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West Bengal Gk Quiz 29 (20 MCQs)

This set of multiple-choice questions evaluates knowledge of West Bengal's administrative divisions, state governance, and geographical features. It covers historical events such as the Bhakti movement, Bengal Gazette, and the Siege of Calcutta. The questions also assess understanding of landmarks like the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and Kolkata's public transport system. Additional topics include the state's industrial centers, riverine port, and cultural institutions.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. Bengal was divided by the British in the year

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The partition of Bengal was a significant event in the history of British India, dividing the province into two parts: Bengal and East Bengal and Assam.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the year of the partition with other significant events in Indian history, such as the partition of India in 1947.

Explanations: The partition of Bengal was implemented by the British government in 1905 under the Viceroy Lord Curzon. This division was aimed at improving administrative efficiency but led to widespread protests and the rise of the Swadeshi movement. The partition was eventually annulled in 1911, but the year 1905 remains a crucial date in the history of Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1900 is incorrect as the partition did not occur in this year.
Option B: 1910 is incorrect as the partition was annulled in 1911, not implemented.
Option C: 1905 is the correct year when the partition of Bengal was implemented.
Option D: 1920 is incorrect as the partition had already been annulled by this time.

2. He went to England for his higher education but was not satisfied by the traditional system of education there. He returned to India and opened his own school named Santiniketan in Bolpur, Birbhum, Bengal. This school later became a college and then a university (Visva-Bharati). Can you comprehend: Is Bolpur in Bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Of course!.

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Bolpur is a town located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India. It is well-known for being the location of Santiniketan, the school founded by Rabindranath Tagore.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding might be that Bolpur is located in a different state or district, given the diverse geography of India.

Explanations: Bolpur is indeed located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. The school Santiniketan, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, is situated in Bolpur. Therefore, the statement that Bolpur is in Bengal is correct.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct, as Bolpur is located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal.
Option B: Incorrect, as Bolpur is indeed in West Bengal.
Option C: Incorrect, as the location of Bolpur is well-established and not uncertain.
Option D: Incorrect, as the location of Bolpur is a known fact.

3. William jones arrived in .....

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: William Jones, a British philologist and jurist, arrived in Calcutta in 1783.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the destination with other major cities in India, such as Bombay or Delhi.

Explanations: William Jones arrived in Calcutta in 1783 when he was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of Judicature at Fort William. This is a well-documented historical fact in the context of West Bengal's history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. William Jones arrived in Calcutta in 1783.
Option B: Incorrect. William Jones did not arrive in Bombay.
Option C: Incorrect. William Jones did not arrive in Delhi.
Option D: Incorrect. William Jones did not arrive in Mysore.

4. Write a few lines on the different modes of a public transport in a Kolkata.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) The suburban Railway, Metro railway, Trams and buses are the different modes of a public transport in Kolkata.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive exams on West Bengal GK

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, has a well-developed public transport system that includes various modes of transportation.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the modes of transport specific to Kolkata with those of other major Indian cities.

Explanations: Kolkata's public transport system includes the suburban railway, which is a crucial mode of transport for daily commuters. The metro railway, though relatively new, has been expanding and providing an efficient alternative. Trams, a historic mode of transport, still operate in Kolkata, offering a unique experience. Buses are also a significant part of the public transport network, catering to a wide range of travel needs.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect as it refers to a landmark in Mumbai, not Kolkata.
Option B: This option is incorrect as it refers to a historical fact about a monument in Mumbai, not related to public transport in Kolkata.
Option C: This option correctly lists the different modes of public transport available in Kolkata.
Option D: This option is incorrect as it refers to institutions in Mumbai, not related to public transport in Kolkata.

Mnemonic: SMBT: Suburban, Metro, Buses, Trams

5. WHO POPULARIZED KRISHNA-BHAKTI IN BENGAL?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) CHAITNYA MAHAPRABHU.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is widely recognized for popularizing Krishna-bhakti in Bengal during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Chaitanya Mahaprabhu with other saints or figures who were also influential in the region, such as Mira Bai, Guru Nanak, or Saint Kabir.

Explanations: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was a key figure in the Bhakti movement in Bengal. He introduced and popularized the practice of chanting the names of Krishna, known as sankirtan, which became a central aspect of Krishna-bhakti in the region. His teachings and practices significantly influenced the spread of Krishna-bhakti in Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is the correct answer as he is known for popularizing Krishna-bhakti in Bengal.
Option B: Mira Bai was a devotee of Krishna but was not primarily associated with Bengal.
Option C: Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism and not directly associated with Krishna-bhakti in Bengal.
Option D: Saint Kabir was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement but was not specifically known for popularizing Krishna-bhakti in Bengal.

6. SIRAJ-UD-DAULAH MARCHED TOWARD CALCUTTA WITH A LARGE ARMY AND LAID TO FORT WILLIAM IN JUNE .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 1756.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, marched towards Calcutta with a large army and laid siege to Fort William in June 1756. This event is a significant part of West Bengal's history and led to the Battle of Plassey in 1757.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the year 1756 with 1757, as the Battle of Plassey occurred in 1757, which is a closely related event.

Explanations: Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, was concerned about the growing power and influence of the British East India Company. In June 1756, he marched towards Calcutta with a large army and laid siege to Fort William. This event marked the beginning of a significant conflict that eventually led to the Battle of Plassey in 1757, where the British defeated the Nawab and gained control over Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Siraj-ud-Daulah laid siege to Fort William in June 1756.
Option B: Incorrect. The Battle of Plassey occurred in 1757, not the siege of Fort William.
Option C: Incorrect. 1717 is not related to the siege of Fort William.
Option D: Incorrect. 1773 is not related to the siege of Fort William.

7. The central office of rbi was initially in?

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was established in 1935, and its central office was initially located in Calcutta (now known as Kolkata).

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Mumbai, as it is the current location of the RBI's headquarters. However, the question specifically asks about the initial location.

Explanations: The Reserve Bank of India was initially established with its central office in Calcutta. This is a historical fact related to the founding of the RBI and its early operations. Calcutta was the capital of British India at the time, which made it a logical choice for the central office.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Hyderabad is incorrect as it was not the initial location of the RBI's central office.
Option B: Calcutta is the correct answer as it was the initial location of the RBI's central office.
Option C: Bangalore is incorrect as it was not the initial location of the RBI's central office.
Option D: Mumbai is incorrect as it was not the initial location of the RBI's central office, although it is the current location.

8. Howrah bridge is in

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, Geography Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Howrah Bridge is a famous landmark located in West Bengal, India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the location of the Howrah Bridge with other major cities in India.

Explanations: The Howrah Bridge is a well-known suspension bridge that connects the city of Howrah to Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) across the Hooghly River. It is located in the state of West Bengal, India. The bridge is an iconic symbol of the region and is a significant part of West Bengal's geography and history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Kerala is not the location of the Howrah Bridge.
Option B: Manipur is not the location of the Howrah Bridge.
Option C: West Bengal is the correct location of the Howrah Bridge.
Option D: Mumbai is not the location of the Howrah Bridge.

9. This colorful and distinct artefact originated in Bengal, but under the patronage of the Sawantwadi royalty, it was spread in the Sawantwadi area. What is this?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Ganjifa playing cards.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal GK, Indian Culture Exams, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Ganjifa playing cards are a traditional form of playing cards that originated in Bengal. They were later patronized and spread by the Sawantwadi royalty in the Sawantwadi area.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Ganjifa playing cards with other traditional art forms from the region, such as Warli paintings or Khalifa costers.

Explanations: Ganjifa playing cards are a distinct and colorful artefact that originated in Bengal. Under the patronage of the Sawantwadi royalty, these cards were spread and popularized in the Sawantwadi area. This makes Ganjifa playing cards the correct answer as they fit the description provided in the question.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Khalifa costers are not related to the Sawantwadi royalty or the spread of a traditional artefact from Bengal.
Option B: Ganjifa playing cards are the correct answer as they originated in Bengal and were spread by the Sawantwadi royalty.
Option C: Cuddapah tiles are not related to the Sawantwadi royalty or the spread of a traditional artefact from Bengal.
Option D: Warli paintings are a distinct art form from the Warli tribe and are not related to the Sawantwadi royalty or the spread of a traditional artefact from Bengal.

Mnemonic: Ganjifa: Bengal's colorful cards, spread by Sawantwadi.

10. Which place in West Bengal is famous for iron and steel Industry?

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Durgapur is known for its iron and steel industry in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Kolkata, as it is a major city and often associated with industrial activities.

Explanations: Durgapur is a major industrial city in West Bengal, particularly known for its iron and steel industry. The Durgapur Steel Plant, established in 1959, is one of the key industrial establishments in the region. This makes Durgapur a significant center for iron and steel production in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Kolkata is a major city but is not specifically known for its iron and steel industry.
Option B: Durgapur is the correct answer as it is a major center for iron and steel production in West Bengal.
Option C: Asansol is an industrial city but is not primarily known for iron and steel industry.
Option D: Siliguri is not known for its iron and steel industry.

Mnemonic: Durgapur Steel, Durgapur Steel

11. HOW MANY DISTRICTS ARE THERE IN WEST BENGAL?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 23.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: West Bengal is divided into 23 districts.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the number of districts with other administrative divisions or neighboring states.

Explanations: West Bengal, a state in eastern India, is officially divided into 23 districts. This is a well-established administrative division that helps in the governance and management of the state.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. West Bengal has 23 districts.
Option B: Incorrect. 19 is not the correct number of districts in West Bengal.
Option C: Incorrect. 24 is not the correct number of districts in West Bengal.
Option D: Incorrect. The correct number of districts is 23, so this option is not applicable.

12. First riverine port in India?

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kolkata is the first riverine port in India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Kolkata with other major ports like Mumbai or Chennai, which are not riverine ports.

Explanations: Kolkata is located on the banks of the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges. It is the first riverine port in India, established during the British colonial era. The port's strategic location and accessibility via the river have made it a significant commercial and industrial hub.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Kolkata is the first riverine port in India.
Option B: Incorrect. Kochi is a major port but not a riverine port.
Option C: Incorrect. Chennai is a major port but not a riverine port.
Option D: Incorrect. Mumbai is a major port but not a riverine port.

Mnemonic: Hooghly River, Kolkata Port

13. Consider the following Statements: Durga Puja is the most important festival of West Bengal Kalinga was the ancient name of Bengal India, Pakistan, & BangladeshA new economy, new nationalism, Kashmir, Sikh/Hindu relations, and nuclear war are all still current problems in India. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Only 1, 3.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, SSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Durga Puja is indeed the most important festival in West Bengal. Kalinga was not the ancient name of Bengal; it was an ancient kingdom in the eastern part of India, primarily in present-day Odisha. The statement about India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh having current problems such as a new economy, new nationalism, Kashmir, Sikh/Hindu relations, and nuclear war is true.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that Kalinga was the ancient name of Bengal, which is incorrect.

Explanations: Durga Puja is the most important festival in West Bengal, celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural significance. Kalinga, however, was an ancient kingdom located in the eastern part of India, primarily in present-day Odisha, and not the ancient name of Bengal. The statement about current problems in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh is true, as these issues are indeed prevalent and significant in the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect because statement 2 is false.
Option B: Incorrect because statement 1 is true, but statement 2 is false.
Option C: Incorrect because statement 2 is false.
Option D: Correct because statements 1 and 3 are true, while statement 2 is false.

14. Which is the first museum of India.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Indian museum in Kolkata.

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Indian Museum in Kolkata is recognized as the first museum in India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing it with other notable museums in India, such as the National Museum in Delhi or the Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai.

Explanations: The Indian Museum in Kolkata was established in 1814, making it the first museum in India. It is a significant landmark and holds historical importance.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is not the first museum in India.
Option B: The Indian Museum in Kolkata is the first museum in India.
Option C: The National Museum is not the first museum in India.
Option D: The Government Museum is not the first museum in India.

15. The partition of Bengal infuriated all Indians. This lead to mass protests around India known as

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Only (A) & (B).

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The partition of Bengal in 1905 led to widespread protests and movements in India. The Swadeshi Movement and the Vandemataram Movement were significant responses to this partition.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the Swadeshi Movement and the Vandemataram Movement with other movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement, which occurred later.

Explanations: The partition of Bengal in 1905 by Lord Curzon led to mass protests and the rise of the Swadeshi Movement, which emphasized the use of indigenous goods and boycotting British products. The Vandemataram Movement was also a part of the broader protest against the partition, with the slogan "Vande Mataram" becoming a symbol of resistance. The Civil Disobedience Movement, on the other hand, was a later movement initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, which is unrelated to the partition of Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Swadeshi Movement was a significant response to the partition of Bengal.
Option B: The Vandemataram Movement was also a significant response to the partition of Bengal.
Option C: The Civil Disobedience Movement was not a response to the partition of Bengal.
Option D: This option correctly identifies the Swadeshi and Vandemataram Movements as responses to the partition of Bengal.

16. Which bridge in Kolkata is constructed without nuts & bolts?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Howrah Bridge.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Howrah Bridge is a famous cantilever bridge in Kolkata, West Bengal, known for its unique construction method.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that modern bridges are typically constructed with nuts and bolts, but the Howrah Bridge is an exception.

Explanations: The Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is constructed without nuts and bolts. It is built using rivets, which are heated and then hammered into place, creating a strong and durable joint. This method was used during its construction in the 1940s and is a notable feature of the bridge.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Howrah Bridge is constructed without nuts and bolts.
Option B: Incorrect. Vivekanand Setu is a modern bridge and likely uses nuts and bolts.
Option C: Incorrect. Maa flyover is a modern structure and likely uses nuts and bolts.
Option D: Incorrect. Nivedita Setu is a modern bridge and likely uses nuts and bolts.

17. Birla Planetarium was inaugurated in which year?

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata, West Bengal, was inaugurated in 1985.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the year of inauguration with other significant dates related to the planetarium or other landmarks in Kolkata.

Explanations: The Birla Planetarium was inaugurated in 1985. This is a well-known fact in the context of West Bengal's landmarks and cultural institutions. The planetarium is a significant educational and recreational facility in Kolkata, and its inauguration year is often highlighted in general knowledge about the state.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1965 is incorrect as the planetarium was not inaugurated in this year.
Option B: 1975 is incorrect as the planetarium was not inaugurated in this year.
Option C: 1985 is the correct year of inauguration.
Option D: None of the above is incorrect as 1985 is the correct year.

18. Who began to publish the weekly Bengal Gazette?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Gangadhar Bhattacharya.

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Gangadhar Bhattacharya began publishing the weekly Bengal Gazette in 1778.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Gangadhar Bhattacharya with other notable figures from the same period, such as Raja Rammohun Roy or Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

Explanations: Gangadhar Bhattacharya is known for founding the Bengal Gazette, which was the first newspaper in India published in English. This publication played a significant role in the early development of journalism in India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a prominent Indian nationalist and journalist, but he did not publish the Bengal Gazette.
Option B: Gangadhar Bhattacharya is the correct answer as he began publishing the Bengal Gazette.
Option C: Raja Rammohun Roy was a social reformer and played a significant role in the Indian Renaissance, but he did not publish the Bengal Gazette.
Option D: Madan Mohan Malviya was a prominent Indian nationalist and educationist, but he did not publish the Bengal Gazette.

Mnemonic: Bengal Gazette, B for Bhattacharya

19. On which river the Haora Bridge is located

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Haora Bridge is located on the Hugli River in West Bengal, India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Hugli River with other major rivers in India, such as the Yamuna or Indus.

Explanations: The Haora Bridge, also known as the Howrah Bridge, is a famous suspension bridge located in West Bengal, India. It spans the Hugli River, connecting the cities of Howrah and Kolkata. The Hugli River is a distributary of the Ganges River and is an important waterway in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Yamuna River is not the correct river for the Haora Bridge.
Option B: The Indus River is not the correct river for the Haora Bridge.
Option C: The Hugli River is the correct river for the Haora Bridge.
Option D: This option is incorrect as the Hugli River is the correct answer.

20. Which state capital would you travel to, to visit the Victoria Memorial?

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Victoria Memorial is a significant historical monument located in Kolkata, which is the capital city of West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Bengaluru, Shimla, or Imphal, as these are not the capital cities of West Bengal.

Explanations: The Victoria Memorial is a prominent landmark in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal. It was built to commemorate Queen Victoria and is a major tourist attraction. Therefore, to visit the Victoria Memorial, one would need to travel to Kolkata.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Bengaluru is the capital of Karnataka, not West Bengal.
Option B: Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, not West Bengal.
Option C: Imphal is the capital of Manipur, not West Bengal.
Option D: Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal and houses the Victoria Memorial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Bhakti movement in West Bengal?

The Bhakti movement in West Bengal, particularly the Krishna-bhakti tradition, was significantly influenced by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who promoted devotion to Lord Krishna. This movement emphasized personal devotion and spiritual love, which deeply impacted the cultural and religious landscape of the region.

How did the Partition of Bengal in 1905 affect the region?

The Partition of Bengal in 1905, initiated by Lord Curzon, divided the province into Hindu-majority Bengal and Muslim-majority East Bengal. This decision sparked widespread protests and contributed to the Swadeshi movement, which aimed to promote Indian goods and self-reliance.

What is the role of Kolkata in West Bengal's industry?

Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, serves as a major industrial hub with a diverse range of industries including jute, textiles, and engineering. The city's strategic location and well-developed infrastructure support its role as a key economic center for the state.

What are some traditional artefacts associated with West Bengal?

West Bengal is known for traditional artefacts such as Ganjifa playing cards, which have a rich history dating back to the Sawantwadi royalty. These intricate cards are often hand-painted and depict various mythological and historical scenes.

What forms of public transport are available in Kolkata?

Kolkata's public transport system includes buses, the metro railway, and

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