Test: History and Culture MCQs (July 2024 Current Affairs) - UPSC MCQ

The significance of the recent discovery of the world's oldest known figurative cave painting lies in indicating that early humans engaged in elaborate visual arts to represent relationships between humans and animals. This finding suggests a deeper history of figurative art than previously believed, showcasing a sophisticated narrative tradition among early humans. It sheds light on the cultural practices of ancient societies and hints at the emergence of a rich artistic heritage, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling and artistic expression in early human civilizations.

Statement-I:

"Kozhikode has been recognized as the 'City of Literature' under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network."

• This statement is correct. In November 2023, Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, was recognized as a 'City of Literature' under UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for its rich literary traditions.

Statement-II:

"Jaipur is designated as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts in 2015."

• This statement is also correct. Jaipur was indeed designated as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts in 2015, recognizing its deep heritage in these areas.

Conclusion:

Both statements are correct, but they pertain to different cities and topics, so Statement-II does not explain Statement-I.

Thus, the correct answer is:

Option 3: Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I

Let's examine each statement:

• Statement-I: "Sant Kabir Das was born into a Muslim weaver family in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh."

  • This statement is widely accepted as correct. Kabir Das is believed to have been born into a Muslim weaver family in Varanasi.

• Statement-II: "Kabir's literary works include Kabir Bijak, Kabir Parachai, and Adi Granth."

  • This statement is also correct. "Kabir Bijak" and "Kabir Parachai" are well-known collections of Kabir's teachings and poems. However, "Adi Granth" is the holy scripture of the Sikhs, which includes verses of Kabir among other saints, but it is not a work authored by Kabir himself.

Since both statements are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (they are related but independent pieces of information), the correct answer is:

3. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I

Statement-I correctly reflects the intention behind the renaming of Joshimath tehsil to Jyotirmath, which is to enhance Uttarakhand's appeal as a religious tourism destination by emphasizing its historical and spiritual significance. On the other hand, Statement-II inaccurately suggests that renaming Kosiyakutoli to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham tehsil aligns its identity with Neem Karoli Baba's Kainchi Dham Ashram. This is not the primary reason for the renaming; rather, it aims to honor the spiritual figure and enhance recognition and reverence for the region. Thus, while Statement-I is correct, Statement-II is incorrect.

Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct. The Santhal Hul of 1855 and the Munda Ulgulan were indeed significant peasant and tribal revolts respectively against British colonial rule in India. The Santhal Hul was led by the Murmu brothers and sisters, while the Munda Ulgulan was led by Birsa Munda. These revolts aimed to address various grievances faced by their communities, such as economic exploitation and cultural oppression. Statement-II explains the context of tribal uprisings during Indian Independence and adds depth to the discussion of resistance against colonial rule in India.

Statement-I mentions the quantities of gold and silver in the Ratna Bhandar as per the 1978 inventory, but this information is outdated. The statement does not reflect the current status or accuracy of the contents of the Ratna Bhandar. Statement-II accurately states that the Ratna Bhandar has remained closed for the past 46 years, as mentioned in the provided information. The temple authorities recently unlocked the Ratna Bhandar after 46 years, indicating that it was indeed closed for a significant period. Thus, Statement-II is correct in reflecting this fact, while Statement-I is based on outdated information and is therefore incorrect.

1. Kabir Bijak - Literary work by Sant Kabir Das: Correct. Kabir Bijak is one of the significant literary works of Sant Kabir Das, who was a notable figure in the Bhakti movement and influenced Indian literature.

2. Hoysala Dynasty - Founder of Nalanda University: Incorrect. The Nalanda University was founded by Kumar Gupta of the Gupta dynasty in the early 5th century, not by the Hoysala dynasty.

3. Keshava Temple - Built by Somanatha during the reign of Narasimha III: Correct. The Keshava Temple at Somanathapura was constructed by Somanatha, a commander of the Hoysala Army, during the reign of Hoysala King Narasimha III.

4. Bhakti Movement - Originated in North India: Incorrect. The Bhakti movement originated in South India and later spread to North India during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Thus, only pairs 1 and 3 are correctly matched.

1. Statement 1 is correct. The Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath Temple in Puri has indeed remained closed for the past 46 years until it was recently unlocked.

2. Statement 2 is correct. The Jagannath Temple is a prime example of Kalinga architecture and was constructed by Ananta Varman Chodaganga Deva in the 12th century.

3. Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Jagannath Temple is part of the Golden Triangle of Odisha, this triangle includes major tourist destinations in the state, not specifically pilgrimage sites.

Thus, only statements 1 and 2 are correct. Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

• Statement 1 is correct. Kozhikode has indeed been recognized as the 'City of Literature' under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
• Statement 2 is correct. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network was established in 2004 and includes cities recognized for their contributions in various creative fields such as Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. While Srinagar was designated as a part of the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts in 2021, it received the 'World Crafts City' recognition from the World Craft Council (WCC) recently, but not specifically in 2021 as mentioned.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

The Uttarakhand government's initiative to rename Joshimath tehsil to Jyotirmath and Kosiyakutoli tehsil to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham tehsil primarily aims to preserve the historical and spiritual significance of these areas. By renaming these places, the government seeks to enhance their cultural and religious importance, attracting more pilgrims and devotees, thereby boosting the region's appeal as a religious tourism destination. This renaming effort underscores the state's commitment to honoring and safeguarding its rich heritage and traditions.

Statement 1 is correct. Sant Kabir Das was indeed born into a Hindu family in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, but was raised by a Muslim weaver couple. This reflects the syncretic nature of his upbringing, which influenced his teachings and philosophy.

Statement 2 is correct. Kabir Das's notable literary works, such as Kabir Bijak and Kabir Granthawali, were written in dialects like Brajbhasha and Awadhi, which significantly impacted Indian literature and the development of the Hindi language.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The Bhakti movement originated in South India and later spread to North India during the 14th and 15th centuries. Therefore, the statement that the Bhakti movement originated in North India is inaccurate.

Thus, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

1. Abhaya Mudra is associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi.
This statement is correct. The Abhaya Mudra symbolizes peace and friendship and is indeed associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi.

2. The Santhal Hul of 1855 was led by four brothers - Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav Murmu.
This statement is correct. The Santhal Hul, or the Santhal rebellion, was led by the four Murmu brothers: Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav.

3. The Chotanagpur Tenancy Act was a direct result of the Santhal Hul of 1855.
This statement is incorrect. The Chotanagpur Tenancy Act was enacted in 1908 as a result of the Birsa Movement, not directly because of the Santhal Hul of 1855. The Santhal Hul led to the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act of 1876.

Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct, while statement 3 is incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

1. Abhaya Mudra: Incorrectly matched. Abhaya Mudra is associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi, not the third Dhyani-Buddha Ratnasambhava.

2. Dharmachakra Mudra: Correctly matched. It symbolizes the 'Wheel of Dharma'.

3. Bhumisparsha Mudra: Correctly matched. It symbolizes the moment of Buddha's enlightenment under the pipal tree.

4. Dhyana Mudra: Correctly matched. It denotes a state of concentration and meditation.

Thus, three pairs are correctly matched.

Explanation:

- Abhaya Mudra, which symbolizes peace and friendship, is associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi.

- Dharmachakra Mudra represents the 'Wheel of Dharma' and is associated with the first Dhyani-Buddha, Vairochana.

- Bhumisparsha Mudra, symbolizing Buddha's enlightenment moment, is indeed correctly described.

- Dhyana Mudra, denoting a state of meditation, is also correctly described.

Hence, the answer is Option C: Only three pairs.

The Abhaya Mudra in Buddhism symbolizes peace and friendship, often associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi. This gesture with a raised open palm signifies reassurance, protection, and peace. It is a gesture conveying fearlessness and compassion, commonly depicted in various religious traditions to denote acts of pacification and assurance.

The Bhakti movement, which Kabir Das was a significant part of, emphasized devotion and love for the divine. This movement sought to foster a deep personal connection with the divine through various devotional practices and teachings. Kabir's contributions within this movement reflect his emphasis on spiritual devotion and unity, transcending religious boundaries and societal divisions.