Famous Personalities — Set 2
Maharashtra GK · प्रसिद्ध व्यक्तित्व · Questions 11–20 of 80
Sant Tukaram was a Marathi poet-saint of the 17th century. What was his primary contribution to Marathi culture?
Correct Answer: B. Devotional poetry and Bhakti movement
Sant Tukaram (1608-1649) was a renowned Marathi saint and poet who composed devotional poems and songs called 'Abhang.' He was a key figure in the Bhakti movement and preached equality and devotion to God. His works remain influential in Marathi literature and his abhangs are still sung in temples across Maharashtra.
Jnaneshwar (Jnandev) was a Marathi saint and philosopher of the 13th century. Which famous commentary did he write?
Correct Answer: B. Jnaneshwari (commentary on Bhagavad Gita)
Jnaneshwar (1275-1296) was a prodigious saint who wrote the Jnaneshwari, a Marathi commentary on the Bhagavad Gita at just 15 years old. This work is considered one of the most important texts in Marathi literature. He also founded a new tradition in the Bhakti movement emphasizing knowledge and devotion combined.
Ustad Vilayat Khan was a legendary Indian classical musician from Maharashtra. Which instrument was he a master of?
Correct Answer: A. Sitar
Ustad Vilayat Khan (1928-2004) was a virtuoso sitarist who revolutionized sitar playing with his innovative techniques and expressive style. He developed the Imdadkhani Gharana tradition and toured extensively across the world. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to Indian classical music and remained an influential figure in the field.
Pandit Bhimsen Joshi was a legendary Hindustani classical vocalist. Which Raag was he most famous for?
Correct Answer: B. Raag Marwa
Pandit Bhimsen Joshi (1922-2011) was one of India's greatest Hindustani vocalists. He was especially famous for his renditions of Raag Marwa and was known for his powerful voice and deep classical knowledge. He received numerous awards including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, for his extraordinary contributions to Indian classical music.
M.S. Subbulakshmi was a legendary Carnatic vocalist who had strong connections with Maharashtra. Who was her guru?
Correct Answer: A. Ariyakkudi Ramanuja Iyengar
M.S. Subbulakshmi (1916-2004) was trained under the legendary musician Ariyakkudi Ramanuja Iyengar. She became the first non-Brahmin musician to be honored with the Padma Bhushan and later the Bharat Ratna. Her performances influenced classical music across India, and she collaborated extensively with Marathi and other Indian musicians.
Raja Ravi Varma was a legendary painter from Kerala with deep influence in Maharashtra. What style of painting was he famous for?
Correct Answer: B. Realistic portraiture and mythological paintings
Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906) was a master painter known for his realistic and romantic portrayals of Hindu mythological themes. Though from Kerala, he spent considerable time in Maharashtra and influenced the art scene significantly. His works became iconic representations of Hindu deities and his style was revolutionary in blending Indian themes with European techniques.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, who framed the Indian Constitution, spent considerable time in Maharashtra. Which city did he primarily work in?
Correct Answer: B. Pune
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (1891-1956) was closely associated with Pune and Maharashtra throughout his life. He founded the Bahishkrit Hitay Sammelan (Depressed Classes Welfare Society) in Pune. He worked extensively in Maharashtra promoting education and social justice. His Ambazari residence in Nagpur is now preserved as a memorial.
Hari Damle was a famous Marathi theatre director and playwright. What was his significant contribution to Marathi theatre?
Correct Answer: D. All of the above
The correct answer is 'All of the above'. Hari Damle (1905-1987) was a pioneering force in Marathi theatre. He revived and modernized traditional Tamasha, introduced contemporary stagecraft techniques, and established professional theatre companies. His work elevated the status of Marathi theatre and made it intellectually respectable. He trained many important theatrical personalities.
Gadge Maharaj was a social reformer and spiritual saint. What was his unique style of social work?
Correct Answer: B. Traveling on foot and cleaning villages
Gadge Maharaj (1876-1956) was a saint who walked barefoot across Maharashtra spreading messages of cleanliness and social improvement. He personally cleaned villages, organized the poor, and inspired community participation in development. His approach was unique in combining spirituality with practical social action and environmental consciousness.
Dhondo Keluskar was a pioneering educationist and social reformer. Which modern institution did he establish for education?
Correct Answer: B. Vidyapith (National Education Society)
Dhondo Keluskar (1820-1882) was a visionary educationist who founded the Vidyapith (National Education Society) in Pune. He believed in modern education combined with Indian values. His institution became a model for progressive education in Maharashtra and influenced the educational philosophy of many contemporaries. He also contributed significantly to girls' education.