GK Questions with Answers - Art and Culture

India’s art and culture is a reflection of its rich heritage, traditions, and diverse history. It forms an important part of the general studies section in almost all competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, and State PSCs. Questions related to Indian art, classical dance forms, music, architecture, literature, festivals, and heritage sites are frequently asked to test a student’s understanding of India’s cultural identity. A good grasp of art and culture GK not only helps in exams but also deepens one’s appreciation of India’s glorious past and its influence on modern society.

In this article, we have compiled a collection of Art and Culture GK Questions with Answers along with brief explanations for each MCQ to make learning engaging and effective. These questions cover a wide range of topics, including ancient monuments, painting styles, folk traditions, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and cultural festivals. Practicing these art and culture general knowledge questions and answers 2025 will help students enhance their knowledge, strengthen their exam preparation, and score higher in the general awareness section of various competitive exams.

GK Questions with Answers - Art and Culture

1. Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form of which Indian state?

1. Kerala
2. Karnataka
3. Tamil Nadu
4. Andhra Pradesh

Answer: C) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu. It was traditionally performed by Devadasis (temple dancers) as a form of worship to the deities. The dance combines Bhava (expression), Raga (music), Tala (rhythm), and Natyam (dance) — which is how its name is derived. The main themes of Bharatanatyam are based on Hindu epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Shiva worship.

2. Kathakali is a classical dance form of which Indian state?

1. Tamil Nadu
2. Karnataka
3. Andhra Pradesh
4. Kerala

Answer: D) Kerala

Explanation: Kathakali is a classical dance-drama from Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and facial expressions. The word Kathakali means “story play”, and it is traditionally based on stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. Dancers wear colorful face paints and heavy costumes, and performances are accompanied by drums (chenda and maddalam) and Carnatic music. It is one of the most visually impressive dance forms of India and is often performed during temple festivals in Kerala.

3. Kuchipudi is a classical dance form of which Indian state?

1. Tamil Nadu
2. Andhra Pradesh
3. Odisha
4. Telangana

Answer: B) Andhra Pradesh

Explanation: Kuchipudi originated in the village of Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh. It combines dance, music, and acting and is usually performed as a dance-drama. Historically, it was performed by male Brahmin troupes known as Bhagavathamelas. Kuchipudi features fast rhythmic footwork, graceful movements, and expressive eye gestures.

4. Which festival is known as the Festival of Lights in India?

1. Holi
2. Dussehra
3. Diwali
4. Raksha Bandhan

Answer: C) Diwali

Explanation: Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights celebrated across India. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. It also signifies Goddess Lakshmi’s arrival, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

5. Which festival is known as the Festival of Colours in India?

1. Holi
2. Diwali
3. Eid
4. Baisakhi

Answer: A) Holi

Explanation: Holi is popularly known as the Festival of Colours, celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. It marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. The festival is associated with Lord Krishna and Radha, and also with Prahlad and Holika. People celebrate by throwing colored powders and water, singing folk songs, and dancing.

6. What is the national animal of India?

1. Asiatic Lion
2. Bengal Tiger
3. Indian Elephant
4. Leopard

Answer: B) Bengal Tiger

Explanation: The Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is the national animal of India. It symbolizes strength, courage, and power. The tiger was declared the national animal in 1973, replacing the Lion, when the Project Tiger conservation program was launched to protect it. Bengal tigers are primarily found in Sundarbans (West Bengal), Assam, and Madhya Pradesh. India currently has the largest tiger population in the world, with over 3,000 tigers.

7. What is the national bird of India?

1. Peacock
2. Sparrow
3. Parrot
4. Swan

Answer: A) Peacock

Explanation: The Indian Peacock (Pavo cristatus) is the national bird of India, declared in 1963. It symbolizes grace, beauty, and pride. Peacocks are native to the Indian subcontinent and are found throughout the country. The bird is also associated with Lord Krishna and Goddess Saraswati.

8. What is the national flower of India?

1. Rose
2. Marigold
3. Lotus
4. Sunflower

Answer: C) Lotus

Explanation: The Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is the national flower of India. It represents purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening, as it blooms beautifully even in muddy water. The flower holds deep religious and cultural significance in Hinduism and Buddhism. It is associated with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, symbolizing wealth and divinity. The lotus is also featured on India’s currency and national symbols.

9. What is the national anthem of India?

1. Vande Mataram
2. Jana Gana Mana
3. Saare Jahan Se Achha
4. Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon

Answer: B) Jana Gana Mana

Explanation: The national anthem of India is “Jana Gana Mana”, composed by Rabindranath Tagore. It was first sung at the Indian National Congress session in 1911 (Calcutta). The anthem was officially adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India on 24 January 1950. The full song is in Bengali-Sanskrit and consists of five stanzas, but only the first stanza is recognized as the national anthem.

10. What is the national song of India?

1. Jana Gana Mana
2. Saare Jahan Se Achha
3. Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon
4. Vande Mataram

Answer: D) Vande Mataram

Explanation: “Vande Mataram” is the national song of India, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Sanskrit and Bengali. It was part of his novel “Anandamath”, published in 1882. The song inspired India’s freedom movement, symbolizing patriotism and love for the motherland. The first two stanzas of the song have been given official status as the National Song of India. Rabindranath Tagore sang it for the first time at the 1896 Indian National Congress session.