History & Heritage — Set 8

Correct Answer: A. Jahaz Mahal

Mandu (Mandavgad) in Madhya Pradesh is famous for the Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace), a two-storeyed palace that resembles a ship surrounded by two lakes. It also has Hindola Mahal (Swing Palace) and the Rani Roopmati Pavilion. Mandu was the capital of the medieval Malwa Sultanate and later the Malwa Sultanate of the Ghori dynasty.

Correct Answer: A. Raja Birsingh Deo

Orchha was founded as the capital of the Bundela dynasty by Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century, and was prominently developed by Raja Birsingh Deo Bundela, who was a contemporary of Emperor Jahangir. The Orchha Fort complex includes the Raj Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, and the iconic Chattris on the Betwa riverbank. Orchha is now a UNESCO World Heritage nomination site.

Correct Answer: B. Kumbh Mela

Ujjain is one of the four cities in India that hosts the Kumbh Mela (Simhastha Kumbh), which is held every 12 years at this location. The city is one of the seven sacred Hindu cities (Sapta Puri) and houses the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Shiva. It is situated on the Shipra river in Madhya Pradesh.

Correct Answer: B. Bhimbetka

Bhimbetka rock shelters near Bhopal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Mesolithic and other prehistoric rock paintings. The site has over 700 rock shelters, of which about 400 contain paintings dating back 30,000 years. The name Bhimbetka is derived from Bhima-baithaka (Bhima's sitting place) from the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Correct Answer: A. Gwalior

Tansen, one of the nine gems (Navaratna) of Emperor Akbar's court, was born in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. He is considered one of the greatest musicians in Indian classical music history and is particularly associated with Dhrupad singing. The Tansen Music Festival held annually in Gwalior is named in his honor.

Correct Answer: B. Indore

The Holkar dynasty, a Maratha clan, ruled Indore and the surrounding Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh from the 18th to the 20th century. The most famous ruler was Ahilyabai Holkar (1767-1795), who was renowned for her efficient administration and devotion. Indore was their capital and they built several palaces and temples there.

Correct Answer: B. Ashoknagar

Chanderi sarees are famous handloom products from Chanderi town in Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh. These lightweight sarees are known for their sheer texture, fine weave, and unique combination of cotton and silk. Chanderi weaving has a history of over 600 years and the products have GI (Geographical Indication) tag status.

Correct Answer: B. Hinduism and Jainism

The Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh are dedicated to both Hinduism and Jainism. Of the original 85 temples built by the Chandela dynasty, only about 20 remain today. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architecture and intricate sculptures including the well-known erotic carvings. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Correct Answer: B. Amarkantak

The Narmada river, one of India's most sacred rivers, originates from Amarkantak in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh. It flows westward through a rift valley for about 1312 km before emptying into the Gulf of Khambhat (Cambay). Narmada is considered the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and is one of the few rivers that flows eastward to west in India.

Correct Answer: C. Vijayanagara Empire

The Battle of Talikota in 1565 led to the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire. While this battle was in South India, its effects were far-reaching across the Indian subcontinent. Madhya Pradesh had historical connections with various empires including the Mauryas, Guptas, Paramaras, and Chandelas that ruled various parts of the region.