Art, Culture & Festivals — Set 4

Correct Answer: B. Kurukshetra (Thanesar)

Sheikh Chilli's Tomb (Tomb of Abd ur-Rahim) is a fine example of Mughal architecture located at Thanesar (Kurukshetra district), Haryana. Sheikh Chilli was a Sufi scholar associated with the Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh. The tomb complex includes a mosque and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is one of Haryana's most important medieval heritage monuments and attracts history enthusiasts.

Correct Answer: B. State-run emporium 'Haryanavi Haat' promoting authentic local crafts, textiles, and art

Haryana Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation runs the Haryanvi Haat emporiums that promote authentic Haryana handicrafts, textiles (Phulkari, Khes), pottery, and folk art. These state-run emporiums provide market access to artisans who might otherwise struggle in the open market. Surajkund Mela serves as the biggest platform for Haryana's artisans. Haryana Khadi Gramodyog Board also markets khadi and handloom products.

Correct Answer: A. Jhajjar — Bhadsa Cattle Fair

Haryana has several traditional cattle fairs including the one at Bhadsa near Jhajjar. The most famous cattle fair in Haryana is the Shitla Mata Fair and various local fairs associated with religious and agricultural calendars. Jhajjar's Bhadsa fair is an important rural economy event where farmers trade horses, cattle, and farm equipment. Similar large cattle fairs are held at various locations across Haryana as part of the traditional agricultural economy.

Correct Answer: B. Several Haryanvi folk artists including Saang, Ragini, and folk music performers have received SNA awards

Several artists from Haryana's folk tradition have received the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) awards for their contributions to Saang, Ragini, folk music, and dance. The Haryana Sangeet Natak Akademi (HSNA), based at Rohtak, promotes folk arts and gives state-level awards. Folk artists who preserve traditional Saang, Ragini, Dhamal, and Khoria have been recognized at national and state levels. The government runs Haryanvi Cultural Centers and supports folk art promotion.

Correct Answer: B. Sarangi

Sarangi is a bowed string instrument used extensively in Haryanvi folk music, particularly to accompany Saang, Ragini singing, and other folk music traditions. The Haryanvi Sarangi (also called 'Chikara' in some regions) is smaller than the classical Sarangi and has a more rustic tone. Sarangi players (Mirasi and Dhadi communities) are traditional hereditary musicians of Haryana who have preserved folk music for centuries. The instrument produces a haunting, emotional sound that is central to Haryanvi folk expression.

Correct Answer: B. Blackbuck (Krishna Gazelle)

The Blackbuck (Krishna Gazelle/Antilope cervicapra) is the State Animal of Haryana. The Blackbuck is a graceful antelope found in open grasslands and agricultural plains of Haryana. The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary in Gurugram and Kalesar National Park in Yamunanagar support Blackbuck populations. The Bishnoi community of Haryana (and Rajasthan) has traditionally protected Blackbucks as sacred animals. Poaching of Blackbucks attracted national attention in the Salman Khan case.

Correct Answer: C. Black Francolin (Kala Teetar)

The Black Francolin (Francolinus francolinus), locally known as 'Kala Teetar', is the State Bird of Haryana. It is a medium-sized game bird found in scrubland, grasslands, and agricultural fields. The Black Francolin is known for its distinctive call and is found across the Indo-Gangetic plains including Haryana. It was historically considered a delicacy and its numbers declined due to hunting, but conservation efforts have helped its populations.

Correct Answer: B. Lotus

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is the State Flower of Haryana, as well as the National Flower of India. The lotus is associated with purity, spiritual enlightenment, and good fortune in Hindu culture. Kurukshetra's Brahma Sarovar and other sacred water bodies in Haryana have lotus blooms. The lotus holds significance in Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions that are all represented in Haryana's cultural heritage.

Correct Answer: B. Peepal (Ficus religiosa)

Peepal (Sacred Fig/Ficus religiosa) is the State Tree of Haryana. The Peepal is revered in Hinduism as the abode of Lord Vishnu and is considered sacred across India. In Haryanvi villages, Peepal trees traditionally serve as community gathering spots (chaupal). The Peepal is also associated with the Bhagavad Gita — Lord Krishna says 'Among trees, I am the Peepal' (Aswatha). The Akshaya Vat at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra is a famous Peepal tree believed to be the one under which the Gita was delivered.

Correct Answer: C. Kavi Lakhmi Chand

Kavi Lakhmi Chand (1903-1945) from Sidhrawali village in Jhajjar district is considered the greatest poet and Saang artist of Haryana. He wrote extensively in Haryanvi/Braj Bhasha and created numerous Saang compositions and Ragini songs. His compositions on social themes, folk stories, and religious subjects are still sung across Haryana. He is sometimes called the 'Shakespeare of Haryanvi literature' and is revered as a cultural icon.