perfect conditions for the rise of the
Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s oldest urban cultures. Cities like Harappa
and Ropar flourished here around 2500 BCE. The rivers provided water for agriculture,
transport, and trade.
Thus, Punjab became the birthplace of civilization in South Asia.
(b) Gateway of India
Punjab’s location made it the gateway to India. The northwestern passes — like the
Khyber and Bolan Passes — opened into Punjab, allowing entry from Central Asia. This
geographical position made Punjab the first target of foreign invaders such as:
• Aryans
• Persians
• Greeks (Alexander the Great)
• Kushans
• Huns
• Turks
• Mughals
Every invader left behind some cultural, political, or religious influence, making Punjab a
land of cultural fusion.
(c) Land of Battles
Because of its location between India and Central Asia, Punjab became a battleground
throughout history. Major wars like the Battle of the Hydaspes (326 BCE) between
Alexander and Porus, and later battles during the Mughal and Sikh periods, were fought
here.
Even during the British period, Punjab played a key role in the freedom struggle,
influenced by its warrior tradition rooted in geography and history.
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(d) Agricultural Prosperity
Thanks to its fertile soil and rivers, Punjab became the breadbasket of India. Agriculture
shaped its economy, social structure, and culture.
• The Green Revolution in the 1960s further strengthened Punjab’s position as the
leading agricultural state.
• Festivals like Baisakhi and Lohri celebrate the joy of harvest, showing how deeply
agriculture is tied to its geography.
(e) Cultural Unity and Diversity
The rivers and plains encouraged trade and movement, leading to a blending of cultures
— Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Sikhism all flourished here. The birth of Sikhism in
Punjab during the 15th century was also deeply influenced by the region’s environment
— a land open to new ideas, travelers, and interactions.
(f) Spirit of Bravery and Resilience
The open plains and repeated invasions made Punjabis strong, fearless, and
determined. This land gave birth to great warriors and saints — from Maharaja Ranjit
Singh to the Gurus, who combined spiritual strength with courage. The geography
trained its people to defend their land and preserve their identity.
5. Modern Impact
Even today, Punjab’s geography continues to shape its destiny:
• The rivers support irrigation and hydroelectric power.
• The fertile soil sustains the agricultural economy.
• The state’s position near international borders gives it strategic importance in
India’s defense and trade policies.
Conclusion: The Land That Breathes Through Its Rivers
Punjab is not just a geographical region; it is a living example of how nature and history
walk hand in hand. Its hills protect it, its plains feed it, and its rivers give it life. From
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ancient civilizations to modern prosperity, every chapter of Punjab’s history is written in
the rhythm of its rivers and the richness of its soil.
The physical features of Punjab made it a land of prosperity, bravery, and cultural
richness — truly, a region where nature created history and history shaped identity.
Sources of Ancient History of Punjab – Religious / Literary / Indigenous / Foreign
(4 mes) 2021 (Q2), 2022 (Q2), 2023 (Q2), 2024 (Q2) Consistently repeated in
every paper under slightly dierent wording.
Ans: Sources of Ancient History of Punjab
Introduction: A Journey into the Past
Imagine you are holding a small piece of pottery or reading an old inscription carved on
a rock. You may not realize it, but that object is whispering stories from hundreds or
even thousands of years ago. It tells us how people lived, what they believed in, what
wars they fought, and what dreams they had.
This is exactly how historians discover and understand the ancient history of Punjab.
Punjab, the “Land of Five Rivers,” has been one of the oldest and richest regions of
human civilization. From the days of the Indus Valley Civilization to the arrival of
Aryans, and later through the times of Mauryas, Kushanas, and Guptas, Punjab has
seen the rise and fall of great cultures, kings, and traditions.
But how do we actually know all this? How do we reconstruct the story of ancient
Punjab when there were no cameras, books, or internet to record everything?
The answer lies in sources — the evidence left behind by our ancestors in different
forms. These sources act like windows to our past. By studying them carefully, historians
bring ancient Punjab back to life.
Let us now explore these sources in detail — just like a detective finding clues in an old
mystery.
1. Archaeological Sources – The Silent Storytellers
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The first and most powerful source of ancient Punjab’s history is archaeology — the
study of old objects, ruins, and remains buried under the earth. These are like silent
storytellers that reveal the truth about how people lived thousands of years ago.
Excavations and Sites
Archaeologists dig at different sites and find tools, pottery, houses, ornaments,
weapons, and skeletons. Such discoveries in Punjab have helped us trace one of the
world’s oldest civilizations — the Indus Valley Civilization (2600–1900 BCE), also known
as the Harappan Civilization.
Some important archaeological sites of Punjab and nearby regions include:
• Harappa (now in Pakistan) – It was the first site where the traces of the Indus
Valley Civilization were found. The discovery of well-planned streets, brick
houses, granaries, and seals tells us that people here were highly organized and
intelligent.
• Ropar (in Indian Punjab) – Another famous site that revealed layers of Harappan
culture, showing that Punjab was a part of this great ancient civilization.
• Sanghol and Manda – These sites have given us sculptures, coins, and pottery,
helping us understand later periods of Punjab’s history.
Artifacts and Objects
Archaeologists have found seals engraved with animal figures, tools made of bronze,
and beautifully painted pottery. These artifacts show that people of ancient Punjab were
skilled artists, traders, and craftsmen.
The presence of large granaries indicates a developed agricultural system. Beads and
ornaments made of gold, silver, and ivory show that people loved beauty and luxury.
Importance
Archaeological findings are extremely important because they are real physical
evidence. Unlike stories or written records that might be exaggerated or biased, these
remains cannot lie. They tell us how people actually lived — their homes, their food,
their clothes, and their technology.
2. Literary Sources – The Written Records
After archaeology, the second major source of ancient Punjab’s history is literature —
both religious and secular (non-religious) writings.
(a) Vedic Literature
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The Vedas, especially the Rigveda, are among the most important sources to study the
early history of Punjab. In fact, most scholars agree that the Rigvedic Aryans lived in the
region that we now call Punjab.
The Rigveda mentions the five rivers – Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Jhelum, and Chenab – from
which Punjab gets its name. It also talks about battles fought between different tribes,
like the famous Battle of Ten Kings (Dasarajna Yuddha), which took place on the banks
of the River Ravi.
These hymns give us valuable information about:
• The social structure (like kings, warriors, priests, and common people)
• Religious beliefs and rituals
• Economic life (agriculture, cattle rearing, trade)
• Political organization (tribal rule and assemblies)
(b) Buddhist and Jain Literature
In later periods, Buddhist and Jain texts such as the Jatakas and Angas also mention
Punjab. They tell us about trade routes, towns, and the spread of Buddhism. The city of
Taxila (Takshashila), located in the northwestern region, became a famous center of
learning during this time.
(c) Sanskrit Epics and Puranas
The Mahabharata and Ramayana also provide clues about ancient Punjab. According to
tradition, the Pandavas and Kauravas fought their great war in the region of
Kurukshetra, which lies near Punjab. The Puranas, though written later, preserve
legends about ancient kings and dynasties that ruled in this area.
(d) Foreign Accounts
Foreign travelers and historians also wrote about Punjab. The most famous among them
was Herodotus, the Greek historian, and later Megasthenes, the ambassador of
Seleucus Nikator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. Their writings give us an
outsider’s perspective of the region — its people, administration, and culture.
Importance
Literary sources add life and emotion to history. They tell us not just what happened,
but also what people thought, believed, and felt. However, historians must read them
carefully because sometimes they mix fact with mythology.
3. Inscriptions – The Words Carved in Stone
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Long before people started writing on paper, they used to carve messages, laws, and
orders on rocks, pillars, and metal plates. These are known as inscriptions or epigraphs.
Inscriptions are like official announcements of ancient rulers. They help us understand
political events, administrative systems, taxes, land grants, and religious beliefs.
Ashokan Inscriptions
The most famous inscriptions in Punjab are those of Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE).
Ashoka’s Rock Edicts have been found at Sopara and Shahbazgarhi (in present-day
Pakistan). These inscriptions are written in Prakrit language and Kharoshthi script.
They show how Ashoka spread the message of peace, tolerance, and non-violence
(Dhamma) throughout his empire, which included parts of Punjab.
Copper Plates and Temple Records
Later, during the Gupta period and afterward, copper plate inscriptions were used to
record land donations or administrative decisions. These plates help historians trace the
economic and political structure of ancient Punjab.
Importance
Inscriptions are very reliable because they are official records and often dated. They give
us factual information about kings, their achievements, and even the languages and
scripts used at that time.
4. Coins – The Metallic Messengers
Another fascinating source of Punjab’s ancient history is numismatics, or the study of
coins. Coins are small, but they carry huge historical value.
What Coins Tell Us
Coins tell us about:
• The rulers and dynasties (because their names and symbols are engraved)
• Economic conditions (like trade, commerce, and currency systems)
• Religion and art (through symbols like the wheel, trident, or goddess)
Examples from Punjab
Coins issued by Indo-Greek, Kushan, and Gupta rulers have been found in large
numbers in Punjab. For example:
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• Kanishka’s coins show figures of Buddha and other deities, proving that he
promoted Buddhism.
• Greek coins found near Taxila show the influence of Greek art and culture.
• Gupta coins, beautifully made in gold, reflect the prosperity of that era.
Importance
Coins are very helpful because they often have exact dates, kings’ names, and even
portraits. They help us understand trade links — for instance, coins of Roman origin
found in Punjab show that there was contact between India and the West.
5. Monuments and Art
Apart from all these, ancient temples, stupas, sculptures, and paintings also serve as
important sources. The ruins of Taxila University, Buddhist stupas, and sculptures of
Gandhara art (a blend of Indian and Greek styles) all tell us about the cultural richness of
Punjab.
The Gandhara School of Art, which flourished in this region, created realistic images of
Buddha — this shows that Punjab was a great center of art and religion.
Conclusion: Punjab – The Cradle of Civilization
When we put together all these sources — archaeological findings, ancient texts,
inscriptions, coins, and monuments — a vivid picture of ancient Punjab emerges. We see
a land where civilization first bloomed, where people built cities, wrote hymns, traded
across seas, and spread great religions like Buddhism and Hinduism.
The study of these sources helps us realize that Punjab was not just a geographical
region but a cradle of culture, wisdom, and progress. Every piece of pottery, every
inscription, and every coin is like a piece of a grand puzzle — and when we fit them
together, we see the proud and glorious history of ancient Punjab shining through time.
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