1. Gudi Padwa festival, which marks the traditional New Year, is primarily celebrated in which state of India?
A) Karnataka
B) Maharashtra
C) Gujarat
D) Goa
Answer: B
Explanation: Gudi Padwa is a spring-time festival that marks the traditional New Year for Marathi and Konkani Hindus. It is celebrated primarily in Maharashtra and Goa. The ‘Gudi’ is a banner or symbol that is raised on this day.
2. Makaravilakku festival is an annual event that is celebrated at the Sabarimala Temple in which South Indian state?
A) Andhra Pradesh
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Kerala
D) Karnataka
Answer: C
Explanation: Makaravilakku is an annual festival held at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala, coinciding with Makara Sankranti. The festival culminates in the sighting of the divine light, Makara Jyothi.
3. Kullu Dussehra, a major international festival, is mainly celebrated in which state, differing from the pan-Indian Dussehra customs?
A) Jammu and Kashmir
B) Himachal Pradesh
C) Uttarakhand
D) Punjab
Answer: B
Explanation: Kullu Dussehra is celebrated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh for seven days, starting on Vijayadashami. Unlike other parts of India, where effigies of Ravana are burnt, this festival involves a grand procession of deities.
4. The famous Sikh festival Vaisakhi, which marks the foundation of the Khalsa Panth, is celebrated every year in which month?
A) March
B) April
C) May
D) June
Answer: B
Explanation: Vaisakhi (Baisakhi) is celebrated on April 13th or 14th every year. It is a harvest festival, and for Sikhs, it marks the day in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth.
5. Tak Tok festival, associated with the Takthok Gompa monastery, is a prominent Buddhist festival celebrated in which region of India?
A) Sikkim
B) Arunachal Pradesh
C) Ladakh
D) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: C
Explanation: Tak Tok Festival is celebrated at the Takthok Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Ladakh, usually in the month of July or August.
6. Wangala festival, also known as the ‘100 Drums Festival’, is celebrated in which Indian state as a post-harvest thanksgiving to the Sun God?
A) Nagaland
B) Tripura
C) Meghalaya
D) Manipur
Answer: C
Explanation: Wangala is the largest and most important festival of the Garo tribe in Meghalaya. It is a post-harvest festival where thanks is given to Misi Saljong, the Sun God of fertility.
7. In which state of India is Lokrang Utsav, a cultural festival showcasing folk and tribal arts, celebrated annually?
A) Rajasthan
B) Madhya Pradesh
C) Uttar Pradesh
D) Bihar
Answer: B
Explanation: Lokrang Utsav is a five-day cultural festival organized by the Adivasi Lok Kala Academy in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and is dedicated to celebrating the folk and tribal traditions of India.
8. For how many days is the Hornbill Festival, the ‘Festival of Festivals’, held in Nagaland every year?
A) 7
B) 10
C) 12
D) 5
Answer: B
Explanation: The Hornbill Festival is celebrated every year from December 1st to 10th in Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland. It is a celebration of the unique culture and traditions of the state’s tribes.
9. Sarhul festival, celebrated by the Oraon, Munda, and Ho tribes, is observed in Jharkhand during which season?
A) Rainy season
B) Winter season
C) Autumn season
D) Spring season
Answer: D
Explanation: Sarhul is a tribal festival celebrated in the Spring season (March-April) in Jharkhand. It is the festival of the New Year, where the sal trees (shorea robusta) blossom.
10. Which famous historical festival, celebrated with pomp and splendor during the Vijayanagara Empire, was also known as Vijay Utsav?
A) Konark Dance Festival
B) Ganesh Chaturthi
C) Hampi Festival
D) Mysore Dasara
Answer: C
Explanation: The Hampi Festival (also known as Vijaya Utsav) is a cultural extravaganza held in the ruins of Hampi, Karnataka, to commemorate the glories of the Vijayanagara Empire.
11. Modhera Dance Festival is an annual festival that takes place at the Sun Temple in which district of Gujarat?
A) Kutch
B) Jamnagar
C) Mehsana
D) Ahmedabad
Answer: C
Explanation: The Modhera Dance Festival is organized every year in the month of January by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat, at the Sun Temple in Modhera village of Mehsana district.
12. Phuldei festival, a harvest festival where children place flowers on the doorsteps of houses, is celebrated in which state?
A) Himachal Pradesh
B) Sikkim
C) Uttarakhand
D) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: C
Explanation: Phuldei is a harvest festival celebrated in Uttarakhand, marking the beginning of the Hindu New Year. Children collect flowers and decorate the entrance of houses in the village.
13. Shigmotsav, a spring festival known for its vibrant street parades, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in which state?
A) Karnataka
B) Goa
C) Maharashtra
D) Kerala
Answer: B
Explanation: Shigmotsav (or Shigmo) is the Konkani name for Holi, a spring festival celebrated in Goa and parts of Maharashtra. It is a major event involving traditional folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi.
14. Which major Hindu festival is celebrated in the last month (Phalguna) of the Hindu calendar?
A) Diwali
B) Dussehra
C) Holi
D) Janmashtami
Answer: C
Explanation: Holi, the Festival of Colors, is celebrated on the Purnima (full moon) of the Phalguna month, which is the last month of the traditional Hindu calendar.
15. Raja Parba, a four-day festival celebrating womanhood and the fertility of the Earth, is celebrated in which state?
A) West Bengal
B) Assam
C) Tripura
D) Odisha
Answer: D
Explanation: Raja Parba, or Mithuna Sankranti, is an agricultural festival celebrated in Odisha for four days. It is believed that the Earth (Bhumi Devi) undergoes menstruation during this time, signifying fertility.
16. In which state of India is Makar Sankranti celebrated as Posh Sakranti?
A) Assam
B) Bihar
C) Jharkhand
D) West Bengal
Answer: D
Explanation: Makar Sankranti is known as Posh Sakranti in West Bengal, especially in the coastal regions. It is a major occasion for the Ganga Sagar Mela.
17. The Buddhist festival Songkran (or Sankranti), which is the New Year, is considered prominent among the Tai-Khamti community in which Indian state?
A) Sikkim
B) Arunachal Pradesh
C) Ladakh
D) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: Songkran, celebrated in mid-April, is the traditional New Year for the Tai-Khamti, Singpho, and other Buddhist communities, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh.
18. Surajkund Fair, also known as International Crafts Fair, is organized every year in which state near Delhi?
A) Uttar Pradesh
B) Rajasthan
C) Haryana
D) Punjab
Answer: C
Explanation: The Surajkund International Crafts Mela is a renowned annual event held in Surajkund, Faridabad district of Haryana, showcasing traditional crafts and culture.
19. Palki festival, involving the carrying of the palanquin of Sant Dnyaneshwar or Sant Tukaram, is celebrated in which state?
A) Gujarat
B) Maharashtra
C) Karnataka
D) Goa
Answer: B
Explanation: Palki is a popular religious procession in Maharashtra where the paduka (sandals) of a revered saint, particularly Sant Dnyaneshwar or Sant Tukaram, are carried in a palanquin to Pandharpur.
20. Bhogali Bihu (or Magh Bihu), celebrated with bonfires and feasting, is a harvest festival of which state?
A) West Bengal
B) Bihar
C) Assam
D) Tripura
Answer: C
Explanation: Bhogali Bihu is one of the three Bihu festivals of Assam. It is celebrated in January (the month of Magh) after the harvest, focusing on community feasting and entertainment.
21. In which state is Motsu festival, celebrated by the Ao tribe after the sowing season, observed every year?
A) Manipur
B) Nagaland
C) Meghalaya
D) Mizoram
Answer: B
Explanation: Motsu festival is a major festival of the Ao tribe of Nagaland, celebrated in May. It is a time for merriment, songs, and traditional dances after the sowing season is complete.
22. Which annual festival is celebrated with a grand procession to pay homage to Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra?
A) Holi
B) Hemis Festival
C) Chariot Festival (Rath Yatra)
D) Onam
Answer: C
Explanation: The Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) of Puri, Odisha, is the most famous festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath, where three chariots carrying the deities are pulled through the streets.
23. Which festival is celebrated as the beginning of the Telugu New Year and the Kannada New Year?
A) Vishu
B) Pongal
C) Diwali
D) Ugadi
Answer: D
Explanation: Ugadi (Yugadi) is celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana as the New Year’s Day. It is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar.
24. Elephant Festival, known for its grand processions of decorated elephants, is celebrated every year in which district of Rajasthan?
A) Udaipur
B) Jaisalmer
C) Jaipur
D) Jodhpur
Answer: C
Explanation: The Elephant Festival is traditionally held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, usually on the day of Holi. It features elephant processions, polo, and tug-of-war.
25. The Teej festival of Punjab (Teeyan) is celebrated at the beginning of which season, welcoming the monsoon rains?
A) Winter
B) Autumn
C) Spring
D) Rain
Answer: D
Explanation: Teej (specifically Haryali Teej) is celebrated at the beginning of the Rain (monsoon) season, primarily in North Indian states like Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, focusing on women and nature.
26. Gochi festival, where an oracle foretells the coming year’s harvest and prosperity, is mainly celebrated in which state?
A) Ladakh
B) Himachal Pradesh
C) Uttarakhand
D) Sikkim
Answer: B
Explanation: Gochi, or Gotsi, is a unique festival celebrated in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh in the winter month of February, primarily by the families that have had a son born in the previous year.
27. Gangaur Utsav, featuring the worship of Goddess Gauri, is the festival of welcome of which season?
A) Monsoon
B) Autumn
C) Winter
D) Spring
Answer: D
Explanation: Gangaur Utsav is one of the most important and colorful festivals of Rajasthan, marking the end of winter and the arrival of the Spring season. The festival is dedicated to Gauri (Parvati).
28. In which state is the 5-day Konark Dance Festival, held against the backdrop of the Konark Sun Temple, organized every year?
A) West Bengal
B) Odisha
C) Andhra Pradesh
D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: B
Explanation: The Konark Dance Festival is held every December in the town of Konark, Odisha, with the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sun Temple as its majestic backdrop.
29. Prabhat Pheri, a morning procession of devotees singing hymns and devotional songs, is prominently related to which Sikh festival?
A) Vaisakhi
B) Lohri
C) Hola Mohalla
D) Guru Purab
Answer: D
Explanation: Guru Purab (Gurupurab), which celebrates the birth anniversaries of the ten Sikh Gurus, is marked by a Prabhat Pheri, a pre-dawn procession that starts at the Gurdwara and proceeds to the neighborhoods.
30. In which month is Majuli festival, a celebration of the rich culture and heritage of the largest river island, celebrated?
A) September
B) February
C) November
D) July
Answer: C
Explanation: The Majuli Festival is held every year in the month of November on the banks of the River Luit, in Majuli, Assam, showcasing Assamese culture and handicrafts.
31. Dungri festival, associated with the Hadimba Devi Temple, is a local festival celebrated in which state?
A) Uttarakhand
B) Jammu and Kashmir
C) Himachal Pradesh
D) Punjab
Answer: C
Explanation: The Dungri festival is celebrated near the Hadimba Devi Temple in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, usually in the month of May, in honor of the goddess.
32. Which harvest festival is celebrated in Maharashtra, where bulls and oxen are decorated and taken out in a procession?
A) Makar Sankranti
B) Ganesh Chaturthi
C) Pola
D) Navratri
Answer: C
Explanation: Pola is a harvest festival celebrated by the farmers in Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh to thank the bullocks for their role in agriculture. The oxen are decorated and worshipped.
33. ‘Fulach’ festival, involving the use of flowers, is celebrated in which state of India?
A) Sikkim
B) Himachal Pradesh
C) Uttarakhand
D) Assam
Answer: B
Explanation: The ‘Fulach’ festival (also known as Phulech) is an important festival of the Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, celebrated in the month of September or October.
34. Paval Kut is the biggest festival celebrated in which state, marking the harvest of a particular type of crop?
A) Nagaland
B) Manipur
C) Mizoram
D) Tripura
Answer: C
Explanation: Paval Kut is one of the important festivals of the Mizo people of Mizoram, celebrated after the harvest of paddy straw. The term literally means ‘Straw Harvest Festival’.
35. Which festival is known as Magh Bihu in Assam and is celebrated as a major harvest festival?
A) Diwali
B) Pongal
C) Makar Sankranti
D) Navratri
Answer: C
Explanation: Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Magh Bihu (or Bhogali Bihu) in Assam. It is a major harvest festival celebrated widely across India with different names, marking the Sun’s transit into Makara (Capricorn).
36. In which state is Wangala Utsav (100 Drums Festival) celebrated?
A) Nagaland
B) Tripura
C) Meghalaya
D) Mizoram
Answer: C
Explanation: Wangala Utsav is the biggest post-harvest festival of the Garo tribe in Meghalaya, offering thanks to the Sun God, Misi Saljong.
37. In which state is Mandu festival, celebrating the history, culture, and architecture of the historical city, celebrated?
A) Gujarat
B) Madhya Pradesh
C) Rajasthan
D) Goa
Answer: B
Explanation: Mandu festival is celebrated in the ancient city of Mandu, a historical town in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh.
38. Maru Mahotsav (Desert Festival) is a prominent cultural event organized in which district of Rajasthan?
A) Bikaner
B) Barmer
C) Jodhpur
D) Jaisalmer
Answer: D
Explanation: The three-day Maru Mahotsav is held in the sand dunes near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, featuring folk dances, camel races, and local performances.
39. At which sacred place in India is Dev Diwali, the ‘Diwali of the Gods’, celebrated with thousands of lamps lit on the river ghats?
A) Haridwar
B) Ayodhya
C) Mathura
D) Varanasi
Answer: D
Explanation: Dev Diwali is celebrated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, fifteen days after Diwali, on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik. The ghats of the Ganges are illuminated with countless diyas (earthen lamps).
40. Makar Sankranti, a major harvest festival, is dedicated to which Hindu deity?
A) Lord Shiva
B) Goddess Lakshmi
C) Lord Vishnu
D) Sun
Answer: D
Explanation: Makar Sankranti is a solar event, dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Deva). It marks the Sun’s transit from the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makara).
41. Ekmara Utsav, a festival celebrating the heritage of the Ekamra Kshetra, is celebrated in which state?
A) Andhra Pradesh
B) West Bengal
C) Odisha
D) Chhattisgarh
Answer: C
Explanation: Ekmara Utsav is celebrated in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, which is historically known as Ekamra Kshetra.
42. Onam festival is celebrated as the annual homecoming of which benevolent demon king?
A) Ravana
B) Bali
C) Hiranyakashipu
D) Mahabali
Answer: D
Explanation: Onam is celebrated in Kerala as the annual homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, whose reign was considered a golden era of equality and prosperity.
43. Anthurium festival is celebrated for the promotion of farmers, flowers, and horticulture in which state?
A) Nagaland
B) Meghalaya
C) Mizoram
D) Tripura
Answer: C
Explanation: The Anthurium festival is a tourism initiative held in the state of Mizoram to promote the cultivation of the exotic Anthurium flower and boost horticulture tourism.
44. In which month is Lohri, a harvest festival celebrated in Punjab and other North Indian states, celebrated every year?
A) December
B) February
C) January
D) November
Answer: C
Explanation: Lohri is celebrated on the night before Makar Sankranti, usually on January 13th, marking the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.
45. Vishu festival, which is the astrological New Year, is mainly celebrated in which state?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Kerala
C) Karnataka
D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: Vishu is the Hindu New Year celebrated in Kerala, usually in the month of April. It is marked by the ‘Vishukkani’ arrangement, which includes auspicious items viewed first thing in the morning.
46. Where is the classical music festival Tansen Samaroh, a tribute to the legendary musician Tansen, celebrated every year?
A) Bhopal
B) Indore
C) Gwalior
D) Jabalpur
Answer: C
Explanation: Tansen Samaroh is an annual four-day music festival held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, near the tomb of the famous musician Tansen.
47. Which festival is widely known as Vijayadashami and celebrates the victory of good over evil?
A) Diwali
B) Janmashtami
C) Dussehra
D) Holi
Answer: C
Explanation: Dussehra is also known as Vijayadashami and is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashvin. It marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana or Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
48. The religious festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, is predominantly related to which state?
A) Gujarat
B) Karnataka
C) Maharashtra
D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: C
Explanation: Although celebrated across India, Ganesh Chaturthi is observed with the greatest fervor, public processions, and elaborate pandals in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai and Pune.
49. Which Hindu deity is worshiped prominently during the rigorous four-day Hindu festival Chhath Puja?
A) Lord Shiva
B) Goddess Durga
C) Lord Vishnu
D) Sun God
Answer: D
Explanation: Chhath Puja is a festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his wife Usha (Chhathi Maiya), seeking blessings for health, success, and prosperity. It is mainly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
50. Hemis Festival, involving sacred masked dances (Chams), is celebrated in which region in honor of Guru Padmasambhava?
A) Sikkim
B) Ladakh
C) Arunachal Pradesh
D) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: Hemis Festival is a famous two-day religious festival held at the Hemis Gompa (monastery) in Ladakh to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
51. In which state is Solung festival, a prominent agricultural festival of the Adi tribe, celebrated?
A) Nagaland
B) Manipur
C) Arunachal Pradesh
D) Sikkim
Answer: C
Explanation: Solung is the most important festival of the Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, celebrated for five days, primarily as a harvest festival and a religious tribute to the goddess of crops.
52. Which Jewish festival is famously called the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem?
A) Passover
B) Purim
C) Rosh Hashanah
D) Hanukkah
Answer: D
Explanation: Hanukkah, or Chanukah, is the Jewish Festival of Lights. It lasts eight nights and days and is marked by the lighting of the nine-branched menorah.
53. In which state is the five-day religious festival of Shad Nongkrem, an indigenous thanksgiving festival of the Khasis, celebrated?
A) Nagaland
B) Meghalaya
C) Mizoram
D) Tripura
Answer: B
Explanation: Shad Nongkrem is a significant religious festival of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya, involving traditional dances and sacrifices as a thanksgiving to the Almighty for the harvest.
54. Pongal festival, a four-day harvest celebration, is predominantly celebrated in which South Indian state?
A) Kerala
B) Karnataka
C) Andhra Pradesh
D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: D
Explanation: Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated over four days in Tamil Nadu and is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya). The word ‘Pongal’ refers to a dish of sweet rice boiled in milk.
55. Yaoshang festival, often described as the ‘Holi of Manipur’, is celebrated in which state?
A) Assam
B) Nagaland
C) Manipur
D) Tripura
Answer: C
Explanation: Yaoshang is celebrated in Manipur for five days starting on the full moon day of Phalguna (Feb/Mar). It combines traditional Meitei rituals with a version of Holi, involving colored water and athletic events.
56. Salhesh festival, associated with the deity Raja Salhesh, is a folk festival celebrated in which state?
A) Jharkhand
B) West Bengal
C) Uttar Pradesh
D) Bihar
Answer: D
Explanation: Salhesh festival is a major folk festival of the Dalit community, particularly in the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal, dedicated to the folk hero Raja Salhesh.
57. Float festival, where decorated deities are taken out in an illuminated raft, is primarily celebrated in which state?
A) Kerala
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Andhra Pradesh
D) Odisha
Answer: B
Explanation: The Float festival (Theppotsavam) is a temple festival celebrated predominantly in Tamil Nadu, especially in Madurai, where the deity is taken on a float around a temple tank.
58. In which month of the year is the Ambubachi festival, known as the ‘Mahakumbh of the East’, celebrated at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati?
A) March
B) June
C) September
D) November
Answer: B
Explanation: The Ambubachi Mela is an annual Hindu Mela held at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, in the month of June. It is a celebration of the annual menstruation cycle of the goddess.
59. Baishagu festival, the spring festival celebrated by the Bodo-Kachari community, is observed in which state of India?
A) Meghalaya
B) Nagaland
C) Assam
D) West Bengal
Answer: C
Explanation: Baishagu is the most colorful and popular festival of the Bodo-Kachari community of Assam. It marks the advent of the Assamese New Year (Bohag Bihu).
60. Saga Dawa festival, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, is a popular festival of which state/region?
A) Ladakh
B) Arunachal Pradesh
C) Sikkim
D) Uttarakhand
Answer: C
Explanation: Saga Dawa is a major festival in Sikkim that falls on the full moon day of the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar, commemorating the triple auspicious occasions in the life of Gautama Buddha.
61. Thaipusam festival, involving devotees carrying kavadis (burdens) in devotion, is celebrated in which state of India where there is a significant Tamil diaspora?
A) Kerala
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Puducherry
D) Karnataka
Answer: B
Explanation: Thaipusam is a festival celebrated mostly by the Tamil community in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya).
62. Chalo Loku festival, celebrated by the Nocte tribe as a harvest festival, is observed in which state?
A) Nagaland
B) Assam
C) Arunachal Pradesh
D) Manipur
Answer: C
Explanation: Chalo Loku is the main festival of the Nocte tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, celebrated after the harvest of paddy, for three days.
63. Navroz, the Parsi New Year, belongs to which religious community?
A) Sikh
B) Muslim
C) Jain
D) Parsi (Zoroastrian)
Answer: D
Explanation: Navroz or Nowruz is the New Year festival celebrated by the Parsi (Zoroastrian) community, marking the start of spring and the renewal of nature.
64. Who is the principal deity worshiped during the four-day Pongal harvest festival in Tamil Nadu?
A) Goddess Lakshmi
B) Lord Shiva
C) Lord Murugan
D) Sun
Answer: D
Explanation: Pongal is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) as a way of offering thanks for the harvest.
65. In which state is Navaklavar festival, a ritual involving the re-embodiment of the idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, celebrated?
A) West Bengal
B) Andhra Pradesh
C) Odisha
D) Maharashtra
Answer: C
Explanation: Navakalevara is an ancient ritual associated with the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, where the old wooden deities are replaced with new ones, a rare event occurring typically every 8, 12, or 19 years.
66. Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form, is related to which Hindu deity, as it traditionally narrates stories of his female form?
A) Shiva
B) Brahma
C) Ganesha
D) Vishnu
Answer: D
Explanation: Mohiniyattam, the classical dance of Kerala, literally means “dance of the enchantress” (Mohini being the female avatar of Lord Vishnu).
67. Dunnapothula Panduga festival, centered around the worship of cattle and farming implements, is celebrated in which Indian state?
A) Andhra Pradesh
B) Karnataka
C) Telangana
D) Maharashtra
Answer: C
Explanation: Dunnapothula Panduga (Festival of Bulls) is a festival celebrated in Telangana during Sankranti (Makar Sankranti/Pongal), where bulls and buffaloes are decorated and worshipped.
68. Bhagoriya cultural festival, involving a traditional match-making fair, is related to the tribal communities of which Indian state?
A) Rajasthan
B) Chhattisgarh
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Gujarat
Answer: C
Explanation: Bhagoriya Haat is an important cultural festival celebrated by the Bhil and Bhilala tribes in the Jhabua and Alirajpur districts of Madhya Pradesh and parts of Gujarat, often seen as a match-making ritual.
69. Where is the famous Lathmar Holi, where women playfully beat men with sticks, celebrated?
A) Jaipur and Udaipur
B) Pune and Nashik
C) Vrindavan and Mathura
D) Pushkar and Ajmer
Answer: C
Explanation: Lathmar Holi is a famous local celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi, held in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon, which are near Vrindavan and Mathura (Uttar Pradesh).
70. Dolajatra, the festival of colors similar to Holi, is a regional festival of which place, which was popularized by the saint Srimanta Sankardev?
A) West Bengal
B) Assam
C) Odisha
D) Manipur
Answer: B
Explanation: Dolajatra (or Doul Utsav) is the Assamese version of Holi, celebrated in the Vaishnavite satras (monasteries) of Assam, a tradition which was strongly propagated by Srimanta Sankardev.
71. In which month is Makar Sankranti, the day marking the Sun’s transit into the Capricorn zodiac sign, celebrated?
A) December
B) February
C) January
D) March
Answer: C
Explanation: Makar Sankranti is celebrated every year on the 14th or 15th of January, marking the end of the winter solstice period.
72. In which state is Raj festival (Raja Parba), the festival celebrating the onset of the monsoon and the Earth’s fertility, celebrated?
A) West Bengal
B) Bihar
C) Odisha
D) Assam
Answer: C
Explanation: Raj festival (Raja Parba) is a four-day festival celebrated in Odisha dedicated to the Earth Goddess (Bhumi Devi) and is considered a time of rest for agricultural work.
73. In which state is Bihu festival, a set of three important cultural festivals (Bohag, Kati, and Magh), celebrated?
A) Tripura
B) Nagaland
C) Assam
D) West Bengal
Answer: C
Explanation: Bihu is the major agricultural festival of Assam, celebrated three times a year with different names: Bohag Bihu (Spring/New Year), Kati Bihu (Autumn), and Magh Bihu (Winter/Harvest).
74. The Malayalam New Year, Vishu, is dedicated to the worship of which Hindu deity?
A) Shiva
B) Ganesha
C) Brahma
D) Lord Vishnu
Answer: D
Explanation: Vishu, the New Year in Kerala, is observed with special reverence to Lord Vishnu and his incarnations, such as Krishna. The Vishukkani ritual is essential on this day.
75. In which state is Bundi festival, known for its traditional folk performances and a magnificent procession, celebrated?
A) Madhya Pradesh
B) Gujarat
C) Rajasthan
D) Haryana
Answer: C
Explanation: The Bundi Festival is a three-day cultural event organized in Bundi town of Rajasthan, showcasing the state’s traditional art, culture, and craftsmanship.
76. In which state is Nishagandhi festival, an annual tourism and arts event showcasing various dance forms, celebrated?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Andhra Pradesh
C) Kerala
D) Karnataka
Answer: C
Explanation: The Nishagandhi festival is a week-long classical dance festival held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, featuring various classical dance forms of India.
77. Which major festival is organized on Amavasya (New Moon day) during the Kartik month in West Bengal?
A) Durga Puja
B) Lakshmi Puja
C) Saraswati Puja
D) Kali Puja
Answer: D
Explanation: In West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Kali Puja is a major festival celebrated on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik, coinciding with Diwali celebrations in other parts of India.
78. Sangken is a water festival, considered the New Year, celebrated by the Tai-Shyam, Khamti, and Singpho tribes of which religion?
A) Hindu
B) Jain
C) Buddhist
D) Tribal Animism
Answer: C
Explanation: Sangken is the traditional New Year festival of the Tai-Shyam, Khamti, and other tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, all followers of Theravada Buddhism. It involves sprinkling water for purification.
79. Fatorpa Jatra festival, celebrated in honor of Shri Shantadurga Kunkalikarin, is a local religious festival of which state?
A) Maharashtra
B) Karnataka
C) Goa
D) Kerala
Answer: C
Explanation: The Fatorpa Jatra is a renowned annual fair held at the Shri Shantadurga Kunkalikarin Temple in Fatorpa, Goa, attracting devotees from various communities.
80. Karam Utsav, a harvest festival, is celebrated by the tribal community of which state, as a worship of the ‘Karam’ tree?
A) Jharkhand
B) Chhattisgarh
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Bihar
Answer: C
Explanation: Karam Utsav is a harvest festival celebrated by various tribal groups, including those in Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand, where the Karam tree is worshipped for prosperity and fertility.
81. Where is the Mahamagham festival, a major bathing ritual held once every 12 years, celebrated?
A) Haridwar, Uttarakhand
B) Nashik, Maharashtra
C) Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
D) Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Answer: D
Explanation: Mahamagham is a significant Hindu festival celebrated once every 12 years in the Mahamaham tank in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. It is similar in sanctity to the Kumbh Mela.
82. Mando festival is an event that celebrates the culture and history of the Mandu region, which is in which state?
A) Gujarat
B) Madhya Pradesh
C) Rajasthan
D) Goa
Answer: B
Explanation: The Mando Festival is a cultural tourism event held in the historic city of Mandu, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh.
83. Shirui Lily Festival, organized to promote the conservation of the endangered state flower, is celebrated in which state?
A) Nagaland
B) Meghalaya
C) Manipur
D) Tripura
Answer: C
Explanation: The Shirui Lily Festival is celebrated annually in the Ukhrul district of Manipur to raise awareness about the rare and endemic Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae).
84. In which month is the International Kite Festival (Uttarayan) organized in Gujarat, where it is a major celebration?
A) February
B) December
C) January
D) April
Answer: C
Explanation: The International Kite Festival is organized in Ahmedabad and other cities of Gujarat every year on January 14th, coinciding with Makar Sankranti/Uttarayan.
85. In which city of India is ‘Saptak Sangeet Samaroh’, one of the largest classical music festivals in the country, celebrated?
A) Mumbai
B) Pune
C) Ahmedabad
D) Kolkata
Answer: C
Explanation: The Saptak Annual Music Festival (Saptak Sangeet Samaroh) is a highly prestigious, long-running classical music festival held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
86. Vallam Kali Boat Race, particularly the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, is a traditional water sports event held in which state?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Karnataka
C) Kerala
D) Odisha
Answer: C
Explanation: Vallam Kali is the traditional snake boat race of Kerala. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held on the Punnamada Lake, is the most famous event of this kind.
87. In which state is Dri festival, an agricultural festival of the Apatani tribe celebrated after the sowing of paddy, observed?
A) Nagaland
B) Meghalaya
C) Arunachal Pradesh
D) Assam
Answer: C
Explanation: The Dri festival is an important agricultural festival of the Apatani tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, observed to pray for a bumper harvest.
88. In which state is the famous Shanghai Festival (or Sangai Festival), a cultural extravaganza named after the state animal, celebrated?
A) Nagaland
B) Manipur
C) Meghalaya
D) Mizoram
Answer: B
Explanation: The Sangai Festival (named after the state animal, the Sangai deer) is an annual cultural festival organized by the Government of Manipur to promote tourism.
89. Which festival is widely celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Phalguna month?
A) Diwali
B) Dussehra
C) Holi
D) Raksha Bandhan
Answer: C
Explanation: Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated on the day of the Purnima (full moon) in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
90. Bhand Pather theater, a folk theater form incorporating music and dance, is mainly a tradition of which state/union territory of India?
A) Himachal Pradesh
B) Punjab
C) Jammu and Kashmir
D) Uttarakhand
Answer: C
Explanation: Bhand Pather is a centuries-old traditional folk theatre style of Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, performed by the Bhands (traditional folk entertainers).
91. Which festival is celebrated every year in the Ladakh region on the first day of the 11th month of the Tibetan calendar as the New Year?
A) Hemis
B) Saka Dawa
C) Sindhu Darshan
D) Losar
Answer: D
Explanation: Losar is the Tibetan New Year, and it is the biggest socio-religious festival in Ladakh.
92. Losar festival, the Tibetan New Year, is notably celebrated by the people of which tribe in Arunachal Pradesh?
A) Adi
B) Nyishi
C) Monpa
D) Apatani
Answer: C
Explanation: The Monpa tribe, primarily residing in the Tawang and West Kameng districts of Arunachal Pradesh, celebrate Losar with great enthusiasm, being followers of Tibetan Buddhism.
93. Gangaur is a famous festival of which state of India, involving the worship of Goddess Parvati (Gauri)?
A) Gujarat
B) Rajasthan
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Haryana
Answer: B
Explanation: Gangaur is one of the most widely celebrated festivals of Rajasthan, celebrated for 18 days after Holi, primarily by women who worship Gauri (Parvati).
94. In which state is the annual boat race (Vallam Kali), which includes the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, celebrated?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Kerala
C) Andhra Pradesh
D) Karnataka
Answer: B
Explanation: The traditional annual boat races, or Vallam Kali, are a unique cultural tradition of Kerala, held during the monsoon season.
95. Onam is a traditional Hindu festival primarily celebrated in which state?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Kerala
C) Karnataka
D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: Onam is the state festival of Kerala, celebrated as a harvest festival and the return of the mythical King Mahabali.
96. Maulid is another name for which important Islamic festival, celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad?
A) Eid al-Fitr
B) Eid al-Adha
C) Shab-e-Barat
D) Milad-un-Nabi
Answer: D
Explanation: Milad-un-Nabi, or Eid-e-Milad, which commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, is also commonly referred to as Maulid or Mawlid.
97. Nantjali festival, a local religious fair celebrated in the village of Nantjali, is found in which state?
A) Andhra Pradesh
B) Karnataka
C) Kerala
D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: D
Explanation: Nantjali is a localized religious festival, generally associated with temple fairs and rituals in Tamil Nadu.
98. In which state is Goncha Festival, which involves a wooden pistol (Goncha) and a water fruit (Tup), celebrated?
A) Jharkhand
B) Chhattisgarh
C) Odisha
D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: Goncha Festival is a local festival of the Bastar region in Chhattisgarh, held during the time of Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
99. In which state is Bhoramdev festival, a celebration of the ancient Bhoramdev Temple, celebrated?
A) Madhya Pradesh
B) Maharashtra
C) Chhattisgarh
D) Odisha
Answer: C
Explanation: The Bhoramdev festival is held near the Bhoramdeo Temple, often called the ‘Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh’, in the Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh.
100. In which festival of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh are bulls and other cattle used for agricultural worship and decorated?
A) Makar Sankranti
B) Gudhi Padwa
C) Ganesh Chaturthi
D) Pola festival
Answer: D
Explanation: Pola festival is a harvest and agricultural festival celebrated in Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh where bulls, bullocks, and cows are given a rest from farm work, bathed, decorated, and worshipped.