Art & Culture Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
Ningol Chakkouba, a key festival in Manipur, was celebrated with enthusiasm. Traditionally held on the second lunar day of Hiyangei month, its origins trace back to King Nongda Lairen Pakhangba’s rule. “Ningol” means “married woman,” and “Chakouba” means “feast invitation,” where married daughters are invited by their parents for a family feast. The festival strengthens bonds among brothers, sisters, and parents. Initially celebrated by the Meitei community, it is now observed by many other communities as well.

Notes:
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was the chief guest at the 66th Akhil Bharatiya Kalidas Ceremony in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The Akhil Bhartiya Kalidas Samaroh is a seven-day annual festival in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It celebrates Sanskrit literary giants like Kalidas, Vatsyayana, and Bhartrihari. The festival also honors renowned Hindi writers, including Shivmangal Singh Suman, Prabhakar Machve, Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, and Pandit Surya Narayan. This event serves as a tribute to India’s rich literary heritage and brings together scholars and enthusiasts of classical literature.

Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 1st Bodoland Mahotsav in New Delhi, a two-day event celebrating Bodo culture, language, and heritage. The Mahotsav promotes peace and unity under the theme “Peace and Harmony for Prosperous Bharat.” It aims to strengthen ties among Bodo communities across Assam, West Bengal, Nepal, and border areas of the Northeast. The event highlights Bodoland’s cultural, linguistic, and ecological diversity and tourism potential.

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Bali Jatra is the largest open-air trade fair in Asia, held annually on the banks of the Mahanadi River in Cuttack. It commemorates the maritime heritage of Odisha, where ancient traders ventured to Southeast Asia. This year, it features around 2,500 stalls and cultural performances from various countries. The fair, which begins on Kartika Purnima, has been recognized as a state festival, highlighting Odisha’s rich history and culture.

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The Me·Gong Festival 2024 is celebrated in Meghalaya. It celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya, particularly the Garo tribe. Under the theme ‘Echoes of Traditions’, the festival features international and national artists, traditional games, and exhibitions of handloom and handicrafts. More than 3 lakh visitors attended the event. It aims to spotlight local talent and promote the vibrant culture of the Garo people, preserving their traditions for future generations.

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Gujarat’s iconic handicraft ‘Gharchola’ has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, bringing the state’s GI count to 27, with 23 focused on handicrafts. The GI tag was awarded at the ‘GI and Beyond – Virasat Se Vikas Tak’ event in New Delhi. This recognition enhances Gharchola’s prestige and market presence globally.

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The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) will submit a survey report to the Supreme Court on religious structures in Delhi’s Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Mehrauli Archaeological Park spans over 200 acres near the Qutb Complex and reflects India’s heritage from Pre-Islamic to Colonial periods. It contains 440+ monuments, including remains of Delhi’s first city, the Tomar rulers’ capital from the 11th century.

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The Gadhimai Mahotsav, held every five years at the Gadhimai Temple in Bariyarpur, Nepal, is known for the world’s largest animal sacrifice. More than two crore people attended the festival this year, despite decades of criticism from animal activists. The festival features the largest animal sacrifice, with devotees sacrificing buffaloes, goats, cocks, and ducks during Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami. Devotees also release doves in the temple when their wishes are believed to be fulfilled. The festival takes place at the Gadhimai Temple in Bara district, near the Indo-Nepal border.

Notes:
The Bhasma Shankar temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh was reopened after being locked since 1978 due to communal riots. Its historical significance dates back to the 18th century, serving as a religious center for the Rastogi community until the riots of 1978 forced many families to flee. The temple’s revival has reignited local cultural and religious sentiments, with ongoing excavations revealing ancient idols and further historical artifacts.

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The Surajkund International Craft Fair will take place from February 7–23, 2025, in Faridabad. Around ₹1.50 crore is allocated for repair work to prepare for the event. The fair serves as both an art exhibition and a business hub, connecting craftsmen with art enthusiasts. It highlights India’s rich handicrafts, handlooms, and cultural heritage. The 2025 fair will expand with weather-proof huts to accommodate growing participation, though the number is yet to be finalized. In 2024, 1,150 huts hosted 1,500 indigenous and 250 foreign artisans. BIMSTEC countries are partner nations, with Northeastern states receiving special focus.