Art, Culture & Festivals — Set 1
Haryana GK · कला, संस्कृति और त्यौहार · Questions 1–10 of 120
Which traditional embroidery art of Haryana has received a GI (Geographical Indication) tag?
Correct Answer: B. Phulkari
Phulkari embroidery has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and is the most celebrated textile art of Haryana and Punjab. The word 'Phulkari' means 'flower work' in Punjabi/Haryanvi — phul (flower) + kari (work). It is done on coarse cotton cloth (khaddar) with silk floss thread in geometric and floral patterns. Phulkari is traditionally made by women for festivals, marriages, and as heirloom gifts.
What is the literal meaning of 'Phulkari'?
Correct Answer: C. Flower work
Phulkari literally means 'flower work' — from 'phul' (flower) and 'kari' (work/art). The embroidery is characterized by colorful, intricate floral and geometric patterns worked in silk thread on a plain cotton base. Different types of Phulkari include Bagh (garden), Chope (wedding wrap), and Darshan Dwar (arch of flowers). It is a centuries-old tradition of Haryana and Punjab women passed down through generations.
Who is considered the founder of 'Saang' folk theatre of Haryana?
Correct Answer: B. Ali Bakhsh
Ali Bakhsh of Hathras is considered the founder of the Saang folk theatre tradition. Saang (also known as Swang) is a traditional theatrical form in Haryana that combines singing, dancing, acting, and dialogue to narrate mythological, historical, and social stories. Kavi Lakhmi Chand (1903-1945) from Sidhrawali village, Jhajjar is considered the greatest Saang performer and poet of Haryana. Saang performances were traditionally all-male with men playing female roles as well.
Which folk theater tradition of Haryana is also known as 'Swang'?
Correct Answer: B. Saang
Saang (or Swang) is Haryana's traditional folk theater form that combines song, dance, and drama to portray mythological and social themes. It is performed during festivals, village gatherings, and special occasions. The Saang tradition flourished from the 18th century and was particularly popular in the 19th-20th centuries under performers like Kavi Lakhmi Chand. Today, efforts are being made to revive and preserve Saang as an important part of Haryanvi cultural heritage.
What is 'Ragini' in the context of Haryana's folk music tradition?
Correct Answer: C. A folk song form in Saang/Swang tradition set to music
Ragini is a folk song form integral to Haryana's Saang and Swang theatrical tradition. These are musical compositions set to specific tunes (ragas) that narrate stories of gods, heroes, and everyday life. Famous Ragini composers of Haryana include Kavi Lakhmi Chand, Mango Ram, and Pandit Mangat Ram. Ragini competitions (muqabale) are a popular entertainment tradition in Haryana where artists perform competitive song duels. Modern Haryanvi pop songs have evolved from the Ragini tradition.
Which folk dance of Haryana is performed by men in groups, typically during harvest festivals?
Correct Answer: B. Dhamal
Dhamal is a group folk dance performed by men of Haryana, typically during harvest festivals, fairs, and celebrations. It is an energetic dance form involving rhythmic movements, stamping of feet, and use of traditional weapons or sticks. Dhamal is particularly associated with the Gurugram and Mewat region of Haryana. The dance represents the agrarian joy and community spirit of Haryana's rural communities.
Which folk dance is performed by women of Haryana, typically during festive occasions?
Correct Answer: B. Khoria
Khoria is a group folk dance performed by women of Haryana during marriages, festivals, and auspicious occasions. The dance involves circular movements, clapping, and singing in synchronized group formations. Khoria is particularly popular in the Ahir community of Haryana and is associated with the celebration of new brides. The Ahir community also performs Ras Leela as part of their cultural traditions.
Which is Asia's largest crafts mela held in Haryana?
Correct Answer: B. Surajkund Crafts Mela
Surajkund Crafts Mela is held annually in February at Surajkund, Faridabad district, and is considered the largest crafts fair in Asia. The mela showcases handicrafts, folk arts, and cultural performances from all states of India and many foreign countries. It was started in 1987 by the Haryana Tourism and Surajkund Mela Authority. The fair typically draws over a million visitors over 14-15 days and has been a platform for artisans across India.
In which month is the Surajkund Crafts Mela held?
Correct Answer: B. February
The Surajkund International Crafts Mela is held annually in February (typically from 1st to 15th February or the first two weeks) at Surajkund, near Faridabad in Haryana. The pleasant February weather makes it ideal for an outdoor crafts fair. The 2024 edition was the 37th Surajkund Mela. The mela features a 'theme state' each year that is given special prominence in showcasing its crafts and culture.
Which festival celebrated at Kurukshetra commemorates the delivery of the Bhagavad Gita by Lord Krishna?
Correct Answer: B. Geeta Jayanti
Geeta Jayanti is celebrated at Kurukshetra on the Shukla Ekadashi (11th day) of Margashirsha month (November-December) when Lord Krishna is believed to have delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The Haryana government organizes the International Geeta Mahotsav at Kurukshetra during this time. The festival draws thousands of pilgrims, scholars, and tourists. Kurukshetra is identified as the sacred battlefield of the Mahabharata.