NCERT Class 7 Social Science Exploring Society India and Beyond Part-I (Sanskrit): Chapter 5 — साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः
This chapter, 'The Rise of Empires' from NCERT's Class 7 Social Science textbook 'Exploring Society India and Beyond Part-I' in Sanskrit, delves into the concept of empires. It begins by quoting Kautilya from the Arthashastra, stating that a state cannot exist without people. The chapter explores the transition from kingdoms to empires, questioning how empires emerged and shaped Indian culture. It examines the period from the 6th century BCE to the 2nd century CE, highlighting the significant changes in life during this era. The text also includes a reference to rock-cut caves in the Barabar Hills of Bihar, suggesting a connection to historical settlements and governance. This chapter provides foundational knowledge for understanding the development of large political entities in ancient India and their cultural impact.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 7 |
| Subject | Social Science |
| Book | Exploring Society India and Beyond Part-I (Sanskrit) |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 59 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the definition and characteristics of an empire.
- Analyze the factors contributing to the rise of empires.
- Explore the cultural and societal impact of empires on India.
- Comprehend the historical period from the 6th century BCE to the 2nd century CE.
- Recognize the importance of people in the formation of a state/empire.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| साम्राज्यं | Empire |
| उदयः | Rise |
| देशः | Country/Land |
| राज्यं | State/Kingdom |
| अर्थशास्त्रे | In Arthashastra |
| कौटिDल्यः | Kautilya |
| शिला-खण्डिôित-गुहाः | Rock-cut caves |
| संस्कृतेः | Of culture |
| परि�वर्ततनं | Change/Transformation |
| ईǿशापूर्ववषष्ठशतकात्् | From the 6th century BCE |
| द्विLjतीयशतकं | Second century |
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Practice questions
- कौटिDल्यः अर्थथशास्त्रे किं वदति? Answer: कौटिDल्यः अर्थथशास्त्रे वदति यत् जनविVहीनः देशः देशविVहीनं राज्यं न सम्भवति।
- साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः इति अध्यायस्य मुख्यं विषयं किं? Answer: साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः इति अध्यायस्य मुख्यं विषयं साम्राज्यानां उद्भवः, तेषां भारतीयसंस्कृतेः आकारं निर्धाोरणं, तथा राज्यतः साम्राज्यं प्रति परिवर्तनं च अस्ति।
- बिPहारराज्यस्य कुत्र शि�ला-खण्डिôित-गुहाः सन्ति? Answer: बिPहारराज्यस्य बराबर््-पर्ववतेषु शि�ला-खण्डिôित-गुहाः सन्ति।
Frequently asked questions
What is the main topic of Chapter 1 of 'Exploring Society India and Beyond Part-I'?
The main topic of Chapter 1 is 'The Rise of Empires' (साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः), discussing their emergence and impact on Indian culture.
Who is quoted in the beginning of the chapter?
Kautilya from the Arthashastra is quoted, emphasizing the necessity of people for a state.
What historical period does the chapter cover?
The chapter covers the period from the 6th century BCE to the 2nd century CE.
What is mentioned about Bihar in the chapter?
The chapter mentions the rock-cut caves in the Barabar Hills of Bihar.
What key transition is explored in the chapter?
The chapter explores the transition from kingdoms to empires.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 7 Social Science — Exploring Society India and Beyond Part-I (Sanskrit) — Chapter 5 — साम्राज्यानाम् उदयः. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.