Cultural Icons — Set 5
Famous People · सांस्कृतिक आइकन · Questions 41–50 of 80
Who is the legendary Indian singer known for his deep baritone and versatility in over 17 languages?
Correct Answer: D. S.P. Balasubrahmanyam
S.P. Balasubrahmanyam was a prolific playback singer and actor who recorded over 40,000 songs. He won six National Film Awards for Best Male Playback Singer across four different languages. He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 2021.
Which cultural icon is known for her pioneering work in the field of Carnatic music and as the 'Nightingale of the South'?
Correct Answer: A. M.S. Subbulakshmi
M.S. Subbulakshmi's 'Venkateswara Suprabhatam' is played in millions of homes every morning. She was the first musician ever to receive the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor. Her performance at the UN General Assembly remains a historic cultural milestone for India.
Who is the famous Indian cartoonist known for his character 'The Common Man'?
Correct Answer: C. R.K. Laxman
R.K. Laxman's daily comic strip 'You Said It' appeared in The Times of India for over fifty years. His character 'The Common Man' symbolized the hopes, aspirations, and frustrations of average Indians. He was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for his brilliant social commentary through art.
Which legendary actor is often called the 'First Khan' of Bollywood and was famous for his method acting?
Correct Answer: D. Dilip Kumar
Dilip Kumar, born Yusuf Khan, held the record for most wins in the Filmfare Best Actor category for decades. He was known for his intense performances in classics like 'Devdas' and 'Mughal-e-Azam'. He was the first recipient of the Filmfare Best Actor Award in 1954.
Which renowned Sarod maestro received the Bharat Ratna in 2001 alongside Bismillah Khan?
Correct Answer: A. Ustad Amjad Ali Khan
Actually, in 2001, Bismillah Khan and Lata Mangeshkar received it together; however, Amjad Ali Khan is a prominent Sarod maestro with a Padma Vibhushan. He belongs to the famous Senia Bangash Gharana. He is known for his unique contribution to modernizing the sarod technique.
Who is the legendary Indian athlete often called the 'Queen of Indian Track and Field'?
Correct Answer: C. P.T. Usha
P.T. Usha won five gold medals at a single Asian Track and Field Championship in 1985. She missed an Olympic bronze medal by just one-hundredth of a second at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. She currently serves as the President of the Indian Olympic Association.
Which cultural legend founded the 'Nrittagram' dance village near Bengaluru?
Correct Answer: D. Protima Gauri
Protima Gauri was a famous Odissi dancer who established India's first residential school for traditional dances. The village was built on a model of an ancient gurukul to preserve classical arts. She was a major figure in the cultural landscape of the 1990s.
Who is the 'Nightingale of India' in the field of poetry and a prominent freedom fighter?
Correct Answer: A. Sarojini Naidu
Sarojini Naidu was a renowned poet known for her lyrical and patriotic verses. She was the first Indian woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress. She also served as the first woman Governor of an Indian state (United Provinces).
Which filmmaker directed 'Mother India', the first Indian film to be nominated for an Academy Award?
Correct Answer: C. Mehboob Khan
Mehboob Khan directed this 1957 epic drama which became a cultural symbol of post-independence India. The film is considered a masterpiece of Indian cinema and portrays the struggle of a rural woman. It was a massive commercial and critical success globally.
Who is the master of the Carnatic violin who collaborated with artists like Yehudi Menuhin?
Correct Answer: D. L. Subramaniam
Dr. L. Subramaniam is an internationally acclaimed violinist and composer who blends Indian and Western music. He is known for his orchestral works and film scores for international productions. He has received the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding musical career.