Q11. Which historical figure established the Somnath temple in its present form?
a) Mahmud of Ghazni
b) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
c) Akbar
d) Chhatrapati Shivaji
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Correct Answer: b) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Explanation: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the Somnath temple in its present form. After India’s independence, Patel pledged to rebuild the historic temple, which had been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. The reconstruction began in 1950, symbolizing India’s cultural resurgence and unity after centuries of foreign rule.
Q12. Which port in Gujarat is India’s first smart port city?
a) Kandla
b) Mundra
c) Porbandar
d) Hazira
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Correct Answer: b) Mundra
Explanation: Mundra Port, located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, is India’s first smart port city. Developed by the Adani Group, it is the largest private port in India. The port is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced technology, and efficient operations. It plays a significant role in India’s maritime trade and has contributed to the economic growth of the region.
Q13. Which famous archaeological site in Gujarat is known for its Buddhist rock-cut caves?
a) Uparkot Caves
b) Baba Pyare Caves
c) Khambhalida Caves
d) Sana Caves
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Correct Answer: c) Khambhalida Caves
Explanation: The Khambhalida Caves, located near Rajkot in Gujarat, are renowned for their Buddhist rock-cut architecture. Dating back to the 4th-5th century CE, these caves feature intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Buddhist themes. The site consists of three caves, including a chaitya (prayer hall) and two viharas (monasteries), showcasing the rich Buddhist heritage of ancient Gujarat.
Q14. Which textile printing technique is Gujarat famous for?
a) Batik
b) Block printing
c) Kalamkari
d) Tie and dye
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Correct Answer: b) Block printing
Explanation: Gujarat is renowned for its traditional block printing technique, especially in regions like Kutch and Ahmedabad. This ancient art form involves carving intricate designs on wooden blocks and using them to print patterns on fabric. Gujarati block prints are known for their vibrant colors, intricate motifs, and sustainable production methods, making them popular in both traditional and contemporary fashion.
Q15. Which famous salt desert is located in Gujarat?
a) Thar Desert
b) White Desert of Kutch
c) Cholistan Desert
d) Dasht-e Kavir
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Correct Answer: b) White Desert of Kutch
Explanation: The White Desert of Kutch, also known as the Great Rann of Kutch, is a vast salt marsh located in the Thar Desert in Gujarat. It is one of the largest salt deserts in the world, spanning over 7,500 square kilometers. The area is known for its surreal landscape, especially during the full moon nights, and hosts the famous Rann Utsav festival, attracting tourists from around the world.
Q16. Which famous scientist, known as the father of India’s space program, was born in Gujarat?
a) C.V. Raman
b) Homi J. Bhabha
c) Vikram Sarabhai
d) A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
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Correct Answer: c) Vikram Sarabhai
Explanation: Vikram Sarabhai, born on August 12, 1919, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is widely regarded as the father of India’s space program. He founded the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad and played a crucial role in establishing the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Sarabhai’s visionary leadership laid the foundation for India’s advancements in space science and technology.
Q17. Which famous Gujarati dish is a sweet and sour vegetable preparation?
a) Dhokla
b) Undhiyu
c) Khandvi
d) Gujarati Kadhi
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Correct Answer: b) Undhiyu
Explanation: Undhiyu is a famous Gujarati dish that is a mixed vegetable preparation. It typically includes a variety of root vegetables, beans, and dumplings cooked with spices. The dish is known for its unique sweet and sour flavor profile and is traditionally cooked upside down in earthen pots, which gives it its name (undhu means upside down in Gujarati).
Q18. Which historical figure established the Junagadh State Museum?
a) Nawab Mahabat Khan III
b) Jam Saheb Ranjitsinhji
c) Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III
d) Maharao Khengarji III
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Correct Answer: a) Nawab Mahabat Khan III
Explanation: The Junagadh State Museum, also known as the Darbar Hall Museum, was established by Nawab Mahabat Khan III in 1908. Located in Junagadh, Gujarat, the museum houses a rich collection of artifacts, including weapons, royal paraphernalia, and archaeological finds. It provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the princely state of Junagadh and the surrounding region.
Q19. Which famous Gujarati poet is known as the ‘Aadi Kavi’ (First Poet) of Gujarati literature?
a) Narsinh Mehta
b) Premanand Bhatt
c) Dalpatram
d) Hemchandracharya
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Correct Answer: a) Narsinh Mehta
Explanation: Narsinh Mehta, also known as Narsi Mehta or Narsi Bhagat, is revered as the ‘Aadi Kavi’ or the first poet of Gujarati literature. Born in the 15th century, he was a prominent Vaishnava saint-poet known for his devotional songs and poetry. His works, including the famous bhajan “Vaishnava Jana To,” have had a lasting impact on Gujarati literature and culture.
Q20. Which famous structure in Ahmedabad is known for its unique ‘shaking minarets’?
a) Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
b) Jama Masjid
c) Jhulta Minar
d) Sarkhej Roza
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Jhulta Minar
Explanation: The Jhulta Minar, also known as the Shaking Minarets, is a unique architectural marvel located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. These minarets, part of the Sidi Bashir Mosque, are famous for their unusual property – when one minaret is shaken, the other vibrates in tandem, while the connecting passage between them remains undisturbed. This phenomenon has puzzled architects and engineers for centuries.