Art & Culture Current Affairs MCQs

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The Bhojshala complex, located in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, is a historically contested site between Hindus and Muslims. Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, it holds significance as a temple for Hindus and a mosque for Muslims. An arrangement by ASI allows Hindus to conduct pujas on Tuesdays and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays. Recently, the Supreme Court rejected a stay on ongoing scientific surveys, emphasizing no physical alterations to the structure

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Archaeologists from Kerala University recently uncovered a 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement at Padta Bet near Juna Khatiya, Gujarat. The site is adjacent to an Early Harappan necropolis. Archaeobotanical samples were collected for plant identification and understanding agricultural practices. Previously, a mass burial site with 500 graves was discovered nearby. The recent excavation revealed skeletons, pottery, animal bones, semi-precious stones, terracotta spindle whorls, copper, and various tools.

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The Sannati Buddhist site, discovered in the 1990s by ASI excavations, underwent neglect until a restoration project in 2022. Situated by the Bhima River near Kanaganahalli in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, it’s renowned for the Chandrala Parameshwari Temple. Notable findings include the Maha Stupa constructed over three phases from 3rd Century B.C. to 3rd Century A.D. and the Ranamandala area showcasing a chronological scale from prehistoric to early historic eras. An inscription in Prakrit using Brahmi script was also unearthed.

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The Department of Archaeology and Museums discovered a coin hoard at Phanigiri site in Suryapet district, Telangana, from the Ikshvaku period. Phanigiri, meaning “hillock of snake hood,” is a Buddhist site approximately 110 km from Hyderabad. Excavations revealed a Mahastupa, Chaitya Grihas, viharas, and a life-size Stucco of Bodhisattva. Brahmi label inscriptions from Satavahana and Ikshvaku times (~2nd – 3rd Century A.D.) were also found, along with a thorana’s panel indicating co-existence of Mahayana and Hinayana sects.

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The Longte Festival, celebrated by the Nyishi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. It’s unique among tribal festivals as it prohibits animal sacrifice. Instead, the Altar is adorned with feathers and bamboo flowers. Longte Yullo, one of the oldest Nyishi festivals, is celebrated across various Nyishi clans. The Nyishi tribe, the largest ethnic group in Arunachal Pradesh, boasts rich traditions and identifies as descendants of Abutani in the Tani group.

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Kuchipudi, an Indian classical dance originating from Andhra Pradesh, faces a survival crisis due to dwindling patronage. Historically, it evolved from itinerant actors into a refined form under Siddhendra Yogi in the 15th century. It’s known for intricate footwork, graceful movements, and storytelling. Performers must master Sanskrit, Telugu, music, and manuscripts. Kuchipudi is deeply rooted in Vaishnavism, often depicting stories of Krishna, and features unique elements like Tarangam, performed on a brass plate to Carnatic beats.

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The Bhandasar Jain Temple, a ghee-made marvel in Bikaner, Rajasthan, was built by Jain merchant Bhandasa Oswal. Dedicated to the 5th Tirthankara, Sumatinatha, it’s under Archaeological Survey of India protection. During a drought, 40,000 kilograms of ghee substituted water in its construction. Its red sandstone structure, adorned with intricate yellow-stone carvings, stands three stories tall. The sanctum is crowned with a shikhara, while ornate paintings and frescoes depict Tirthankaras’ lives.

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Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival celebrated globally, embodies Kerala’s rich culture and diversity. Rooted in tradition, it unites people of all backgrounds with music, processions, fairs, and fireworks. Lasting seven days, the highlight is the sixth day in the Malayalam month of Medam, coinciding with the Pooram star. Established in 1796 by Shakthan Thampuran, it ensures the continuity of temple festivals. This year, Thrissur Pooram falls on April 20, showcasing Kerala’s vibrant heritage.

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Thousands of devotees flock to the Masi streets for the grand Chithirai Car Festival at Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. Celebrated during the Tamil months of Chithirai or Panguni, the festival honors the divine union of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. It symbolizes unity between Saivaites and Vaishnavites, glorifying both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The festival spans various rituals, beginning with temple flag hoisting and culminating in celebrations at Alagar Hills, rooted in tradition dating back 700 years.

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The Sri Madhava Perumal Temple reveals a historic trade route from over 1,000 years ago. Submerged in the Bhavanisagar dam, lowered water levels now unveil the temple in Erode district, Tamil Nadu. Hoysala King Veera Ballala III appointed Madhava Perumal Dhandanayaka to govern, who constructed the Dhandanayaka Fort 680 years ago. His son, Veera Siddha Keththaya Dhandanayaka, built the temple within. Later ruled by Vijayanagara Empire, Ummattur chiefs, and Tipu Sultan, the fort witnessed the Battle of Sathyamangalam in 1790.