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West Bengal Gk Quiz 20 (20 MCQs)

This quiz evaluates knowledge of West Bengal's art, history, and culture, including the Bengal School of Art, Bengal Renaissance, Bengali literature, and traditional dance forms. It covers historical events such as the Partition of Bengal, Swadeshi Movement, and the formation of West Bengal, along with geographical features like the Sundarbans delta and the Ganges river. The quiz also assesses understanding of cultural figures, landmarks, and the state's legislative structure.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. Name the state bird of West Bengal.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) White-throated kingfisher.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, UPSC, State-level competitive exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The state bird of West Bengal is the White-throated kingfisher.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing the peacock, as it is the national bird of India, not the state bird of West Bengal.

Explanations: The White-throated kingfisher is the official state bird of West Bengal. It is a brightly colored bird with a white throat and a prominent black eye stripe. This bird is native to the region and is often seen near water bodies, which makes it a fitting symbol for the state.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Parrot is not the state bird of West Bengal.
Option B: Flamingo is not the state bird of West Bengal.
Option C: Peacock is the national bird of India, not the state bird of West Bengal.
Option D: White-throated kingfisher is the correct state bird of West Bengal.

2. The Hugli is the main branch of the Ganga in

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) West Bengal.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Hugli River, also known as the Hooghly River, is a distributary of the Ganges (Ganga) that flows through West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Hugli with other branches of the Ganga that flow through different states.

Explanations: The Hugli River is a significant distributary of the Ganga that flows through West Bengal. It is an important waterway and supports various economic activities in the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Punjab is not the location of the Hugli River.
Option B: Varanasi is located in Uttar Pradesh and is not associated with the Hugli River.
Option C: Kanpur is located in Uttar Pradesh and is not associated with the Hugli River.
Option D: West Bengal is the correct location of the Hugli River.

3. What's the date of formation of West Bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) November 1st, 1956.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: West Bengal was formed on November 1st, 1956, as a result of the States Reorganisation Act, which reorganized the states of India based on linguistic boundaries.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the date with other significant dates in Indian history, such as the date of India's independence or other state formations.

Explanations: West Bengal was formed on November 1st, 1956, following the implementation of the States Reorganisation Act. This act was a significant political and administrative reform that restructured the states of India based on linguistic lines. The formation of West Bengal was a part of this larger reorganization process.

Option Analysis:

Option A: January 1st, 2020, is not the correct date for the formation of West Bengal.
Option B: July 4th, 2000, is not the correct date for the formation of West Bengal.
Option C: December 21, 2014, is not the correct date for the formation of West Bengal.
Option D: November 1st, 1956, is the correct date for the formation of West Bengal.

4. What are the chief food items of the Bengalis?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Rice and fish.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, WBSSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The chief food items of Bengalis are rice and fish, which are integral to their cuisine and culture.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the primary food items with other popular dishes like dal or sweets.

Explanations: Rice and fish are the staple foods of Bengalis. Rice is a primary carbohydrate source and is consumed in various forms, while fish is a significant protein source and is integral to Bengali cuisine. The combination of rice and fish is deeply rooted in the Bengali diet and culture.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Rice and dal are important, but dal is not as central to the Bengali diet as fish.
Option B: Rice and rashgulla are popular, but rashgulla is a sweet dessert and not a staple food item.
Option C: Rice and fish are the staple foods of Bengalis, making this the correct answer.
Option D: Fish and Misti dohi are popular, but Misti dohi is a dessert and not a staple food item.

Mnemonic: Rice and Fish: R & F

5. K. Sridharalu Naidu later visited Calcutta to study the Brahmo Samaj movement and when he returned, he renamed the Veda Samaj as?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Brahmo Samaj of Southern India.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: K. Sridharalu Naidu visited Calcutta to study the Brahmo Samaj movement and upon his return, he renamed the Veda Samaj to reflect the influence of the Brahmo Samaj.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the renaming with other similar movements or organizations.

Explanations: K. Sridharalu Naidu's visit to Calcutta to study the Brahmo Samaj movement influenced him to rename the Veda Samaj to the Brahmo Samaj of Southern India. This reflects the impact of the Brahmo Samaj on the religious and social reform movements in southern India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Veda Samaj was renamed to the Brahmo Samaj of Southern India after K. Sridharalu Naidu's visit to Calcutta.
Option B: Incorrect. The Sadharan Samaj of North India is not related to the renaming of the Veda Samaj.
Option C: Incorrect. The Arya Samaj of North India is a different movement and not related to the renaming of the Veda Samaj.
Option D: Incorrect. The Arya of Southern India is not a recognized name and is not related to the renaming of the Veda Samaj.

6. The poem Srikrishna Kirtan was written by Badu Chandidas of .....

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The poem Srikrishna Kirtan is associated with Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the origin of the poem with other regions known for their literary contributions.

Explanations: The poem Srikrishna Kirtan was written by Badu Chandidas, who was a poet from Bengal. This work is an important part of Bengali literature and is known for its devotional themes centered around Lord Krishna.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The poem is associated with Bengal.
Option B: Incorrect. Odisha is not the correct region for this poem.
Option C: Incorrect. Punjab is not the correct region for this poem.
Option D: Incorrect. The poem is specifically associated with Bengal.

7. Name the famous bridge in West Bengal.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Howrah bridge.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Howrah Bridge is a famous landmark in West Bengal, connecting Kolkata and Howrah.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Howrah Bridge with other famous bridges in India, such as the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai.

Explanations: The Howrah Bridge is a well-known and iconic structure in West Bengal, connecting the cities of Kolkata and Howrah. It is one of the busiest bridges in the world and a significant symbol of the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Lakshman Jhola is a small suspension bridge in Darjeeling, not a famous bridge in West Bengal.
Option B: Vivekananda Setu is a bridge in Kolkata, but it is not as famous as the Howrah Bridge.
Option C: Howrah Bridge is the correct answer as it is a famous and iconic bridge in West Bengal.
Option D: None of the above is incorrect because the Howrah Bridge is a well-known bridge in West Bengal.

8. Where was the First Jute Mill set up in India?

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The first jute mill in India was established in Kolkata, which is historically significant for the jute industry.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Mumbai or Chennai, as these cities are also known for their industrial history.

Explanations: Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, was the center of the jute industry in India. The first jute mill, the Victoria Mill, was established in 1855 in Rishra, a suburb of Kolkata. This mill marked the beginning of the jute industry in India, which later became a significant part of the region's economy.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chennai is not the correct location for the first jute mill in India.
Option B: Mumbai is not the correct location for the first jute mill in India.
Option C: Kolkata is the correct location for the first jute mill in India.
Option D: Delhi is not the correct location for the first jute mill in India.

9. Henry Louis Vivian Derozio, and his students,

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Promoted radicals and young bengal movement.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Henry Louis Vivian Derozio was a significant figure in the early 19th century Bengal Renaissance. He was a teacher at the Hindu College in Calcutta and inspired his students to question traditional beliefs and seek modern knowledge. This group of students, known as the Young Bengal Movement, became radical thinkers and advocated for social reforms.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that Derozio and his students were primarily focused on religious or cultural preservation, rather than promoting radical and progressive ideas.

Explanations: Henry Louis Vivian Derozio and his students were instrumental in promoting radical ideas and the Young Bengal Movement. They challenged traditional beliefs and advocated for social reforms, including the empowerment of women and the adoption of Western education and values. This movement was a significant part of the Bengal Renaissance and played a crucial role in shaping modern Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is correct as Derozio and his students were known for promoting radical ideas and were central to the Young Bengal Movement.
Option B: This option is incorrect as Derozio and his students were not against empowering women; in fact, they advocated for women's rights and education.

10. Who did Akbar defeat to conquer Bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Daud Khan.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Akbar's conquest of Bengal involved defeating Daud Khan, who was a powerful Afghan chieftain in the region.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Daud Khan with other historical figures such as Hemu or Sher Shah Suri, who were also significant figures during the Mughal period.

Explanations: Akbar, the Mughal emperor, sought to expand his empire and consolidate his power. In 1574, he sent his general, Munim Khan, to conquer Bengal. Daud Khan, the Afghan chieftain, resisted the Mughal forces. After a series of battles, Daud Khan was defeated, and Bengal came under Mughal control. This conquest was a significant step in Akbar's efforts to unify the subcontinent under Mughal rule.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Hemu was defeated by Akbar in the Second Battle of Panipat in 1556, not in the conquest of Bengal.
Option B: Daud Khan was the Afghan chieftain defeated by Akbar's forces in Bengal.
Option C: Sher Shah Suri was a powerful ruler who defeated Humayun, not Akbar, and was not involved in the conquest of Bengal.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Daud Khan was indeed the one defeated by Akbar in Bengal.

11. Where is Mother Teresa of Calcutta died?

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Mother Teresa of Calcutta, also known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, was a Roman Catholic nun who lived and worked in India. She is known for her charitable work and the establishment of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding might be that Mother Teresa was born in India, but she was actually born in Skopje, Macedonia (now North Macedonia). However, she spent most of her life and died in India.

Explanations: Mother Teresa of Calcutta died in Kolkata, India, on September 5, 1997. She spent most of her life working in India, particularly in Kolkata, where she founded the Missionaries of Charity. Therefore, the correct answer is India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Macedonia is incorrect because Mother Teresa was born in Macedonia but died in India.
Option B: Romania is incorrect as it has no direct connection to Mother Teresa's life or death.
Option C: India is correct because Mother Teresa died in Kolkata, India.
Option D: America is incorrect as Mother Teresa never lived or died in America.

12. The Sundraban delta is made by river ..... and ..... before falling into Bay of Bengal

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Ganga and Bramhaputra.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Sundarbans delta is formed by the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers before they empty into the Bay of Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the rivers forming the Sundarbans delta with other major river systems in India, such as the Indus or Yamuna.

Explanations: The Sundarbans delta is primarily formed by the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. These two rivers merge in Bangladesh to form the world's largest delta before flowing into the Bay of Bengal. The delta is a significant geographical feature of West Bengal and is known for its unique mangrove forests.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Sundarbans delta is formed by the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.
Option B: Incorrect. The Indus and Satluj rivers do not form the Sundarbans delta.
Option C: Incorrect. The Beas and Yamuna rivers do not form the Sundarbans delta.
Option D: Incorrect. The Yamuna and Indus rivers do not form the Sundarbans delta.

Mnemonic: Ganges and Brahmaputra: "G and B form the Sundarbans."

13. Tribal dance of west bengal

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Chhau dance.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Chhau dance is a traditional dance form of West Bengal, particularly associated with the Purulia district.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Chhau dance with other folk dances from different regions.

Explanations: Chhau dance is a significant part of the cultural heritage of West Bengal. It is known for its vibrant costumes, elaborate masks, and martial movements. The dance form is deeply rooted in the region and is performed during festivals and rituals.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chhau dance is a traditional dance form of West Bengal.
Option B: Lavani is a folk dance form from Maharashtra, not West Bengal.
Option C: Kalbiya is a folk dance form from Rajasthan, not West Bengal.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Chhau dance is the correct answer.

14. British Reaction to Hindus protest of Bengal

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) 1906 to 1908.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS Prelims

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The British reaction to Hindu protests in Bengal during the period of 1906 to 1908 was marked by severe repression and punitive measures.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the timeline of events related to the British response to Hindu protests in Bengal.

Explanations: The British government responded to the Hindu protests in Bengal with harsh measures, including the prosecution of editors and the use of the Indian Press Act of 1908. This period saw significant unrest and the British authorities took strict actions to suppress the protests, leading to the arrest and prosecution of many activists and editors. The timeline of 1906 to 1908 is significant as it encompasses the period of heightened tension and the implementation of repressive measures.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect as it does not provide a valid timeline and includes an irrelevant detail about poisoning.
Option B: This option is incorrect as it suggests a period that does not align with the historical timeline of the British response to Hindu protests in Bengal.
Option C: This option is incorrect as it suggests a period that does not align with the historical timeline of the British response to Hindu protests in Bengal.
Option D: This option is correct as it accurately reflects the period during which the British government took severe measures in response to Hindu protests in Bengal.

15. On 23rd March 1940, A.K Fazal ul Haq presented the Pakistan Resolution, his title was:

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Sher e Bengal.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: A.K. Fazal ul Haq was a prominent political figure in Bengal and was known by the title "Sher e Bengal," which translates to "Lion of Bengal."

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the title with other similar titles such as "Sher e Punjab" or "Sher e Hind."

Explanations: A.K. Fazal ul Haq was a key figure in the political landscape of Bengal during the early 20th century. He was a leader in the Muslim League and played a significant role in the movement for the creation of Pakistan. His title "Sher e Bengal" reflects his influential status and contributions to the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. A.K. Fazal ul Haq was known as "Sher e Bengal."
Option B: Incorrect. "Sher e Punjab" is not associated with A.K. Fazal ul Haq.
Option C: Incorrect. "Sher e Hind" is not associated with A.K. Fazal ul Haq.
Option D: Incorrect. The correct title is provided in Option A.

Mnemonic: Sher e Bengal, Lion of Bengal, Fazal ul Haq

16. In which of the following states there is no Legislative Council?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) West Bengal.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, State PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: West Bengal does not have a Legislative Council. It only has a Legislative Assembly.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that all states have both a Legislative Assembly and a Legislative Council.

Explanations: West Bengal is one of the states in India that does not have a Legislative Council. It only has a Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council is an upper house that exists in some states but not all.

Option Analysis:

Option A: West Bengal does not have a Legislative Council.
Option B: Telangana has a Legislative Council.
Option C: Karnataka has a Legislative Council.
Option D: Tamil Nadu has a Legislative Council.

17. When was the partition of Bengal annulled?

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS Prelims

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The partition of Bengal was a significant event in Indian history, initiated by the British in 1905 and later annulled in 1911.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the year of the partition with the year it was annulled.

Explanations: The partition of Bengal was a political move by the British to divide the province into two parts: Bengal and East Bengal and Assam. This decision was met with widespread protests and the Swadeshi movement. In response to the growing unrest, the British government decided to annul the partition in 1911, reunifying the province.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1905 is the year the partition was initiated, not annulled.
Option B: 1907 is not a significant year in the context of the partition of Bengal.
Option C: 1911 is the correct year when the partition was annulled.
Option D: This option is incorrect as 1911 is the correct year.

Mnemonic: Partition Reversed, 1911, Unity Restored

18. Well known film maker and actress born in Kolkata

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Aparna Sen.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Aparna Sen is a well-known film director and actress born in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: One common mistake could be confusing Aparna Sen with other notable figures from Kolkata.

Explanations: Aparna Sen is a renowned figure in Indian cinema, known for her contributions as a film director and actress. She was born in Kolkata, making her a significant cultural figure in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Mary Kom is a famous boxer, not a film director or actress.
Option B: Aparna Sen is a well-known film director and actress born in Kolkata.
Option C: Irom Sharmila is a political activist, not a film director or actress.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Aparna Sen is the correct answer.

19. Identify this marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Victoria Memorial.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS Prelims

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It was built to commemorate Queen Victoria and is a significant landmark in the city.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Victoria Memorial with other historical buildings in Kolkata, such as Fort William or Marble Palace.

Explanations: The Victoria Memorial is a prominent marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It was constructed in the early 20th century to honor Queen Victoria and is a major tourist attraction. The building is known for its grand architecture and extensive gardens. The other options, such as Fort William and Marble Palace, are also significant landmarks in Kolkata but are not primarily known for being marble buildings.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Victoria Memorial is the correct answer as it is a well-known marble building in Kolkata.
Option B: Fort William is a historical fort in Kolkata but is not primarily known for being a marble building.
Option C: Marble Palace is a mansion in Kolkata but is not as prominent or well-known as the Victoria Memorial.
Option D: Moti Masjid is not located in Kolkata; it is a mosque in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

20. Which of the following painters is not associated with the Bengal School of Art?

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Bengal School of Art was a group of Indian artists in the early 20th century who sought to create a new style of art that was distinctively Indian. The artists associated with this school often drew inspiration from Indian culture, mythology, and traditional art forms.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that all prominent Indian artists are associated with the Bengal School of Art, which is not the case.

Explanations: Nandalal Bose, Benode Behari Mukherjee, and Rabindranath Tagore were all associated with the Bengal School of Art. They were instrumental in developing and promoting the style. However, Hussain, also known as M.F. Husain, was a modernist painter who was not associated with the Bengal School of Art. He was known for his contemporary and often controversial works.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Nandalal Bose was a key figure in the Bengal School of Art, known for his traditional Indian style and contributions to Indian art.
Option B: Benode Behari Mukherjee was also associated with the Bengal School of Art, known for his unique style that combined traditional Indian art with modern techniques.
Option C: Rabindranath Tagore, the renowned poet and artist, was associated with the Bengal School of Art and contributed significantly to its development.
Option D: M.F. Husain, while a prominent Indian artist, was not associated with the Bengal School of Art. He was known for his modernist and contemporary works.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Bengal Renaissance in West Bengal's history?

The Bengal Renaissance was a significant cultural, social, and intellectual awakening in the 19th and early 20th centuries, which greatly influenced literature, art, and education in West Bengal.

What are the staple foods of West Bengal?

Rice and fish are the staple foods of West Bengal, deeply ingrained in the local cuisine and culture.

What is the state bird of West Bengal?

The state bird of West Bengal is the White-throated kingfisher, known for its vibrant colors and presence in the region.

What is the significance of the Howrah Bridge in West Bengal?

The Howrah Bridge is a major landmark and a symbol of Kolkata, connecting the city of Howrah to Kolkata across the Hugli River.

What role did the Young Bengal Movement play in West Bengal's history?

The Young Bengal Movement, led by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio, was a significant intellectual and social reform movement that promoted rationalism and social reform in 19th-century Bengal.

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