Art & Culture Current Affairs MCQs

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Somnath Swabhiman Parv is observed at Somnath, Gujarat from 8–11 January. The event marks 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple. It aims to convey the message of continuity, resilience and revival of Sanatan culture to future generations. The Somnath Mahadev Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, represents India’s spiritual and cultural legacy. Despite repeated attacks, the temple was rebuilt every time, symbolising endurance and civilisational strength. The observance highlights the unbroken spirit and renewal of Sanatan tradition.

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The Bhadrakali inscription is a major 12th-century record confirming the history, development, and royal patronage of the Somnath Temple. It is located at Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, on the wall of the Bhadrakali Temple. It was carved in 1169 Common Era (CE), corresponding to Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255, and is protected by the State Department of Archaeology. It records Somnath Temple’s construction across four yugas: gold in Satya Yuga by Chandra (Soma), silver in Treta Yuga by Ravana, wood in Dvapara Yuga by Shri Krishna, and stone in Kali Yuga by King Bhimdev Solanki.

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Makaravilakku, also called Makara Jyothi or Makara Vilakku, is the most sacred festival of Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. It is celebrated on Makara Sankranti, usually on 14–15 January, marking Lord Ayyappa’s divine presence. Devotees believe a holy light appears on Ponnambalamedu hills, symbolising Lord Ayyappa’s blessings. Lord Ayyappa is believed to have settled in Sabarimala after defeating demoness Mahishi. Makaravilakku represents victory of light over darkness and spiritual self-realisation.

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Recently, the two-day annual Spituk Gustor festival began at Spituk Monastery in Ladakh. It is observed after a week-long period of prayers and rituals for world peace, prosperity, and victory over evil. The festival marks the end of the harshest phase of Ladakh’s extreme winter season. Spituk Gustor is the first monastic festival of Ladakh celebrated each year. The main attraction includes sacred masked dances and unveiling of holy deities for blessings. Ladakh is known as the land of Gonpas, meaning Buddhist monasteries. Spituk Gustor is one of 16 monastic festivals held across Ladakh in different seasons

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An exhibition showcasing over 40 rare pre-Partition textiles highlights how phulkari was deeply woven into women’s daily lives and social traditions. Phulkari, meaning “flower work,” is a traditional embroidery of undivided Punjab, covering present-day Punjab, Haryana, and Pakistan. The term appeared in 18th-century Punjabi literature and is linked to the Iranian art of gulkari.

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The Supreme Court refused to hear a petition against ‘VIP darshan’ at Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, saying courts should not act as gatekeepers for temple entry. Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple is a Hindu temple located on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred Shiva shrines) in India. The temple is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures, Puranas, and works of poet Kalidas.

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The 10th Mising Youth Festival 2026 was held from 26–30 January at Kareng Chapori, Dhemaji, Assam. It celebrates the heritage of the Mising tribe through traditional music, dance, and art. The festival was organized by Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK) to showcase the culture of the Brahmaputra Valley’s riparian community. The event emphasizes that protection of tribal rights, culture, language, literature, and music is achieved through cultural unity, not conflict. The Donyi-Polo tradition of the Mising community teaches that worshipping nature is equivalent to worshipping God.

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Sekrenyi is a ten-day post-harvest festival celebrated in Nagaland. It is the major annual festival of the Angami Naga tribe and is primarily observed during the month of February. The festival focuses on cleansing, renewal and spiritual sanctification of individuals and community. Rituals begin with people bathing at village wells as a symbol of purity. Angami tribe is a major Naga tribe of Nagaland mainly living in Kohima region and known for rich cultural traditions.

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Delhi Development Authority organised annual Palaash Flower Festival 2026 in New Delhi. The three day festival is being held simultaneously at Bansera Park, Ashok Vihar, Jasola and Narela for the first time. It features vibrant floral displays and themed gardens focused on biodiversity and environmental conservation. Organised since 2023, Palash Mahotsav promotes Delhi green heritage and community involvement. The festival strengthens public connection with nature and environmental awareness.

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The lost city of Charax Spasinou has been discovered in the deserts of Iraq. It was an ancient port city located at the meeting point of the Tigris and Choaspes rivers near the Iraq–Iran border. It was founded in 324 Before Common Era during the Hellenistic period, initially by Alexander the Great. Later, Hyspaosines rebuilt it and founded the Kingdom of Characene with Charax as its capital. Its strategic location made it a major trade hub between Mesopotamia and India through the Persian Gulf. Its importance declined around 224–228 After Death with the rise of the Sassanian Empire.