1.
Which place is associated with the famous Athachamayam?
Correct Answer
B. Thripunithara
Explanation
Thripunithara is the correct answer because Athachamayam is a famous festival celebrated in Thripunithara, Kerala, India. The festival is held annually to mark the beginning of the ten-day Onam festival. It is a grand procession featuring various traditional art forms, music, and dance performances. The festival attracts a large number of locals and tourists who come to witness the vibrant cultural celebrations in Thripunithara.
2.
Why do people celebrate the traditions of onakodi, onasadhya, onakali, etc.?
Correct Answer
C. To remember the golden era of Mahabali.
Explanation
People celebrate the traditions of onakodi, onasadhya, onakali, etc. to remember the golden era of Mahabali. Mahabali was a mythical king who was believed to have ruled Kerala during a time of prosperity and harmony. Onam, the festival during which these traditions are celebrated, is a commemoration of Mahabali's rule and the ideals he represented. It is a way for people to honor their cultural heritage and remember the values of benevolence, equality, and abundance that Mahabali stood for.
3.
Where did Vamana send Mahabali by putting his leg on Mahabali's head?
Correct Answer
D. Pathalam
Explanation
Vamana sent Mahabali to Pathalam by putting his leg on Mahabali's head. Pathalam is considered to be the underworld or the netherworld in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be a place where demons and evil beings reside. Vamana's act of sending Mahabali to Pathalam symbolizes his victory over the demon king and his banishment to a realm associated with darkness and negativity. This event is an important part of the story of Mahabali and Vamana in Hindu mythology.
4.
Which is the famous dance form performed during Onam celebrations?
Correct Answer
C. Thiruvathirakali
Explanation
Thiruvathirakali is a famous dance form performed during Onam celebrations. It is a traditional dance form of Kerala, India. The dance is performed by a group of women in a circular formation, moving rhythmically to the music and clapping their hands. Thiruvathirakali is characterized by graceful movements, synchronized steps, and elegant costumes. It is a popular dance form that showcases the cultural heritage of Kerala and is often performed during festivals like Onam.
5.
In which Malayalam month is Onam celebrated?
Correct Answer
D. Chingam
Explanation
Onam is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Chingam. Chingam is the first month of the Malayalam calendar and usually falls in August or September. Onam is a harvest festival and is considered the most important festival in Kerala, India. It is a ten-day celebration that includes various cultural activities, feasts, and traditional games. The festival is marked by the grand procession called Athachamayam, boat races, floral decorations, and the famous Onam Sadhya (a traditional feast served on a banana leaf).
6.
Famous boat race conducted during Onam
Correct Answer
B. Aranmula Uthratadi Vallamkali
Explanation
Aranmula Uthratadi Vallamkali is the famous boat race conducted during Onam. This traditional snake boat race takes place in the Pampa River in Aranmula, Kerala. It is a significant event that attracts a large number of spectators and participants every year. The race involves long snake boats rowed by a team of rowers, accompanied by traditional music and cheerleaders. It is considered a religious and cultural festival, with a strong historical and mythological significance.
7.
Name the Fifth day of Onam starting from Atham is celebrated.
Correct Answer
B. Anizham
Explanation
Anizham is the correct answer for the fifth day of Onam starting from Atham. Onam is a traditional festival celebrated in Kerala, India, and it lasts for ten days. Each day of Onam has its own significance and rituals. Anizham, also known as Anuradha, is the Nakshatra (star) associated with the fifth day of Onam. It is believed that on this day, the deity Mahabali visits the homes of his subjects and blesses them with prosperity and happiness. Therefore, Anizham is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy during the festival of Onam.
8.
Which god is associated with the festival of Onam?
Correct Answer
D. Vishnu
Explanation
Vishnu is associated with the festival of Onam. Onam is a major Hindu festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It is believed to be the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, who is considered to be a devotee of Lord Vishnu. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes various cultural activities, feasts, and traditional rituals. The association of Vishnu with Onam is rooted in the mythology and legends surrounding King Mahabali and his devotion to Lord Vishnu.
9.
The traditional floral arrangement made during Onam is known as:
Correct Answer
C. Pookkalam
Explanation
Pookkalam is the traditional floral arrangement created during Onam, consisting of intricate and colorful patterns made from fresh flowers. It is laid out at the entrance of homes to welcome King Mahabali, symbolizing prosperity and celebration. The practice of making Pookkalam is an important cultural activity during Onam, showcasing creativity and community participation. The flowers used in Pookkalam are carefully selected and arranged in layers to create vibrant designs.
10.
What is the meaning of the word Mahabali?
Correct Answer
B. Great Sacrifice
Explanation
The word "Mahabali" translates to "Great Sacrifice" in English. This suggests that the word is associated with the act of giving up something valuable or important for a greater cause or purpose. The other options, such as "Great Power," "Great Donor," and "Great Love," do not accurately capture the essence of the word as they do not convey the concept of sacrifice.
11.
Which fruit is the common item in Onsadhya?
Correct Answer
A. Banana
Explanation
Onsadhya is a traditional feast in Kerala, India, typically served during festivals and special occasions. It consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. Banana is the correct answer because it is commonly used as a serving plate for Onsadhya. The leaf is cleaned and used as a disposable and eco-friendly plate, adding a distinct flavor to the food. Other fruits like jackfruit, mango, and orange are not typically included in the traditional Onsadhya meal.
12.
Which district is popular for Pulikkali as a part of the Onam celebrations?
Correct Answer
D. Thrissur
Explanation
Thrissur is popular for Pulikkali as a part of the Onam celebrations. Pulikkali, also known as the Tiger Dance, is a traditional folk art form in which performers paint themselves as tigers and dance on the streets. It is a major attraction during the Onam festival in Thrissur, drawing large crowds of spectators. Thrissur is known for its vibrant cultural heritage and is often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala.
13.
What Color of the flower is used to put pookalm on the first day?
Correct Answer
B. White
Explanation
On the first day of putting pookalam, white flowers are used.
14.
Name one of the most important flowers in pookalm.
Correct Answer
D. Thumba
Explanation
Thumba is one of the most important flowers in pookalm. Pookalm is a traditional floral arrangement made during festivals and celebrations in Kerala, India. Thumba, also known as the Indian balsam flower, is commonly used in pookalm due to its vibrant colors and pleasant fragrance. It is considered auspicious and symbolizes purity and beauty. The presence of Thumba in pookalm adds aesthetic appeal and cultural significance to the arrangement.
15.
Which of the following is NOT associated with the Onam festival?
Correct Answer
C. Vishu (New Year festival)
Explanation
Onam is a major harvest festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for traditions like Pookalam (intricate flower decorations), Vallamkali (snake boat races), and Onasadya (a grand feast). While Vishu is another important festival in Kerala, it celebrates the Malayalam New Year and is not part of the Onam festivities. Hence, the correct answer is C) Vishu.