1. “Matrimandir” is located in:
[A] Pondicherry
[B] Chennai
[C] Panaji
[D] Hyderabad
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Pondicherry]
Notes:
Matrimandir is a spiritual center located in Auroville, in the Union Territory of Puducherry, which is also known as Pondicherry. It is situated in the southern part of India, about 160 kilometers south of Chennai. Auroville was founded in 1968 as an experiment in human unity and international understanding, and it is home to people from over 50 different countries. The Matrimandir is a central feature of Auroville and is considered a symbol of the town’s spiritual and philosophical ideals.
2. Tangaliya shawl , a unique weaving style has been given GI (Geographical Indications) recognition by the Central government in the later half of 2009. This is an indigenous craft of which of the following states?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Tangaliya shawl is an indigenous craft from Gujarat, specifically associated with the Dang region. It is known for its unique weaving technique that incorporates intricate patterns and vibrant colors. The shawls are traditionally made using wool and are characterized by their durability and warmth. The GI recognition in 2009 helps protect the traditional craftsmanship and promotes the artisans’ work, ensuring that the cultural heritage of Gujarat is preserved.
3. Who among the following propounded the Dvaitadvaita philosophy?
[A] Sankaradeva
[B] Madhvacharya
[C] Nimbarka
[D] Ramanuja
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Correct Answer: C [Nimbarka]
Notes:
The 13th century saint of Andhra, Acharya Nimbarka is known for propagating the Vaishnava Theology of Dvaitadvaita (duality in unity) also known as Bhedabheda (Difference in Non-difference). According to him, the Brahmans, the souls and the world are identical yet distinct. Even after merger, they remain distinct. He was the founder of Sanak Sampradaya of Vaishnavism. The works attributed to him are Vedanta Parijata Saurabha (a short story on Brahma Sutras) , Dashashloki, Shri Krishnastava raja and Madhvamukavardhana.
4. Which of the following is not among the six branches of Indian painting (shadanga)?
[A] Lavanya
[B] Sadrsya
[C] Varnikabhanga
[D] Khams
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Khams]
Notes:
Shadanga or six limbs of Indian Painting are as follows:
Rupabheda: The knowledge of appearances.
Pramanam: Correct perception, measure and structure/proportion.
Bhava: Action of feelings on forms.
Lavanya Yojanam: Infusion of grace, artistic representation.
Sadradhyam: likeness or verisimilitude.
Varnikabhanga: Artistic manner of using the brush and colors.
5. Kovai Kora cotton saris, which received the GI status in 2014, are manufactured in which state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Karnataka
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
Kovai Kora cotton is a blend of silk and cotton and Kora another product that is found more in the Sirumugai area of Tamil Nadu. This art is mostly practised by people belonging to the Devanga community, who are involved mostly in weaving Kovai Kora cotton saris and they are the pioneers also in making the product. It received GI status in 2014.
6. Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula and Khakhara Deula are three distinct types of temples associated to _?
[A] Pallava architecture
[B] Kalinga architecture
[C] Chola architecture
[D] Chalukyan architecture
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Kalinga architecture]
Notes:
Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula and Khakhara Deula are three distinct types of temples associated to Kalinga architecture.
7. The Putul Nautch puppetry art belongs to which state of India?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Punjab
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Correct Answer: A [West Bengal ]
Notes:
The traditional rod puppet form of West Bengal is known as Putul Nautch. They are carved from wood and follow the various artistic styles of a particular region
8. Which among the following ancient Indian scriptures are characterized by five characteristics or Pancha-Lakshana viz., history, cosmology (with various symbolical illustrations of philosophical principles), secondary creation, genealogy of kings and of Manvantaras?
[A] Itihasas
[B] Agamas
[C] Puranas
[D] Subhasitas
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Puranas
]
Notes:
The Puranas are of the same class as the Itihasas. They have five characteristics (Pancha-Lakshana) viz., history, cosmology (with various symbolical illustrations of philosophical principles), secondary creation, genealogy of kings and of Manvantaras. All the Puranas belong to the class of Suhrit-Samhitas.
9. Who was the pioneer of the ‘Indian Society of Oriental Art’?
[A] B.C. Sanyal
[B] Abanindranath Tagore
[C] Nandlal Bose
[D] Jamini Roy
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Abanindranath Tagore]
Notes:
Abanindranath Tagore was a renowned Indian artist and the creator of the ‘Indian Society of Oriental Art’. Abanindranath Tagore was a nephew of Rabindranath Tagore. He was an Indian painter. He was first Indian artist to gain international recognition and was the principal artist.
10. Black Pagoda is in which of the following places?
[A] Egypt
[B] Konark
[C] Madurai
[D] None of these
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Konark]
Notes:
The temple was used as a navigational point by European sailors. They referred to it as the ‘Black Pagoda’ due to its dark color and its magnetic power that drew ships into the shore and caused shipwrecks. Black Pagoda is a massive conception of artistic magnificence and engineering dexterity.