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Odisha Gk Quiz 16 (20 MCQs)

This set of multiple-choice questions evaluates your understanding of Odisha's geography, history, and culture. Topics include ancient Kalinga, the Maurya Empire, Odisha's state formation, and significant historical sites like the Konark Temple and Udayagiri caves. Questions also cover Odisha's capital city, cultural heritage, including Odissi dance and Rath Yatra, and recent events like the Odisha Skills Competition and Swachhata Darpan Awards.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. This city remained the capital of Odisha for over nine centuries and is also the oldest town. its history dates back to the Keshari dynasty from around 989 CE.

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Cuttack has been the capital of Odisha for over nine centuries and is the oldest town in the region.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Cuttack with Bhubaneshwar, which is the current capital of Odisha.

Explanations: Cuttack was the capital of Odisha from around 989 CE during the Keshari dynasty and remained so for over nine centuries. It is the oldest town in Odisha, making it the correct answer.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Keomjhar is not historically significant as the capital of Odisha.
Option B: Bhubaneshwar is the current capital of Odisha but not the oldest town or the capital for over nine centuries.
Option C: Puri is a significant religious and cultural center but not the oldest town or the capital for over nine centuries.
Option D: Cuttack is the oldest town and was the capital of Odisha for over nine centuries.

2. Where is Konark Temple located?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Very Easy

Concept notes: The Konark Temple is a famous historical monument located in the state of Odisha, India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the location of the Konark Temple with other temples in India, such as those in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, or Maharashtra.

Explanations: The Konark Temple, also known as the Sun Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the state of Odisha. It is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Konark Temple is located in Odisha.
Option B: Incorrect. The Konark Temple is not located in Tamil Nadu.
Option C: Incorrect. The Konark Temple is not located in Karnataka.
Option D: Incorrect. The Konark Temple is not located in Maharashtra.

3. Kalinga is present day .....

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Very Easy

Concept notes: Kalinga is an ancient name for the region that is now known as Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Kalinga with other regions in India that have historical significance.

Explanations: Kalinga is an ancient name for the region that is now known as Odisha. The region has a rich history and was known as Kalinga during the Maurya Empire era. The famous Kalinga War, which led to Emperor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism, took place in this region. Therefore, Kalinga is present-day Odisha.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Kalinga is present-day Odisha.
Option B: Incorrect. Uttar Pradesh is not historically associated with the name Kalinga.
Option C: Incorrect. Andhra Pradesh is a different region and not historically associated with the name Kalinga.
Option D: Incorrect. Kerala is a different region and not historically associated with the name Kalinga.

4. Who wrote 1st the Mahabharat in Oriya Language?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Sarala Das.

Exam Relevance: Odisha Civil Services, Odisha PSC, Odisha GK Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Sarala Das is known for his translation and adaptation of the Mahabharata into Oriya (Odia) language.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Sarala Das with other Oriya literary figures, such as Jagannath Das, who is known for his translation of the Bhagavata Purana.

Explanations: Sarala Das is recognized as the author who first translated and adapted the Mahabharata into Oriya (Odia) language. His work, known as the Sarala Mahabharata, is a significant literary achievement in Odia literature and is widely studied and revered.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Arjuna Das is not known for translating the Mahabharata into Oriya.
Option B: Sarala Das is the correct answer as he is the author of the Sarala Mahabharata.
Option C: Jagannath Das is known for his translation of the Bhagavata Purana, not the Mahabharata.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Sarala Das is the correct author.

Mnemonic: Sarala = Sarala Mahabharata

5. What is the ancient name of costal Odisha?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Kalinga is the ancient name for the coastal region of Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Kalinga with other ancient names like Ujjain, Pataliputra, or Taxila, which are associated with different regions.

Explanations: Kalinga was an ancient kingdom located in the coastal region of present-day Odisha. It was a significant region during the Maurya Empire, particularly known for the Kalinga War fought by Emperor Ashoka. The other options refer to different historical regions: Ujjain was in central India, Pataliputra was in present-day Bihar, and Taxila was in present-day Pakistan.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Ujjain was an important city in ancient India, but it is not the ancient name for coastal Odisha.
Option B: Pataliputra was the capital of the Maurya Empire, located in present-day Bihar, not Odisha.
Option C: Taxila was an ancient city in the Indus Valley, located in present-day Pakistan, not Odisha.
Option D: Kalinga is the correct ancient name for the coastal region of Odisha.

6. Which river is called as the sorrow of Orissa?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Mahanadi is often referred to as the "sorrow of Orissa" due to the frequent floods it causes in the region.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the river with other rivers in India that are also prone to flooding.

Explanations: The Mahanadi is a major river in eastern India, primarily flowing through the state of Odisha. It is known for its frequent and devastating floods, which have caused significant damage to the region. This recurring flooding has earned the river the moniker "sorrow of Orissa."

Option Analysis:

Option A: Thungabadra is a river in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, not associated with Orissa.
Option B: Periyar is a river in Kerala, not associated with Orissa.
Option C: Yamuna is a major river in northern India, not associated with Orissa.
Option D: Mahanadi is the correct river known for its frequent flooding in Orissa.

Mnemonic: Maha Floods, Orissa's Woes

7. Peninsula plateau is surrounded by a narrow a belt of plains from

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Kachchh to Odisha.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The peninsula plateau in India is surrounded by a narrow belt of plains from Kachchh to Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the direction of the belt of plains, thinking it might be from Odisha to Kachchh.

Explanations: The peninsula plateau is a significant geographical feature in India, and it is surrounded by a narrow belt of plains that extends from Kachchh in Gujarat to Odisha in the east. This belt of plains is an important geographical boundary that separates the plateau from the coastal regions.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect because the direction is from Kachchh to Odisha, not the other way around.
Option B: Correct as the belt of plains extends from Kachchh to Odisha.
Option C: Incorrect because the Andaman-Nicobar Islands are not related to the belt of plains surrounding the peninsula plateau.
Option D: Incorrect as the correct answer is provided in the options.

8. Udayagiri caves are located in which state

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Udayagiri caves are a group of rock-cut Buddhist and Jain monuments located in the Khandagiri hills near Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the location with other states in eastern India, such as Jharkhand or Ranchi.

Explanations: The Udayagiri caves are located in the state of Odisha. These caves are significant archaeological sites that contain rock-cut monuments and sculptures from the Kalinga period, which is an important part of Odisha's cultural and historical heritage.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Jharkhand is incorrect as the Udayagiri caves are not located in this state.
Option B: Nicobar is incorrect as it is a group of islands and not a state where the Udayagiri caves are located.
Option C: Ranchi is incorrect as it is a city in Jharkhand, not the location of the Udayagiri caves.
Option D: Odisha is the correct state where the Udayagiri caves are located.

9. What is the name of Bubaneshwar Airport?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Biju Patnaik International Airport.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Bubaneshwar Airport is officially known as Biju Patnaik International Airport.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the name with other airports in India, such as Vir Savarkar Airport or Indira Gandhi Airport.

Explanations: Bubaneshwar Airport is officially named Biju Patnaik International Airport, after the former Chief Minister of Odisha, Biju Patnaik. This name reflects the airport's significance and honors a prominent figure in Odisha's history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Vir Savarkar Airport is not the correct name for Bubaneshwar Airport.
Option B: Biju Patnaik International Airport is the correct name for Bubaneshwar Airport.
Option C: Indira Gandhi Airport is not the correct name for Bubaneshwar Airport.
Option D: Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport is not the correct name for Bubaneshwar Airport.

Mnemonic: Biju Patnaik, Bubaneshwar, BPIA

10. The ..... in puri, Orissa celebrates Krishna's journey from Gokul to Mathura

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Rath Yatra.

Exam Relevance: Odisha Civil Services, Odisha PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Rath Yatra is a major festival in Puri, Odisha, celebrating the journey of Lord Jagannath (an incarnation of Krishna) from Gokul to Mathura.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Rath Yatra with other festivals like Durga Pooja or Chandan Yatra, which are celebrated for different reasons.

Explanations: Rath Yatra is a significant festival in Puri, Odisha, where the deities Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in a procession on chariots. This festival commemorates Krishna's journey from Gokul to Mathura. The other options do not specifically relate to this journey.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Durga Pooja is a major festival in West Bengal and some parts of Odisha, but it does not celebrate Krishna's journey.
Option B: Kalinga Mahotsav is a cultural festival in Odisha, but it does not specifically celebrate Krishna's journey.
Option C: Chandan Yatra is a festival in Odisha, but it is not related to Krishna's journey from Gokul to Mathura.
Option D: Rath Yatra is the correct answer as it celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath (Krishna) from Gokul to Mathura.

Mnemonic: Rath Yatra: RY = R (Rath) Y (Yatra)

11. What is the Ideal duration of stay in Odisha?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 4-8 Days.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Travel and Tourism Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The ideal duration of stay in Odisha depends on the number of places one wishes to visit and the activities planned. Odisha offers a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, and a stay of 4-8 days allows visitors to explore major sites without feeling rushed.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is assuming that a shorter duration, such as 2-3 days, would be sufficient to explore Odisha's major attractions. This duration is often too short to fully appreciate the state's diverse offerings.

Explanations: A stay of 4-8 days in Odisha is considered ideal because it allows visitors to explore key attractions such as Puri, Konark, Bhubaneswar, and other important sites. This duration provides enough time to experience the cultural and historical richness of the state without feeling rushed.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 4-8 Days is the correct answer as it provides a balanced duration to explore major attractions in Odisha.
Option B: 2-3 Days is too short to fully explore Odisha's major attractions and cultural sites.
Option C: 9-10 Days is longer than necessary for a general visit, though it could be suitable for more extensive exploration.
Option D: 11-12 Days is excessively long for a general visit and may not be practical for most travelers.

12. When was Sambalpur united with Odisha

Exam Relevance: Odisha PSC, UPSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Sambalpur was united with Odisha in 1936 as part of the reorganization of provinces in British India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the year with other significant events in Odisha's history, such as the formation of the Odisha state.

Explanations: In 1936, the British government reorganized the provinces of India, leading to the formation of the Odisha state. As part of this reorganization, Sambalpur, which was previously part of the Central Provinces and Berar, was united with the newly formed Odisha state. This event is significant in the history of Odisha as it marked the inclusion of Sambalpur into the state, contributing to the geographical and cultural unity of Odisha.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1921 is incorrect as it predates the reorganization of provinces that led to the inclusion of Sambalpur in Odisha.
Option B: 1924 is incorrect as it also predates the reorganization of provinces that led to the inclusion of Sambalpur in Odisha.
Option C: 1936 is correct as it marks the year when Sambalpur was united with Odisha following the reorganization of provinces in British India.
Option D: 1937 is incorrect as it is after the reorganization of provinces that led to the inclusion of Sambalpur in Odisha.

13. Odisha day also known as Utkala Dibasa is celebrated every year on

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) 1 st April.

Exam Relevance: Odisha PSC, Odisha GK Exams, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Odisha Day, also known as Utkala Dibasa, is celebrated every year on 1st April to commemorate the formation of the state of Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the date with other significant dates in Odisha's history, such as the date of the state's formation or other regional festivals.

Explanations: Odisha Day is celebrated on 1st April to mark the formation of the state of Odisha as a separate province in 1936. This date is significant in the history of Odisha and is commemorated annually.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1st May is incorrect as it does not correspond to the formation of Odisha as a separate province.
Option B: 1st February is incorrect as it does not correspond to the formation of Odisha as a separate province.
Option C: 1st March is incorrect as it does not correspond to the formation of Odisha as a separate province.
Option D: 1st April is the correct date as it marks the formation of Odisha as a separate province in 1936.

14. Odissi is the dance form of which state?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive exams on Indian culture

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Odissi is a classical dance form that originated in the state of Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Odissi with other classical dance forms from different states, such as Kathakali from Kerala or Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh.

Explanations: Odissi is a classical dance form that has its roots in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is characterized by its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures. The dance form is deeply connected to the cultural and religious traditions of Odisha, making it a significant part of the state's heritage.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Andhra Pradesh is known for the Kuchipudi dance form, not Odissi.
Option B: Karnataka is known for the Yakshagana and Kathakali dance forms, not Odissi.
Option C: Odisha is the correct state where Odissi originated and is practiced.
Option D: Kerala is known for the Kathakali dance form, not Odissi.

15. Ancient name of Coastal Orissa

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Kalinga.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Odisha PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kalinga was the ancient name for the coastal region of present-day Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Kalinga with other ancient names or regions.

Explanations: Kalinga was the historical name for the coastal region of Odisha. This name is well-documented in ancient texts and historical records, making it the correct answer for the ancient name of Coastal Orissa.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Patna is not the ancient name for Coastal Orissa. Patna is located in Bihar.
Option B: Kalinga is the correct ancient name for Coastal Orissa.
Option C: Delhi is not related to the ancient name of Coastal Orissa. Delhi is the capital of India.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Kalinga is the correct answer.

16. Odisha Skills Competition was held in .....

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

Exam Relevance: Odisha PSC, Odisha GK Exams, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Odisha Skills Competition is an event that showcases the skills and talents of individuals in various fields. It is typically held in the capital city of Odisha, which is Bhubaneswar.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Cuttack, Berhampur, or Rourkela, as these are also important cities in Odisha but are not the capital.

Explanations: The Odisha Skills Competition is held in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. This is a well-known fact in Odisha General Knowledge (GK). The event is organized to promote and recognize the skills of individuals across various sectors.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Cuttack is not the capital city of Odisha, so it is incorrect.
Option B: Berhampur is an important city but not the capital, so it is incorrect.
Option C: Rourkela is a significant industrial city but not the capital, so it is incorrect.
Option D: Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha, making it the correct location for the Odisha Skills Competition.

17. Cyclone Phailin struck the coastal areas of:

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Odisha & Andhra Pradesh.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Geography Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Cyclone Phailin was a severe tropical cyclone that affected the coastal regions of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in 2013.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the affected regions with other coastal states in India.

Explanations: Cyclone Phailin made landfall in the coastal areas of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in October 2013. The cyclone caused significant damage and affected the coastal regions of these two states. Therefore, the correct answer is Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Cyclone Phailin affected the coastal areas of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Option B: Incorrect. Mumbai and Gujarat were not affected by Cyclone Phailin.
Option C: Incorrect. Tamil Nadu was not affected by Cyclone Phailin.
Option D: Incorrect. Telangana was not affected by Cyclone Phailin.

18. Which one was the capital of Orissa before Bhubaneswar

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Cuttack was the capital of Orissa before Bhubaneswar.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Puri, as it is a significant religious and cultural center in Orissa.

Explanations: Cuttack served as the capital of Orissa from the time of its formation as a province in 1936 until 1956. In 1956, the capital was shifted to Bhubaneswar, which was planned as a modern administrative center.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Cuttack was the capital of Orissa before Bhubaneswar.
Option B: Incorrect. Puri is a significant religious and cultural center but was never the capital.
Option C: Incorrect. Rourkela is an industrial city but was never the capital.
Option D: Incorrect. Berhampur is a major city but was never the capital.

19. Guruvugaru was born in which place?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Asika, Odisha.

Exam Relevance: Odisha PSC, Odisha GK Exams, UPSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Guruvugaru is a significant figure in Odisha's cultural and religious history. The correct place of birth is Asika, Odisha.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing a place outside of Odisha, as the other options are from different states.

Explanations: Guruvugaru, a revered figure in Odisha, was born in Asika, a village in Odisha. This information is crucial for understanding the cultural and historical context of Odisha.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Tadepalligudem, AP is incorrect as it is located in Andhra Pradesh, not Odisha.
Option B: Bangalore, KA is incorrect as it is located in Karnataka, not Odisha.
Option C: Asika, Odisha is the correct place of birth for Guruvugaru.
Option D: Amalapuram, AP is incorrect as it is located in Andhra Pradesh, not Odisha.

20. Which district Swachhata Darpan Awards 2019 for the best performing districts on key swachhata parameters

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Puri, Odisha.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Swachhata Darpan Awards recognize the best performing districts based on key sanitation parameters.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the award with other sanitation initiatives or awards given to different districts or states.

Explanations: Puri, Odisha, was awarded the Swachhata Darpan Award 2019 for being the best performing district on key swachhata parameters. This recognition highlights the district's efforts and achievements in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation.

Option Analysis:

Option A: New Delhi, Delhi, did not receive the Swachhata Darpan Award 2019 for the best performing districts on key swachhata parameters.
Option B: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, did not receive the Swachhata Darpan Award 2019 for the best performing districts on key swachhata parameters.
Option C: Puri, Odisha, received the Swachhata Darpan Award 2019 for the best performing districts on key swachhata parameters.
Option D: None of the above is incorrect as Puri, Odisha, did receive the award.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Odisha?

The capital of Odisha is Bhubaneswar, formerly known as Bubaneshwar.

What significant historical event took place in ancient Kalinga?

The Kalinga War, fought in 261 BCE, was a significant event where Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Empire conquered Kalinga, leading to his conversion to Buddhism.

What is the Rath Yatra?

The Rath Yatra is a major Hindu festival in which the deities Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in a procession on chariots from the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

What is the significance of the Konark Temple?

The Konark Temple is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the sun god Surya and is known for its architectural grandeur and intricate carvings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What is the narrow belt of plains in Odisha called?

The narrow belt of plains in Odisha is known as the coastal plains, which are part of the larger coastal region of the state.

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