Q21. Which famous Kannada poet wrote the state anthem of Karnataka, “Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate”?
a) Kuvempu
b) D.R. Bendre
c) G.S. Shivarudrappa
d) K.S. Narasimhaswamy
Show Answer
Correct Answer: a) Kuvempu
Explanation: The state anthem of Karnataka, “Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate,” was written by the renowned Kannada poet Kuvempu (Kuppali Venkatappa Puttappa). This anthem, adopted in 2004, celebrates the beauty, culture, and diversity of Karnataka. Kuvempu, who was also the state’s first Jnanpith Award winner, is highly respected for his contributions to Kannada literature and culture.
Q22. Which historical site in Karnataka is known as the “Ellora of the South”?
a) Badami
b) Aihole
c) Pattadakal
d) Hampi
Show Answer
Correct Answer: a) Badami
Explanation: Badami, located in Karnataka, is often referred to as the “Ellora of the South” due to its remarkable rock-cut cave temples. These caves, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries, showcase exquisite sculptures and architectural styles of the Chalukya dynasty. The site features Hindu, Jain, and possibly Buddhist caves, demonstrating the religious diversity and artistic excellence of ancient Karnataka.
Q23. Which famous Kannada actor is known as the “Rebel Star”?
a) Rajkumar
b) Vishnuvardhan
c) Ambareesh
d) Upendra
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Ambareesh
Explanation: Ambareesh, a prominent Kannada actor and politician, was popularly known as the “Rebel Star” of Kannada cinema. He earned this title due to his rebellious on-screen persona and his outspoken nature off-screen. Ambareesh acted in over 200 films during his career and was also involved in politics, serving as a member of parliament and a minister in the Karnataka state government.
Q24. Which ancient port city in Karnataka was an important center of maritime trade?
a) Mangalore
b) Karwar
c) Bhatkal
d) Honnavar
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Karwar
Explanation: Karwar, located on the coast of Karnataka, was an important ancient port city and center of maritime trade. It has a rich history dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries when it was a significant trading post. Karwar was known for its trade in spices, textiles, and other goods with Arab, Portuguese, and British merchants. Today, it remains an important port and naval base.
Q25. Which famous Kannada novelist wrote the epic novel “Mookajjiya Kanasugalu”?
a) S.L. Bhyrappa
b) U.R. Ananthamurthy
c) K. Shivaram Karanth
d) Shivarama Karanth
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) K. Shivaram Karanth
Explanation: “Mookajjiya Kanasugalu” (Mookajji’s Visions) is an epic novel written by the renowned Kannada novelist K. Shivaram Karanth. Published in 1968, this novel is considered a masterpiece of Kannada literature. Karanth, who was also a polymath, environmentalist, and Jnanpith Award winner, explored themes of tradition, modernity, and social change in this work, which is set in coastal Karnataka.
Q26. Which famous temple in Karnataka is known for its annual chariot festival?
a) Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore
b) Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
c) Dharmasthala Temple
d) Kukke Subramanya Temple
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
Explanation: The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, located in Udupi, Karnataka, is famous for its annual chariot festival known as “Paryaya”. This biennial festival involves the transfer of temple management between eight Madhwa maths (monasteries) established by the Dvaita philosopher Sri Madhvacharya. The festival takes place on the 17th of January, with the new pontiff taking over the administration of the temple for the next two years.
Q27. Which famous temple in Karnataka is known for its musical pillars?
a) Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
b) Chennakesava Temple, Belur
c) Vitthala Temple, Hampi
d) Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Vitthala Temple, Hampi
Explanation: The Vitthala Temple in Hampi, Karnataka, is renowned for its musical pillars. These pillars, when tapped gently, produce musical notes, showcasing the architectural and acoustic brilliance of ancient Indian craftsmen. This unique feature makes the temple a significant attraction in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, drawing visitors interested in both history and architectural marvels.
Q28. Which temple in Karnataka is famous for its 1000-pillar hall?
a) Murudeshwara Temple
b) Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
c) Chennakesava Temple, Belur
d) Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
Explanation: The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka, is famous for its 1000-pillar hall. This architectural marvel is a testament to the grandeur of Vijayanagara architecture. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest functioning temples in India and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 1000-pillar hall showcases intricate carvings and demonstrates the advanced engineering skills of ancient Indian architects.
Q29. Which temple in Karnataka is dedicated to Lord Subramanya and known for its snake rituals?
a) Kukke Subramanya Temple
b) Dharmasthala Temple
c) Kollur Mookambika Temple
d) Sringeri Sharada Peetham
Show Answer
Correct Answer: a) Kukke Subramanya Temple
Explanation: The Kukke Subramanya Temple, located in Karnataka, is dedicated to Lord Subramanya and is famous for its snake rituals. This ancient temple is particularly known for the Sarpa Samskara puja, a ritual believed to remove doshas (negative effects) related to snakes. The temple attracts thousands of devotees annually, especially those seeking relief from Sarpa Dosha (curse of the serpents).
Q30. Which temple in Karnataka is known as the “Dakshina Kashi” (Southern Kashi)?
a) Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple
b) Murudeshwara Temple
c) Sringeri Sharada Peetham
d) Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore
Show Answer
Correct Answer: a) Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple
Explanation: The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple in Karnataka is often referred to as “Dakshina Kashi” or the Southern Kashi. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in the town of Gokarna on the western coast of Karnataka. It’s considered one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India, attracting pilgrims from all over the country. The temple’s significance and the town’s religious importance have earned it the comparison to Kashi (Varanasi), one of the holiest cities in Hinduism.