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West Bengal Gk Quiz 48 (20 MCQs)

This set of multiple-choice questions evaluates knowledge of West Bengal's history, including colonial rule, the East India Company, and significant events like the Bengal partition and the Great Bengal Famine. It also covers cultural heritage, such as Bengali cuisine, traditional textiles, and festivals like Durga Puja and Makar Sankranti. The questions assess understanding of demographic and geographical aspects, as well as the region's wildlife and educational institutions.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. Which Indian state does Sikkim share its border?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Sikkim shares its border with West Bengal in India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that Sikkim shares borders with multiple states, such as Uttar Pradesh or Meghalaya.

Explanations: Sikkim is a landlocked state in northeastern India, and it shares its southern border with the state of West Bengal. The other options listed (Uttar Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh) do not share a border with Sikkim.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect, as Sikkim does not share a border with Uttar Pradesh or Meghalaya.
Option B: Incorrect, as Sikkim does not share a border with Uttar Pradesh or Meghalaya.
Option C: Correct, as Sikkim shares its southern border with West Bengal.
Option D: Incorrect, as Sikkim does not share a border with Meghalaya or Arunachal Pradesh.

2. Two factories set up by the English East India company

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Surat Gujarat Hugli West Bengal.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The English East India Company established factories in various parts of India during the early colonial period. Two significant locations were Surat in Gujarat and Hugli in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the locations of the factories, as Surat and Hugli were both important trading centers during the colonial era.

Explanations: The English East India Company set up factories in Surat, Gujarat, and Hugli, West Bengal. Surat was an important port city in Gujarat, while Hugli (also known as Hooghly) was a significant trading center in West Bengal. These locations were chosen due to their strategic importance for trade and commerce.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect because Bombay (now Mumbai) is not mentioned as a factory location by the East India Company in this context.
Option B: Correct as it accurately identifies Surat in Gujarat and Hugli in West Bengal as the locations of the factories.
Option C: Incorrect because Surat is not in Bombay, and Berar is not a location associated with the East India Company's factories.
Option D: Incorrect because Berar is not a location associated with the East India Company's factories.

3. Viceroy's Proposal of Bengal partition put into effect in

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) 1905.

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 West Bengal and India. It was proposed by Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, and implemented in 1905.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the year of the partition with other significant events in the history of Bengal.

Explanations: Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, proposed the partition of Bengal in 1905. The partition was implemented on October 16, 1905, dividing Bengal into two provinces: Bengal and East Bengal and Assam. This decision was a response to the growing nationalist movement in Bengal and aimed to weaken the movement by dividing the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1903 is incorrect as the partition was not implemented in this year.
Option B: 1907 is incorrect as the partition was not implemented in this year.
Option C: 1906 is incorrect as the partition was not implemented in this year.
Option D: 1905 is the correct year when the partition was implemented.

4. Swami Vivekanand established the ..... in Kolkata in the year .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 'Ramkrishna Mission', 1897 C.E.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Swami Vivekananda established the Ramakrishna Mission in Kolkata in 1897 C.E. The mission was founded to promote spiritual and social upliftment.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the establishment date or the name of the organization.

Explanations: Swami Vivekananda established the Ramakrishna Mission in Kolkata in 1897 C.E. The mission was founded to promote spiritual and social upliftment, and it continues to be a significant organization in West Bengal and beyond.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Swami Vivekananda established the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 C.E. in Kolkata.
Option B: Incorrect. The Service Commission is not related to Swami Vivekananda or the establishment of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Option C: Incorrect. The Prabandhak Committee is not related to Swami Vivekananda or the establishment of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Option D: Incorrect. The Satya Shodhak Samaj was founded by Jyotirao Phule in 1873, not by Swami Vivekananda.

5. Sunil Chhetri is the second highest active international goal scorer in the world. Who is the first?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Cristiano Ronaldo.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal GK, General Knowledge Exams, Sports Knowledge Tests

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest active international goal scorer in the world, followed by Sunil Chhetri.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the rankings of active international goal scorers, especially given the prominence of other players like Lionel Messi and Neymar.

Explanations: Cristiano Ronaldo has scored the most goals in international matches among active players, making him the highest active international goal scorer. Sunil Chhetri, while a notable player, ranks second in this category.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Lionel Messi is a prolific goal scorer but is not the highest active international goal scorer.
Option B: Neymar is a talented player but does not rank as the highest active international goal scorer.
Option C: Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest active international goal scorer.
Option D: Karim Benzema is a skilled player but does not rank as the highest active international goal scorer.

Mnemonic: Ronaldo Reigns, Sunil Second

6. Rasgulla are famous sweet of which state?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) West bengal.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Rasgulla is a popular sweet originating from West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Rasgulla with other regional sweets, such as Mishti Doi from West Bengal or Chhena Poda from Odisha.

Explanations: Rasgulla is a traditional Bengali sweet made from chhena (cottage cheese) and semolina, soaked in sugar syrup. It is widely recognized as a signature sweet of West Bengal and is deeply ingrained in the state's culinary culture.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Sikkim is not known for Rasgulla.
Option B: West Bengal is the correct answer as Rasgulla is a traditional sweet from this state.
Option C: Assam is not known for Rasgulla.
Option D: Odisha is known for other sweets like Chhena Poda, but not Rasgulla.

Mnemonic: Rasgulla, Bengal's pride.

7. This University is the largest and one of the oldest universities in India

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Kolkata University.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Kolkata University, also known as the University of Calcutta, is one of the oldest and largest universities in India. It was established in 1857 and has a significant presence in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Kolkata University with other large universities in India, such as Lucknow University or Kanpur University, which are also significant but not as old or large as Kolkata University.

Explanations: Kolkata University is the largest and one of the oldest universities in India. It was founded in 1857, making it one of the first modern universities in South Asia. The university has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and has contributed significantly to the educational landscape of West Bengal and India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Lucknow University is a significant institution but is not the largest or oldest university in India.
Option B: Kolkata University is the correct answer as it is the largest and one of the oldest universities in India.
Option C: Kanpur University is a notable institution but is not the largest or oldest university in India.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Kolkata University is the correct answer.

8. In what city was the 4G service first launched in India:

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, WBSSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The 4G service was first launched in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that a major metropolitan city like Mumbai or New Delhi would be the first to launch 4G services.

Explanations: The 4G service was first launched in Kolkata, which is the capital city of West Bengal. This information is significant in the context of West Bengal's technological advancements and telecommunications infrastructure.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. 4G service was first launched in Kolkata.
Option B: Incorrect. Mumbai was not the first city to launch 4G services in India.
Option C: Incorrect. New Delhi was not the first city to launch 4G services in India.
Option D: Incorrect. Chennai was not the first city to launch 4G services in India.

9. After the Partition of Bengal in 1905, the capital of Bengal was

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Partition of Bengal in 1905 did not change the capital of Bengal, which remained Calcutta.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that the Partition of Bengal might have changed the capital, but it did not.

Explanations: The Partition of Bengal in 1905 divided the province into two parts: Bengal and East Bengal and Assam. Despite this division, the capital of Bengal remained Calcutta. The partition was primarily a political and administrative decision, and it did not affect the location of the capital.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Hugli was not the capital of Bengal after the Partition of Bengal in 1905.
Option B: Varanasi was not the capital of Bengal after the Partition of Bengal in 1905.
Option C: Calcutta remained the capital of Bengal after the Partition of Bengal in 1905.
Option D: Allahabad was not the capital of Bengal after the Partition of Bengal in 1905.

10. Bengal is known for this type of embroidery

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kantha embroidery is a traditional form of embroidery that originated in West Bengal and Bangladesh. It is known for its intricate designs and is often used to create beautiful textiles.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Kantha embroidery with other types of embroidery, such as Chikan or Aari, which are associated with different regions.

Explanations: Kantha embroidery is a traditional form of embroidery that is deeply rooted in the culture of West Bengal. It involves intricate stitching techniques and is often used to create beautiful textiles, such as quilts and clothing. This form of embroidery is distinct from other types like Chikan, which is associated with Uttar Pradesh, and Aari, which is associated with Gujarat.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chikan embroidery is a traditional embroidery style from Uttar Pradesh, not West Bengal.
Option B: Kantha embroidery is the correct answer as it is a traditional embroidery style from West Bengal.
Option C: Aari embroidery is a traditional embroidery style from Gujarat, not West Bengal.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Kantha embroidery is indeed a traditional form of embroidery from West Bengal.

11. Who asked the Company to remove all its fortification in Calcutta?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Siraj-ud-Daulah.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Siraj-ud-Daulah was the Nawab of Bengal who demanded the British East India Company to remove all its fortifications in Calcutta.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Siraj-ud-Daulah with other Nawabs of Bengal, such as Alivardi Khan or Murshid Quli Khan.

Explanations: Siraj-ud-Daulah, as the Nawab of Bengal, was concerned about the growing power and influence of the British East India Company. He demanded the removal of all fortifications in Calcutta to reduce the Company's military presence and control. This demand was a significant factor leading to the Battle of Plassey in 1757.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Murshid Quli Khan was the first Nawab of Bengal, but he did not make this demand.
Option B: Shah Alam II was the Mughal Emperor, not the Nawab of Bengal, and did not make this demand.
Option C: Siraj-ud-Daulah was the Nawab of Bengal who made the demand to remove the Company's fortifications.
Option D: Alivardi Khan was the grandfather of Siraj-ud-Daulah and the Nawab of Bengal before him, but he did not make this demand.

12. The National Animal of India is the Tiger.The Indian tiger is also called the ..... Tiger.

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, SSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The National Animal of India is the Tiger, specifically the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the Royal Bengal Tiger with other subspecies like the Sumatran, Malayan, or Siberian Tigers.

Explanations: The Royal Bengal Tiger is the subspecies of tiger found in India and is recognized as the national animal. It is distinct from other tiger subspecies and is native to the region, including parts of West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Sumatran Tigers are found in Sumatra, not India.
Option B: Malayan Tigers are found in Malaysia, not India.
Option C: Royal Bengal Tigers are the correct subspecies found in India.
Option D: Siberian Tigers are found in Russia, not India.

13. Hindus were in majority

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Hindus form the majority population in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the demographic distribution between East Bengal (now Bangladesh) and West Bengal.

Explanations: West Bengal has a significant Hindu majority population. This demographic fact is well-established and widely recognized in the context of West Bengal's general knowledge.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect, as East Bengal (now Bangladesh) has a Muslim majority.
Option B: Correct, as Hindus form the majority in West Bengal.
Option C: Incorrect, as East Bengal does not have a Hindu majority.
Option D: Incorrect, as West Bengal does have a Hindu majority.

14. Kolkata is fond of

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Both A and B.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, WBSSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is known for its culinary preferences, particularly for fish and rice.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing only one of the options, as both fish and rice are integral parts of the local cuisine.

Explanations: Kolkata has a rich culinary tradition that includes a strong preference for fish and rice. Fish is a staple in Bengali cuisine, and rice is a primary carbohydrate source. Both are deeply ingrained in the local culture and daily diet.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Fish is a significant part of the diet in Kolkata.
Option B: Rice is a staple food in Kolkata.
Option C: Both fish and rice are important in the diet of Kolkata.
Option D: This option is incorrect as both fish and rice are indeed important in Kolkata's cuisine.

15. The Gangasagar Mela is held every year on Sagar Island in West Bengal during which festival?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Makar Sankranti.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Gangasagar Mela is a significant religious fair held annually on Sagar Island in West Bengal. It is associated with the festival of Makar Sankranti.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Gangasagar Mela with other festivals such as Holi, Diwali, or Dussehra, which are not associated with this specific mela.

Explanations: The Gangasagar Mela is held on Sagar Island during the festival of Makar Sankranti. This festival marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn and is celebrated on January 14 or 15 every year. The mela is a significant event for devotees who come to take a holy dip in the confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Holi is a festival of colors and is not associated with the Gangasagar Mela.
Option B: Diwali is the festival of lights and is not related to the Gangasagar Mela.
Option C: Makar Sankranti is the correct festival associated with the Gangasagar Mela.
Option D: Dussehra is a festival celebrating the victory of good over evil and is not related to the Gangasagar Mela.

16. Who founded the Independent state of Bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Murshid Kuli khan.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Murshid Kuli Khan was a prominent Nawab who founded the independent state of Bengal in the early 18th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Murshid Kuli Khan with other historical figures who were also influential in the region, such as Nadir Shah or Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Explanations: Murshid Kuli Khan, originally a revenue officer under the Mughal Empire, was appointed as the Nawab of Bengal in 1717. He later declared the region independent from the Mughal rule, establishing the independent state of Bengal. This marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the region, leading to the rise of the Bengal Subah as a powerful entity.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Banda Bahadur was a Sikh military leader and not associated with the founding of the independent state of Bengal.
Option B: Murshid Kuli Khan is the correct answer as he founded the independent state of Bengal.
Option C: Nadir Shah was the Shah of Persia and invaded India, but he did not found the independent state of Bengal.
Option D: Ahmad Shah Abdali was the founder of the Durrani Empire and not associated with the founding of the independent state of Bengal.

17. The ruling tenure of Ananga Pala was-

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) 1130-1145.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Ananga Pala was a ruler of the Sena dynasty in Bengal. The Sena dynasty ruled parts of Bengal from the 11th to the 13th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the ruling period of Ananga Pala with other rulers of the Sena dynasty or other dynasties in Bengal.

Explanations: Ananga Pala was a ruler of the Sena dynasty, and his ruling tenure was from 1130 to 1145. This period is well-documented in historical records and is a significant part of West Bengal's history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Ananga Pala's ruling tenure was from 1130 to 1145.
Option B: Incorrect. This period does not correspond to Ananga Pala's rule.
Option C: Incorrect. This period does not correspond to Ananga Pala's rule.
Option D: Incorrect. This period does not correspond to Ananga Pala's rule.

18. The ....., a 13th century Sanskrit text from Bengal permitted the local Brahmanas to eat certain varieties of fish.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Brihaddharma purana.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Brihaddharma purana is a 13th-century Sanskrit text from Bengal that allowed local Brahmanas to consume certain varieties of fish.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the Brihaddharma purana with other Puranas, such as the Vishnu Purana, which does not contain the same dietary allowances.

Explanations: The Brihaddharma purana, a 13th-century Sanskrit text from Bengal, specifically permitted local Brahmanas to eat certain varieties of fish. This text is unique in its dietary allowances and is not to be confused with other Puranas that do not contain similar permissions.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The Brihaddharma purana is the correct text that allowed certain varieties of fish to be consumed by local Brahmanas.
Option B: Incorrect. The Vishnu Purana does not contain the same dietary allowances for fish consumption by Brahmanas.

19. When did a harsh famine hit Bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) 1770.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Great Bengal Famine of 1770 was a significant event in the history of West Bengal, causing widespread death and suffering.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the year of the famine with other significant events in the region's history.

Explanations: The Great Bengal Famine occurred in 1770, leading to a severe loss of life and economic disruption. This event is well-documented in historical records and is a critical part of West Bengal's history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1773 is incorrect as it does not correspond to the year of the Great Bengal Famine.
Option B: 1770 is the correct year when the Great Bengal Famine occurred.
Option C: 1765 is incorrect as it does not correspond to the year of the Great Bengal Famine.
Option D: 1772 is incorrect as it does not correspond to the year of the Great Bengal Famine.

20. Durga Puja is the festival of-

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive Exams on Indian Culture

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Durga Puja is a major festival celebrated in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that Durga Puja is celebrated in other states or regions without recognizing its primary association with West Bengal.

Explanations: Durga Puja is a significant festival in West Bengal, where it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural importance. The festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It is a major cultural and religious event in the state, involving elaborate pandals, rituals, and community celebrations.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Ranchi is the capital city of Jharkhand and not associated with Durga Puja as a primary festival.
Option B: West Bengal is the correct answer as Durga Puja is a major festival celebrated in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Bengal partition in 1905?

The partition of Bengal in 1905 was a significant political move by Lord Curzon, which divided the province into two parts, leading to widespread protests and the rise of nationalist movements in India.

What is the origin of rasgulla, a popular sweet from West Bengal?

Rasgulla is believed to have originated in the town of Kenduli in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, and it is a popular sweet known for its soft texture and sweet syrup.

What is the role of the Ramakrishna Mission in West Bengal?

The Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda, plays a significant role in West Bengal by promoting spiritual and social service activities, including education and healthcare.

What is the history of Kolkata University?

Kolkata University, established in 1857, is the oldest university in India and has played a crucial role in the development of higher education in the region.

What is the importance of Kantha embroidery in West Bengal?

Kantha embroidery is a traditional textile art form in West Bengal, known for its intricate designs and vibrant colors, often used in clothing and household items.

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