UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 25 February 2026

UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 25 February 2026 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more. We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched? Site School/Material 1. Sanghol Mathura School (Red Sandstone) 2. Takht-i-Bahi Gandhara School (Stucco) 3. Ghantasala Amaravati School (White Marble/Limestone) Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Explanation: Pair 1 is Correct: Sanghol (Punjab) yielded a massive hoard of 117 sculptures in 1985. Despite being in the northwest, these were made of spotted red sandstone and stylistically belonged to the Mathura school, indicating they were imported via trade routes. Pair 2 is Correct: Takht-i-Bahi (Pakistan) is a premier Gandhara site known for its well-preserved monastery and extensive use of stucco (lime plaster) for sculpture, which replaced stone in the later Gandhara phase. Pair 3 is Correct: Ghantasala (Andhra Pradesh) is an important Buddhist site of the Vengi region (Amaravati school), utilizing the characteristic white limestone. Incorrect Solution: D Explanation: Pair 1 is Correct: Sanghol (Punjab) yielded a massive hoard of 117 sculptures in 1985. Despite being in the northwest, these were made of spotted red sandstone and stylistically belonged to the Mathura school, indicating they were imported via trade routes. Pair 2 is Correct: Takht-i-Bahi (Pakistan) is a premier Gandhara site known for its well-preserved monastery and extensive use of stucco (lime plaster) for sculpture, which replaced stone in the later Gandhara phase. Pair 3 is Correct: Ghantasala (Andhra Pradesh) is an important Buddhist site of the Vengi region (Amaravati school), utilizing the characteristic white limestone.

#### 1. Question

Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?

| Site | School/Material

1.| Sanghol | Mathura School (Red Sandstone)
2.| Takht-i-Bahi | Gandhara School (Stucco)
3.| Ghantasala | Amaravati School (White Marble/Limestone)

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

Explanation:

• Pair 1 is Correct: Sanghol (Punjab) yielded a massive hoard of 117 sculptures in 1985. Despite being in the northwest, these were made of spotted red sandstone and stylistically belonged to the Mathura school, indicating they were imported via trade routes.

• Pair 2 is Correct: Takht-i-Bahi (Pakistan) is a premier Gandhara site known for its well-preserved monastery and extensive use of stucco (lime plaster) for sculpture, which replaced stone in the later Gandhara phase.

• Pair 3 is Correct: Ghantasala (Andhra Pradesh) is an important Buddhist site of the Vengi region (Amaravati school), utilizing the characteristic white limestone.

Solution: D

Explanation:

• Pair 3 is Correct: Ghantasala (Andhra Pradesh) is an important Buddhist site of the Vengi region (Amaravati school), utilizing the characteristic white limestone.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question The ‘Bangla roof’, characterized by its distinct curved cornice, was a hallmark of the Bengal School of Architecture. Which of the following best explains the functional reason for this design? (a) To provide structural support for massive marble domes. (b) To act as a defensive feature against northern invasions. (c) To reflect the imperial grandeur of the Delhi Sultanate. (d) To facilitate the quick drainage of heavy monsoon rainwater. Correct Solution: D The Bengal School of Architecture (1203–1573 AD) is one of the most prominent examples of environmental adaptation in Indian history. In the deltaic region of Bengal, which experiences some of the highest rainfall in the subcontinent, the traditional vernacular architecture used bamboo and thatch to create curved roofs. The regional Sultanate architects adopted this curved ‘Bangla’ roof into their permanent brick structures, such as the Qadam Rasul Mosque. The primary functional purpose was to ensure that heavy monsoon rainwater drained off the building rapidly, preventing waterlogging and structural decay that would otherwise affect flat-roofed buildings. This feature was so aesthetically pleasing and functional that it was later adopted by the Mughal Emperors, particularly during the reign of Shah Jahan, for use in imperial pavilions. Incorrect Solution: D The Bengal School of Architecture (1203–1573 AD) is one of the most prominent examples of environmental adaptation in Indian history. In the deltaic region of Bengal, which experiences some of the highest rainfall in the subcontinent, the traditional vernacular architecture used bamboo and thatch to create curved roofs. The regional Sultanate architects adopted this curved ‘Bangla’ roof into their permanent brick structures, such as the Qadam Rasul Mosque. The primary functional purpose was to ensure that heavy monsoon rainwater drained off the building rapidly, preventing waterlogging and structural decay that would otherwise affect flat-roofed buildings. This feature was so aesthetically pleasing and functional that it was later adopted by the Mughal Emperors, particularly during the reign of Shah Jahan, for use in imperial pavilions.

#### 2. Question

The ‘Bangla roof’, characterized by its distinct curved cornice, was a hallmark of the Bengal School of Architecture. Which of the following best explains the functional reason for this design?

• (a) To provide structural support for massive marble domes.

• (b) To act as a defensive feature against northern invasions.

• (c) To reflect the imperial grandeur of the Delhi Sultanate.

• (d) To facilitate the quick drainage of heavy monsoon rainwater.

Solution: D

• The Bengal School of Architecture (1203–1573 AD) is one of the most prominent examples of environmental adaptation in Indian history. In the deltaic region of Bengal, which experiences some of the highest rainfall in the subcontinent, the traditional vernacular architecture used bamboo and thatch to create curved roofs.

• The regional Sultanate architects adopted this curved ‘Bangla’ roof into their permanent brick structures, such as the Qadam Rasul Mosque. The primary functional purpose was to ensure that heavy monsoon rainwater drained off the building rapidly, preventing waterlogging and structural decay that would otherwise affect flat-roofed buildings.

• This feature was so aesthetically pleasing and functional that it was later adopted by the Mughal Emperors, particularly during the reign of Shah Jahan, for use in imperial pavilions.

Solution: D

• This feature was so aesthetically pleasing and functional that it was later adopted by the Mughal Emperors, particularly during the reign of Shah Jahan, for use in imperial pavilions.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the literary work Amuktamalyada: It was composed by Krishnadevaraya in the Telugu language and describes the wedding of the deity Ranganayaka and the poet-saint Andal. The work serves as a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy and administrative principles for the Vijayanagara Empire. Which of the above statements are incorrect? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. Amuktamalyada is a celebrated Telugu literary work authored by Krishnadevaraya, one of the greatest rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire. The poem narrates the devotional legend of Andal, a Vaishnavite poet-saint, and her mystical union with Lord Ranganatha (also referred to as Ranganayaka). The work is deeply rooted in bhakti (devotional) tradition and is admired for its refined Telugu diction, emotional depth, and religious symbolism. Statement 2 is incorrect. While Amuktamalyada does contain important verses on rajadharma (duties of a king), advice to rulers, and ethical governance, it cannot be classified as a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy or administration. These political ideas appear as embedded reflections within a devotional narrative rather than as a systematic or exhaustive manual of governance. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. Amuktamalyada is a celebrated Telugu literary work authored by Krishnadevaraya, one of the greatest rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire. The poem narrates the devotional legend of Andal, a Vaishnavite poet-saint, and her mystical union with Lord Ranganatha (also referred to as Ranganayaka). The work is deeply rooted in bhakti (devotional) tradition and is admired for its refined Telugu diction, emotional depth, and religious symbolism. Statement 2 is incorrect. While Amuktamalyada does contain important verses on rajadharma (duties of a king), advice to rulers, and ethical governance, it cannot be classified as a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy or administration. These political ideas appear as embedded reflections within a devotional narrative rather than as a systematic or exhaustive manual of governance.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the literary work Amuktamalyada:

• It was composed by Krishnadevaraya in the Telugu language and describes the wedding of the deity Ranganayaka and the poet-saint Andal.

• The work serves as a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy and administrative principles for the Vijayanagara Empire.

Which of the above statements are incorrect?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct. Amuktamalyada is a celebrated Telugu literary work authored by Krishnadevaraya, one of the greatest rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire. The poem narrates the devotional legend of Andal, a Vaishnavite poet-saint, and her mystical union with Lord Ranganatha (also referred to as Ranganayaka). The work is deeply rooted in bhakti (devotional) tradition and is admired for its refined Telugu diction, emotional depth, and religious symbolism.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. While Amuktamalyada does contain important verses on rajadharma (duties of a king), advice to rulers, and ethical governance, it cannot be classified as a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy or administration. These political ideas appear as embedded reflections within a devotional narrative rather than as a systematic or exhaustive manual of governance.

Solution: B

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question With reference to the classification of musical instruments (Vadyas) in the Natyashastra, consider the following statements: Avanaddha Vadya refers to percussion instruments that produce sound through a stretched membrane. Sushira Vadya describes instruments where sound is produced by a vibrating column of air. Ghana Vadya are solid instruments that do not require tuning and produce sound through striking or friction. Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is correct; Avanaddha Vadya(Membranophones) include drums like the Tabla, Mridangam, and Dholak, where a skin membrane is struck to create rhythm. Statement 2 is correct; Sushira Vadya(Aerophones) are wind instruments, such as the Flute, Shehnai, and Nadaswaram, which utilize air flow through a hollow tube. Statement 3 is correct; Ghana Vadya(Idiophones) are instruments made of solid materials—metals or wood—that vibrate to produce sound, such as the Manjira (cymbals), Ghatam (clay pot), and Khartal. Unlike the other categories, Ghana Vadyas typically do not have strings or membranes that need to be tuned to a specific pitch. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is correct; Avanaddha Vadya(Membranophones) include drums like the Tabla, Mridangam, and Dholak, where a skin membrane is struck to create rhythm. Statement 2 is correct; Sushira Vadya(Aerophones) are wind instruments, such as the Flute, Shehnai, and Nadaswaram, which utilize air flow through a hollow tube. Statement 3 is correct; Ghana Vadya(Idiophones) are instruments made of solid materials—metals or wood—that vibrate to produce sound, such as the Manjira (cymbals), Ghatam (clay pot), and Khartal. Unlike the other categories, Ghana Vadyas typically do not have strings or membranes that need to be tuned to a specific pitch.

#### 4. Question

With reference to the classification of musical instruments (Vadyas) in the Natyashastra, consider the following statements:

• Avanaddha Vadya refers to percussion instruments that produce sound through a stretched membrane.

• Sushira Vadya describes instruments where sound is produced by a vibrating column of air.

• Ghana Vadya are solid instruments that do not require tuning and produce sound through striking or friction.

Which of the above statements are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 1 and 3 only

• (c) 2 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is correct; Avanaddha Vadya(Membranophones) include drums like the Tabla, Mridangam, and Dholak, where a skin membrane is struck to create rhythm.

• Statement 2 is correct; Sushira Vadya(Aerophones) are wind instruments, such as the Flute, Shehnai, and Nadaswaram, which utilize air flow through a hollow tube.

• Statement 3 is correct; Ghana Vadya(Idiophones) are instruments made of solid materials—metals or wood—that vibrate to produce sound, such as the Manjira (cymbals), Ghatam (clay pot), and Khartal. Unlike the other categories, Ghana Vadyas typically do not have strings or membranes that need to be tuned to a specific pitch.

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is correct; Avanaddha Vadya(Membranophones) include drums like the Tabla, Mridangam, and Dholak, where a skin membrane is struck to create rhythm.

• Statement 2 is correct; Sushira Vadya(Aerophones) are wind instruments, such as the Flute, Shehnai, and Nadaswaram, which utilize air flow through a hollow tube.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question The “Bani Thani” painting, characterized by elongated facial features and almond-shaped eyes, belongs to which school of Rajasthani painting? (a) Jodhpur School (b) Mewar School (c) Kishangarh School (d) Bundi School Correct Solution: C The Bani Thaniis the most celebrated masterpiece of the Kishangarh school, an 18th-century offshoot of the Rajasthani tradition. Painted by the court artist Nihal Chand under the patronage of Raja Sawant Singh (who was himself a poet writing under the name Nagari Das), the painting is often referred to as the “Indian Mona Lisa”. The style is uniquely distinguished by its extreme stylization and ethereal beauty, featuring arched eyebrows, lotus-like eyes, and pointed features that idealized the female form. The themes of the Kishangarh school were deeply rooted in the Radha-Krishna cult, and it is believed that the model for Bani Thani was a singer and poet at the court who captured the king’s romantic and spiritual imagination. This school stands in contrast to the more robust and folk-oriented Mewar style or the heroic Jodhpur style, representing a peak of romanticism and lyrical refinementin Rajput art. Incorrect Solution: C The Bani Thaniis the most celebrated masterpiece of the Kishangarh school, an 18th-century offshoot of the Rajasthani tradition. Painted by the court artist Nihal Chand under the patronage of Raja Sawant Singh (who was himself a poet writing under the name Nagari Das), the painting is often referred to as the “Indian Mona Lisa”. The style is uniquely distinguished by its extreme stylization and ethereal beauty, featuring arched eyebrows, lotus-like eyes, and pointed features that idealized the female form. The themes of the Kishangarh school were deeply rooted in the Radha-Krishna cult, and it is believed that the model for Bani Thani was a singer and poet at the court who captured the king’s romantic and spiritual imagination. This school stands in contrast to the more robust and folk-oriented Mewar style or the heroic Jodhpur style, representing a peak of romanticism and lyrical refinementin Rajput art.

#### 5. Question

The “Bani Thani” painting, characterized by elongated facial features and almond-shaped eyes, belongs to which school of Rajasthani painting?

• (a) Jodhpur School

• (b) Mewar School

• (c) Kishangarh School

• (d) Bundi School

Solution: C

• The Bani Thaniis the most celebrated masterpiece of the Kishangarh school, an 18th-century offshoot of the Rajasthani tradition. Painted by the court artist Nihal Chand under the patronage of Raja Sawant Singh (who was himself a poet writing under the name Nagari Das), the painting is often referred to as the “Indian Mona Lisa”.

• The style is uniquely distinguished by its extreme stylization and ethereal beauty, featuring arched eyebrows, lotus-like eyes, and pointed features that idealized the female form. The themes of the Kishangarh school were deeply rooted in the Radha-Krishna cult, and it is believed that the model for Bani Thani was a singer and poet at the court who captured the king’s romantic and spiritual imagination.

• This school stands in contrast to the more robust and folk-oriented Mewar style or the heroic Jodhpur style, representing a peak of romanticism and lyrical refinementin Rajput art.

Solution: C

• This school stands in contrast to the more robust and folk-oriented Mewar style or the heroic Jodhpur style, representing a peak of romanticism and lyrical refinementin Rajput art.

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