ThatQuiz Test Library Take this test now
The Influence of Indian Culture on Southeast Asia
Contributed by: Denton
  • 1. The Influence of Indian Culture on Southeast Asia has been profound and multifaceted, shaping the region's religious, artistic, and social landscapes over centuries. Beginning with early trade routes, Indian merchants and travelers brought not only goods but also ideas and beliefs that permeated local cultures. Hinduism and Buddhism, both originating from India, established a significant spiritual foundation in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia, where ancient temples such as Borobudur and Angkor Wat stand as testaments to this cultural exchange. The adoption of Sanskrit and later Pali as languages of literature and administration further illustrates the intellectual impact of Indian civilization. Additionally, Indian art, dance, and theater influenced local practices, leading to vibrant syncretic forms that blended indigenous traditions with Indian motifs. Kings and local elites often adopted Indian-style political systems and divine kingship, reflecting the prestige associated with Indian culture. As a result, Southeast Asia became a rich tapestry of cultural interactions, where Indian traditions and local beliefs harmoniously coexisted, creating a unique identity that continues to resonate in the region today.

    What is one of the primary religions that spread from India to Southeast Asia?
A) Christianity
B) Islam
C) Buddhism
D) Zoroastrianism
  • 2. Which Indian epic has influenced literature and performing arts in Southeast Asia?
A) Iliad
B) Mahabharata
C) Odyssey
D) Ramayana
  • 3. What form of art, influenced by Indian temples, is prominent in Southeast Asia?
A) Metalwork
B) Calligraphy
C) Architecture
D) Sculpture
  • 4. Which Southeast Asian country retained royal titles derived from Sanskrit?
A) Thailand
B) Vietnam
C) Myanmar
D) Laos
  • 5. Which Southeast Asian temple complex is one of the largest Hindu archaeological sites in the world?
A) Angkor Wat
B) Borobudur
C) Prambanan
D) Banteay Srei
  • 6. Which state in India is known for its trade connections with ancient Southeast Asia?
A) Gujarat
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Bihar
D) Maharashtra
  • 7. The Malay language contains many loanwords from which Indian language?
A) Bengali
B) Telugu
C) Hindi
D) Sanskrit
  • 8. In Southeast Asia, the use of which stringed instrument shows Indian cultural influence?
A) Lute
B) Sitar
C) Shamisen
D) Erhu
  • 9. Which fruit from India became popular in Southeast Asia due to cultural exchange?
A) Mango
B) Coconut
C) Pomegranate
D) Guava
  • 10. Which historical figure is associated with the spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia?
A) Akbar
B) Harsha
C) Chandragupta
D) Ashoka
  • 11. Which aspect of Indian culture entails community gatherings and plays a role in Southeast Asian social structure?
A) Socialism
B) Feudal System
C) Caste System
D) Communism
  • 12. Which Southeast Asian country has a significant presence of Indian diasporas?
A) Cambodia
B) Thailand
C) Philippines
D) Malaysia
  • 13. Which Southeast Asian kingdom was heavily influenced by Indian culture?
A) Sukhothai
B) Lao Kingdom
C) Makassar
D) Srivijaya
  • 14. What type of religious structure, influenced by Indian architecture, can be found in Southeast Asia?
A) Stupa
B) Mosque
C) Cathedral
D) Pagoda
  • 15. The influence of Indian astrology can be seen in the calendars of which region?
A) Western Asia
B) South Asia
C) Southeast Asia
D) East Asia
  • 16. Which ancient artifact signifies Indian influence in Java?
A) Borobudur
B) Petronas Towers
C) Machu Picchu
D) Angkor Wat
  • 17. What concept from Indian philosophy is integral to many Southeast Asian beliefs?
A) Utilitarianism
B) Idealism
C) Karma
D) Existentialism
  • 18. What is a common theme found in Southeast Asian folklore influenced by Indian mythology?
A) Alien encounters
B) Industrialization and progress
C) Nostalgia for pre-colonial times
D) Cosmic battles between good and evil
  • 19. Indian traders played a key role in the exchange of which important commodity in Southeast Asia?
A) Textiles
B) Gold
C) Spices
D) Silk
Created with That Quiz — where a math practice test is always one click away.