Free practice for SSC, UPSC, Banking & Railway exams. No login required.
Answer: costume/makeup
Aharya Abhinaya is one of four abhinaya types in Natya Shastra, focusing on costume, makeup, jewelry, and stage decor to enhance character portrayal. Essential for visual storytelling in classical performances.
Answer: True
Bidriware from Bidar, Karnataka, uses a unique technique: casting zinc-copper alloy, engraving designs, inlaying silver/gold, then blackening with ammonium chloride and soil. The contrast highlights intricate motifs. GI tagged in 2006.
Answer: Khajuraho Group of Monuments
Khajuraho temples (Madhya Pradesh), built by Chandela dynasty (950-1050 CE), are renowned for nagara-style architecture and exquisite erotic sculptures symbolizing spiritual union. UNESCO listed in 1986.
Answer: Tarana
Tarana is a Hindustani vocal composition using rhythmic syllables (ter, na, nom) instead of lyrics. Developed by Amir Khusrau, it showcases vocal agility, layakari (rhythmic play), and is often performed in fast tempo.
Answer: True
Ganga Mahotsav in Varanasi (November) celebrates the Ganges with classical music, dance, boat races, and devotional ceremonies. Culminates on Dev Deepavali when ghats are illuminated with earthen lamps.
Answer: M.F. Husain
M.F. Husain (1915-2011), a founding member of Progressive Artists' Group, is iconic for his dynamic horse paintings. His horses symbolize energy, freedom, and India's spirit, rendered in bold lines and vibrant colors.
Answer: West Bengal
Jatra is a folk theatre of West Bengal and Odisha, featuring mythological and social themes with live music, vibrant costumes, and open-air performances. Historically used for social reform and political messaging.
Answer: True
Odia (Oriya) was declared a Classical Language in 2014, joining Tamil, Sanskrit, Kannada, Telugu, and Malayalam. Criteria include early texts (10th century+), original literary tradition, and distinctness from modern forms.
Answer: Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila), built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, is constructed from yellow sandstone that glows golden at sunset. A living fort with residences, temples, and shops. UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013 (Hill Forts of Rajasthan).
Answer: Kutch
Kutch embroidery from Gujarat's Kutch district features intricate patterns, mirror work (abhla), and vibrant threads. Practiced by Rabari, Ahir, and Mochi communities. Received GI tag for distinct styles like Soof, Kharek, and Paako.
Answer: True
Mohanam (Carnatic) / Bhupali (Hindustani) is a pentatonic raga using Sa-Ri-Ga-Pa-Dha. Known for its serene, devotional mood, it is widely used in compositions, film music, and cross-genre collaborations.
Answer: Kathakali
Kathakali is Kerala's classical dance-drama performed by men, featuring vibrant costumes, intricate makeup (chutti), and expressive abhinaya. Themes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. Recognized as classical in 1950s.
Answer: Surya
Pongal festival: Day 1-Bhogi (discarding old), Day 2-Surya Pongal (sun worship, cooking rice), Day 3-Mattu Pongal (cattle honor), Day 4-Kaanum Pongal (family visits). Celebrates agricultural abundance and gratitude.
Answer: True
Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya (Bihar) marks the site of Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The current temple dates to 5th-6th century CE. Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
Answer: Kazi Nazrul Islam
Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976), the 'Rebel Poet', composed Bidrohi (1922) advocating resistance against oppression. His works blend Bengali, Urdu, and Persian influences, promoting communal harmony and social justice.
Answer: Baul
Ektara (one-string) is a drone instrument used by Baul mystics, wandering minstrels, and folk singers. Its simple design symbolizes spiritual focus on the divine. Also used in Qawwali and regional folk traditions.
Answer: True
Sambalpuri Ikat from Odisha uses bandha (resist-dye) technique where threads are tie-dyed before weaving. Known for intricate motifs like shankha (conch), chakra (wheel), and phula (flower). Received GI tag in 1993.
Answer: K.G. Subramanyan
K.G. Subramanyan (1924-2016) pioneered the Baroda School, blending folk art, mythology, and modernist techniques. His works address social issues, gender, and cultural identity, influencing generations of Indian artists.
Answer: Bansuri
Bansuri is a side-blown bamboo flute used in Hindustani music. Popularized globally by Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, it produces soulful melodies and is associated with Lord Krishna in Indian mythology.
Answer: True
Dree Festival is the Apatani tribe's harvest festival in Arunachal Pradesh, celebrated in July. Rituals include sacrifices for good harvest, traditional dances, feasts, and distribution of cucumbers symbolizing prosperity.