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QUESTION BANK: 515 questions Q1: He received Padmashri in the year 2008. Born in Mahe, he is a first generation immigrant to the US. He started out by directing and starring in his own venture 'Praying with Anger.' Has a wife called Bhavna and recently quipped 'My belief in ghosts is not 100%, but I...

QUESTION BANK: 515 questions Q1: He received Padmashri in the year 2008. Born in Mahe, he is a first generation immigrant to the US. He started out by directing and starring in his own venture 'Praying with Anger.' Has a wife called Bhavna and recently quipped 'My belief in ghosts is not 100%, but I am open to the idea." He was also involved with the project Stuart Little. Who? Ans: Manoj Night Shymalan Q2: India's first international biosphere reserve is called what? Ans: Nilgiri biosphere reserve Q3: One of the largest makers of cycles in the world Hero Cycles began their journey from which town? Ans: Ludhiana Q4: The Park was created to protect its Keystone species, the Nilgiri Tahr. As a part of Western Ghats it is a part of the UNESCO world heritage site. Name the park Ans: Mukurthi National Park Q5: In 1713, he was given a death sentence by emperor Farukhsiyar for criticising him in Sikka (verses made for commemorating the minting of a new coin). His real name Mir Muhammad Jafar. He had a brilliant command over Persian, Hindi and Rekhta. Name the poet Ans: Zatalli Q6: Name the accomplished eldest daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan under whose instruction Chandni Chowk was constructed? Ans: Jahanara Begum Q7: Emomali Rakhmonov-the president of Tajikistan's visit to this tomb opposite Purana Quila is commemorated in a tablet. The tombs here were sanctioned by Khwaja Sheikh Nooruddin and in one of them rest one of the greatest masters of "Sabk-e-Hindi" school of poetry Mirza Abdul Qadir. How do we know him better? Ans: Bedil Q8: Which Indian's debut novel made it to the final shortlist for the Man Booker prize 2012? Ans: Jeet Thayil, Narcopolis Q9: The British companies invested nearly 100 million pounds in this business by 1875. A number of networks sprung up as a result of Guaranteed System by 1868 including East India, Oudh, Rohilkhand, North-Western, Central Indian, Great Indian Peninsula and South India. Under the system investors got around 5 per cent of fixed interest on their investment. By 1870, the figure had reached 4,771 miles. Which business are we discussing? Ans: Railways Q10: Rajendra Narayan Singh Deo and Bishwanath Das led two coalition governments between March 8, 1967-January 9, 1971 and April 3, 1971 to June 14, 1972 respectively. Which party was common to both the coalitions? Ans: Swatantra Party Q11: Every year a big fair popularly known as Ashokastami Mela is held in the month of April. This historic Shaiva pilgrimage dates back to 7th to 9th century and is in the Kaliashahar sub-division of Tripura, Name the place Ans: Unakoti Q12: The Lushai hills would be a part of which mountain range in Mizomram? Ans: Patkai Q13: Williamnagar, the headquarter-complex of which district of Meghalaya, was christened after Captain Williamson Sangma, the founding Chief Minister of the State of Meghalaya? Ans: East Garo Hills Q14: The Ficus elastica produces a series of secondary roots from higher up its trunk and can comfortably perch atop huge boulders along the riverbanks, or even in the middle of the rivers. One special bridge, believed to be the only one of its kind in the world, is actually two bridges stacked one over the other and has come to be known as the "Umshiang Double- Decker Bridge." Which area are we talking about? Ans: Cherrapunjee Q15: This picturesque town circled by the majestic Myntdu River and serves as the headquarters of the district. Caves in Lumshnong and Syndai in this district is one of the largest cave networks in Asia. Name the headquarter town Ans: Jowai Q16: Near to this town is the Eaglesnest Wildlife Sanctuary. Part of the West Kameng district, the Tawang gompa is a part of this town inhabitated by a few tribes including the Monpas Name the town? Ans: Bomdilla Q17: He did the country proud by winning the gold in the 800-metre event at the 1966 Bangkok Asian Games. He was the first Arjuna Award winner from the region. Name the athlete? Ans: Bhogeshwar Baruah Q18: He was captain of the Indian team in the first official football game in its history. He had a nine-year career as a professional footballer with Mohun Bagan. After his retirement from football, he studied medicine and in 1978 became the director of Nagaland Health Services. Name the legend? Ans: Dr Talimaran Ao (January 28, 1918 — September 13, 1998) Q19: In 2005 he was a winner of a Whiteley Award for outstanding leadership in nature conservation. From this fund he created the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station for the study of king cobras and their habitat. Can you name this living legend? Ans: Romulus Whitaker Q20: With which legendary Bollywood personality's film Hum Naujawan did Tabu make his debut in Bollywood in 1985? Ans: Dev Anand Q21: We often buy CTC tea? What does CTC stand for? Ans: Cutting, Tearing Curling Q22: MCX and India Post has joined hands to set up Gramin Suvidha Kendras at village level post offices to facilitate a farmer to know all crop-related information. What does MCX stand for? Ans: Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited Q23: Middlename: Sarmanbhai. Her life partially inspired a Hindi film. Mother of four, her daughter-in-law Rekha was gunned down on May 20, 2006 as a part of the inter-gang rivalry. Who is this personality to be referred to the annals of Indian mafiosi? Ans: Santokben Jadeja Q24: Which Hindustani classical vocalist of Rampur Sahaswan gharana has set up trust dedicated to her mother's memory and promotion of classical music called Shakhri Begum Memorial Trust? Ans: Ustad Rashid Khan Q25: Which general won the Battle of Imphal in 1944? Ans: General Slim Q26: The party was formed by former state water resources minister T.M Jacob. Name the party Ans: Kerala Congress (Jacob) Q27: Politically this region would constitute areas spanning three states including the Jalpaiguri district, the plains of Darjeeling, upper Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Mainaguri, Malbazar and Birpara from West Bengal, districts of Kokrajhar, Dhubri, Barpeta, Goalpara and Bongaigaon in Assam and foothills of Arunachal Praesh. Siliguri is the largest city of the region. Can you name the region which is also the gateway of Bhutan to India? Ans: Dooars Q28: We have heard of G8, NATO, Asean, OPEC, and Saarc. OIC, Bric.Which five countries make a loosely held collective called O5? Ans: India, China, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa  Q29: An imposing marble statue of Lord Cornwallis (1738-1805) greets the visitors. The statue, carved by Thomas Banks, was financed by funds raised from the public, depicts the scene of surrender of two sons of Tipu Sultan as hostages. In the Reserve Collection there are a number antiquities among which mention may be made of the First Marriage Register of the St. Mary's Church recording the marriage of Robert Clive, the Bible used by Strenysham Master, who was instrumental in the construction of the Church. Name the museum Ans: Fort St George Q30: His book published as More Tramps Abroad in England and Following the Equator in the USA talks about his time spent in India. Name the legend Ans: Mark Twain Q31: Mansar Lake is at a distance of 60 km from which Indian city? Ans: Jammu Q32: Which Indian editor's memoir is called Lucknow Boy? Ans: Vinod Mehta Q33: This momastery is an important centre of the Kagyupa sect which traces its Buddhist teachings to Tilopa (988-1089). Located near Gangtok in Sikkim, name the monastery Ans: Rumtek Q34: The country currently has 829 nomadic and semi-nomadic which tribes that roughly comprise of 13.51 crore people? Ans: De-notified Tribes Q35: The idol of which Goddess has replaced the king in the famous Mysore Dasara procession (402nd edition took place in 2012)? Ans: Chamundeshwari Q36: The 72 melakarta raga system was meticulously developed by Venkatamukhi, the court musisican of which Tanjore King? Ans: King Vijaya Raghava Q37: NTCA has suggested the creation of six new reserves in addition to the 41 existing notified ones and five parks which have been given in-principle approval. Expand NTCA Ans: National Tiger Conservation Authority Q38: Which two banks along with Legal and General of United Kingdom (26 per cent) forms the threesome that owns India First Life Insurance? Ans: Bank of Baroda (44 per cent) and Andhra Bank (30 per cent )respectively Q39: In which city would you find National Research Centre for Grapes? Ans: Pune Q40: This ashram was built in 1921 by Satish Chandra Dasgupta. He came here a number of times between 1938 to 1947. In 1939, after the Tripuri Congress ashram played host to a hisotric meeting between Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru. One of the significant visits of Gandhiji was on October 29, 1946. It was from here, on November 6, 1946, he left for Noakhali. Name this ashram in North 24-Parganas district of West Bengal Ans: Khadi Pratisthan-Sodepur Q41: The Srivilliputhur area in Tamil Nadu is well-known for which species of squirrel? Ans: Grizzled Giant Q42: An ISRO-Airport Authority of India venture, this Indian top-up of the United States' Global Positioning System improves locational readings for airlines pilots flying in the domestic sector. Name the top-up Ans: GAGAN (GPS Aided Geo-Augmented Navigation) Q43: Roshanlal Vishwakarma is a founder of Bud Chipper. A NABARD Hall of Fame inductee, the chipper is meant to prune what? Ans: Sugarcane Q44: In the 50th edition of the premier division of the national championship 16-year old G. Akash emerged as the youngest winner in the five decade history. Which sport? Ans: Men's Chess Q45: Born in Faridpur which is present day Bangladesh in 1934, he went on to become a legend in Indian literature. Recently, passed away, his first novel is called Atmo Prakash (Self-Revealation). Name the author Ans: Sunil Gangopadhyay Q46: In which year did British lay down the 890 km MacMohan Line that demarcates the border between India and China? Ans: 1914 Q47: What is common to Muhammed Shafi Pandit (1968 batch), Iqbal Khandey (1978). Khurshid Ganai (1982), Asghar Samoon (1992), Shah Faisal (2009), seven more in 2010 and 11 successes in 2011? Ans: Kashmiris in the merit list of All India Civil Services Examination Q48: Which Sikh Guru founded the Tarn Taran Sahib? Ans: Guru Arjun Dev-fifth Guru (1563-1606) Q49: Tina Modotti, the Italian actress and the subject of a Pablo Neruda poem travelled to Mexico and met Indian agronomy professor Pandurang Khankoje and they together collaborated on a remarkable set of photographs on rural conditions. Marathi nationalist Khankoje, also happened to be one of the founders of which party? Ans: Ghadar Party Q50: Who founded the Rock Street Journal in Allahabad? Ans: Amit Saigal Q51: Which national park carved out of Sanjay National Park of erstwhile Madhya Pradesh is named after the founder of the Satnami sect and is located on Riva-Sidhi-Mirzapur- Varanasi highway? Ans: Guru Ghasidas National Park Q52: Two clues: 1: Sets Sail for India on December 16, 1896 on the Prince Regent Lutipold; 2: Had a close association with Ajit Singh-Raja of Khetri? Ans: Swami Vivekananda Q53: Who is the lyricist of the song Sarfaroshi ki Tamanna aaj hamare dil mein hain? Ans: Ram Prasad Bismil Q54: In which city in India would you find the historic Mehrangarh fort? Ans: Jodhpur Q55: In a corner of the courtyard lies a wooden cabinet with five relics of the Prophet known as Dargah Asar Sharif. These were inherited by the Mughals from Timur who in turn got them them from Sultan Bayazid Yaldaram from Turkey. Kept safely, are a treasure trove that includes a set of two Arabic writings in Kufic script on deerskin. which is the handwritten Quran of Hazrat Ali, son-in-law of the Prophet and excerpts of Quran Sharif translated by Imam Hasan-grandson of the Prophet. Can yoiu name the historic building we are referringto? Ans: Jama Masjid-Delhi Q56: Which patron saint of Lahore and one of the finest embodiments of inter-faith harmony was asked by Guru Arjun Dev to lay the first stone of the Golden Temple on January 15, 1588 AD? Ans: Sain Hazrat Mian Mir who mostly resided in Begumpura town in Lahore Q57: Which well-known national park also the location of Marsar Lake from which flows the Dagwan river literally means 10 villages? Ans: Dachigam Q58: To safeguard the sanctity of which Indian heritage brand came under the the enactment of Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection Act, 1999) in 2003 and this became first Indian product to receive a GI tag 2004-05 through the Indian Patent Office? Ans: Darjeeling Tea Q59: This sect was formed on a sand dune called Samrathal Dhora in Thar desert of Rajasthan by Guru Jambeshwar. Consisting of teachings that are covered by 29 principles, 120 shabads and sandhya mantra, this sect is one of the finest examples of people making bio-diversity as one of the cornerstones of their existence. Name the sect Ans: Bishnois Q60: Who was the first Indian vice-president who did not become the President of the country? Ans: Gopal Swarup Pathak (August 31-1969 to August 30-1974) Q61: Michael Madhusudan Dutta published a partial transcreation of seminal work through his play 'Hector Badh Kavya' (The killing of Hector). Name the original work from which it has been adapted from Ans : The Iliad Q62 Which Kolkata speciality was invented by Annapurna Das and that was named after the nickname that Ms Das got from her locality? Ans : Chocolate Bomb (Burima or the old mother) Q63: His most recent book is called The Freethinker's Prayer Book and Some Words tom Live By. Published by Aleph, can you name the author? Ans: Khushwant Singh Q64: With which Indian city would you associate Coaker's Walk, The Bear Shola Falls, Devil's Kitchen, Dolphin's Nose, Silver Cascade Falls, The Silent Valley view, The Suicide Point, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Mother Terersa University and Shenbaganur Museum-an initiative of the Sacred Heart College? Ans: Kodaikanal Q65:Which Indian bank comes with the tagline: Good People to Bank With? Ans: Union Bank of India Q66: Akal Takht, a seat to the Supreme head of the Sikh religious authority was established by which guru? Ans: Guru Hargobind-sixth guru Q67: Which 103-year old technical institution is the only Indian body to be ranked in Global Employability List 2012. It is a survey conducted by French consulting firm Emerging and German Institute Tredence across 20 countries involving 2,500 recruiters and active employers in 10 nations? Ans: Indian Institute of Science-Bangalore Q68: Catlanchimauli is the highest mountain peak in which Indian state? Ans: Goa Q69: Which famous villain character of Indian film appeared as himself in Brittania Glucose D biscuit advertisment of the 1970s? Ans: Gabbar Singh of Sholay as played by Amjad Khan Q70: ISRO has launched a series of Earth observation spacecraft (1, 2, 2A and 2B) for the use of mapping some specifics. What are these spacecrafts called? Ans: Cartosat Q71: The Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Samiti Sangathan was formed by Aruna Roy, Shankar Singh and Nikhil Dey along with a number of grassroot workers in Devdungari village of Rajasthan in 1990. For the better part of the nineties MKSS began and continued a movement to bring a level of transparency in village accounts,. This led to a campaign, which over the years, finally forced the government to enact which act in the Parliament? Ans: Right to Information Act (RTI) Q72: Flight LTS Alka Shukla and M.K. Shumathi's induction into special heli-ops training in Mi-8 attack helipcoters, opens up what roles for women pilots? Ans: Combat roles Q73: Which war film was the first one to be shot at Ladakh and later some portions were shot in Kardar and Mehboob studios? (Hint: the soundtrack includes Main yeh soch kar use dar se utha tha and Ab Tumhare hawale watan saathiyon) Ans: Chetan Anand's Haqeeqat Q74: Hazoor Sahib was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1815 and is a samadhi of which Sikh guru? Ans: Guru Angad Dev-the second Sikh guru Q75: The Khasi meaning is the word Oath-Stone and this village also has a cave by the same name. The cave is set in a sacred grove which is an offering to the village god U Ryngkew U Basa. Name the well-known village/cave Ans: Mawsmai Q76: Which brilliant Bangalore based master's recent film is titled Kurmavatara. This is a story of government employee who wins a role in the television show because of his resemblance to Gandhi? Ans: Girish Kasaravalli Q77: Which museum in Bycalla East locality in Mumbai as a part of it's name is called Mumbai City Museum-An institution of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai. It was restored by The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH and was supported by the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation? Ans: Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum Q78: Dispelling the myth about the Hanuman monkey hailing from African mandrill, he maintained that people in north India erroneously called common langur as Hanuman. He claimed that Bonnet monkey, which is the common macaque of the South could be the identity of the divine Hanuman species. Name the legendary Indian naturalist who did this pathbreaking study Ans: M. Krishnan Q79: This institution is housed in 445 acre campus. The main building styled in Greco-Roman architecture was designed by C.G. Blomfield. The institute occupied the building in 1929 and was inaugurated by Lord Irwin. The present campus include demonstration forest, Timber Museum and Botanical Museum. Name the institute Ans: Forest Research Institute in Dehradun Q80: Which yoga asana in English would be called Cobra Stretch? Ans: Bhujangasana Q81: Where in Andaman and Nicobar is India's only live volcano? Ans: Barren Island Q82: Which Kolkata-based jazz legend (born in Bangalore and studied amongst other places in St Germain High School) is a subject of a documentary by Susheel.J.Kurien (the film's tag- line is Uncovering the story of jazz in India)? Ans: Carlton Kitto. The film is titled Finding Carlton Q83: Which hill station in Kashmir acts as a base to Lidderwat and Kolchoi glacier and has a considerable nomadic shepherd population? Ans: Aru Q84: Expand NABARD Ans: National Bank for Agricultural and Rural Development Q85: Chintikhandu Mallesham is credited with developing Laxmi Asu Machine named after his mother. This machine automates the process of spreading 10.5km of silk thread around 41 steel pins (seperated by four feet) to make which saree in about 1.5 hours (as opposed to the manual process of moving one's hand 9,000 times to make one piece)? Ans: Pochampally Q86: Sachin Tendulkar will be awarded one of the six grades of membership in the Order of Australia. He is second Indian to receive this honour. The first one is a legal luminiary. Who? Ans: Soli Sorabjee Q87: October 2012 marks the 188th Victory Day of the heroic warrior queen of Kittor who unfurled the flag of revolt against the East India Company, three decades before the Sepoy Mutiny. Two of her trusted lieutenants namely Gurusidappa and Sangolli Rayanna played a stellar role in the battle. Her last days were spent ay Bailhongal Can you name her? Ans: Rani Chennamma Q88: Which Indian won the gold medal in golf in the 2002 Asian Games? Ans: Shiv Kapur Q89: The Amul Girl celebrates 50 years in 2012. Name the agency Ans: Da Cunha Associates Q90: He decisively defeated the Marathas at the 1761 Battle of Panipat. Founder of the Durrani Empire in 1747, he is also considered by the many the father of the modern state of Afganistan. His mausolem is located at Kandahar. His eight invasions to India is a pointer to a deeply divisive legacy. Can you name the king? Ans: Ahmed Shah Abdali Q91: Which mounment erected nine-years after the death of the king was designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas? Ans: Humayun's Tomb Q92: The Constitution Act in 1991 declared the Union Territory of Delhi as what? Ans: National Capital Territory of Delhi comprising of 9 districts, 27 tehsils, 3 statutory towns, 59 census towns and 165 villages Q93: Buddhism talks about the eight-fold path of Right action, right belief, right effort, right means of livelihood, right meditation, right memory, right speech and right thought. How is the path known? Ans: Astangika Marg Q94: During the reign of which Parthian (Pahlava) ruler did St Thomas come to India to preach Christianity? Ans: Gondphernes Q95: Menander of Indo-Greek or Bactrian Greek political lineage was converted to Buddhism by Nagasena. He asked many questions to Nagasena about Buddhism. The queries along with the replies form the core of which great text? Ans: Milinda Panho or The Questions of Milinda Q96: Who wrote the Panchatantra? Ans: Vishnusharma Q97: Chalukyas had their capital at Vatapi now called Badami. Which district will it be in Karnataka? Ans: Bijapur Q98: The three wings of village panchayat are: Gram Sabha, Gram Panchayat and what? Ans: Nyaya Panchayat Q99: Who wrote the plays: Ratnavali, Priyadarshika and Nagananda? Ans: Harshavardhana Q100: In his fascinating account called Bhoja Prabandha, the poet immortalises Raja Bhoja with an account of his heroics. However, he also allowed historical in accuracies to creep in by saying that Kalidasa and Bana were a part of the king’s court though they existed before these times. Name the poet Ans: Ballala Q101: Which parliamentarian belongs to the Dogra dynasty , an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva also belongs to the royal family of Jammu and Kashmir? Ans : Karan Singh Q102: Which popular figure that tragically passed away recently founded the "Hawala Party" and got it registered with the Election Commission. His latest project is titled: Power Cut? Ans : JASPAL BHATTI Q103: Vande Mataram’s first public performance was at 12th Congress convention. Who was the vocalist and music composer for the song on that occasion? Ans : Rabindranath Tagore Q104: The initial surname of Jawaharlal Nehru's family was was Kaul. How did it become Nehru ? Ans : Raj Kaul from the Kashmiri pandit family relocated to Allahabad. He got a jagir near Allahabad by a canal (Nahar). The name Nehru comes from Nahar. Q105: Only two Indian batsmen have batted on all five days of a Test match. One is Ravi Shastri. Who is the other? Ans : M.L. Jaisimha Q106: In 1955, at the New York Museum of Modern Art, a showcase of Indian culture which featured performances by Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, a Bharatanatyam recital by Shanta Rao and also a premiere. It ran for 22 weeks in New York. What are we referring to ? Ans : Satyajit Ray's Pather Panchali Q107: In Myanmar, if you are using the term Yama Zatdaw..which two texts are you referring to? Ans: Yama is a short form of Ramayana and Zatdaw refers to the jataka tales of Theravada Buddhism Q108: In 2006, the first issue of Ramayana 3392 AD was published by Virgin Comics as envisioned by two well-known Indian personalities. One of them is the author Deepak Chopra, can you name the other? Ans: Shekhar Kapur Q109: This is also called “the robe of wool yardage” came from 15 th century Persia. Sultan Zain-Al-Abedin summoned weavers from Turkemnistan to teach the craft to Kashmiris. Patterns include rega buta (little flowers), kirk butis (large flowers) and jaldars (patterns created using net). Napoleon gifted 17 of them to his second wife Marie Louis. Name the shawl Ans: Jamawar Q110: Connect the type of saree with the following clues: 18 th century letters of Madhavrao Peshwa; Begum Nilofer-daughter of Nizam of Hyderabad added motifs that were weaved into the borders and pallu of the saree; Maharashtra, popular mix: silken gold emobroidery Ans: Paithani saree Q111: Which Indian city means land that does not flood? Ans: Panaji or Panjim Q112: D. Udaya Kumar-assistant professor of IIT Guwahati is in news for designing what? Ans: The new symbol for the Indian rupee Q113: Major Mitali Madhumita became the first ever woman army officer recipient of the Sena medal for gallantry. It was awarded on February 26, 2011 for her efforts to rescue her colleagues from attack on Indian embassy in 2010. In which country did the attack take place? Ans: Iraq Q114: Designed by Atul.S. Pande, this motif of a sun in red and yellow with a fingerprint across it’s centre represents equal opportunity of each individual. Name the national brand name/logo we are referring to Ans: Aadhaar Q115: Which Vikram Seth novel is completely in verse? Ans : The Golden Gate Q116: The Oz Fest of Australia spanning October to February 2012-2013, lays out a series of programmes including a tribute to Australia’s first Bollywood star. Who? Ans: Fearless Nadia Q117: Where will you find the following in Delhi: 13th century tombo of Ghiyas-ud-din Balban, Jamali (Sheikh Fazarullah)-Kamali mosque and tombs and Metcalfe’s Folly –the only landlocked lighthouse built by Sir Thomas Theophilius Metcalfe in the middle of 19 th century and Md Quli Khan’s tomb (brother of Adham Khan, one of Akbar’s key generals)? Ans: Mehrauli Archaeological Park Q118: Prashant Rasailly is ready with his first film Kathaaa. Shot in 14 days, no script, six flashlights and three actors. This is the first ----------------full length feature film. Fill the blank Ans: Sikkimese Q119: Yet-to-be- released 28 volume report compiled by Lieutenant General Henderson Brooks and Brigadier Prem Bhagat in 1963 details which historical happening concerning India? Ans: India-China War of 1962 Q120: In which city of India would you find the Hall Bazaar, Gandhi Gate, Guru Bazaar, Kapda Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh market? Ans: Amritsar Q121: Father's name Siddhartha, Mother's name:Trishala. Born at Kundagrama near Vaishali in Bihar in the second half of 7th century BC. Passed away at the age of 72 at Pavapuri near Rajgir. His teachings are contained in 14 books Name the great Ans: Vardhaman Mahavira-24th Jain trithankara Q122: According to Jain and Vedic texts there were 16 of them in 6th century BC and mostly clustered around the north of the Vindhyas. The powerful of them were Kosala, Magadha (Bimbsara, Ajatshatru, Mahapadmananda), Vatsa and Avanti (Chandrapradyota). Some of them were republics like Lichhavis and Shakyas, Which term are we looking for? Ans: Mahajanapadas Q123: This kingdom had Ankusha and the bow and arrow as the emblem. Two of the most famous kings were Nedumjeral Adan and Senguttuvan (immortalised in Silappadikaram). Musiri, their chief port was a centre of Indo-Roman trade. Vanji was the capital, Name the dynasty Ans: Cheras Q124: Dantidurga. Krishna I, Dhruva, Govinda III. Amoghavarsha, Krishna III. The Kailasha Temple at Ellora. Mankhed near Sholapur was their capital. Name the lineage. Ans: Rashtrakutas Q125: He set up Empress Mill in Nagpur in 1874. Before that in 1868, he turned a bankrupt oil mill into a profitable cotton mill called Alexandria. Alumnus of Elphinstone College, he passed away in 1904. Name the legend Ans: Jamshedji Tata Q126: V.O. Chidambaram Pillai began the first what Indian company? Ans: Indian Steamship Navigation Company Q127: In which city Gautama Buddha died at the age of 80? Ans: Kushinagar Q128: Which king assumed the title of Victor of the Ganges and set up a capital bearing a striking similarity to his title. Clues: His reign was form 1018-1048 CE. His military expansions include conquest of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, some of the islands of Maldives. Ans: Rajendra Chola Q129: Which legend wrote a poem which read forward told the story of Ramayana and read backward told the story of Mahabharata? Ans: Dandin Q130: What does the word Mohenjodaro mean? Ans: Mound of the Dead Q131: India is the only country in the world that produces all four types of silk. They are eri, muga, mulberry and what? Ans: Tussar Q132: Ratnasagar was the name of one of the three buildings of the library which was being used by over 10,000 students and 20,000 teachers at a point of time,. Name the residential complex and who founded it? Ans: Nalanda University and Kumaragupta founded in 5th century AD Q133: How is the old port area called Tamralipta now known in the state of West Bengal? Ans: Tamluk Q134: Rig Veda amongst it's 1028 hymnas mentions the cultivation of yava, What do we popularly call it in English? Ans: Barley Q135: Some of the sites of this age are Mehrgarh (Pakistan), Burzahom and Gufkral (Jammu and Kashmir), Chirand (Bihar) and Maski and Piklihal (Karanataka). This age spanned from 8000-4000 BC. Can you name the age? Ans: Neolithic or New Stone Age Q136: The first municipal corporation was set up in 1688, in which Indian city? Ans: Madras Q137: NCF was set up in 1996 with a 24-member governing council. It was formed to facilitate non-government participation in preserving cultural heritage. Expand NCF Ans: National Cultural Fund Q138: This kingdom broke away from Mauryan control and emerged as a strong political nerve centre under 1st century BC under King Kharavela. The Hatigumpha inscription near Bhubaneshwar talks about welfare measures of Kharavela. Name the kingdom Ans: Kalinga Q139: Three major rulers: Gautamaputra Satakarni (AD 106-130), Vasisthiputra Pulumayi (AD 130-154) and Yajnasri Satakarni (AD 165-194). They ruled Deccan nearly 300 years, Traditionally, they were the worshippers of the Sun. Name this important dynastic trail of the Deccan Ans: Satavahanas Q140: Firoz Shah Tughlaq brought two of them from Topra in Haryana and Meerut and installed them at Firoz Shah Kotla and North Delhi ridge. What did he instal? Ans: Ashokan pillars Q141: This priest king discovered at Mohenjodaro in 1927 wears a headband and has a beard, The sculpture is about 18 cms in height. It is presently kept in the National Museum of which city? Ans: Karachi Q142: Dr Patrick Russel (1727-1805) came to India and pioneered the study of what? Ans: Father of Indian Ophiology Q143: Apart from Mahabharata, there is a Ghatotkacha that comes in Indian history as son of Srigupta-former chief of Pataliputra. Can you name the dynasty that ruled over Ganga Valley around 3rd century AD Ans: Lichchavis Q144: In which city of India would you find the Napier Museum? Ans: Trivandrum Q145: This school in Darjeeiing gave India two players from the hockey gold medal winning team of the 1936 Berlin Games. They were Joseph Galibardy and Cyril Mitchie. Name the school Ans: Goethals School-Kurseong Q146: In 1956, Olympic football semi-final, he scored India's only goal in the 4-1 defeat to Yugoslavia. This football legend later turned into coaching youngsters including a stint with the football team of St Marys, Byculla. Name him Ans: Neville D'Souza Q147 She joined the struggle at the age of 13 and led a socio-political movement to drive out the British from Manipur and Naga areas. She was arrested in 1932 at the age of 16 and to life imprisonment. She was released in 1947 and plunged herself to an ideological battle against Naga National Council (NNC)and had to go underground. She was s awarded Padama Bhushan and passed away in 1993. Who? Ans: Rani Gaidinliu Q148: On May 20, 1498, Vasco da Gama reached Calicut and left India on August 29, 1498, He came to India with 20 ships in 1502-1503. On his third visit to India as a Portugese viceroy-as appointed by King John III, he died of Malaria in Cochin on December 24, 1524. Which king sent him on the first expedition? Ans: King Manuel I Q149: In 1939, when World War II broke out, which viceroy declared that India would take part in the battle? Ans: Lord Linlithgow Q150: Which well-known Indian's memorial is the Vijay Ghat? Ans: Lal Bahadur Shastri Q151: Who was the choreographer for the Satajit Ray film Shatranj Ke Khilari? Ans: Birju Maharaj Q152: Unique Identification Authority of India(UIDAI) under the Planning Commission has a brand name. What? Ans: Aadhar Q153: Along with Jean Dreze , who co-authored India: Economic development and Social Opportunity ? Ans: Amartya Sen Q154: What is the literal meaning of 'Nataraj' in Sanskrit? Ans: Lord of Dance Q155: Which member of the Tagore family founded Shantiniketan in 1863? Ans: Debendranath Tagore Q156: Two months after arriving at Calcutta with Gaffky and Fischer, he had observed the comma- shaped bacillus in seventy cholera victims. His final communication from India (4 March 1884) designated village ponds, used for drinking water and all domestic purposes, as sources of localized outbreaks.....Later in May 1897, when he reached Bombay, bubonic plague was epidemic in upper India. For working on which disease, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine? Ans: Robert Koch; Tuberculosis Q157: On November 11, 1995 a section of Michigan Avenue in which US city has been named after an Indian? Ans: Chicago, Swami Vivekananda way Q158: Pankaj Gupta- a well known sports administrator gave a metaphoric surname to an Indian sports legend. And the surname stuck. Which one? Ans: He compared Dhyan Singh's ability to that of a moon and called him Dhyan Chand. The nickname stuck Q159: The students of this school are called Manorites. It is situated in an area called Burlowganj. Six of India's hockey gold medallists in the editions of 1928, 1932 and 1936 studied here. Name the school Ans: St George's College, Mussorie (William Goodsir Cullen and Ernest Goodsir Cullen, Maurice Gately, Eric Martins, Carlyle Tapsell and Lionel Emmett) Q160: Sarvadamana also known as Bharata was the son of which famous pair in Hindu mythology? Ans: Shakuntala and Dushyanta Q161: Which former NASA scientist directed the recent film Chittagong? Ans: Bedabrata Pain Q162: If one were to look at Gandhiji's career at the Bar in South Africa, there are two distinct phases. One is the Natal phase which one is the other? Ans: Transvaal phase Q163: H. Abdur Raqeeb is a part of an important non-profit body called NCIB have proposed certain changes in a certain sector. This sector currently has 26 public sector, 20 private sector and 41 foreign entities. The total assets of 40 listed entities as of March 31, 2012 is Rs 71.64 trillion. Work out the full form of NCIB Ans: National Committee on Islamic Banking Q164: Which king composed songs under the name Akhtari Pia? Ans: Nawab Wajed Ali Shah Q165: When Radhanath Sikdar an alumnus of Hindu College-Kolkata (now Presidency University) calculated Peak 15 of the Himalayas as the tallest peak of the world (later to be renamed as Mount Everest), he was a part of which organisation? Ans: Great Trigonometric Survey of India Q166: Ville Blanche and Ville Noire once made up which Indian town? Ans: Pondicherry Q167: With which Indian state would you associate the legacy of Chogyal dynasty? Ans: Sikkim Q168: Which place connects Dr B.R. Ambedkar with Indian hockey captain Kishen Lal (1948 Olympics in London)? Ans: Mhow near Indore Q169: Azeemabad and Kusumpura are former names of which well-known Indian city? Ans: Patna Q170: Shadman Chowk in Lahore has been proposed to be renamed after whom? Ans: Bhagat Singh Q171: Which Lucknow structure was built in 1784 primarily to provide food in lieu of work in the midst of famine? Ans: Bada Imambara Q172: Where will you find Rowriah airport in India? Ans: Jorhat Q173: Which legal firm facilitated Gandhiji's move to South Africa? Ans: Dada Abdullah and Company Q174: In which Indian state would you find annual Hornbill Festival? Ans: Nagaland Q175: With which hill station would you associate North East Hill University? Ans: Shillong Q176: It is the biggest city of the East and West Godavari districts and first Municipal Corporation in the Godavari district. Name the city Ans: Rajamundhry Q177: She wrote about her American experience in a book titled United States Chi Lokasthiti Ani Pravasvrutta (Status of Society of United States and a travelogue)]and it has been published in English translation as American Encounter. She established Christian High school at Gulbarga in 1912, and her daughter was Principal of the school.Name the legend Ans: Pandita Ramabai Q178: Which Indian city was designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya through nine rectangular blocks, strictly according to Shilpa Shastra? Ans: Jaipur Q179: Newham Council believes the memorable rendezvous is a prime example of how the borough was a hotbed for community cohesion as far back as 1931, when the picture was taken. On September 22, 1931, at renowned Indian medic Dr Katial's house in Beckton Road, Canning Town the meeting happened. One of them is Gandhi. Name the other Ans: Charlie Chaplin Q180: Hazrat Shahid Shahul Hameed Wali and Kanduri festival. Which dargah? Ans: Nagore dargah Q181: Food heritage. X was first conceived in the ancient Punjab region, but soon became popular all over India. The south-Indian states have their own versions of X. In Myanmar (Burma) it is eaten with curries or cooked with either egg or mutton, or as a dessert with white sugar. X in Trinidad and Tobago is generally larger and thinner. Give the common Indian name Ans: Parantha Q182: Bholu with a lamp in his hand is a mascot of which organisation? Ans: Indian Railways Q183: Which is the oldest mountain range in India ? Ans: Aravallis. Q184: Dolphins can be seen in two large Goa rivers. One is Mandovi. Name the other. Ans: Zuari Q185: Which Indian football team plays it’s league home matches in Tilak Maidan-Vasco? Ans: Churchill Brothers Q186: Norman Pritchard is in the Indian folklore for the Olympics. Which Norman became the second Indian to win a gold medal at the 1958 British Empire Games-Cardiff (in the same edition Milkha Singh won the 440 yards to become the first Indian to win a gold medal)? Ans: Norman Snell in the Individual Pursuit category in cycling Q187: How do we know Margaret Noble better in Indian history? Ans: Sister Nivedita Q188: Which ninth century dynasty included names of Nagabhatta I, Mahendrapala I and Mahipala I and Kannauj remained an important epicentre of the kingdom? Ans: Pratiharas Q189: Gharials had their captive breeding centre in which wildlife sanctuary in eastern India? Ans: Nandan Kanan Q190: Connect the words Polo, Sangai, Nine Hills One Valley and Ratan Thiyam Ans: Manipur Q191: He swapped his masculinity. He was finally killed by Aswathama on the 18th day of battle. Who? Ans: Shikhandi Q192: Pangong Tso Lake will be roughly 5 hours drive from which Indian city? Ans: Leh Q193: With which state of India would you associate the following tribes: Angami, Ao, Chakhesang (Chokri/Kheza), Chang, Khiamniungan, Kuki, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sumi, Sangtam, Yimchungru and Zeliang? Ans: Nagaland Q194:......a necklace broke. A row of pearls mislaid. One sixth fell to the floor. One fifth upon the bed. The young woman saved one third of them. One tenth were caught by her lover. If six pearls remained upon the string How many pearls were there altogether? Which great Indian treatise divided into 13 chapters, would have this riddle? Ans: Lilavati by Bhaskara II Q195: Which Indian brand name , set up by the Tatas , gets its name from a Leon Delibes opera about an Indian maiden called Lakshmi ? Ans: Lakme Q196: INS Arihant is India's first what? Ans: Nuclear Submarine Q197: According to Ramayana who was the wife of Indrajit? Ans: Sulochana Q198: Which actress starred opposite Ashok Kumar in the 1936 classic Achhut Kanya ? Ans: Devika Rani Q199: 900 of them exist (according to People’s Survey of India) as opposed to 1,652 (in the 1961 census). Every fortnight there is a loss of one, every decade we loss about 100 of them. What? Ans: Mother Tongue Q200: While forming the organisation on June 12, 1905, he formulated seven vows. The first three being: That the country will always be first in his thoughts and that he will give to her service the best that is in him; That in serving the country he will seek no personal advantage for himself; That he will regard all Indians as brothers and will work for the advancement of all without distinction of caste and creed. Name the person and the organisation Ans: Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Servants of India Society Q201: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at a rally on July 4, 1944, uttered amongst other things the famous line: Give Me Blood and I Promise you Freedom. In which country was the rally held? Ans: Myanmar Q202: His lifespan was 1890-1931. He founded Pratap and launched the daily edition in 1920. In his short life, he changed the face of Indian journalism. Name him Ans: Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Q203: Apart from Virat Kohli, who is the only other member of the 2008 Under 19 World Cup winning squad to have played a test match for India? Ans: Abhinav Mukund Q204: Which is the largest district in Kashmir? Ans: Doda Q205: Historically, it was the capital city of King Lalitaditya in the 8th century and was also a centre of Buddhism. A plateau which is 26 km away from Srinagar. Can you name the place? Ans: Parihaspora Q206: On April 18, 1951 at the Pochampalli village in Andhra Pradesh, he initiated a historic campaign that begun with a discussion on violence with 40 Dalit families and ended with a donation of 100 acres. Name the person and the movement Ans: Acharya Vinoba Bhave and Bhoodan Q207: Name the sacred water body that surrounds the Golden Temple in Amritsar Ans: Amrit Sarovar Q208: On October 13, 1987 while going through his comprehensive collection of video tapes, he zeroed in on Marilyn Monroe's River of No Return (1954) as his next production starring himself and Danny Dengzongpa. He passed away the same day. Name the legend Ans: Kishore Kumar Q209: Which two Indian musicians won a Grammy award in 1991 for being a part collaborative album 'Planet Drum'? Ans: Zakir Hussain and Vikku Vinayakram Q210: Which 7artiste's directorial debut 'Through the eyes of the painter' won the Golden Bear for the best short film in Berlim Film Festival-196? Ans: M.F. Hussain Q211: Where will you find the Baichung Bhutia stadium in Sikkim? Ans. Namchi Q212: In Mahabharata, Arjuna was nicknamed “Sabyasachi”. Why? Ans: For his ability to fight with both hands Q213: In the cricket stadium in Indore, there is a huge concrete bat. Why was it built? Ans: To commemorate India’s first win against England in England in 1971 Q214: When Krishna was accidentally killed by Jara, Vishwakarma on instruction from Vishnu started building an image with Krishna’s bones which he placed inside the image. The image however could not be completed and is therefore worshipped in its unfinished form. Which idol are we talking about ? Ans : Jagannathdev of Puri Q215: Connection - Ananthavijaya, Paundraka, Devadatta, Sughosha and Manipushpaka. Ans : Conches of the Pandavas Q216: Who founded the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry along with Purushottam Thakur in 1927 ? Ans: GD Birla Q217: The Captive Ladie and Visions of the Past are English books of poems by which Indian author? Ans: Michael Madhusudan Datta Q218: 'An only son of prosperous parents is apt to be spoilt, especially so in India'. Start of which eminent person’s autobiography? Ans: Jawaharlal Nehru Q219: In the TV cartoon series "The Simpsons", what is the name of the Indian convenience store owner who lives in the same street as the Simpsons? Ans: Apu Q220: The Ganga flows from the south to the north here. Which city gets it’s name? Ans : Uttarkashi Q221: What unique cricketing first is held by Amay Khurasia in terms of international norms in Indian cricket? Ans : First cricketer to be dope-tested Q222: What did Rev Jonathan Scobie, a Baptist minister living in Yokohama, develop in 1869 for his invalid wife? Ans : The rickshaw Q223: What performing art finds mention in the Ramayana and is thus sometimes considered to be the oldest of performing arts? Ans : Mimicry – Mareecha’s mimic of Sri Ram in the forest to lure Sita out of the magic circle Q224: Earlier known as, “Mrs. Monk’s boarding house". How is it better known today? Ans : Oberoi Grand hotel, Kolkata. Q225: In 1969, who became the first President of India to die in office? Ans: Zakir Hussain Q226: Who was the first of 24 Jain tirthankaras? Ans: Adinath Rishabha Q227: Name Akbar’s finance minister, who from 1560 onwards overhauled the revenue system in the kingdom? Ans: Raja Todarmal Q228: Hatipota and Talsonapur formed the backdrop of which immortal novel (made into multiple acclaimed film versions)? : Ans : Devdas Q229: Government owned Mysore paints and Varnishes Ltd is the exclusive supplier of which product in India? Ans: Indelible Ink Q230: According to Hindu myth, who was Vishnu's first incarnation? Ans: Matsya Q231: Which university's educational channel, launched on 26 January 2000, is titled Gyandarshan ? Ans: IGNOU Q232: Which city in the Indian sub-continent was formerly known as Jahangir Nagar under Mughal rule (named after Emperor Jahangir) and now an university called Jahangirnagar University is situated on the outskirts of the city? Ans: Dhaka Q233: In 1950, Sukumar Sen became the first person to hold which office in India ? Ans: Chief Election Commissioner Q234: Which monument in Delhi was designed by Fariburz Sahba ? Ans: Lotus temple Q235: Who was the Last Indian cricket Captain to win a Test Series Overseas in South Africa? Ans : Anjum Chopra Q236: In London it is Lombard Street, in the US it is onWall Street.What street is it in Mumbai? Ans : Dalal Street Q237: This classical dance form is named after a village of Divi Taluq of Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh ? Ans: Kuchipudi Q238: By what name was the legendary Hindi film character actress Kokila Kishorechandra Balsara known in Bollywood? Ans: Nirupa Roy Q239: Whose autobiography is called “The fall of a sparrow”? Ans: Dr. Salim Ali Q240: IN 1965, LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI FORMED TWO CENTRAL GOVERNMENT BODIES CONCERNING SECURITY. ONE WAS CBI. CAN YOU NAME THE OTHER? Ans: BSF Q241: In Hindu mythology, who is the record from Lord Yama, who reads out the soul's account from the great register? Ans: Chitragupta Q242: Who was the husband of Dusshala, the only sister of the Kauravas? Ans: Jayadrath (or Saindhava) Q243: What is the name of the school of art formed by the mixture of the Greco-Roman and Indian school of art in 2nd century to 4th century? Ans: The Gandhara School. Q244: What was the primary reason for the construction of Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur in 1929? Ans: "As a famine relief project, which gave “employment to 3,000 people?” Q245: Who is the third of this trinity of Carnatic Classical Music? Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar & ___________? Ans: Shyama Shastri Q246: It is an Arabic word which literally means "talking to women". Another etymological meaning of the word is "painful wail of a wounded deer". What? Ans: Ghazal Q247: In a very famous Indian work of fiction, Mahendra, a young zamindar, leaves his drought affected village Padachihno for a nearby town, but he is taken a captive by the soldiers. Bhavananda frees him and takes him to a secret hideout. What is the name of the hideout? Ans: Ananda Math Q248: Name the two sons of music director Chitragupta. They are music directors’ in their own right. Ans: Anand Milind Q249: His first venture was to open the Hong Kong branch of his father's firm in December of the same year, in partnership with Premchand Roychand and others. His reputation as an industrialist was based on the cotton mills he started. In 1871 he began to promote the "Central India Spinning, Weaving and Manufacturing Company, Limited", and built from scratch the Empress Mills in Nagpur. Opened on New Year's day, 1877, this immensely successful cotton mill developed business practices which remained the hallmark of this business house for years to come. Who? Ans: Jamshetji Tata Q250: He was the son of Tripta and Mehta Kalu and was born in 1469, at Talwandi. Who? Ans: Guru Nanak Q251: What is common to Abdul Karim Khan, Alladiya Khan and Naththan Khan in Hindustani music? Ans: They were pioneers of their gharanas; Kirana, Atrauli-Jaipur and Agra respectively Q252: Pandit Narayan wrote these stories for a king. He borrowed heavily from the Panchatantra for his material. His work is divided into four parts - Mitralabha, Suhridbheda, and Vigraha & Sandhi. What work? Ans: Hitopadesha Q253: Ghiyas ud din Tughluq wanted to shift the capital from Delhi to a new city Tughluqabad. His soldiers approached Nizam Ud Din Aulia, the sufi saint, who refused to lend laborers for building this city. Tughluq promised to deal with Aulia when he returned from his Bengal campaign. Aulia refused to flee stating that "Delhi was far away". Tughluq never reached Delhi. How did he die? Ans: He attended a reception in his honour and the platform on which he was seated collapsed. He was crushed to death. Q254: Mangal Pande of the 34th Native Infantry Regiment was sentenced and hanged on April 8, 1857. The rest of the infantry was disarmed and disbanded. Who was the only other person to be executed from this regiment? Ans: Ishwari Prasad, the head guard Q255: Surabhi the cow, Uchchhaishrava the horse, a bevy of apsaras, the parijata tree, varuni, the goddess of wine, Shree the goddess, halahala a poison and Dhanvantari the divine physician....what is common? Ans: All arose from the churning of the ocean by the asuras and devas (Dhanvantri carried the nectar of immortality) " Q256: This great Indian philosopher suggested that the world was real instead of illusory. He therefore put forward a fresh ontological classification of reality into two orders. Svantantra and Paratantra - independent and dependant. God alone is the independent reality. Who? Ans: Madhvacharya Q257: He succeeded his elder brother Veera Narasimha as king. As an accomplished poet and a patron of the arts, his literary court was adorned by eminent poets and scholars. He himself wrote a Telugu classic Amukta Malyada and a play in Sanskrit, Jambavati Kalyana. Who? Ans: Krishnadeva Raya, king of Vijayanagar Q258: Author of Vikramarjuna Vijaya. 1st retelling of the Mahabharata in a non-sanskrit language. Who? Ans: Pampa Mahakavi Q259: The Ghost Road by Pat Barker, Last orders by Graham Swift, _______, Amsterdam by Ian McEwan. Complete the series. Ans:"The God of Small things by Arundhati Roy – Booker's in 95, 96, 97 & 98" Q260: It is said that Brahma, the Creator, created this, taking literature from the Rig Veda, song from the Sama Veda, abhinaya or expression from the Yajur Veda and rasa or aesthetic experience from the Atharva Veda.? Ans: Natya or dance Q261: Born on 4 May 1767 at Tiruvayyaru in Tanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, to the daughter of the poet-composer Girija Kavi, he was named after the presiding deity of Tiruvarur. The family shifted to a house gifted by the king of Tanjavur in Tiruvayyaru, on the banks of the Kaveri river, an abode of saints, poets and musicians. Born and bred in a highly cultured family, he was a profound scholar and poet. He studied Sanskrit, astrology, music and his mother tongue Telugu. He was a disciple of Sonthi Venkataramanayya, one of the foremost singers of the day. Who? Ans: Tyagaraja Q262: When Victoria Garden and the Albert Zoo were being laid out in India in 1904, the workers suffered a high incidence of malaria. It was overcome successfully by developing these plant gardens all around the place at the suggestion of a Hindu worker. An infusion of the leaves is given in cases of malaria. In recognition of the wonder, this plant was declared an anti-malarial in 1907 at the Imperial Malaria Conference. Which plant? Ans: Tulsi – Basil Q263: The idea to connect two areas with Kalyan, along with the Thal and Bhore Ghats inclines first occurred to Mr. George Clark, the Chief Engineer of the Bombay Government, during a visit to Bhandup in 1843. The formal inauguration ceremony was performed on 16th April 1853, when 400 guests left Bori Bunder at 3.30 pm "amidst the loud applause of a vast multitude and to the salute of 21 guns.". What was the occasion? Ans: First railway journey in India, Bombay to Thane Q264: Which Indian city's literary meaning is- 'The Town of Boiled Beans' ? Ans. Bengaluru (previously known as Bangalore) Q265: In Sanskrit, the literal meaning of this word is Cowshed or Herd of cows. First mentioned in the Atharva Veda, it took on the meaning of a Clan. What? Ans: Gotra Q266: Complete the list of sisters as per a prominent family in Indian politics that produced a chief minister. The names are Jalebi, Mishri, Malai, ______? Ans: RABRI DEVI; the others are her sisters. Q267: State Bank Of India was perviously known as what? Ans: Imperial Bank of India Q268: Rani Rashmoni handed over this piece of land to the Maharajah of Cutch Behar. Later it was in the hands of Lord Auckland who was the Governer General and it was taken care of by two of the members in the family who made it into a park. Today it is named in the memory of the two. Which place? Ans: Eden sisters.Eden Gardens. Q269: Which Indian classical music instrument gets its name from a Persian word meaning ‘sweet’? Ans: Sarod Q270: The Bhils of MP use the arrow in a certain manner which is traceable to the Mahabharata lore. How? Ans: They draw their bows with their middle finger from Ekalavya in Mahabharata. Q271: In ancient time the place was called Dakshin Kosala. The current name was popularized by the Marathas and used for the first time in an official document in 1795. Name the place/location? Ans: CHATTISGARH Q272:The stadium Burlton Park was host to a Test Match between India and Pakistan in the year 1983 thereafter no international matches have been played on this ground but recently BCCI has decided to renovate the Cricket Ground.In which city is the ground located? Ans: JALLANDHAR Q273: This Member of Parliament from West Bengal played the lead role in Madhuri Dixit’s debut film ‘Abodh’. Name the person Ans: TAPAS PAL Q274: As per the Mahabharata the place was referred to as Goparashtra, meaning the place of Cowherds. Which present day Indian place we are referring to? Ans: GOA Q275: Name the bow of Arjuna? Ans: GANDIVA Q276: This Hindu festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala and in certain districts of Karnataka, usually in the second week of April.It marks the New Year in accordance with the Malayalam calendar. This occasion signifies the sun's transit into the first zodiac sign according to Indian astrological calculations, and represents the vernal equinox. The Sanskrit term for the festival means equal. Which Festival are we referring to? Ans: VISHU Q277: What name connects the child of Kamadhenu, the Sanskrit term for daughter, an alternate name for Gold and one of the 108 names of Durga? Ans: NANDINI Q278: The Masoleum situated in Faizabad name when translated means ‘Garden of Roses’.Name the mausoleum and the person in whose memory it has been built? Ans: SHUJA UD DWALA ( GULAB BARI) Q279: The name of the peak’s literal translation means ‘Elephant’s Forehead’ as a direct reference to the resemblance of the mountain to an Elephant’s head. Name the Peak. Ans: ANAI MUDI Q280: A slave who was referred to as a ‘Hapshi’ and was a centre of racial discrimination by the Turkish Nobels during the time of Razia Sultan. The relationship between the person and Razia Sultan formed the backdrop of the period film ‘Razia Sultan’. Whom are we referring to? Ans: YAQUT Q281: Who wrote the play Mudrarakshasa? Ans: VISHAKADUTTA Q282: This legend led a group of film personalities against the Emergency. He actively campaigned against Indira Gandhi with his supporters in Indian parliamentary elections in 1977. He also formed a party called the "National Party of India", which he later disbanded. Name the legend. Ans: DEV ANAND Q283: His son has represented in Davis Cup and has won the national championship 7 times. The father a legend in another racquet sport was the first Indian to win a title abroad in his sport. Name the father-son duo? Ans: GAURAV (SON) AND NANDU NATEKAR Q284: The city is believed to have derived its name from Maya Rashtra, the capital of the kingdom of Mayasura (Ravana’s father-in –law). Name the city Ans: MEERUT Q285: As per the Mahabharata Parikshit was enthroned here and the first oral rendition of the Mahabharata was done by Vaishampayana during the rule of Janamejaya. Identify this world heritage site. Ans: TAKSHILA Q286: Vishnuprayag is the confluence of Alaknanda and which other river? Ans: DHAULI GANGA Q287: A gold medallist in discus held in the 1966 and 1970 Asian Games. Also hold the Asian Games record of 56.76 metre also a silver medallist in the 1966 Commonwealth Games held in Kingston and the 1974 Asian Games in Tehran. He also competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics and in the 1972 Summer Olympics. Incidentally the nation identifies with him better for his work in the field of entertainment rather in the domain of Televsion. Name the person? Ans: PRAVEEN KUMAR Q288: The ruler commissioned bricks to be made from the soil brought from Mecca and used them in the construction of the central arch of the mosque, thus giving the mosque its name. It formed the centre piece around which the city was planned. Name the ruler. Ans: MOHAMMED QULI QUTB SHAH Q289: Who is the Hindu God of Medicine/Ayurveda? Ans: DHANVANTARI Q290: The garden is located in a radius of 300 Km from Delhi. It was created in the 17th century by architect Nawab Fidai Khan during the early reign of his foster brother Aurangzeb. Now it has been named after one of the rulers of the former princely state of Patiala. How is the garden known as now? Ans: PINJORE (YADAVINDRA GARDENS) Q291: The place situated not very far from Delhi is well known for its hot water springs. The water is strongly sulphurous and its temperature varies from 46°C to 51.7 °C. As per legend Arjuna dug these wells.In ancient times the place is believed to have been the abode of hermits and the main kund (tank), called Shiv Kund, is said to have medicinal properties and curative effects. Ans: SOHNA Q292: Who established the Boy Scouts Association in India? Ans: ANNIE BESANT Q293: The place one of the prominent localities of Delhi gets its name from the water tank built by Allaudin Khalji. The Neeli Masjid and the Chor Minar lie inside the colony.Name the locality/place? Ans: HAUZ KHAS Q294: The temple dedicated to the Goddess is constructed over a sacred spring.The worship of the Goddess is universal among the Hindus of Kashmir The temple is situated at a distance of 14 miles east of Srinagar near the village of Tula Mulas.The legend has it that the water inside the well situated in the Temple complex changes its colour from time to time as an index of the prevailing conditions in the valley. Swami Vivekananda made a historic visit to the temple. Can you name the temple? Ans: KHEER BHAWANI Q295: Which Indian political figure coined the term ‘Integral Humanism.’ Hint: Mughalsarai railway station. Can you name the person? Ans: DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAYA Q296:The River is known as Karnali is a major tributary of the Ganges and incidentally the largest river of Nepal. In Chinese it is called K'ung-ch'iao Ho.Which river are we referring to? Ans: GHAGHRA Q297: Built in 1799 and designed by Lal Chand Ustad in the form of the crown of Lord Krishna. Its unique five-storey exterior is also akin to the honeycomb of the beehive with its 953 small windows called jharokhas that are decorated with intricate latticework The original intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen, since they had to observe purdah system. Name the historical monument Ans: HAWA MAHAL Q298:The place now a historical and architectural monument located in the city of Dhaka was built as the official residence of Shah Shuja.It is situated to the south of Chowk Bazaar close to the north bank of the river Buriganga.Name the monument? Ans: BARA KATRA Q299: The phrase describes a middle ground or a compromise between ones goals or desires and one's current state or possessions. Ans: TRISHANKU Q300: Name the mother of Ravana? Ans: KAIKESI. Q301: This festival is observed by the mother for the long life of her son(s).The festival falls on the 8th day from the day of the full moon in the month of Kartik. The festival is traditionally a North Indian Festival. Name the festival? Ans: Ahoi Q302: The place KarnaPrayag is situated on the confluence of which rivers? Ans: ALAKNANDA & PINDAR Q303: In ancient time the place was called Dakshin Kosala. The current name was popularized by the Marathas and used for the first time in an official document in 1795. Name the place/location? Ans: Chattisgarh Q304: As per the epic Ramayana the river was known as Pampa. How do we know the river know? Ans: TUNGABHADRA Q305: Lake Pichola forms the backdrop of which Indian City? Ans: UDAIPUR Q306: What name connects an Aamir Khan movie to a Mughal Emperor? Ans: RANGEELA Q307: Manyakheta was the capital of which Indian Dynasty? Ans: RASHTRAKOOTA Q308: Who performed the role of Lord Rama’s charioteer during the battle against Ravana? Ans: MATALI Q309: Bhopal was founded by King Bhoja. Which dynasty did he belong to? Ans: GUJARA PRATIHARA Q310: Born Harry Rodger Webb in Lucknow, an OBE and holds the distinction of the third biggest singles selling artist in the United Kingdom. Who are we talking about? Ans: CLIFF RICHARD Q311: As per the Urdu poetic tradition what does the word ‘Takhallus’ mean? Ans: Pen Name Q312: Who is the only Indian Cricketer to take a Hat Trick in Men’s World Cup Cricket? Ans: CHETAN SHARMA Q313: Sisupala the cousin of Lord Krishna represented which Kingdom? Ans: CHEDI Q314: Sudarshan Patnaik, the internationally renowned Indian artist uses which medium to express himself? Ans: SAND Q315: Against which country did Rahul Dravid score his first ODI Century? Ans: PAKISTAN Q316: Two scripts were used in the Ashokan reign. Brahmi for the north and central India and which one for north-west region ? Ans: KHAROSHTI Q317: This Indian economist and lawyer served as India’s First Finance Minister. Who are we talking about? Ans: R.K SHANMUKHAN CHETTY Q318: The city of Hyderabad is situated on which River? Ans: MOOSI Q319: As per the Mahabharata the place was referred to as Goparashtra, meaning the place of Cowherds. Which present day Indian place we are referring to? Ans: GOA Q320: Two of his commentaries are still remembered. Dhavaya loka lochana and commentary on Bharata’s Natya Shastra. 10th century Kashmiri philosopher, he disappeared with his followers in a cave. Who? Ans: ABHINAVGUPTA Q321: Who has been the youngest Indian Test Cricket Captain? Ans: MANSUR ALI KHAN PATAUDI Q322: This Hindu festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala and in certain districts of Karnataka, usually in the second week of April.It marks the New Year in accordance with the Malayalam calendar. This occasion signifies the sun's transit into the first zodiac sign according to Indian astrological calculations, and represents the vernal equinox. The Sanskrit term for the festival means equal. Which Festival are we referring to? Ans: VISHU Q323: As per the Mahabharata who is the son of Parikshit? Ans: JANMAJEYA Q324: Which Indian cities name translates from the word ‘THE FORT OF CHANDI’? Ans: CHANDIGARH Q325: Which constituency did India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru represent? Ans: PHULPUR Q326: What name connects the child of Kamadhenu, the Sanskrit term for daughter, an alternate name for Gold and one of the 108 names of Durga? Ans: NANDINI Q327: Which ruler of Delhi’s name when converted from Persian means ‘AXIS OF FAITH’? Ans: QUTUB UD DIN AIBAK Q328: This Lake situated at a height of appx 10000 feet in Uttarakhand as per legend is considered as an Abode of Lord Ganesha. Name the Lake? Ans: DODHITAL Q329: As Lakshman Singh is to Shiv Kapur who Kaur Singh is to.....................? Ans: DINGKO SINGH Q330: Which is the only place in India where Lord Brahma is worshipped? Ans: PUSHKAR Q331: One of the immortal heritages of Indian literature. This novel was written by Mirza Haadi Ruswa in 1903. From this novel two Bollywood films were made. Name the Novel. Ans: Umrao Jan Ada Q332: In which city do the rivers Mula and Mutha merge to form the Mula-Mutha ? Ans: Pune Q333: Which Manipuri martial art involves decorative swords and innovative use of spear movement? Ans: Thangta Q334: It is called Zoolbia in Persia, Zalabiya in Egypt, Jeri in Nepal, Zlebia in Morocco and Funnel Cake in US. What is it in the Indian food heritage? Ans: Jalebi Q335: Who founded Physical Research Laboratory at Ahmedabad and established Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and is considered as one of the founding fathers of the Indian space programme? Ans: Vikram Sarabhai Q336: Which Sanskrit term means 'the science of life ' ? Ans: Ayurveda Q337: Rabindra Setu, Vidyasagar Setu and Vivekananda Setu are bridges spanning which river? Ans: Hoogly Q338: One of the former key members of one of the Rajasthan royal family, the princess of Cooch Behar, amongst other achievements held the Guinness Book of Record honour for the world’s largest landslide election victory (winning 192,909 votes out of 246,516 cast). Which well-known Indian (who is no longer amongst us) are we referring to ? Ans: Maharani Gayatri Devi Q339: In which city will you be if you are watching a polo match in the Jaipur polo grounds? Ans: Delhi Q340: With which two rivers would you associate the name Varanasi? Ans: Varuna and Assi Q341: In 1931, Kasturbhai, Narottambhai and Chimanbhai incorporated a venture during the swadeshi movement with an objective to indigenously produce fine and superfine cotton fabrics for the Indian markets. What did they establish? Ans: Arvind Mills Q342: Isa Khan Effendi, a world famous architect from Egypt is credited with the design of a famous struture, which one? Ans: The Taj Mahal Q343: His real name was Maheshdas. He wrote under the pen name "Brahma" and a collection of his poems are preserved in Bharatpur Musuem. Who? Ans: Birbal Q344: Which Sikh Guru compiled the Granth Sahib? Ans: Guru Arjan Dev-the 5th guru Q345: By which name/title do we know Shivaputra Siddharamaiyya Komkali better? Ans: Pandit Kumar Gandharva Q346: Kundanlal Saigal sang the famous song "Babul mora" in the movie "Street Singer". Who composed the lyrics of this song (Hint: also the playwright of Indra Sabha)? Ans: Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Avadh Q347: Which was the first Hindi movie to have its dialogues completely in verse? Ans: Heer Ranjha directed by Chetan Anand Q348: Manikarnika, daughter of Moropant, a courtier of Baji Rao II is known to us more by which name? Ans: Rani of Jhansi, Lakshmibai Q349: A well-known leader. This member of the House of Commons in the late 1800s was known as Mr. Narrow Majority. Who? Ans: Dadhabhai Naoroji Q350: Which collective term are we referring to if we are talking about: the tricks of divide and rule; the importance of being careful in making friends, the perils of natural enemies becoming friends, the act of losing what you already have in hand and the disastrous effects of saying things without proper thought? Ans: Panchatantra or the Five Tantras. Q351: Which Indian city was founded in 1519 by Quli Qutub Shah? Ans: Hyderabad Q352: Whose ships were the Sao Rafael, Sao Gabriel and the Berrio? Ans: Vasco da Gama Q353: He lives at Kalpa in Kinnaur-Himachal Pradesh. Shyam Sharan was a part of an unique moment of history on October 23, 1951. The moment was since then authenticated by the authority in 2007. The 90-year old man has an alert mind and follows the destiny of the nation as keen as before. What was his achievement? Ans: He was the first voter of free India Q354: With which famous sanctuary would you associate Kharmor (Lesser Florican) which is amongst the smallest bustards in the world? Ans: Sailana bird sanctuary Q355: This cave is at the height of 3,880 metres (12,700 feet). One of the legends say that it was discovered by a Muslim shepherd Buta Malik. It was here that the divine husband talked about the creation and dissolution of universe to his half-asleep divine wife. It is 48- kms from Pahalgam and the stop-overs can include Chandanwari, Seshnag, Baltal and Panchtarni. Can you name the annual yatra? Ans: Amarnath yatra Q356: They first came to this port city from Aleppon in Syria and an old cemetery lies in Katargam in Surat. Can you name the community? Ans: Baghdadi Jews Q357: Tukoji Rao II (1844-1886) of the Holkar reign built the M.T.H Hospital, Shiv Vilas Palace, Kila (now a Girls Degree College), began the construction of the Lal Baugh Palace and constructed a pioneering of railway line between where to Indore? Ans: Khandwa Q358: Located in the Dattagiri hill range of the Western Ghats it is revered both by the Hindus and Muslims. The sufi saint came in the 11 century and was a disciple of Dada Hyath. Name the saint Ans: Baba Budan Q359: This century old tradition is at Kotakkal in Malappuram district of Kerala. The organisation employs over 3,000 people and has a turnover of Rs 200 crore. Pioneered by the Warrier family , can you name the organization? Ans: Arya Vaidya Shala Q360: In which year did Mohun Bagan beat the East York Regiment to become the first Indian team to win the IFA Shield? Ans: 1911 Q361: It was founded in 1924 by Master Sunder Singh Lyallpuri, founder-father of the Akali Movement and the Shiromani Akali Dal in Punjab, with the contributions from USA, Canada and mainly from the sons of the soil belonging to Lyallpur from the district of Sheikhpura (now in Pakistan). The earliest members include a tehsildar, S Mangal Singh Gill, Chanchal Singh from Jalandhar and the managing committee included legends like Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya and Master Tara Singh. The opening dedication was performed by Gandhiji on September 15, 1924. Which Indian institution are we talking about ? Ans: THE HINDUSTAN TIMES. Q362: The whole creation took place in exactly 6 hours notice when Lala Hardayal was invited to give a lecture as a result of factionalism within the YMCA. Pandit Ravi Shankar later put it to music? Ans: Muhammad Iqbal’s Saare Jahan Se Accha Q363: Common Hindi usage is a word called Saunf. What would be the exact name in English? Ans: Fennel Seeds Q364: With which state of India would you associate the following tribes: Angami, Ao, Chakhesang (Chokri/Kheza), Chang, Khiamniungan, Kuki, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sumi, Sangtam, Yimchungru and Zeliang? Ans: Nagaland Q365: Which raag is George Harrison playing in his sitar in the composition Norwegian Woods? Ans: Raag Bageshree Q366: Munshi Premchand started the journal Hans. Now, it is edited by a famous writer. Who? Ans: RAJENDRA YADAV Q367: Shamshad Begum first sang this song in a film made in 1941, which somehow went unnoticed. In 1972, Lata Mangeshkar sang the same song and created history. Which song? Ans.: “Inhi Logon Ne Le Lina Dupatta Mera” Q368: He was born on 13th May 1857, in Almora, Uttarakhand. At the age of 8, he was sent away to a boarding school in Southampton, England. In his school days he was very interested in writing poetry, painting and composing music. He was very dreamy and imaginative boy. In 1875, he went to study medicine at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. After completing his course in 1880, he joined Indian Medical Service and was posted to Madras. He died in 16thSeptember 1932 after a long illness and severe asthma attack in Bath House, London. Who is he? Ans: Sir Ronald Ross. Nobel Prize Winner in Physiology for discovering malaria parasite in 1902. Q369: The roots of this kind of music can be traced back to Persia (today’s Afghanistan and Iran). In 11th century this Persian musical tradition called ‘Sema’ or ‘Sama’ majorly migrated to South Asia, Turkey and Uzbekistan. Amir Khusro Dahelvi is credited for fusing Persian and Indian musical tradition to create this as we know it today in the late 13 thcentury. What? Ans: Qawwali. Q370: X is known in Indian Alchemy by the following mes: parada, rasa, rasendra, rasaraja, capala and suta. All these names are associated with shiva. What is X? Ans: Mercury Q371: The monthly newsletter of which Indian organization is Trustmail? Ans: The Unit Trust of india Q372: Mother's name Prabhabati. Later she was called Iqbal Begum. Mother was the grand- daughter of Rabindranath Tagore's younger brother. The daughter who is a legendary actress was also a poet. Can you name the actress? Ans: Meena Kumari Q373:Which Indian institution was the site of Old Hijli detention camp? Ans: IIT Kharagpur Q374: Governor General Lord Bentick initiated this in 1840. He formed a committee that got the seeds from China and raised nurseries in the Brahmaputra Valley, Darjeeling and the Nilgiri areas.What did he start? Ans: Commercial tea plantations Q375: The important number is 7. It covers 2,369 kms from Varanasi to Kanyakumari. What are we discussing? Ans: Longest National Highway Q376: Built by Quli Qutub Shah, in 1591, with granite and lime-mortar. What was the main purpose of this iconic monument? Ans: Charminar: Eradication of plague Q377: We often buy CTC tea? What does CTC stand for? Ans: Cutting, Tearing Curling Q378: The first lift to be installed in India was in a building in Calcutta, in 1863 at the behest of Lord Curzon. Which was the building? Ans: Raj Bhawan or Governor’s Residence. his was only 10 years after the first lift ever was introduced by Otis in New York. Q379: It is in five parts. Its religious core is a collection of songs or hymns, the Gathas, The voluminous manuscripts of theoriginal are said to have been destroyed when Alexander the Great when he conquered Persia. The present text was assembled from remnants and standardized under the Sasanian kings (3rd–7thcentury AD). What are we discussing? Ans: Zend Avesta Q380: Which vice-President of India was one of the first recipients of the Bharat Ratna in 1954? Ans: Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan Q381: Who demarcated the line that was to divide India and Pakistan? Ans: Sir Cyril Radcliffe Q382: Regarded as one of the most intelligent statesmen during his times. The later Mughal dynasty was virtually at his mercy. The Maratha power was at its peak during his times. His link with a dancer is a subject of a forthcoming proposed Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie. Passed away, when he could not hear the defeat of his army and death of his sons in a battle, which could have turned the course of Indian History. Who is this person? Ans: Peshwa Baji Rao II Q383: its biological name is derived from a Latin phrase meaning resembling the heart – A description of the fruit. The Portuguese name is commonly used, derieved from the name used for it by the Tepi tribe of Brazil who first bred the plan. In Kerela it is known by a name meaning ' Foreign Mango' and in some other parts by a name meaning ' Goan Mango'. Identify Ans: Cashew Q384: He made his acting debut in Ketan Mehta's "Holi" in 1985 which was a film based on violence in college politics. Incidentally, Aamir Khan also made his debut in the same movie in a small role. But his foray into acting was not successful and he tried his hand at modelling for the Close Up toothpaste and Lifebuoy soap. Who is this person in question? Ans: Ashutosh Gowariker Q385: Rudraprayag lies at the confluence of the Mandakini river, flowing from the mountain behind the Kedarnath shrine and which other river that flows out at the foot of the Badrinath shrine? Ans: Alaknanda Q386: Which ski-destination hosted the 2010 edition of South Asian Federation (SAF) winter games? Ans: Auli Q387: Madurai is situated on the serene banks of which river? Ans: Vaigai Q388: This bustling township has a number of must-see that includes 12th century Chandramouleshwara Temple, Unkal lake, Nrupatunga Betta, Gayatri Taopvan, Kittur Chennamma Park and Indira Glass House Garden. It is wedged between districts of Belgaum to the north, Uttar Kannad to thr west, Haveri to the south and Gadag to the east. Name the township Ans: Hubli Q389: Which 12th century fort was built by the Yadava general Raja Bhillamraj on the Deogiri hill? (Hint: Mendha canon, Bharat Mata temple and Chand Minar-the pillar of victory) Ans: Daulatabad Fort Q390: Emperor Akbar planted 1,200 chinar trees on the banks of Dal and named it Garden of the Breezes. Now a part of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) campus, it is one of the lesser known attraction. How do we know the graden better as? Ans: Naseem Bagh Q391: If you are at the Mindrolling Monastery in the clement town area, which city are you in? Ans: Dehradun Q392: Which city houses Sir Arthur Cotton Museum and the barrage at Dowlaiswaram? Ans: Rajamundhry Q393: Erected in 1792, this grew on to become India's first modern observatory. Sailor- suveyor-astronomer Michael Topping came here with his instruments in 1785. Which city are we referring to? Ans: Madras Q394: Indian player Bharathi Dasan lost the men's finals to Sri Lanka's Nishantha Fernando in the sixth edition of World Championships. In the women's section, in an Indian final Rashmi Kumar defeated Illavazhagi. Name the sport Ans: Carrom Q395: A Portugese traveller visited the court of Krishnadeva Raya. Name the traveller Ans: Domingo Paes Q396: Ibrahim Shah Sarqui built the Atala Masjid. Name the town Ans: Jaunpur Q397: Which R.K. Narayan classic opens with the line: His Mother, Who Died delivering him, and his father, who was killed in Mesopotamia, might have been figures in a legend as far as Sriram was concerned? Ans: Waiting for Mahatma Q398: Which Vikram Seth book of poetry has an important recreation of a fragment that pays tribute to the Babarnama? Ans: The Humble Administrator's Garden Q399: Amongst the top six individual score in a follow-on effort, are the exploits of three Indians in Test cricket. They were V.V.S Laxman (2000-01) with 281, Rahul Dravid (2000-01) with 180 and who against New Zealand for a heroic innings at Mumbai in 1964-65, where he scored 200 not out? Ans: Dilip Sardesai Q400: This unique 10 acre sanctuary, the only of its kind in the world currently has 65 of the species. Called as Punnathurkotta facility, the place now has veterinary doctors and attendants. What does this palace near Thrissur specialise in? Ans: Elephants Q401: He took the title of Vatapikonda when he defeated Pulakeshin II and captured Vatapi. Hiuen Tsang visited Kanchi during his reign. Name the king Ans: Narashimhaverman I Q402: What was the real name of Swami Vivekananda? Ans: Narendranath Dutta Q403: Mahavira's teachings were written in a form called Prakrit also called as Ardh what? Ans: Ardh Magadhi Q404: Mahatma Jyotiba Phule used this medium to include social themes. His version included inspiration themes giving birth to the satysshodhak sub-genre. This genre takes its name from a word that has an Arabic origin which means a sight worth watching for. Popular around Chiplun, Guhagar and Ratnagiri, one important variant is Kalgi-Tura style. Early bards include Uma and Bapu of Pev and Savlaj villages of Sangli district. Which oral genre are we talking about? Ans: Tamasha Q405: Which area in one word are we looking if we are talking about Mata Na Madh, Chhari-Dhandh, and Dhinodhar Mountain, semi-parched grassslands of Banni and Lakhpat and ehtnic wares of indigenous tribes including Ahirs, Rabaris and Meghawals? Ans: Kutch Q406: Which well-known vocalist (middle name Bheemarayappa) of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana was also referred to as Fakir of Khayal? Ans: Mallikarjan Mansur Q407: Which hill would be the highest point in the Shimla hill station? Ans: Jakhoo Hill Q408: Beyond the Lines is more than a autobiography. Spanning from pre-partition to the present, it looks at some important phases of India's political history. Name the journalist who penned the memoirs Ans: Kuldip Nayar Q409: Pandit Ravi Shankar became the first Indian to win a Grammy award in 1967 for “West Meets East” with Yehudi Menuhin-in which category? Ans: Best Chamber Music Performance Q410: Who wrote the play Nildarpan on the harsh conditions of Indigo planters and the production was performed in Kolkata in 1872? Ans: Dinabandhu Mitra Q411: Which marble connects Taj Mahal and Victoria Memorial in Kolkata? Ans: Makrana Q412: Inbuan: form of wrestling. In this form pulling up is needed instead of pinning down. Which state of India are we referring? Ans: Mizoram Q413: Victoria Portrait series in 1880s. Gandhi portrait series in contemporary times. What are we referring to? Ans: Currency notes Q415: The national flag as we see it was designed by whom? Ans: Pingalli Venkaiyya Q416: The 12.5 acre Indu Mill complex in Dadar (central Mumbai) under the possession of National Textile Mills has been handed over to the state for a memorial of which great Indian? Ans: Dr B.R. Ambedkar Q417: The book Unto the Last profoundly influenced Gandhi especially at a period between Phoenix Farm in Durban 1904 and Tolstoy Farm in Johannesberg in 1910 and thereafter. Name the author? Ans: John Ruskin Q418: India’s largest fresh water lake-this one was known as Mahapadma after a snake king. Kalhan refers to the lake in Rajtarangini. Name the lake in Kashmir Ans: Wular Lake Q419: One of the oldest surviving modern theatre halls in Shimla, this grand structure celebrated its centenary in 1987. Name the hall Ans: Gaiety theatre Q420: Who was the first Indian woman to feature in a postage stamp? Ans: Meerabai Q421: The phrase Satyameva Jayate is taken from which Upanishad? Ans: Mundaka Upanishad Q422: As per Indian Railways, what does PNR stand for? Ans: Passenger Name Record Q423: April 13, 1930, Rajaji began his salt march from where to Vedaranayam? Ans: Tiruchi Q424: Who presented Arjuna with a Gandiva in Mahabharata? Ans: Varuna Q425: Clue 1: Patangarh of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh. Clue 2: Jangarh Singh Shyam. Name the art form Ans: Gond Q426: His Hollywood films include Beau Geste (1926), Dancing Mothers (1926) and Tonight at Twelve (1929). Died in Los Angeles. Served as a secretary of Indian Football Association between 1900 and 1902. Name the legend Ans: Norman Pritchardf Q427: Monastery was re-established in 1672 by King Sengge Namgyal. Annual festival honours Padmasambhava. The legend of Naropa, disciple of yogi Tilopa is associated with this historic structure. Name the monastery Ans: Hemis Q428: In Treta Yuga, there is reference to Girikarnika. Rising from the Dheebar Lake in the Aravallis, the tributaries include Wakal, Sei and Harnav. Can you name the river? Ans: Sabarmati Q429: US missionaries founded the hill station in 1844-45 to escape a bout of cholera in Madurai. Which station? Ans: Kodaikanal Q430: Which pitch curator is common to Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag’s double ton in One Day Internationals? Ans: Samundar Singh Q431: Which is the only pedestrian hill station in India where vehicles are not allowed? Ans: Matheran Q432: In charge of Calcutta Mint between 1832 to 1838, he studied and deciphered Ashokan rocks and pillars. His essays on antiquities are considered as classics. Hint: Varanasi. Who are we referring to? Ans: James Prinsep Q433: Sagol Khongjei in Manipur paved the way for which sport? Ans: Polo Q434: Which mountain range separates Jammu from Kashmir? Ans: Pir Panjal Q435: Song Celestial by Edwin Arnold is a English rendition of which Indian text? Ans: Bhagwad Gita Q436: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose set up the Azad Hind government on October 21, 1943. Where? Ans: Cathay Cinema House in Singapore Q437: What is the real name of the great Gandhian Meerabehn? Ans: Madelaine Slade Q438: The flag on the top of Lord Jagannath’s rath in Puri is called what? Ans: Trailokya Mohini Q439: The name Bihar is known as a variation of which word? Ans: It comes from Vihara-the Buddhist monastery Q440: T.S. Eliot’s The Wasteland ends with which word repeated thrice? Ans: Shanti! Shanti! Shanti! Q441: The mind (mana) of Brahma created which water body? Ans: Manas Sarover Q442: Originally known as Dasagreev, when he made an attempt to move mount Kailash, Lord Shiva was enraged as his impudence. He pressed the mountain on Dasagreev’s toe and a new name was born. Hint: He stole Pushpak from Kubera. Who are we referring to? Ans: Ravana (meaning scream) Q443: He served king Rituparna as the charioteer and later lost his kingdom to Pushkara over a game of dice. Who? Ans: Nala Q444: Matsya Jantra-an ancient India instrument is a precursor to what? Ans: Compass Q445: On whose curse did Arjuna take the Brihannala form and stayed for a year in King Virata’s court? Ans: Urvashi Q446: Who discovered the first tea plant in Brahmaputra valley in Assam? Ans: Robert Bruce Q447: Which Indian township gets the name from a phrase used by the Canadians during a mining operation? Ans: Digboi (from the phrase Dig boy dig) Q448: 1963 to 1967. Who was the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh? Ans: Sucheta Kriplani Q449: Who became the Congress President from Pandit Nehru, when the latter formed Interim Government of 1947? Ans: J.B.Kripalani Q450: Photographer in Godhra. Death of first wife and child in bubonic plague. Met German magician Carl Hertz. Worked for Archaeological Survey of India and later for painter Raja Ravi Verma.Name the legend Ans: Dadasaheb Phalke Q451: Documented by historian Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai, this form took it’s genesis around 11th-12th century AD and was created during a protracted period of warfare between Chola and Chera dynasties. Can you name the form? Ans: Kalaripayattu Q452: Which word is common to Ramvilas Paswan's now eclipsed world record in electoral politics and an important centre of the Buddhist circuit: Vaishali? Ans: Hajipur Q453: Which three cities (including an European city) are three important pivots in M.F Hussain and Owais Hussain's jointly scripted venture Meenaxi-Tale of three cities? Ans: Hyderabad, Jaisalmer and Prague Q454: Which Hindustani classical vocalist has set up trust dedicated to her mother's memory and promotion of classical music called Shakhri Begum Memorial Trust? Ans: Ustad Rashid Khan of Rampur Sahaswan gharana Q455: He lived a full life. Deeply inspired by Gandhian values. When he was 20, he board the cargo ship Janus and reached California on October 8, 1922. Who was the legendary Indian? Ans: Jayprakash Narayan Q456: The Central Police Forces or CPFS comprises of the following companies: Central Industrial Security Force, National Security Guard, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Assam Rifles and SSB. What does SSB stand for? : Ans: Sahastra Seema Bal Q457: Two clues: This former Indian medium pacer coached Bengal during 2006-2007 with distinction. He coached Baroda for the 2007-2008 season. Can you name him? Ans: Paras Mhambrey Q458: The roots of this kind of music can be traced back to Persia (today’s Afghanistan and Iran). In 11th century this Persian musical tradition called ‘Sema’ or ‘Sama’ majorly migrated to South Asia, Turkey and Uzbekistan. Amir Khusro Dahelvi is credited for fusing Persian and Indian musical tradition to create this as we know it today in the late 13 th century. What? Ans: Qawwali. In India, Pakistan and Bangladesh a session of Qawwali is called ‘Mehfil-E- Sama’. Q459: Lord Macaulay drafted Indian penal code in which year? Ans: 1861 Q460: Tehri Dam has been constructed on which tributary of Ganga? Ans: Bhagirathi Q461: Who was called Gandhi’s economist (Hint: a seminal book: Economy of Permanence? Ans: Joseph Chelladurai Cornelius Kumarappa Q462: He was born in Rajkot. As a 21 year old on his first tour to England in 1932 he took 11 wickets at an average of 20.74 and was described later as the best bowler seen in England since the war. He had the honour of scoring India’s first test match half-century. A famed part of a pace duo with Mohammed Nissar, he died prematurely at the age of 29. Who? Ans: Amar Singh Q463: With which Indian publication of Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) would you associate late Anil Agrawal and some of his pioneering journalistic work? Ans: Down to Earth Q464: Who is Sunil Gavaskar's lone test match victim and what was the batsman's score? Ans: Zaheer Abbas of Pakistan. He was batting on 199. Q465: Who was the first Indian cricket captain to win all five tosses in a Test series? Ans: Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi Q466: His masculinity was swapped. He was was finally killed by Ashwathama on the 18th day of battle. Who? Ans: Shikhandi Q467: The writer Madhuri Gharpure a Dombivili resident overheard someone relating the story in a Mumbai local train and wrote it down for a Marathi newsletter. It was made into a contemporary film that talked about frontiers of medical responsibility and was sent as the official entry for the Oscars. Name the film? Ans: Shwaas Q468: He has had a brief acting career, in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. He has since gone on to become a sports commentator, has been a judge at the Miss Universe pageant, and has developed a successful multimedia business called Hyde Park Entertainment along with his brother. Who am I talking about? Ans: Vijay Amritraj Q469: Which legendary medium pacer won the Kartick Bose Lifetime Achievement Award for the Cricket Association for Bengal annual awards ceremony of the season 2006-2007? Ans: Durga Shankar Mukherjee Q470: Along with his wife Sarsaswati, he shot a small demo-film called The Birth of a Pea Plant to prove to friends about celluloid as a valid medium for telling stories.The film also served as an official document in London to raise funds for his bigger project. Name the pioneer Ans: Dadasaheb Phalke Q471: She has a half Slovenian origin, her mother's name is Bonnie Pandya. Who? Ans: Sunita Williams. Q472: It was founded in 1924 by Master Sunder Singh Lyallpuri, founder-father of the Akali Movement and the Shiromani Akali Dal in Punjab, with the contributions from USA, Canada and mainly from the sons of the soil belonging to Lyallpur from the district of Sheikhpura (now in Pakistan). The earliest members include a tehsildar, S Mangal Singh Gill, Chanchal Singh from Jalandhar and the managing committee included legends like Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya and Master Tara Singh. The opening dedication was performed by Gandhiji on September 15, 1924. Which Indian institution are we talking about ? Ans: THE HINDUSTAN TIMES. Q473: The whole creation took place in exactly 6 hours notice when Lala Hardayal was invited to give a lecture as a result of factionalism within the YMCA. Pandit Ravi Shankar later put it to music? Ans: Muhammad Iqbal’s Saare Jahan Se Accha Q474: During Taimur the Lame's invasion, his forces were reported to have a slayed almost a million residents in this hill area in Delhi during a bloody fortnight. Which hill? Ans: Raisina Hill Q475: Which raag is George Harrison playing in his sitar in the composition Norwegian Woods? Ans: Raag Bageshree Q476: Munshi Premchand started the newspaper Hans. Now, it is edited by a famous writer. Who? Ans: RAJENDRA YADAV Q478: Two clues. It is the national game of Bangladesh. One of the former India internationals to have played the sport and captained the country is Bishwajit Palit. Name the sport. Ans: Kabaddi Q479: Samar Jodha's important public art installation partially titled A Silent Picture has been installed in London around the same time as the Olympics. What is the theme? Ans: Bhopal Gas Tragedy Q480: Which city in India would you be if you are boarding a bus from the Maharana Pratap Inter State Bus Terminus? Ans: Delhi Q481: Which element was discovered by a team of astronomers who had camped near Bellary, Karnataka in 1868? Ans: Helium Q482: Which national park in north-east is famous for the dancing dear? Ans: Keibul Lamjao in Manipur Q483: Sachin Tendulkar’s first world record was for his school Shardashram Vidyamandir in a school cricket tournament in Mumbai. Which tournament? Ans: Harris Shield Q484: Which hockey goalkeeping legend won three consecutive gold medals between 1928 and 1936 in Olympic hockey? Ans: Richard Allen Q485: Thirty-eight year old Goanese Maria Rebello became the first Indian woman with a world apex body badge to officiate what? Ans: Santosh Trophy Q486: This year is one of revisiting old landmarks. G. Sathiyan became a medallist in 16th Asian Junior Table Tennis Championships in Bangkok, 30 years after Sujoy Ghorpade won a bronze in 1980. Our question is of a similar drift but from a different sport. He won a freestyle bronze in 2009 at Herning in Denmark exactly 42 years after Vishambar Singh won silver in the same event. Name the wrestler Ans: Ramesh Kumar Q487: If you break this word meaning of this yoga style, it would signify individually sun and the moon. The first text of this style of yoga called as the stretched effort was published in 15th century and was called Yoga Pradipika. Can you name the style? Ans: Hatha Q488: What is the significance of Hanuman Vyayam Pracharak Mandal of Amravati especially in the context of 1936? Ans: Kabaddi as a demonstration sport during Berlin Olympics. It became national game only in 1952 Q489: The first sultan of Delhi, Qutubuddin Aibak fell to his death in 1210 AD of injuries suffered from playing a version of polo. What was polo called then? Ans: Chaugan Q490: This sport ke nang huan is played in an important group island by tribals. The male tribals take a wild pig and lock it inside a bamboo cage and subsequently tie one of the legs to long rope. A time limit is then set and the cage is smashed and as the enraged pig is about to set itself free.The two male standing at 6 metre distance has to pin it. Name the island Ans: Nicobar Q491: In 1875, snooker was invented in India by Col (Sir) Neville Chamberlain (1856-1944). The game formally reached England in 1885 and the modern scoring system began from 1891. Which city was the site of the historic invention? Ans: Jabalpur Q492: This institution has Nasser Hussain as one of the honorary members. Formed in 1846, by the civil servant Alexander Arbuthnot on the “Island” Name the famous Indian club Ans: Madras Cricket Club Q493: Uncle captained India in test cricket and the nephew captained Pakistan. Can you name both? Ans: Ghulam Ahmed-India and Asif Iqbal-Pakistan Q494: On whose name the Commonwealth Games 2010 swimming complex in Delhi has been christened? Ans: Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Q495: By what name do we remember the protests against Indian Statutory Commission during our freedom struggle? Ans: Simon Commission protests SPECIAL HERITAGE ROUND: MAHABHARATA Q1: Can you name the lake formed by the drops of Ganga which descended from the matted locks of Lord Shiva? Q2: Which name connects one of the Kaurava brothers with a Gandharva king who fought with Arjuna and was defeated in the battle? Q3: What was the capital of Panchala? Q4: Dushala: only sister of Duryodhana was the wife of which warrior? Q5: This is a beautiful purple flower with shades of white and mauve. The flower lends its name to banner of Abhimanyu. Can you name the flower? Q6: Which Nishad king was the father of Ekalvya? Q7: Name the conch of Nakula Q8: The king of chedis, he was killed by Krishna during Rajsuya-yagna. Name the king Q9: A Bengali film based on Saratchandra Chatterjee novel Pather Dabi (The demand of the road) was made on him. The film was called Sabysachi-one of the names of Arjuna who could use both his hands equally well in battle. Name the Indian revolutionary Q10: Which great snake is said to be the bed of Vishnu, bearing the world on its thousand hoods? Q11: In Peter Brook's production Mahabharata which famous Indian performer and social activist essayed the role of Draupadi? Q12: Anantavijaya is the conch of which king? Q13: She completed her version of a children's Mahabharta when she was 12. Tara Books recently published the book. Name the young writer Q14: Can you name the Shyam Benegal film which explores a cinematic contemporary treatment on the Mahabharata? Q15: Who is Ghatokach's mother? Q16: While battling with cancer, she finished a brilliant rendering of Mahabharata. Daughter of the great Kannada writer, T.P Kailasam. Name the lady Q17: Who commanded Kauravas on the 18th day of the war? Q18: Who wrote the famous play Andha Yug? Q19: One of Tagore's major poems talks about the imaginary meeting of which Mahabharata characters. One is Karna. Can you name the other? Q20: Which minor but significant character was called Yuyudhana? Answers: 1: Bindusaras 2: Chitrasena 3: Kampilya 4: Dushhala 5: Kovidhara 6: Hiranyadhanus 7: Sughosha 8: Sisupala 9: Rashbehari Bose 10: Adishesha 11: Mallika Sarabhai 12: Yudhistira 13: Samhita Arni 14: Kalyug 15: Hidimbi 16: Kamala Subramaniam 17: Shalya 18: Dharmavir Bharati 19: The dialogue of Karna and Kunti 20: Satyaki, cousin of Lord Krishna