1. The temples at Belur, Halebidu and Somnathpura are supreme examples of which among the following types of Temple Architecture?
[A] Nagara
[B] Dravida
[C] Gadag
[D] Vesara
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Correct Answer: D [Vesara]
Notes:
The architecture of the temples at Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathpura epitomizes the Vesara style of Temple Architecture. This style is a unique blend of two major architectural styles – Nagara, native to North India, and Dravida, native to South India. The Vesara style is thus considered a hybrid form, authentic to regions where the influence of these two styles intersect, showing a confluence of northern and southern architectural traditions. This fusion style notably exhibits intricate detailing and complex designs, reflecting the sophisticated craftsmanship of the era.
2. One of the incarnations of Vishnu is represented in art as raising the Earth from the Ocean. Identify Him from the given options:
[A] Kumara
[B] Varaha
[C] Matsya
[D] Nrisingha
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Correct Answer: B [Varaha]
Notes:
Varaha Avatar, the third incarnation among the 10 Dashavatara of Lord Vishnu, is in the form of a Boar. In his third incarnation, Lord Vishnu as Varaha saved the earth from demon Hiranyaksha, thus saving the mankind.
3. Who among the following authors is known for his satires exposing the evils of contemporary society ?
[A] Ksemendra
[B] Pravarsena
[C] Sriharsa
[D] Visakhadutta
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Correct Answer: A [Ksemendra]
Notes:
Kshemendra was a Kashmirian poet of the 11th century, writing in Sanskrit.In his most of the works like ‘Kalavilas’, ‘Narma Mala’ describes the inner weakness of man and society and the corrupt official machinery of those times.In his one of the work ‘Samaya Matrika’ ,he depicted super seductress ‘Kankali’ character By depicting it ,he wishes to reform the degradation in the society. In short Ksemendra had chosen the vehicle of satire.
4. Ramanuja taught in which of the following temples?
[A] Madurai
[B] Mamallapuram
[C] Srirangam
[D] Tirumala
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Correct Answer: C [Srirangam]
Notes:
Ramanuja was an Indian theologian, philosopher, and one of the most important exponents of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition within Hinduism. His philosophical foundations for devotionalism were influential to the Bhakti movement.
5. Lavani is one of the most popular forms of dance and music that is practiced in which state?
[A] Maharastra
[B] Bihar
[C] Gujarat
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Maharastra]
Notes:
Lavani is a dance form that originated in the state of Maharashtra in India. It is known for its vibrant and energetic dance moves, as well as the colorful costumes and traditional music that accompanies it. Lavani is typically performed by female dancers, who sing and dance to the accompaniment of a dholak, a traditional Indian drum. The dance is often associated with the state’s folk tradition, and it is often performed at festivals and other celebrations.
6. Calico Textile Museum is located at:
[A] Ahmedabad
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Kochi
[D] Chennai
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Correct Answer: A [Ahmedabad]
Notes:
The Calico Museum of Textiles is located in the city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. The museum is managed by the Sarabhai Foundation.
7. Sidi Bashir Mosque is located at:
[A] Ahmedabad
[B] Delhi
[C] Jaipur
[D] Hyderabad
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Correct Answer: A [Ahmedabad]
Notes:
The mosque is also called Jhulta Minar or Shaking Minarets.
8. Which among the following is the correct description of Nagara , Dravida and Vesara?
[A] The three main racial groups
[B] Three Linguistic Divisions
[C] Three main styles of Indian temple architecture
[D] Musical Gharanas
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Three main styles of Indian temple architecture]
Notes:
Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara are indeed the three main styles of Indian temple architecture. 1. Nagara: Predominantly found in northern India, characterized by curvilinear shikhara (tower) and intricate carvings. 2. Dravida: Common in southern India, featuring pyramid-shaped towers (vimanas) and extensive use of stone. 3. Vesara: A hybrid style combining elements of both Nagara and Dravida, seen in regions like Karnataka. These styles reflect the diverse cultural and religious influences across India, with temples serving as important architectural and spiritual landmarks.
9. Rumtek Monastery is lcoated in which state?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Jammu and Kashmir
[D] Sikkim
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Correct Answer: D [Sikkim]
Notes:
Rumtek Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Indian state of Sikkim, near the capital city of Gangtok. It is the largest monastery in Sikkim and one of the most important centers of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and art, and for its collection of sacred texts and artifacts. It is also the seat of the Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyu sect.
10. Who among the following was the disciple of Vallabhacharya?
[A] Surdas
[B] Dhanna
[C] Raidas
[D] Kabir Das
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Correct Answer: A [Surdas]
Notes:
Saint Surdas ji was a 15th-century blind saint and an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, known for his devotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna. He being a disciple of guru Vallabhacharya was a advocator of the Shuddhadvaita school of Vaishnavism (also known as Pushti Marg).