States PCS: Punjab GK Questions for PPSC Examinations

Notes:
Pataudi State was founded in 1804 by Nawab Faiz Talab Khan, an Afghan Pashtun, after aiding the British during the Second Anglo-Maratha War. Located in present-day Haryana, it comprised one town and 40 villages. The state merged with India in 1948.

Notes:
Hari Singh Nalwa was the chief general of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He led multiple campaigns, expanding Sikh Empire’s boundaries to the Khyber Pass and was renowned for strengthening the frontier and defending against Afghans. His legendary forts and victories made him a famous figure in Sikh history.

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Niranjan Singh Talib (1901–1976) edited Desh Darpan, was a Congress leader, Gandhian, close associate of Subhas Chandra Bose, involved in his escape, jailed 10 years, served as Punjab PWD Minister, led Chandigarh development, elected from Chandigarh (1962), Rajya Sabha member (1974–1976).

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Operation Woodrose was launched in Punjab after Operation Blue Star; Akali Dal leaders and thousands of Sikhs were detained under special acts. The operation targeted Sikh militancy and resulted in mass arrests, especially of Shiromani Akali Dal members and leaders. This intensified alienation and militancy in Punjab during 1984.

Notes:
Kikkli is a traditional Punjabi folk dance performed by two girls twisting in circles, holding each other’s hands with interlocked arms. It is distinct from Bhangra, Giddha, and Jhumar, emphasizing coordination, rhythm, and vibrant attire, often accompanied by folk songs and rhythmic clapping.

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Rattan Singh Bhangu authored Panth Prakash in early 19th century, documenting Sikh history from 1708 onwards and describing Khalsa’s evolution. It remains a key Sikh historical source. Multiple manuscript versions exist, with Vir Singh’s 1914 edited version. The work analyzes Sikh struggles against Mughals, Afghans, and other adversaries.

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Gatka is a traditional Sikh martial art from Punjab involving stick fighting, performed in religious and cultural events. Bhangra and Giddha are popular Punjabi dances with no martial elements, while Luddi is also a folk dance but not martial in nature.

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Harpal Singh Tiwana co-founded Punjab Kala Manch in 1967, boosting Punjabi theatre and artists. A National School of Drama graduate, he was a notable playwright, director, and collaborated with his wife Neena Tiwana in various works. His legacy remains significant in Punjabi dramatics.

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Shardha Ram Phillauri (1837-1881) is considered the father of modern Punjabi prose. He wrote the first Hindi novel “Bhagyawati” and composed the hymn “Om Jai Jagdish Hare.” Phillauri documented Sikh history and Punjabi culture and was exiled for his nationalist activities.

Notes:
Guru Gobind Singh built five forts at Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, for Sikh defense against Mughals and hill Rajas. These include Anandgarh, Lohgarh, Holgarh, Fatehgarh, and Taragarh. Connected by earthworks, the original forts were later replaced by Gurdwaras in the 20th century.