Cultural Icons — Set 7
Famous People · सांस्कृतिक आइकन · Questions 61–70 of 80
Who is known as the 'Father of Indian Renaissance' for his efforts in modernizing Indian society and culture?
Correct Answer: B. Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded the Brahmo Samaj and worked tirelessly for the abolition of Sati. He was a pioneer in education and journalism, advocating for scientific and rational thought. His work laid the groundwork for modern Indian political and social reform.
Which cultural icon is world-famous for the song 'Vande Mataram', which became a rallying cry for the freedom struggle?
Correct Answer: B. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay included the song in his 1882 novel 'Anandmath'. The song played a significant role in inspiring nationalistic fervor among Indians. He was one of the first graduates of the University of Calcutta and a prominent prose writer.
Who is the legendary tabla maestro who accompanied almost all the great musicians of the 20th century and was the father of Zakir Hussain?
Correct Answer: A. Ustad Alla Rakha
Ustad Alla Rakha was a key figure in popularizing the tabla worldwide through his frequent collaborations with Pandit Ravi Shankar. He belonged to the Punjab Gharana and was known for his incredible rhythmic complexity. He was awarded the Padma Shri for his service to Indian music.
Which legendary Indian painter is known as the 'Raja' for his aristocratic lineage and for making lithographs of Indian deities?
Correct Answer: B. Raja Ravi Varma
Raja Ravi Varma is considered the first modern Indian artist to use Western oil painting techniques. His portrayals of characters from the epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana are still popular across India. He established a printing press to make his art affordable for common people.
Who was the legendary Carnatic singer famously known for his mastery over '72 Melakarta' ragas?
Correct Answer: B. M. Balamuralikrishna
Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna was a child prodigy who could play multiple instruments and composed over 400 songs. He was a versatile genius who excelled as a vocalist, composer, and actor. He was awarded the Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.
Which cultural icon wrote the immortal patriotic song 'Saare Jahan Se Achha'?
Correct Answer: B. Muhammad Iqbal
Muhammad Iqbal, also known as Allama Iqbal, wrote this poem in Urdu to celebrate the beauty of India. The song remains extremely popular as a marching tune for the Indian Armed Forces. He is also regarded as the national poet of Pakistan.
Who is the legendary Odissi guru who taught world-famous students like Sanjukta Panigrahi and Sonal Mansingh?
Correct Answer: A. Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra
Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra is the most famous figure in the 20th-century revival of Odissi dance. He was a master of both dance and percussion instruments like the Pakhawaj. He received the Padma Vibhushan for his lifelong service to the arts.
Which renowned Hindustani vocalist was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019 posthumously?
Correct Answer: B. Bhupen Hazarika
Bhupen Hazarika was a multifaceted cultural icon from Assam, known as the 'Bard of the Brahmaputra'. He was a singer, composer, lyricist, filmmaker, and poet. His songs reflected social harmony, universal brotherhood, and the culture of Northeast India.
Who is the famous filmmaker known for the 'Apu Trilogy', often cited among the greatest films ever made?
Correct Answer: B. Satyajit Ray
Satyajit Ray's films are celebrated for their humanism and realistic portrayal of Indian life. He was a true polymath who received several international awards including the Bharat Ratna and an Honorary Oscar. His influence on world cinema remains enduring and profound.
Which cultural figure is known for developing the 'Gurukul' system of education in modern India through Visva-Bharati University?
Correct Answer: B. Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore established Shantiniketan to promote education in a natural environment based on ancient traditions. He believed in the synthesis of East and West and holistic learning. Visva-Bharati was later recognized as a central university and an institution of national importance.