Art Culture – GK Questions

Q: The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, famous for its erotic sculptures, was built by the _____ dynasty.

Chandela – The Khajuraho temples were built by the Chandela dynasty between 950-1050 CE in Madhya Pradesh. They represent a fusion of Hindu and Jain architecture and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q: The Sangam literature was composed in Sanskrit during the early centuries of the Common Era.

False – Sangam literature was composed in Tamil, not Sanskrit, between 300 BCE and 300 CE. It is the earliest known literature of South India and provides valuable insights into ancient Tamil society.

Q: Madhubani painting, also known as Mithila painting, originates from which Indian state?

Bihar – Madhubani painting originates from the Mithila region of Bihar. Traditionally done by women on walls and floors during festivals, it uses natural dyes and features geometric patterns and mythological themes.

Q: The _____ gharana is known for its khayal singing style and is associated with musicians like Ustad Abdul Karim Khan.

Kirana – The Kirana gharana, one of the most influential Hindustani classical music gharanas, emphasizes precise intonation and emotional expression in khayal. Ustad Abdul Karim Khan was its prominent exponent.

Q: The Taj Mahal was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

True – The Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 under cultural criteria for its outstanding universal value.

Q: Which classical dance form of India originated in Tamil Nadu and is traditionally performed by women in the temples?

Bharatanatyam – Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu and was traditionally performed by Devadasis in Hindu temples. It is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi.