Art & Culture Current Affairs MCQs

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Rupa Tarakasi, the famous silver filigree craft of Cuttack, is facing challenges due to rising silver prices and new import restrictions on silver. Rupa Tarakasi is a centuries-old art form known for delicate silver wire craftsmanship and intricate designs. In Odia, “tara” means wire and “kasi” means to design or work with wire. The craft is believed to have existed since the 12th century and received strong patronage during the Mughal period. The craft received a Geographical Indication Tag in 2024, recognising its cultural and traditional importance.

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A recent fire damaged part of the Daishoin Temple complex, including the Reikado Hall that housed Japan’s “eternal flame” for nearly 1,200 years. Daishoin Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon School located on Miyajima Island in Japan’s Chugoku region. The temple lies at the base of Mount Misen, the tallest mountain on the island.
It was founded in 806 by Kobo Daishi after returning from China. The temple complex is known for its numerous halls, statues, and religious structures.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a Rogan painting featuring the “Tree of Life” motif to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Rogan Painting is a rare and traditional textile art form from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Rogan art is created using a special paint made from castor oil and natural pigments. The “Tree of Life” motif symbolises growth, harmony, and interconnectedness in traditional art.

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Recently, concerns were raised over deforestation of more than 60 hectares of land near Karnala Fort in Maharashtra without prior approval from the Union Government. Karnala Fort, also known as Funnel Hill, is a historic hill fort located in Raigad District, Maharashtra. The fort is situated within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary in the Sahyadri region. Karnala Fort overlooks the historic Bor Pass, an important trade route that connected the Konkan coast with the interior regions of Maharashtra.

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The 2nd edition of the Mango Magic Festival was held in Seattle, United States, to promote Indian mangoes in the US market. More than 100 importers and representatives of major retailers, including Costco Wholesale, participated in the tasting event. Seven premium Indian mango varieties were showcased, including Alphonso, Kesar, Banganpalli, Himayat, Langra, Dussehri, and Rajapuri. The initiative was organized by the Consulate General of India in Seattle. India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, producing over 26 million metric tons annually with more than 1,000 varieties.

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The Ambubachi Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in eastern India. It is held annually during the monsoon season, usually in June, at the Kamakhya Temple, Assam. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and is a major center of Tantrik Shaktism. The festival marks the annual menstruation period of the goddess, during which the temple remains closed for devotees. Ambubachi Mela symbolizes fertility, the arrival of the monsoon, and the regenerative power of nature.

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The Hemis Festival 2026 has begun from 24 June at the historic Hemis Monastery in Leh, Ladakh. The two-day festival attracts devotees, tourists, and Buddhist scholars from India and abroad. The celebrations include traditional rituals, prayers, and Cham mask dances performed by monks. The performances symbolise the victory of good over evil and promote peace, compassion, and harmony. The festival highlights the rich Buddhist cultural heritage of Ladakh and promotes cultural tourism in the region.

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The Prime Minister presented GI-tagged Nagori Ashwagandha as a traditional Indian gift during the G7 Summit in France. Nagori Ashwagandha is a premium variety of Ashwagandha grown in the Nagaur region of Rajasthan. Nagaur’s dry climate and sandy soil are ideal for its cultivation. It is known for its long, thick, brittle, and starchy roots, which are rich in alkaloids (medicinal compounds). Its berries are dark, bright red, indicating superior quality. It received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2026.

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Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto jointly inaugurated the India-backed conservation and restoration project at the Prambanan Temple Compounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 9th century during the Hindu Mataram Kingdom, Prambanan is Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex. The temple is dedicated to the Trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The initiative reflects India’s Act East Policy, cultural diplomacy, and commitment to preserving shared civilisational heritage.

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Jodhpur’s nearly 200-year-old Mojari craft has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting its identity and global branding. The GI certificate was awarded to the Jodhpur Handicraft Exporters Association and Gram Vikas Seva Sansthan after the application submitted in 2021.
Jodhpuri Mojari is traditionally crafted by the Jinagar (Jingar) community, who were historically saddle (jeen) makers. Around 400 manufacturers and 35,000 artisans are associated with the craft, which is practiced in over 5,000 households in Jodhpur.