1.
The National Stadium in Delhi was earlier known by the name
Correct Answer
A. Irwin Stadium
Explanation
The correct answer is Irwin Stadium. This stadium in Delhi was originally known as Irwin Stadium before it was renamed as the National Stadium.
2.
The fine step-well complex of 'Agrasen ki Baoli' is located at
Correct Answer
D. New Delhi
Explanation
Constructed by Raja Agrasen, the stepwell is about 60m long and 15m wide.
3.
The term 'Nastaliq' refers to
Correct Answer
B. Persian script used in Medieval times
Explanation
The term 'Nastaliq' refers to the Persian script used in Medieval times. Nastaliq is a calligraphic style of writing that originated in Persia and was widely used in the Middle East and South Asia during the medieval period. It is known for its elegant and flowing lines, making it particularly suitable for writing poetry and literary texts. Nastaliq script is still used today in regions such as Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan for writing Persian, Urdu, and other languages.
4.
The Tallest Buddha statues at Bamiyan in Afghanistan that were destroyed by the Taleban zeolots were carved in
Correct Answer
A. Hindukush Mountain ranges
Explanation
The correct answer is Hindukush Mountain ranges. The tallest Buddha statues at Bamiyan in Afghanistan were carved in the Hindukush Mountain ranges. These statues were destroyed by the Taliban zealots, causing a significant loss of cultural heritage. The Hindukush Mountain ranges are located in Central Asia and stretch across parts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. They are known for their rugged and majestic beauty, and have been a significant historical and cultural landmark in the region.
5.
Zero was invented by
Correct Answer
A. An unknown Indian
Explanation
The correct answer is "An unknown Indian" because the question is asking who invented zero, and historically, the concept of zero was first developed in ancient India. However, the specific individual who first invented zero is unknown, hence the answer "An unknown Indian."
6.
The mausoleum of Babar is located in
Correct Answer
D. Afghanistan
Explanation
The mausoleum of Babar is located in Afghanistan. Babar, also known as Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur, was the founder of the Mughal Empire in the early 16th century. After his death in 1530, he was buried in a garden in Kabul, Afghanistan, which later became his mausoleum. The mausoleum is an important historical and cultural site, attracting visitors from around the world.
7.
Who among the following is said to have witnessed the reigns of eight Delhi Sultans?
Correct Answer
C. Amir Khusro
Explanation
Amir Khusro is said to have witnessed the reigns of eight Delhi Sultans. This is because he was a renowned poet, musician, and scholar who lived during the 13th and 14th centuries in Delhi. He served under several rulers of the Delhi Sultanate, including Balban, Jalaluddin Khalji, Alauddin Khalji, and Muhammad bin Tughlaq, among others. Khusro's works provide valuable insights into the political and cultural landscape of the time, making him a reliable source for understanding the reigns of these Delhi Sultans.
8.
Which of the following is NOT a state of India?
Correct Answer
A. Vrindachal
Explanation
Vrindachal is not a state of India. The other options, Uttaranchal, Jharkhand, and Chattisgarh, are all states of India.
9.
Christianity was first introduced in India at
Correct Answer
A. Malabar Coast
Explanation
Christianity was first introduced in India at the Malabar Coast. The Malabar Coast, located in the southwestern region of India, has a long history of trade and cultural exchange with various foreign civilizations. It is believed that Christianity arrived in India through the efforts of the Apostle Thomas, who is said to have landed on the Malabar Coast in the 1st century AD. The region, with its thriving ports and cosmopolitan atmosphere, provided an ideal gateway for the spread of Christianity in India. Today, the Malabar Coast is home to a significant Christian population and has several ancient churches that bear witness to the early Christian presence in the region.
10.
Who was the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Olympics?
Correct Answer
D. Karnam Maleshwari
Explanation
Karnam Maleshwari was the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Olympics. She won a bronze medal in weightlifting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics in the 69 kg category. Maleshwari's achievement was historic as it marked a significant milestone for Indian women in sports and brought recognition to weightlifting as a sport in the country. Her success paved the way for future Indian women athletes to strive for excellence at the Olympic level.
11.
Which Mughal Emperor was deported to Rangoon by the British?
Correct Answer
B. Bahadur Shah II
Explanation
Bahadur Shah II is more familiarly known as Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last known Mughal Ruler of India.
12.
The Book 'Big Egos, Small Men' is written by
Correct Answer
B. Ram Jethmalani
Explanation
Ram Jethmalani is the correct answer because he is the author of the book 'Big Egos, Small Men'. Mani Shankar Iyer, Kapil Sibal, and Soli Sorabjee are not associated with this book.
13.
How many 'World Cultural Heritage Sites' are there in India?
Correct Answer
C. 17
Explanation
India has a total of 17 World Cultural Heritage Sites. These sites have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding universal value and significance to humanity. They include iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Hampi. These sites represent the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India, showcasing its architectural, historical, and artistic achievements.
14.
Rabindra Nath Tagore composed the National Anthem of
Correct Answer
C. India and Bangladesh
Explanation
Rabindra Nath Tagore composed the National Anthem of India and Bangladesh. This is because Tagore wrote the poem "Jana Gana Mana" in Bengali, which was later adopted as the National Anthem of India in 1950. The same poem was also chosen as the National Anthem of Bangladesh when it gained independence from Pakistan in 1971. Therefore, Tagore's composition is recognized as the National Anthem of both India and Bangladesh.
15.
Which one of the following pairs represent the ancient 'tala' instruments?
Correct Answer
D. Muzhavu-Thudi
16.
Who is the founder of the political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)?
Correct Answer
A. C.N.Annadurai
Explanation
C.N. Annadurai is the founder of the political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
17.
Which of the following musical instruments is NOT of foreign origin?
Correct Answer
B. Flute
Explanation
The flute is not of foreign origin because it is one of the oldest musical instruments found in various cultures around the world. It has been played in different forms and variations in many ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, China, and Native American tribes. Therefore, unlike the tabla, sitar, and violin, the flute does not have a specific foreign origin.
18.
Who among the following was killed during 'Operation Bluestar' of 1984?
Correct Answer
C. Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale
Explanation
Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale was killed during 'Operation Bluestar' of 1984. Operation Bluestar was a military operation ordered by the Indian government to remove Sikh militants who were hiding inside the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale was the leader of the Sikh separatist group Damdami Taksal and was considered the main instigator of the violence in Punjab at that time. The operation resulted in a significant loss of life and damage to the Golden Temple, leading to widespread protests and further violence in the Sikh community.
19.
In which year was the Air India launched?
Correct Answer
D. 1932
Explanation
It was launched on October 15, 1932 as TATA Airlines. It became India International in 1948.
20.
"DHANUSHKODI" is the meeting point of
Correct Answer
A. The Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal
Explanation
Dhanushkodi is the meeting point of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.
21.
Which was the largest and richest among the princely states of pre-Independent India?
Correct Answer
E. Hyderabad
Explanation
Hyderabad was the largest and richest among the princely states of pre-Independent India. It was known for its prosperous economy, with a thriving trade and industry. The Nizam of Hyderabad, who ruled over the state, was one of the wealthiest individuals in the world at that time. Hyderabad also had a rich cultural heritage and was home to many historical monuments and landmarks.
22.
The largest Buddhist Monastery in India is located at
Correct Answer
B. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation
The largest Buddhist Monastery in India is located in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang Monastery, also known as Galden Namgyal Lhatse, is a significant religious site for Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in the 17th century by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, and it is one of the largest monasteries in the world. Tawang Monastery is renowned for its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures. It serves as an important pilgrimage site and attracts numerous devotees and tourists from around the world.
23.
Which one of the following places is famous for the Great Vishnu Temple?
Correct Answer
D. Ankorvat, Cambodia
Explanation
Ankorvat, Cambodia is famous for the Great Vishnu Temple. The temple is located in the Angkor Wat complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is a major deity in Hinduism. It is known for its intricate carvings, architectural grandeur, and historical significance, making it a popular tourist attraction and an important religious site.