1.
The National Stadium in Delhi was earlier known by the name
Correct Answer
A. Irwin Stadium
Explanation
The correct answer is Irwin Stadium. This stadium in Delhi was previously known as Irwin Stadium.
2.
The fine step-well complex of 'Agrasen ki Baoli' is located at
Correct Answer
D. New Delhi
Explanation
Constructed by Raja Agrasen, the stepwell is about 60m long and 15m wide.
3.
The term 'Nastaliq' refers to
Correct Answer
B. Persian script used in Medieval times
Explanation
The term 'Nastaliq' refers to the Persian script used in Medieval times. Nastaliq is a calligraphic style of writing that originated in Iran and was widely used in Persia and the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period. It is known for its elegant and flowing curves, and it became the preferred script for writing Persian and Urdu languages. Nastaliq script is still used today in various forms of art and literature.
4.
The Tallest Buddha statues at Bamiyan in Afghanistan that were destroyed by the Taleban zeolots were carved in
Correct Answer
A. Hindukush Mountain ranges
Explanation
The correct answer is Hindukush Mountain ranges. The Tallest Buddha statues at Bamiyan in Afghanistan were indeed carved in the Hindukush Mountain ranges. These statues were an important part of Afghanistan's cultural heritage and were unfortunately destroyed by the Taliban extremists in 2001. The Hindukush Mountain ranges are located in Central Asia and stretch across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. They are known for their rugged beauty and have been an important historical and cultural region for centuries.
5.
The mausoleum of Babar is located in
Correct Answer
D. Afghanistan
Explanation
The correct answer is Afghanistan because the mausoleum of Babar, the founder of the Mughal Empire, is indeed located in Kabul, Afghanistan. Babar's mausoleum is an important historical site and a popular tourist attraction in Afghanistan.
6.
Who among the following is said to have witnessed the reigns of eight Delhi Sultans?
Correct Answer
C. Amir Khusro
Explanation
Amir Khusro is said to have witnessed the reigns of eight Delhi Sultans. This is because he was a prominent poet, musician, and scholar who lived during the 13th and 14th centuries in Delhi. He served under multiple rulers and was known for his close association with the Delhi Sultanate. His writings and works provide valuable insights into the political and cultural landscape of that time, making him a reliable witness to the reigns of the Delhi Sultans.
7.
Which of the following is NOT a state of India?
Correct Answer
A. Vrindachal
Explanation
Vrindachal is not a state of India. The other options, Uttaranchal, Jharkhand, and Chattisgarh, are all recognized states in India. However, Vrindachal is not a state and does not exist in the political division of India.
8.
Christianity was first introduced in India at
Correct Answer
A. Malabar Coast
Explanation
Christianity was first introduced in India at the Malabar Coast. The Malabar Coast, located in the southwestern part of India, has a long history of trade and cultural exchange with various civilizations. It is believed that the Apostle Thomas arrived at the Malabar Coast in the 1st century AD and established Christian communities in the region. The Malabar Coast became an important center for the spread of Christianity in India, with the arrival of European colonizers later contributing to its growth and influence in the area.
9.
Who was the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Olympics?
Correct Answer
D. Karnam Maleshwari
Explanation
Karnam Maleshwari was the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Olympics. She won a bronze medal in weightlifting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Maleshwari's achievement was significant as it marked a historic moment for Indian women in sports. She brought recognition and inspiration to female athletes in the country, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
10.
Which Mughal Emperor was deported to Rangoon by the British?
Correct Answer
B. Bahadur Shah II
Explanation
Bahadur Shah II is more familiarly known as Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last known Mughal Ruler of India.
11.
The Book 'Big Egos, Small Men' is written by
Correct Answer
B. Ram Jethmalani
Explanation
Ram Jethmalani is the correct answer as he is the author of the book 'Big Egos, Small Men'. Mani Shankar Iyer, Kapil Sibal, and Soli Sorabjee are not the authors of this book.
12.
How many 'World Cultural Heritage Sites' are there in India?
Correct Answer
C. 17
Explanation
India has a total of 17 'World Cultural Heritage Sites'. These sites have been recognized and designated by UNESCO for their outstanding universal value and importance in terms of culture and heritage. These sites include iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and the Ellora Caves, among others. These sites represent the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and attract tourists from all over the world.
13.
Rabindra Nath Tagore composed the National Anthem of
Correct Answer
C. India and Bangladesh
Explanation
Rabindra Nath Tagore composed the National Anthem of India and Bangladesh. This is because Tagore's composition, "Jana Gana Mana," was adopted as the National Anthem of India in 1950, and his composition, "Amar Sonar Bangla," was adopted as the National Anthem of Bangladesh in 1972. Both countries share this honor of having Tagore as the composer of their respective National Anthems.
14.
Which one of the following pairs represent the ancient 'tala' instruments?
Correct Answer
D. Muzhavu-Thudi
Explanation
Muzhavu and Thudi are the ancient 'tala' instruments. Muzhavu is a large drum made of wood and is played during temple rituals in Kerala, India. Thudi is a small handheld drum made of clay and is also used in traditional music and dance performances in Kerala. Therefore, Muzhavu-Thudi represents the correct pair of ancient 'tala' instruments.
15.
Who is the founder of the political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)?
Correct Answer
A. C.N.Annadurai
Explanation
C.N. Annadurai is the founder of the political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). He established the party in 1949 with the aim of advocating for the rights and welfare of the Dravidian people in Tamil Nadu, India. Annadurai was a prominent leader and played a significant role in the Dravidian movement. He served as the first Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and was known for his contributions to the development of the state and the promotion of social justice. His founding of DMK marked a significant milestone in the political history of Tamil Nadu.
16.
Which of the following musical instruments is NOT of foreign origin?
Correct Answer
B. Flute
Explanation
The flute is not of foreign origin because it is one of the oldest musical instruments found in various cultures around the world. It has been used in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and China. The flute is a versatile instrument that has been adapted and played in different styles of music globally. Therefore, it is not considered to be of foreign origin.
17.
Who among the following were killed during 'Operation Bluestar' of 1984?
Correct Answer
C. Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale
Explanation
Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale was killed during 'Operation Bluestar' of 1984. Operation Bluestar was a military operation ordered by the Indian government to remove Sikh militants who were hiding inside the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale was the leader of the Sikh militant group Damdami Taksal and had taken refuge in the Golden Temple. The operation resulted in a violent clash between the militants and the Indian Army, leading to the death of Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale and many others.
18.
In which year was the Air India launched?
Correct Answer
D. 1932
Explanation
It was launched on October 15, 1932, as TATA Airlines. It became India International in 1948.
19.
"DHANUSHKODI" is the meeting point of
Correct Answer
A. The Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal
Explanation
Dhanushkodi is located at the southern tip of Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu, India. It is a narrow strip of land that separates the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. This makes it the meeting point of these two bodies of water. The Arabian Sea is located on the western coast of India and is not connected to Dhanushkodi. Therefore, the correct answer is that Dhanushkodi is the meeting point of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.
20.
Which was the largest and richest among the princely states of pre-Independent India?
Correct Answer
E. Hyderabad
Explanation
Hyderabad was the largest and richest among the princely states of pre-Independent India. It was known for its vast territory and prosperous economy, primarily due to its thriving trade and commerce. The state was famous for its diamond mines and was a major center for pearl trade. Additionally, Hyderabad had a strong agricultural sector, with fertile lands and a well-developed irrigation system. This wealth and prosperity allowed Hyderabad to have a significant influence and power during that time.
21.
The largest Buddhist Monastery in India is located at
Correct Answer
B. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation
The correct answer is Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang is home to the largest Buddhist Monastery in India. It is known as the Tawang Monastery or Galden Namgyal Lhatse, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The monastery is situated at an elevation of about 10,000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is also famous for its rich collection of Buddhist scriptures, thangkas (religious paintings), and other artifacts. Tawang Monastery is a significant cultural and religious center, attracting visitors from all over the world.
22.
Which one of the following places is famous for the Great Vishnu Temple?
Correct Answer
D. Ankorvat, Cambodia
Explanation
Ankorvat in Cambodia is famous for the Great Vishnu Temple. The temple is part of the Angkor Wat complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The Great Vishnu Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. It is known for its intricate carvings and architectural grandeur, attracting tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.
23.
Zero was invented by
Correct Answer
B. Aryabhatta
Explanation
Aryabhata, a great astronomer of the classic age of India was the one who invented the digit “0” (zero) for which he became immortal but later on is given to Brahmagupta who lived around a century later 22, another ancient Indian mathematician.