Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The Harappan civilisation saw a wide scale practise of bronze casting. The bronze statues
were made using “lost wax technique”. In this technique, wax figures are first coated with wet
clay and allowed to dry. The clay coated figures are then heated, allowing the wax inside to melt.
The Dancing Girl is the world’s oldest bronze sculpture. Found in Mohenjo-daro, this four inch
figure depicts a naked girl wearing only ornaments, which include bangles in the left arm, and
amulet and bracelet on the right arm. She stands in a ‘tribhanga’ dancing posture with the right
hand on her hip
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
The first full-length motion picture – Raja Harishchandra (1913) - in India was produced by
Dadasaheb Phalke. It was a silent movie featured in Marathi Language.
In 1982 fashion Designer Bhanu Athaiya becomes the first Indian to win an Oscar for the film
Gandhi, by winning the Best Costume Design award.
Three Indian films namely Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay (1988), and Lagaan (2001), were
nominated forthe Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The Chapchar Kut is a festival of Mizoram, India. It is celebrated during March after completion of
their most arduous task of jhum operation i.e., jungle-clearing (clearing of the remnants of burning).
It is a spring festival celebrated with great favour and gaiety.
Losar is a major festival in Arunachal Pradesh as it marks the Tibetan New Year. Tribes like Monpa.
Sherdukpens, Memba. Khamba and Nah following the Mahayana sect of Buddhism celebrate this
festival.
Moatsu Mong is a festival of the Ao tribe in Nagaland. It marks the completion of the sowing
season.
It is a three-day festival that is celebrated from May 1 to 3 each year. Held in Mokokchung district,
Moatsu Mong festival begins with the cleaning of wells and the brewing of beer. This festival of the
Ao tribe in Nagaland marks the completion of the sowing season. During the festival people savour
the taste of local delicacies and enjoy cultural programs.
4 Which of the following cultural heritages of India is/are included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible
Cultural Heritage?
1. Yoga
2. Ramlila
3. Silambam
4. Chhau dance
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
This coveted list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate diversity of
cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance.
The list was established in 2008 when Convention for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural
Heritage came into effect.
It has two parts viz. Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and List of
Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of urgent safeguarding.
7. Chhau dance
10. Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru,
Punjab
11. Yoga
12. Nawrouz
Currently no cultural heritage items of India are listed in the List of Intangible Cultural
Heritage in need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Jallikattu also known as 'Eruthazhuvuthal' is a bull-taming sport played across Tamil Nadu as a
part of Pongal celebrations on Mattu Pongal day.
A kambala is an annual buffalo race held in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka.
Traditionally, it is sponsored by local Tuluva landlords and households in the coastal districts of
Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, a region collectively known as Tulu Nadu.
In Punjab huge bonfires are lit on the eve of Sankrant and which is celebrated as "Lohri".
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The string puppets of Orissa are known as Kundhei. Made of light wood, the Orissa puppets
have no legs but wear long flowing skirts. They have more joints and are, therefore, more versatile,
articulate and easy to manipulate. The puppeteers often hold a wooden prop, triangular in shape, to
which strings are attached for manipulation.
The traditional marionettes of Rajasthan are known as Kathputli. Carved from a single piece
of wood, these puppets are like large dolls that are colourfully dressed. Their costumes and
headgears are designed in the medieval Rajasthani style of dress, which is prevalent even today.
The Kathputli is accompanied by a highly dramatised version of the regional music.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Koodiyaattam, one of the oldest traditional theatre forms of Kerala, is based on Sanskrit theatre
traditions. The characters of this theatre form are: Chakyaar or actor, Naambiyaar, the
instrumentalists and Naangyaar, those taking on women's roles.
The Sutradhar or narrator and the Vidushak or jesters are the protagonists. It is the Vidushak
alone who delivers the dialogues. Emphasis on hand gestures and eye movements makes this dance
and theatre form unique.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Krishnattam is the folk theatre of Kerala. It came into existence in the middle of 17th century
A.D. under the patronage of King Manavada of Calicut. Krishnattam is a cycle of eight plays
performed for eight consecutive days. The episodes are based on the theme of Lord Krishna - his
birth, childhood pranks and various deeds depicting victory of good over evil.
Tamaasha is a traditional folk theatre form of Maharashtra. It has evolved from the folk forms
such as Gondhal, Jagran and Kirtan. Unlike other theatre forms, in Tamaasha the female actress is
the chief exponent of dance movements in the play. She is known as Murki. Classical music,
footwork at lightning-speed, and vivid gestures make it possible to portray all the emotions through
dance.
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Hozagiri Dance – While the theme of the dance remains almost to be the same
as of other tribes, the dance form of the Reang/Bru community is quite
different from others. The movements of hands or even the upper part of the
body is somewhat restricted, whereas the movement beginning from their
waist down to their feet creates a wonderful wave.
Doregata: This is quite interesting dance as the Khasi women try to knock off
the turbans of their male pertners.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Chhau is a popular folk dance of Orissa/Bihar/Bengal. Chhau means mask. All the Chhau
performers hold swords and shields while performing. The stages are decorated and brightly lit by
torches, lanterns and flickering oil lamps.
Dumhal is a dance performed by the men folk of the Wattal tribe of Kashmir This dance is
performed with long colorful robes, tall conical caps (studded with beads and shells). Dumhal dance
is accompanied by songs which the performers themselves sing.
Kalbelia Dance is performed by the womenfolk hailing from the Kalbelia community in
Rajastan. The dance movements and the costumes have an uncanny resemblance to the slithery
creatures.
11 Which among the following is not a form of Indian martial arts?
A. Kalarippayattu
B. Silambam
C. Thang Ta
D. Bhand Pather
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Kalarippayattu is a martial art, which originated as a style in Kerala, southern India (North
Malabar). The word kalari first appears in the Tamil Sangam literature (c. 300 BCE to 300 CE) to
describe both a battlefield and combat arena.
Silambam is a weapon-based Martial Art of India, more specifically in the state of Tamil Nadu. The
word “Silambam” means either a mountain or merely to sound. While the Silambam fencers are
fighting, the weapon makes sound. This might have been the cause for its being named as
“Silambam”.
Thang-ta is the popular Manipuri name for a set of armed and unarmed fighting techniques
developed by the Meitei people of the state of Manipur, India. The formal name for this martial
system is Huyen Lallong.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Kuchipudi is originally from Andhra Pradesh. Its evolution can be traced to traditional dance -
drama, known under the generic name of Yakshagaana.
It originated in the seventh century AD. In 17th century A.D. Siddhendra Yogi, a talented Vaishnava
poet, conceived Kuchipudi style of Yakshagaana. It begins with an invocation to Lord Ganesha
followed by nritta (non-narrative and abstract dancing) shabdam (narrative dancing) and natya.
The dance is accompanied by song which is typically Carnatic music. Like other classical dances,
Kuchipudi also comprises pure dance, mime and histrionics but it is the use of speech that
distinguishes Kuchipudi's presentation as dance drama.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The Sangeet Natak Akademi confers classical status and it has been accorded on eight Indian dance
forms:
The Sattriya dance form was introduced in the 15th century A.D by the great Vaishnava saint
and reformer of Assam, Mahapurusha Sankaradeva as a powerful medium for propagation of the
Vaishnava faith.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Odissi, originally from Orissa, is a dance of love and passion touching on the divine and the human,
the sublime and the mundane.
It is the oldest surviving dance form of India on the basis of archaeological evidences and date
nd
backs to 2 Century B.C.
Odissi is a highly stylised dance and to some extent is based on the classical Natya Shastra and the
Abhinaya Darpana. In fact, it has derived a great deal from the Abhinaya Darpana Prakasha by
Jadunatha Sinha, theAbhinaya Chandrika by Rajmani Patra, and the Abhinaya Chandrika by
Maheshwara Mahapatra.
As in other parts of India, creative literature inspired the Odissi dancer also and provided the
themes for dance. This is especially true of the 12th century Gita Govinda by Jayadeva. It is a
profound example of thenayaka-nayika bhava and surpasses other poems in its poetic and stylistic
content. The devotion of the poet for Krishna permeates through the work.
Odissi closely follows the tenets laid down by the Natya Shastra. Facial expressions, hand gestures
and body movements are used to suggest a certain feeling, an emotion or one of the nine rasas.
The techniques of movement are built around the two basic postures of the Chowkand
the Tribhanga. The chowk is a position imitating a square - a very masculine stance with the
weight of the body equally balanced. The tribhanga is a very feminine stance where the body is
deflected at the neck, torso and the knees.
15 The Natya Shashtra is a notable ancient treatise influencing dance, music and literary traditions in
India. It is notable for its aesthetic “Rasa theory”. What does the theory assert?
A. Performance of arts is intended purely for entertainment.
B. Pleasure and happiness are the foundations of a human’s life.
C. Performance of arts is a tool to raise individual consciousness for spiritual upliftment.
D. The primary goal of ragas in music is to give it a natural flavour, one that appeals to all
creatures and not only human beings.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
It asserts that entertainment is a desired effect of performance arts but not the primary goal, and
that the primary goal is to transport the individual in the audience into another parallel reality, full
of wonder, where he experiences the essence of his own consciousness, and reflects on spiritual and
moral questions.
This is similar to the Sufi’s views on music, chanting and its spiritual potential to connect with the
divine.
16 With reference to the semi-classical music form Thumri, consider the following statements
1. It is inspired by Bhakti Movement
2. It is based on the romantic literature
3. Thumri is one of the division of Carnatic music
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Indian Hindustani Classical Music has various divisions like Khyaal, Thumari/Thumri, Tappa,
Tarana, etc. The thumri is based on the romantic-devotional literature inspired by the bhakti
movement.
The text is usually derived from the Radha-Krishna theme and is of primary importance. The semi-
classical music form ‘thumr is known to have derived its name from thumakna. Loosely translated
the word means, “dance-like movements”.
Thumri was about mild eroticism and dramatic gestures and was the invention of courtesans. The
text is romantic and devotional in nature, and usually revolves around a girl’s love for Krishna. The
language is a dialect of Hindi called Brij bhasha.
17 Consider the following statements regarding the Sallekhana ritual of Jainism
1. It consists of voluntary starvation to embrace death.
2. It is prescribed for ascetics only
3. It is permitted only in case of imminent death.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
It is the religious practice of voluntarily fasting to death by gradually reducing the intake of food
and liquids. It is viewed in Jainism as the thinning of human passions and the body, and another
means of destroying rebirth-influencing karma by withdrawing all physical and mental activities.
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Mahavamsa is the most important Pali epic poem. Mahavamsa means “Great Chronicle”. It’s a
historical poem in Pali Language which deals about the Kings of Sri Lanka.
Dipavamsa is the oldest historical record of Sri Lanka. Dipavamsa is one of the most important
works in Pall Literature. It details the tooth relic and Bodhi Tree’s arrival in Sri Lanka.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Brihaddeshi written in the 9th century by Matanga focused on the definition of the word
‘raga’.
The 11th century text, Sangeeta Makaranda was composed by Narada (Nanda) who
enumerated 93 ragas and classified them into feminine and masculine forms.
Swaramela-Kalanidhi written by Ramamatya in the 16th century which again deals primarily
with ragas.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Hindustani music: practiced in the northern parts of India. The Hindustani branch of music focuses
more on the musical structure and the possibilities of improvisation in it. The Hindustani branch
adopted a scale of Shudha Swara Saptaka or the ‘Octave of Natural notes.
There are ten main styles of singing in Hindustani music like the ‘Dhrupad’, ‘Dhamar’, ‘Hori’,
‘Khayal’, ‘Tappa’, ‘Chaturang’, ‘Ragasagar’, ‘Tarana’, ‘Sargam’ and ‘Thumri’.
21 Consider the following statements
1. Indigenous in nature
2. No freedom to improvise
3. Instruments equally important as vocals
4. Adheres to time
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Indigenous
No freedom to improvise
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Abul Fazl, courtier and chronicler at the court of the Emperor Akbar, defines the dhrupad
verse form in his Ain-e-Akbari as "four rhyming lines, each of indefinite prosodic length.
Tansen is remembered for his epic Dhrupad compositions, creating several new ragas, as well
as for writing two classic books on music Sri Ganesh Stotra and Sangita Sara.
Kirana Gharana have had a long line of great singers but the most famous are Pandit
Bhimsen Joshi and Gangubai Hangal.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Amir Khusrau (1252-1325) was the famous Persian writer of this period. He wrote a number of
poems. His famous work Tughlaq Nama deals with the rise of Ghyiasuddin Tughlaq.
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Shabads are devotional songs of the Sikhs sung in gurdwaras on religious occasions. They
are ascribed to Sikh gurus and many Bhakti saint-poets.
Shabad originated as a musical composition around the 17th century AD. Guru Nanak and his
disciple Mardana are credited with the development and popularity of shabad.
Purandardas is considered to be the father of Carnatic music. To him goes the credit of
codification of the method of Carnatic music. He is also credited with creation of several
thousand songs.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Lavani is a popular folk form of Maharashtra. Traditionally, the songs are sung by female
artists, but male artists may occasionally sing Lavanis.
This type of folk music is based on the grand epic-Mahabharata and Bhima as hero. It is all inclusive
of gayan (singing) and vadan (playing an instrument).
Pandavani - Usually the songs are set to the rhythm of a tambura. One of the most well known
artists is Tijanbai from the state of Chhattisgarh who won the Padma Shri and the Padma
Bhushan for her contribution to this musical field.
Answer Justification :
The Ajanta Caves carved out of volcanic rock in the Maharashtra Plateau, situated near Aurangabad
in Maharashtra.
Frescoes are paintings which are done on wet plaster in which colours become fixed as the plaster
dries. They are found on the walls and ceilings at Ajanta.
The human & animal forms show a variety of graceful poses. Various methods were used to create
the illusion of depth.
They depict themes of court life, feasting, processions, men and women at work, festivals
and various natural scenes including animals, birds and flowers.
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
The mural paintings in the Ellora caves are found in five caves, mostly limited to Kailasa
temple. Ellora paintings are related to all three religions (Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism).
Sittanavasal cave: Located 16 km northwest of Pudukkottai town in Tamil Nadu, these famous
rock-cut caves are known for the paintings in the Jain temples. These murals have close
resemblance to Bagh and Ajanta paintings.
The paintings are not only on the walls but also on the ceiling and pillars. The paintings are with the
theme of Jain Samavasarana.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Miniature paintings are small paintings with minute details. They were often painted for
either books or albums, on perishable material including paper, palm leaves and cloth.
Developed almost as a reaction to the enormous wall paintings, the art of miniature painting
developed between 8th and 12th centuries.
Two prominent school of paintings before Delhi Sultanate are Pala School of Art and Apabhramsa
School of art.
The Mughal paintings brought together Persian naturalistic style with the opulence of a
great dynasty and created some beautifully illustrated folios.
These paintings were considered unique because of the use of brilliant colours.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
This school traces its origin to Gujarat and Mewar region in Rajasthan. It was the predominant
school of painting in western India during 11th to 15th century. The most common themes of these
paintings were Jain and in the later period the Vaishanava School appropriated them too.
The features of the human figures depicted in the paintings have fish-shaped bulging eyes; a
pointed nose and a double chin.
The animal and bird figurines in the paintings are represented as toys. The most famous example is
of Kalpasutra and the Kalakacharya Katha from 15th century.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Warli Paintings being practiced by indigenous people that occupy mainly the
Maharashtra- Gujarat border.
Geometrical figures like triangle, circle and square are used to represent
Human figures. For painting only white pigment is used, which is made of a mixture of gum and rice
powder.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The Patuas are an artisan community found in the state of West Bengal,
Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha in India and parts of Bangladesh.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Kalighat painting or Kalighat Pat originated in the 19th century West Bengal, India, in the
vicinity of Kalighat Kali Temple, Kalighat, Calcutta.
The charm of the Kalighat paintings lies in the fact that they captured the essence of daily life and
they influence modern artistes like the late Jamini Roy.
Kangra School of painting: Nadir Shah’s invasion and the conquest of Delhi in 1739 resulted in
the migration of Mughal artists to the hills to escape the uncertainties of the plains. Here they
found ready patrons which led to the founding of the Kangra school of painting
By the mid-eighteenth century the Kangra artists developed a style which breathed a new spirit into
miniature painting. The source of inspiration was the Vaishnavite traditions
33 Which one of the following sequences indicates the correct chronological order?
A. Shankaracharya—Ramanuja—Chaitanya
B. Ramanuja—Shankaracharya—Chaitanya
C. Ramanuja—Chaitanya—Shankaracharya
D. Shankaracharya—Chaitanya—Ramanuja
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian painting style, which was inaugurated from the
town of Thanjavur (anglicized as Tanjore) and spread across the adjoining and geographically
contiguous Tamil country.
The art form draws its immediate resources and inspiration from way back about 1600 AD,
a period when the Nayakas of Thanjavur under the suzerainty of the Vijayanagara Rayas
encouraged art—chiefly, classical dance and music—as well as literature, both in Telugu and Tamil
and painting of chiefly Hindu religious subjects in temples. It is distinguished by its famous gold
coating.
The paintings are mostly of Gods and Goddesses because this art of painting
flourished at a time when fine-looking and striking temples were being constructed by rulers of
several dynasties.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
There shall be no restriction on the display of the National Flag by members of general public,
private organisations, educational institutions, etc., except to the extent provided in the Emblems
and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950 and the Prevention of Insults to
National Honour Act, 1971 and any other law enacted on the subject.
The words Satyameva Jayate (meaning 'truth alone tirumphs') from Mundaka Upanishad are
inscribed below the abacus in Devanagari script.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
The song Vande Mataram, composed in Sanskrit by Bankimchandra Chatterji, was incorporated in
his famous novel Ananda Math (1882). It has an equal status with the National Anthem.
The Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is national heritage animal of India.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Sugam Sangeet is one such form of music which combines classicism and modernity in right
balance. Of great lyrical quality, the Sugam Sangeet is a Gujarati form of the Ghazal and is
extremely soothing to the ears and the soul as well.
Tevaram denotes the first seven volumes of the Tirumurai, the twelve-volume
collection of Lord Shiva devotional poetry. All seven volumes are dedicated to
the works of the three most prominent Tamil poets of the 7th century,
the Nayanars - Sambandar, Tirunavukkarasar and Sundarar.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
As per Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Indian Constitution, the eighth schedule includes the
recognition of the following 22 languages:
Assamese
Bengali
Bodo
Dogri
Gujarati
Hindi
Kannada
Kashmiri
Konkani
Maithili
Malayalam
Meitei
Marathi
Nepali
Odia
Punjabi
Sanskrit
Santali
Sindhi
Tamil
Telugu
Urdu
39 Which of the following criteria/s a language must satisfy to become Classical Language?
1. High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years.
2. A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generations of
speakers.
3. The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Criteria:
High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years
The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community
The classical language and literature being distinct from modern, there may also be a
discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or its offshoots.
Tamil was the first language to get classical language status in India.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Mrichchhakatika is about the love affair of a rich merchant with the daughter of a courtesan.
Answer Justification :
Angkor Vat temple in Cambodia dedicated to Lord Vishnu was built in 1113-1150 by Suryavarman
II. It was firstly a Hindu temple but later it went under Buddhist regime.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Ashokavadana is an Indian Sanskrit-language text that describes the birth and reign of the
Maurya Emperor Ashoka. It is one of the avadana texts contained in the Divyavadana, an anthology
of several Buddhist legends and narratives
Dharmachakra Sutta or Promulgation of the Law Sutra is a Buddhist text that is considered
to be a record of the first teaching given by Gautama Buddha after he attained enlightenment.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
In the 3rd century BCE Indian rock-cut architecture began to develop, starting with the already
highly sophisticated and state-sponsored Barabar caves in Bihar, personally dedicated by
Ashoka circa 250 BCE.
Ajanta caves: The caves depict a large number of incidents from the life of the Buddha
(Jataka Tales). Cave number one contains wall frescos that include two great Bodhisattvas,
Padmapani and Avalokiteshvara.
The Kailash Temple was created through a single, huge top-down excavation 100 feet deep down
into the volcanic basaltic cliff rock. It was commissioned in the 8th century by King Krishna I and
took more than 100 years to complete.
44 Which of the following chronological order for the construction of the monuments is correct?
1. Taj Mahal
2. Qutab Minar
3. Agra Fort
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the
Indian city of Agra. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan.
Qutb ud Din Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, started construction of the Qutb Minar's first
storey around 1192. In 1220, Aibak's successor and son-in-law Shamsuddin Iltutmish completed a
further three storeys.
Agra Fort is a historical fort in the city of Agra in India. It was built in 1573. It was the main
residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638, when the capital was shifted from
Agra to Delhi.
Which of the statements given above is/are characteristics of Delhi Sultanate Architecture?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 and 3 only
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
46 Consider the following statements regarding the development of architecture in Mughal times?
1. Use of red sandstone is the chief feature of architecture during Akbar's time
2. Humayun’s tomb is an example for Charbagh style.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The chief feature of the architecture of Akbar's time was the use of red sandstone.
Humayun’s Tomb was built in the 1560’s, with the patronage of Humayun’s son, the great
Emperor Akbar. Persian and Indian craftsmen worked together to build the garden-tomb, far
grander than any tomb built before in the Islamic world. Humayun’s garden-tomb is an example of
the charbagh (a four quadrant garden with the four rivers of Quranic paradise represented), with
pools joined by channels.
A. A drum house from where ceremonial music was played in Mughal palaces
B. A prayer hall indicating the direction of Mecca
C. The discussion hall for secret courtly affairs in the Mughal palaces
D. Made to host foreign dignitaries in Mughal complexes
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Naqqar khana was usually situated over the gate. They are a distinct sign of Mughal
architecture and were constructed under areas their influence in India, Pakistan and nearby
countries. It was a drum house from where ceremonial music was played in Mughal
palaces.
Which of the above place(s) is/are also known for mural paintings?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. None
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Mural Paintings can be found in both Ajanta and Lepakshi temple. The Sanchi stupa does not have
mural paintings.
49 Which of the following are the characteristics of the ‘Dravidian Style of Temple architecture’?
1. It combined the features of both Nagara style and Vesara style of architecture.
2. Temples were surrounded by high boundary walls.
3. The front wall had a high entrance gateway known as the ‘gopuram’.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Vesara style of architecture combined the features of both Nagara style and Dravidian style of
Architecture. Dravidian style of architecture is distinct in nature.
Well, high boundary walls, gopuram and single vimana are the characteristics of Dravidian style
architecture.
50 Which of the following temple complexes are the examples of Nagara school of architecture.
1. Lingaraja Temple
2. Sun temple of Kornak
3. Modhera Sun temple
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Lingaraja Temple
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-I-Khas, Red Fort at Delhi, Jama Masjid, Taj Mahal were constructed by Shah
Jahan.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Ilkal – Karnataka.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Phulkari is embroidery of flower motifs with contrast of bright colours on light colored fabric.
(Punjab)
Zardozi uses combination of gold, silver or copper wire with silver or golden polish and silk
threads. (Uttar Pradesh)
Banni by the Lohana community. Use of silk floss for embroidery of geometrical motifs including
use of glass works (Gujarat).
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
In South India, the Vaishnavite movement was very strong and it reigned till
the end of 13th century. These saints, called Alvars, were the devotees of
Vishnu and they sang songs which were collected and made into prabhandas.
Another powerful group in the South was the Shaivites or those who
worshipped Shiva. The saints were called ‘Nayanars
A. Kathakali
B. Sattriya
C. Kathak
D. Manipuri
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Rich carving, elaborate ornamentation, complex symbolism and use of Grey stone is characteristic
feature of Gandhara School of Art.
The Mathura School of art flourished at the city of Mathura between 1-3 A.D. and was
promoted by the Kushans. It established the tradition of transforming Buddhist symbols into
human form.
The Amravati school of Art evolved during Satavahna period. This school of art developed at
Amravati, on the banks of the Krishna River in modern Andhra Pradesh.
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Kabir was a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, whose writings,
according to some scholars, influenced Hinduism's Bhakti movement. Kabir's
verses are found in Sikhism's scripture Guru Granth Sahib. He is famous for
his dohas (couplets).
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Himachali Kala Zeera, Jeeraphool from Chhattisgarh and Kandhamal Haldi from Odisha are
among the 14 products that have received Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the government so
far this year.
According to the data with the department for promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT), the
other products which received this tag include Coorg Arabica coffee from Karnataka, Wayanad
Robusta coffee from Kerala, Araku Valley Arabica from Andhra Pradesh, Sirisi Supari from
Karnataka and Himachali Chulli oil.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Samkhya is the oldest of the orthodox philosophical systems in Hinduism. It espouses dualism
between consciousness and matter by postulating two "irreducible, innate and independent”
realities:
Once the realization arises that Puruṣa is distinct from Prakriti, the Self is no longer subject to
transmigration and absolute freedom (kaivalya) arises.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Ajivika philosophy believes that sorrow has existence in the world and humans can come out
of it.
Lokayatas are those who believe that everything is not predetermined.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Dvaitadvaita was proposed by Nimbarka. The Shuddhadvaita principle sees equality in "essence"
of the individual self with God. There is no real difference between the two.
Advaita believes in the principle that the only direct cause of liberation is self-knowledge
which directly removes the ignorance. After realization, one sees one's own self and the
Universe as the same.
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
The four holy sites Puri, Rameswaram, Dwarka, and Badrinath compose the Char Dham (four
abodes) pilgrimage circuit.
Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years; the location is rotated among Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik,
and Ujjain. It is considered as one of the largest pilgrimage gathering in the world.
Shakti Peethas are the places, where the Mother Goddess is worshipped. The two principal
ones being Kalighat and Kamakhya.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Jainism encourages spiritual development through cultivation of one's own personal wisdom and
reliance on self-control through vows.
Ascetics of this religion undertake five major vows namely Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya,
Aparigraha.
Asteya, is to not take into possession, anything that is not willingly offered. attempt to
squeeze material wealth from others or exploit the weak is considered theft.
Aparigraha is to observe detachment from people, places and material things. Ascetics live
a life of complete renunciation of property and human relations.
A. Shravanabelagola
B. Meenakshi Amman Temple
C. Ellora caves
D. Koodal Azhagar
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Depicting the prolonged meditation of Jaina God Bahubali, it was built in around 983 A.D. and is one
of the largest free standing statues in the world. The construction of the statue was commissioned
by the Ganga dynasty.
66 Jainism postulates that time has no beginning or end. It moves like the wheel of a cart. In this context
what are Avasarpini and utsarpini?
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Time rolls along in eternal cycles of rise and decline. Utsarpini is a "rising" era in which human
morale and natural conditions improve over time.
At the end of Utsarpini, begins Avasarpini, a "declining" era of the same length, in which
human morale and virtues deteriorate.
During the middle of every rising and declining era twenty-four souls become Tirthankaras.
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
th
Virashaivism movement was started in 12 century by Basavanna. It propagated inter-caste
and widow re-marriage.
Virashaivism completely rejected the Vedas. In opposite to that, it started to spread message
through vachanas.
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
The followers of Mahayana believe that Buddha taught universal salvation. One should not
aim at personal nirvana and should help ease the suffering of humanity.
Mahayana Buddhism is largely found throughout East Asia namely China, Korea, Japan,
Vietnam etc.
69 Buddha’s life events are often represented in symbols. In this context, consider the following pairs
List I List II
1. Nirvana Stupa
2. Birth Horse
3. Great Renunciation Bodhi Tree
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The five great events in Buddha's life are represented by symbols as under:
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Sufi silsilas were an unbroken spiritual genealogy to the Prophet. Sufi silsilas began to
crystallise in different parts of the Islamic world around the twelfth century. The word
silsila literally means a chain, signifying a continuous link between master and disciple, stretching
as an unbroken spiritual genealogy to the Prophet.
There were various methods that Sufis applied to reach the highest states of communion with the
divine. These were elaborate methods of training using zikr (chanting of a name or sacred
formula), contemplation, sama (singing), raqs (dancing), discussion of parables, breath control,
etc.
71 ‘My Son Sanctuary’, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Centre is located in
A. Cambodia
B. Vietnam
C. Indonesia
D. Myanmar
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
My Son Sanctuary Complex: Between the 4th and 13th centuries a unique
culture which owed its spiritual origins to Indian Hinduism developed on
the coast of contemporary Viet Nam. This is graphically illustrated by the
remains of a series of impressive tower-temples located in a dramatic site that
was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for most of its
existence.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/949
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
73 Which of the following cultural sites found place in UNSECO World Heritage List.
#00000
1. Ajanta Caves
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
3. Mountain Railways of India
4. Badami Caves, Karnataka
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
74 Which of the following personalities is/are famous for the Hindustani Music?
1. Bhimsen Joshi
2. Gangubhai Hangal
3. M. S. Subbalakshmi
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Bathukamma is a colourful floral festival of Telangana and is celebrated by womenfolk with exotic
flowers of the region. The festival has over the years became a symbol of Telangana culture and
identity. Bathukamma comes during the latter half of monsoon, before the onset of winter.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Pingali Venkayya was not awarded the Bharat Ratna. Display of National Flag in public is
governed by Flag Code of India, 2002' and 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour
Act, 1971’, Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005.
https://mha.gov.in/documents/national-flag-emblem-anthem
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The Archaeological Survey of India is an Indian government agency attached to the Ministry of
Culture that is responsible for archaeological research and the conservation and preservation of
cultural monuments in the country. It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham who also
became its first Director-General.
It regulate all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the ancient monument
and archaeological sites and remains act, 1958. It also regulates antiquities and art treasure act,
1972.
78 With reference to the International Energy Forum (IEF), consider the following statements
1. It is an inter-governmental organization.
2. India is not a member country of International Energy Forum.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
The International Energy Forum (IEF) aims to foster greater mutual understanding and
awareness of common energy interests among its members.
The 72 Member Countries of the Forum are signatories to the IEF Charter, which outlines the
framework of the global energy dialogue through this inter-governmental arrangement.
Covering all six continents and accounting for around 90% of global supply and demand for
oil and gas, the IEF is unique in that it comprises not only consuming and producing
countries of the International Energy Agency and OPEC, but also Transit States and major
players outside of their memberships, including Argentina, China, India, Mexico, Russia and
South Africa.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
NITI Aayog launched the Mentor India Campaign, a strategic nation building initiative to
engage leaders who can guide and mentor students at more than 900 Atal Tinkering Labs,
established across the country as a part of the Atal Innovation Mission.
Mentor India is aimed at maximizing the impact of Atal Tinkering Labs, possibly the biggest
disruption in formal education globally. The idea is to engage leaders who will nurture and guide
students in the Atal Tinkering Labs. These labs are non-prescriptive by nature, and mentors are
expected to be enablers rather than instructors.
Government has announced the setting up of a Self- Employment and Talent Utilisation (SETU)
mechanism. Presenting the General Budget 2015-16 in the Lok Sabha here today, the Union
Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley stated that SETU will be a Techno-Financial, Incubation and
Facilitation Programme to support all aspects of startup businesses, and other self-employment
activities, particularly in technology-driven areas. An amount of Rs.1000 crore is being set up
initially in NITI Aayog for SETU.
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=170154
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Senna Spectabilis is an invasive plants which caused major threat to the wildlife habitat in the
Nilgiri Biosphere reserve.
A. Refugees
B. Leprosy patients
C. Tribal people
D. Trafficked human beings
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
We are Survival, the global movement for tribal peoples’ rights. We’re the only organization that
champions tribal peoples around the world. We help them defend their lives, protect their lands
and determine their own futures.”
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The Global Findex database is the world’s most comprehensive data set on how adults
save, borrow, make payments, and manage risk. World Bank launched this initiative with
funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the database has been published every three
years since 2011.
83 Consider the following statements regarding Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
1. It aims to limit the proliferation of missile and other unmanned delivery systems that could be used
for chemical or nuclear attacks.
2. It is an informal and voluntary partnership.
3. China, Israel, Pakistan and India are not the members of MTCR
Your Answer : B
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is a multilateral export control regime. It is an
informal and voluntary partnership among 35 countries to prevent the proliferation of
missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology capable of carrying above 500 kg payload
for more than 300 km.
It aims to limit the proliferation of missile and other unmanned delivery systems that could be used
for chemical or nuclear attacks. India recently became the member of MTCR.
84 Which of the following countries is not part of The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral
Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)?
A. Thailand
B. Nepal
C. Myanmar
D. Cambodia
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a
regional organization comprising seven Member States lying in the littoral and adjacent areas of the
Bay of Bengal constituting a contiguous regional unity.
This sub-regional organization came into being on 6 June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration. It
constitutes seven Member States: five deriving from South Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and two from Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Thailand.
85 The term ‘Jobless growth’ is often seen in the news, which of the following measures can aid in
resolving the issue?
1. Promotion of investments in small scale industries
2. Implementation of Skill India programme
3. Policy support to sunrise industries.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
In a jobless growth economy, unemployment remains stubbornly high even as the economy grows.
This tends to happen when a relatively large number of people have lost their jobs, and the ensuing
recovery is insufficient to absorb the unemployed, under-employed, and those first entering
the work force.
All of the above given measures help in arresting jobless growth. As small scale industries are
labour intensive, investing in small scale industries help in arresting jobless growth.
Skill India help to give market relevant skills, thus increase the employability of unemployed
population.
A sunrise industry is one that is new or relatively new, is growing fast and is expected to
become important in the future. Thus policy support to such industries attract a lot of employment.
86 Senkaku Islands (or Diaoyu) is a disputed territory between Japan, China and Taiwan. It is located in
A. East China Sea
B. Sea of Japan
C. Yellow Sea
D. South China Sea
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Senkaku Islands are a group of uninhabited islands in the East China Sea. They are located
roughly due east of Mainland China, northeast of Taiwan, west of Okinawa Island, and north of the
southwestern end of the Ryukyu Islands.
Japanese call them Senkaku, and designate them as sovereign territory claiming to have started
inhabitation there. Also that China, contested Japanese sovereignty only after 1968, when a
UN body cited the possibility of oil reserves in the area.
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The International Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation, also known as the
Hague Code of Conduct (HCOC), was established on 25 November 2002 as an arrangement to
prevent the proliferation of ballistic missiles.
88 United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254, often seen in news, is related to
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
The resolution demands that all parties immediately cease any attacks against civilian targets in
Syria, it urges all Member States to support efforts to achieve a ceasefire and requests the U.N. to
convene the parties to engage in formal negotiations in early January 2016.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2015/sc12171.doc.htm
A. (a) Afghanistan
B. (b) Pakistan
C. (c) Iran
D. (d) Turkmenistan
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched the country’s first electronic
surveillance satellite, EMISAT. It was launched on-board PSLV-C45.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
French finance minister Bruno Le Maire announced the introduction of a GAFA tax—named after
Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon—on large technology and internet companies in France from 1
January 2019. The French proposal is set to target only those profitable companies that have heavy
annual global revenue.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The UN has been deploying military personnel for service in peace operations since 1948 when the
Security Council authorized the deployment of UN military observers to the Middle East to monitor
the Armistice Agreement between Israel and its Arab neighbours.
Assist ex-combatants in implementing the peace agreements; they may have signed.
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Answer Justification :
Hyperloop is the first new major mode of transportation in 100 years. It’s designed to be safe,
energy efficient, and reliable. It will take you directly to your destination at speeds of up to 700
mph, above land or underground
https://hyperloop-one.com/hyperloop-explained
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
China has launched Chang’e-4, a first probe ever to achieve soft-landing on the far side of
the Moon. Chang’e 4 is the fourth mission in the country’s lunar mission series which is being
named after the Chinese moon goddess.
The tasks of the Chang’e-4 probe include low-frequency radio astronomical observation, surveying
the terrain and landforms, detecting the mineral composition, and measuring the neutron radiation
and neutral atoms to study the environment on the far side of the moon.
The mission aims to deliver samples of Moon rock and soil to Earth.
Your Answer : A
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
Observer countries of SAARC
Australia
China
European Union
Iran
Japan
Mauritius
Myanmar
South Korea
United States
http://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/saarc-countries/
96 Recently, around 1000 petroglyphs has been discovered making them one of the most significant
archaeological finds of recent past. Where those particular petroglyphs are located?
A. Burzahom
B. Hampi
C. Ratnagiri
D. Ajmer
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/the-petroglyphs-of
ratnagiri/article25265399.ece
97 Green Room Meetings, sometime seen in the news, is related to the affairs of
A. G-20
B. UNSC
C. WTO
D. World Economic Affairs
Your Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
Green Room
The informal name of the director-general's conference room. It is used to refer to meetings of 20-
40 delegations, usually at the level of heads of delegations. These meetings can take place
elsewhere, such as at Ministerial Conferences, and can be called by the minister chairing the
conference as well as the director-general.
98 Assam shares its borders with which among the following states/countries?
1. Sikkim
2. China
3. Tripura
4. Meghalaya
5. Bhutan
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification :
Your Answer : D
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
The instrument was banned due to the use of the skin of the endangered monitor
lizard for the drum membrane. In recent years, ghumot makers have started using
goat skin instead.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/ghumot-to-be-goas-heritageinstrument/article
26242058.ece
100 Consider the following the statements regarding Financial Action task
Force (FATF).
1. It is an inter‐governmental policy making body.
2. It deals with developing policies to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.
Your Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justification :
The objectives of the FATF are to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal,
regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing
and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.