The 'Pushkar Camel Fair', held annually in Rajasthan, is primarily associated with which religious belief and which month according to the Hindu calendar?
AWorship of Lord Brahma; Kartik month (October-November)
BWorship of Lord Krishna; Bhadrapada month (August-September)
CWorship of Lord Shiva; Chaitra month (March-April)
DWorship of Goddess Durga; Ashwin month (September-October)
Correct Answer:
A. Worship of Lord Brahma; Kartik month (October-November)
EXPLANATION
The Pushkar Fair is held on the banks of the Pushkar Lake near Ajmer and is dedicated to Lord Brahma, the only significant temple of Brahma in India. It takes place in the Kartik month (October-November) according to the Hindu calendar. This fair attracts pilgrims and traders from across India and the world.
Which river, originating in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan, is known as the 'Vein of Rajasthan' and flows through the state before joining the Arabian Sea?
ALuni River
BChambal River
CBanas River
DSutlej River
Correct Answer:
A. Luni River
EXPLANATION
The Luni River, also called the 'Vein of Rajasthan', originates in the Aravalli Range near Ajmer and flows through western Rajasthan. It is one of the most important rivers of the state and ultimately drains into the Arabian Sea. The Chambal and Banas are significant but not referred to as the 'Vein of Rajasthan'.
The Indus Valley Civilization's easternmost settlement in India was discovered in Rajasthan. What is its name?
ADholavira
BKalibangan
CHarappa
DMohenjo-daro
Correct Answer:
B. Kalibangan
EXPLANATION
Kalibangan in Hanumangarh district, Rajasthan, is one of the major Indus Valley Civilization sites showing evidence of fire altars and pre-Indus settlements.
Which Rajasthani folk dance form is performed exclusively by women during the monsoon season and involves graceful hand movements?
AGhoomar
BKathputli
CChari
DBhawai
Correct Answer:
A. Ghoomar
EXPLANATION
Ghoomar is a traditional women's folk dance of Rajasthan, performed in circular formation during festivals and special occasions, particularly associated with Udaipur.
The Battle of Haldi Ghati was fought between Maharana Pratap and which Mughal general?
AAkbar
BRaja Man Singh
CMirza Raja Jai Singh
DDara Shikoh
Correct Answer:
B. Raja Man Singh
EXPLANATION
The Battle of Haldi Ghati (1576) was fought between Maharana Pratap and Raja Man Singh, the Mughal general. Though Pratap lost, he remained undefeated.
Which Rajasthani ruler is famously associated with the 'Jauhar' tradition during Mughal invasions?
AMaharaja Sawai Jai Singh II
BMaharana Pratap Singh
CMaharani Padmavati
DMaharaja Man Singh
Correct Answer:
C. Maharani Padmavati
EXPLANATION
Maharani Padmavati of Chittorgarh is legendarily associated with 'Jauhar' (mass self-immolation) to protect honor during invasions, though historical authenticity is debated.