🏠 Homepage 📘 Download PDF Books 📕 Premium PDF Books

Delhi Gk Quiz 18 (20 MCQs)

This set of multiple-choice questions evaluates understanding of Delhi's historical context, governance, and urban development. It covers topics such as the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, and significant rulers like Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Sher Shah Suri, and Shah Jahan. The questions also assess knowledge of Delhi's architecture, geography, and its role as a capital city, including its urban population and census data.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. The union territory with highest proportion of urban population (2011) in inda?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Delhi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Delhi has the highest proportion of urban population among the union territories of India as of 2011.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that smaller union territories like Puducherry or Lakshadweep might have a higher urban population proportion due to their size.

Explanations: Delhi, being a union territory and a major metropolitan area, has a significantly higher proportion of its population living in urban areas compared to other union territories. This is due to its large urban infrastructure, high population density, and economic activities concentrated in urban centers.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Puducherry has a high urban population but not the highest among union territories.
Option B: Dadra and Nagar Haveli has a lower urban population proportion compared to Delhi.
Option C: Lakshadweep, being an island territory, has a lower urban population proportion.
Option D: Delhi has the highest proportion of urban population among the union territories.

2. The Turks established the Delhi Sultanate in

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) India.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Delhi Sultanate was a Muslim kingdom that ruled parts of the Indian subcontinent from the early 13th to the early 16th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the geographical location of the Delhi Sultanate with other regions where Muslim empires were established, such as North Africa or Afro-Eurasia.

Explanations: The Delhi Sultanate was established by Turkish invaders who conquered parts of northern India. The Sultanate was centered in Delhi and extended its rule over various regions of the Indian subcontinent. This makes India the correct location for the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Delhi Sultanate was established in India.
Option B: Incorrect. North Africa was not the location of the Delhi Sultanate.
Option C: Incorrect. Afro-Eurasia is a broad geographical term and not specific to the location of the Delhi Sultanate.
Option D: Incorrect. Europe was not the location of the Delhi Sultanate.

3. This turkish ruler ruled from 1206-1210

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Qutbuddin Aybak.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Qutbuddin Aybak was the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and ruled from 1206 to 1210.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Qutbuddin Aybak with other rulers of the Delhi Sultanate, such as Shamsuddin Iltutmish or Ghiyasudin Balban.

Explanations: Qutbuddin Aybak was the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and established the Mamluk dynasty. He ruled from 1206 to 1210, making him the correct answer for the given time period.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Qutbuddin Aybak ruled from 1206 to 1210, which matches the given time period.
Option B: Shamsuddin Iltutmish ruled from 1211 to 1236, which does not match the given time period.
Option C: Raziyya ruled from 1236 to 1240, which does not match the given time period.
Option D: Ghiyasudin Balban ruled from 1266 to 1287, which does not match the given time period.

4. Delhi looks the best at

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Dawn and Dusk.

Exam Relevance: Delhi GK, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Delhi is often considered to be at its most picturesque during the early morning and late evening hours.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that Delhi looks best only at dawn or dusk, but the combination of both times provides the most visually appealing experience.

Explanations: Delhi is known for its vibrant and diverse architecture, which is best appreciated during the soft lighting of dawn and dusk. The early morning light and the warm hues of the setting sun create a serene and visually stunning atmosphere, making the city look its best during these times.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Dawn alone does not capture the full visual appeal of Delhi.
Option B: Dawn and Dusk provide the best lighting conditions for appreciating the city's architecture and ambiance.
Option C: Dusk alone does not capture the full visual appeal of Delhi.
Option D: Afternoon light can be harsh and does not provide the best visual experience for the city.

5. Who among the following sultans of Delhi has been described as 'Mixture of Opposite'

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Muhammad Bin Tughlaq.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Muhammad Bin Tughlaq is often described as a 'mixture of opposites' due to his complex and contradictory nature as a ruler.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the characteristics of different sultans of Delhi, leading to incorrect identification.

Explanations: Muhammad Bin Tughlaq is known for his innovative and visionary policies, such as the transfer of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad, the introduction of token currency, and the expansion of the empire. However, these policies often had disastrous consequences, leading to widespread discontent and economic instability. His reign is marked by both progressive and regressive actions, making him a 'mixture of opposites.'

Option Analysis:

Option A: Balban was known for his strict and centralized rule, not for being a mixture of opposites.
Option B: Alauddin Khalji was known for his military conquests and administrative reforms, but not for being a mixture of opposites.
Option C: Muhammad Bin Tughlaq is described as a mixture of opposites due to his contradictory policies and actions.
Option D: Ibrahim Lodi was the last sultan of the Lodi dynasty and is not known for being a mixture of opposites.

6. THE CONSOLIDATION OF A KINGDOM AS VAST AS THE DELHI SULTANATE NEEDED RELIABLE GOVERNOR AND .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) ADMINISTRATOR.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The consolidation of a vast kingdom like the Delhi Sultanate required reliable administrators to manage the diverse regions and ensure effective governance.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding might be that military service or the presence of Afghans alone would be sufficient for the consolidation of the kingdom.

Explanations: The Delhi Sultanate was a vast and diverse empire, and its consolidation required effective administration to manage the different regions, collect taxes, maintain law and order, and ensure the smooth functioning of the state. Reliable administrators were crucial for these tasks, as they could implement policies, manage resources, and maintain the loyalty of the local populations. Military service and the presence of Afghans were important, but they were not sufficient for the day-to-day governance and consolidation of such a vast kingdom.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Military service is important for defense and expansion but not sufficient for the day-to-day governance and consolidation of a vast kingdom.
Option B: The presence of Afghans was significant, but it was not the primary factor in the consolidation of the kingdom.
Option C: Reliable administrators were essential for managing the diverse regions and ensuring effective governance.
Option D: The Sultan was the ruler, but the consolidation required a broader administrative structure to manage the vast empire.

Mnemonic: Admin for vast, vast for admin.

7. Who was the successor of Bahlol Lodi?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Sikandar Lodi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams, Competitive History Quizzes

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Lodi dynasty ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1451 to 1526. Bahlol Lodi was the founder of the dynasty, and his successor was Sikandar Lodi.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the order of the Lodi rulers, particularly between Sikandar Lodi and Ibrahim Lodi, who was the last Lodi ruler.

Explanations: Bahlol Lodi was the first ruler of the Lodi dynasty, and he was succeeded by his son Sikandar Lodi. Sikandar Lodi ruled from 1489 to 1517, and he was known for his administrative reforms and patronage of literature and arts. Therefore, the correct answer is Sikandar Lodi.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Ibrahim Lodi was the last ruler of the Lodi dynasty, not the immediate successor of Bahlol Lodi.
Option B: Sikandar Lodi was the son and immediate successor of Bahlol Lodi.
Option C: Balban Lodi is not a historical figure associated with the Lodi dynasty.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Sikandar Lodi is the correct successor.

8. This city became important in the later medieval period.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Delhi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Delhi became an important city during the later medieval period due to its strategic location and the establishment of several powerful dynasties.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to overlook the historical significance of Delhi during the medieval period and instead focus on its modern importance.

Explanations: Delhi became a significant city during the later medieval period due to the establishment of several powerful dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. These dynasties made Delhi their capital, leading to the construction of numerous architectural marvels and the development of a vibrant cultural and economic center. This historical context makes Delhi the correct answer.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Mumbai did not become a significant city until the colonial period.
Option B: Hyderabad gained prominence during the medieval period but was not as significant as Delhi.
Option C: Lucknow became important during the later medieval period but was not as influential as Delhi.
Option D: Delhi became a major city during the later medieval period due to the establishment of powerful dynasties.

Mnemonic: Delhi Dynasties, Delhi Dominance

9. The Red Fort in Delhi was built during the reign of which Mughal Emperor?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Shah Jahan.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services Exam, Delhi GK Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the construction of the Red Fort with other Mughal structures, such as the Taj Mahal, which was also built by Shah Jahan but for a different purpose.

Explanations: The Red Fort was constructed during the reign of Shah Jahan as the palace for the Mughal emperors. It was completed in 1648 and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire until 1857. Shah Jahan's reign is known for the construction of several iconic structures, including the Red Fort and the Taj Mahal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Shah Jahan was the Mughal Emperor who commissioned the construction of the Red Fort.
Option B: Incorrect. Akbar was Shah Jahan's grandfather and built the Agra Fort, not the Red Fort.
Option C: Incorrect. Aurangzeb was Shah Jahan's son and did not commission the construction of the Red Fort.
Option D: Incorrect. Jahangir was Shah Jahan's father and did not commission the construction of the Red Fort.

Mnemonic: Red Fort, Shah Jahan, 1648

10. Which are the neighbouring states of Delhi?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Delhi is a union territory surrounded by two states: Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the neighboring states with other nearby states like Punjab or Rajasthan.

Explanations: Delhi is a union territory located in northern India. It is completely surrounded by the states of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Haryana borders Delhi to the west, north, and east, while Uttar Pradesh borders Delhi to the east and south. This geographical configuration makes Haryana and Uttar Pradesh the neighboring states of Delhi.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Gujarat and Rajasthan are not neighboring states of Delhi. They are located further west in India.
Option B: Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are the correct neighboring states of Delhi.
Option C: Punjab and Himachal Pradesh are not neighboring states of Delhi. They are located further north and northwest of Delhi.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are indeed the neighboring states of Delhi.

11. The transformation of Delhi into a capital that controlled vast areas of the subcontinent started with the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate in the beginning of the

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Thirteenth century.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Delhi Sultanate was a Muslim sultanate based in Delhi that ruled large areas of the Indian subcontinent for three centuries, from the early 13th to the mid-16th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate with other significant historical events in the region, such as the establishment of earlier dynasties or the arrival of Muslim invaders.

Explanations: The Delhi Sultanate was founded in the early 13th century, marking the beginning of Delhi's transformation into a capital that controlled vast areas of the subcontinent. This period saw the establishment of the Mamluk dynasty, which was the first of the five dynasties that ruled the Delhi Sultanate. The Mamluk dynasty was established by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1206, which is why the 13th century is the correct answer.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Delhi Sultanate was established in the early 13th century, marking the beginning of Delhi's transformation into a major capital.
Option B: Incorrect. The 12th century predates the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.
Option C: Incorrect. The 11th century is too early for the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.
Option D: Incorrect. The 18th century is much later and does not correspond to the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.

Mnemonic: Delhi's Sultanate, 13th Century, Qutb-ud-din Aibak

12. In the midst of the economic and political crisis of mughal empire, the ruler of Iran, ..... sacked and plundered the city of Delhi in ..... and took away immens amounts of wealth.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Nadir Shah, 1739.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Nadir Shah, the ruler of Iran, invaded Delhi in 1739 during the decline of the Mughal Empire. He sacked and plundered the city, taking immense amounts of wealth.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the date or the invader. Some may mistakenly think it was Ahmad Shah Abdali, who also invaded Delhi, but in a different year.

Explanations: Nadir Shah, the ruler of Iran, invaded Delhi in 1739. This event occurred during a period of economic and political crisis in the Mughal Empire. The invasion resulted in the sacking and plundering of Delhi, with Nadir Shah taking away immense amounts of wealth, including the famous Peacock Throne.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect. The date is wrong; it was 1739, not 1738.
Option B: Correct. Nadir Shah invaded Delhi in 1739.
Option C: Incorrect. Ahmad Shah Abdali did not invade Delhi in 1738.
Option D: Incorrect. Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Delhi in 1761, not 1739.

13. Which was not the a tax during Delhi Sultanate?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Bandagans.

Exam Relevance: Delhi GK, UPSC, Civil Services Exam

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: During the Delhi Sultanate, various taxes were imposed on the population. These included Kharaj (land tax), taxes on cattle, and taxes on houses. Bandagans, however, was not a tax but referred to slaves or bonded laborers.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that Bandagans was a tax, when in fact it referred to a social category of people.

Explanations: Kharaj, tax on cattle, and tax on houses were all forms of taxation during the Delhi Sultanate. Bandagans, on the other hand, referred to slaves or bonded laborers and was not a tax.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Kharaj was a land tax during the Delhi Sultanate.
Option B: Tax on cattle was a form of taxation during the Delhi Sultanate.
Option C: Tax on house was a form of taxation during the Delhi Sultanate.
Option D: Bandagans referred to slaves or bonded laborers and was not a tax.

14. During Muhammad bin Tughlaq Delhi was constantly threatened by the ..... invasions.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Mongol.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: During the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the Delhi Sultanate faced constant threats from Mongol invasions.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the Mongol invasions with other historical invasions, such as those by the Mughals.

Explanations: Muhammad bin Tughlaq ruled during a period when the Mongol Empire was expanding and threatening the Delhi Sultanate. The Mongols were a significant military power and posed a continuous threat to the stability of the Delhi Sultanate. The Mongol invasions were a major concern for Muhammad bin Tughlaq, as they required significant military resources to defend against.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Mughals did not invade during Muhammad bin Tughlaq's reign; they came later.
Option B: The Guptas were an earlier dynasty and did not pose a threat during Muhammad bin Tughlaq's time.
Option C: The Mongols were a constant threat during Muhammad bin Tughlaq's reign.
Option D: This option is incorrect as the Mongols were indeed a threat.

Mnemonic: Mongol Menace, Muhammad's Misery

15. Capital of the Mughal empire in Northern India

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Delhi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Delhi was the capital of the Mughal Empire in Northern India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the capital with other significant landmarks or rivers in the region, such as the Indus or Ganges rivers, or the Taj Mahal.

Explanations: Delhi served as the capital of the Mughal Empire, which ruled much of the Indian subcontinent from the 16th to the 19th century. The Mughal emperors chose Delhi as their capital due to its strategic location and historical significance.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Indus River is not a capital city. It is a major river in South Asia.
Option B: The Ganges River is not a capital city. It is a major river in India.
Option C: Delhi was the capital of the Mughal Empire in Northern India.
Option D: The Taj Mahal is a famous monument, not a capital city.

Mnemonic: D for Delhi, D for Dynasty.

16. Shahjahanabad was built by .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Shahjahan.

Exam Relevance: Delhi Civil Services, UPSC, IAS

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Shahjahanabad was the walled city of Delhi built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Shahjahanabad with other Mughal cities like Fatehpur Sikri, which was built by Akbar.

Explanations: Shahjahanabad was founded by Emperor Shahjahan in 1639 as the new capital of the Mughal Empire. It was located on the banks of the Yamuna River and included the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. The city was named after the emperor himself.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Shahjahanabad was built by Shahjahan.
Option B: Incorrect. Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri, not Shahjahanabad.
Option C: Incorrect. The Pandavas are characters from the Mahabharata and not associated with the construction of Shahjahanabad.
Option D: Incorrect. Shahjahan is the correct answer, so this option is not applicable.

17. When was Raziyya removed from the throne

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 1240.

Exam Relevance: Delhi GK, UPSC, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Raziyya, the only female ruler of the Mamluk dynasty in Delhi, was removed from the throne in 1240.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the year of Raziyya's removal with other significant dates in Delhi's history.

Explanations: Raziyya, the daughter of Iltutmish, ruled as the Sultan of Delhi from 1236 to 1240. She was known for her administrative reforms and efforts to improve the governance of the Delhi Sultanate. However, her rule faced opposition from the nobility, who were uncomfortable with a female ruler. In 1240, she was deposed and subsequently killed, marking the end of her reign.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Raziyya was removed from the throne in 1240.
Option B: Incorrect. 1250 is not the correct year for Raziyya's removal.
Option C: Incorrect. 1245 is not the correct year for Raziyya's removal.
Option D: Incorrect. 1255 is not the correct year for Raziyya's removal.

18. Rashtrapati bhavan has beautiful garden known as

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Mughal garden.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, Delhi GK

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is known for its beautiful Mughal garden.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that the garden is a rose garden or a lotus garden, as these are also popular in India.

Explanations: The Rashtrapati Bhavan, located in New Delhi, features a Mughal garden. This garden style is characterized by its geometric layout, water features, and the use of plants and flowers typical of Mughal architecture. The Mughal garden is a significant part of the historical and cultural heritage of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Lotus garden is not the correct term for the garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Option B: The Rose garden is not the specific type of garden found at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Option C: The Mughal garden is the correct term for the garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Option D: The Tulip garden is not the correct term for the garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Mnemonic: Mughal, M for Mughal, M for Majestic.

19. This is the Afghan who captured Delhi in 1540. Identify.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Sher Shah Suri.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Sher Shah Suri was a powerful Afghan ruler who overthrew the Mughal emperor Humayun and captured Delhi in 1540, establishing the Sur dynasty.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Sher Shah Suri with other Mughal rulers like Babur or Humayun, who were also involved in the Delhi Sultanate.

Explanations: Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan warrior, defeated the Mughal emperor Humayun in the Battle of Chausa in 1539 and then again in the Battle of Bilgram in 1540. Following these victories, he captured Delhi and established the Sur dynasty, ruling from 1540 to 1545.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire and captured Delhi in 1526, not 1540.
Option B: Humayun was the son of Babur and was overthrown by Sher Shah Suri in 1540, not the one who captured Delhi.
Option C: Sher Shah Suri captured Delhi in 1540 after defeating Humayun.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Sher Shah Suri is the correct answer.

20. Who hosts the flag on Independence Day at Delhi Fort?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Prime Minister.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services Exam, State PSC Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Prime Minister of India traditionally hosts the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort in Delhi on Independence Day.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that the President of India hosts the flag hoisting ceremony, as the President holds a high constitutional position.

Explanations: The Prime Minister of India is responsible for hosting the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort in Delhi on Independence Day. This tradition underscores the Prime Minister's role in leading the nation's celebrations and addressing the citizens on this significant day.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The President does not host the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort on Independence Day.
Option B: The Chief Justice does not host the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort on Independence Day.
Option C: The Prime Minister hosts the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort on Independence Day.
Option D: The Vice President does not host the flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort on Independence Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 2011 census in understanding Delhi's urban population?

The 2011 census provides crucial data on Delhi's urban population, including demographics, growth rates, and socio-economic indicators, which are essential for urban planning and governance.

How did the Delhi Sultanate contribute to the architectural landscape of Delhi?

The Delhi Sultanate, particularly the Mamluk and Lodi dynasties, introduced Islamic architectural styles that blended with local traditions, resulting in iconic structures like the Red Fort and Qutb Minar.

What role did Bahlol Lodi play in the history of Delhi?

Bahlol Lodi was the founder of the Lodi dynasty, which ruled Delhi during the late 15th century. He established a stable administration and contributed to the city's architectural development.

How does Delhi's geography influence its urban planning?

Delhi's geography, including its location on the Indian subcontinent and its proximity to neighboring states, influences urban planning by affecting transportation, water management, and land use policies.

What impact did Muhammad Bin Tughlaq's contradictory policies have on Delhi's governance?

Muhammad Bin Tughlaq's contradictory policies, such as the shifting of the capital, led to administrative challenges and economic instability, affecting the governance and stability of Delhi during his reign.

🏠 Back to Homepage 📘 Download PDF Books 📕 Premium PDF Books