Jammu & Kashmir

Round 1: General Knowledge

 Capitals:
o Summer Capital: Srinagar
o Winter Capital: Jammu
 Geographical Features:
o Mountain Ranges: Himalayas, Pir Panjal, Zanskar
o Lakes: Dal Lake, Wular Lake, Nagin Lake
o Rivers: Jhelum River, Chenab River, Tawi River
 History:
o Accession: Joined India in 1947 under the Instrument of Accession.
o Important Figures: Maharaja Hari Singh, Sheikh Abdullah.
o Historical Sites:
- Martand Sun Temple (Dedicated to surya) ,
- Pari Mahal or Peer Mahal. A Mughal garden or smth

Round 2: Audio Round

 Music & Dance:

o Sufi Music: The region is known for its rich tradition of Sufi music,
particularly influenced by Persian and Central Asian styles.
o Folk Instruments: Santoor (a type of hammered dulcimer), Rabab, and Noet
(flute).

Round 3: Visual Round

 Landmarks:
o Mughal Gardens: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi.
o Traditional Clothing: Pheran (a traditional dress), Pashmina shawls.

Round 4: Rapid Fire

 Trivia:
o Hemis Monastery: Largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh.
o Tulip Garden: Asia’s largest tulip garden located in Srinagar.
o State Tree: Chinar (Platanus orientalis), also known as the Oriental Plane.
o State Flower: Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera).
o Famous Festival: Tulip Festival, celebrated in Srinagar’s Indira Gandhi
Memorial Tulip Garden, one of the largest tulip gardens in Asia.
o Famous Handicraft: Papier-mâché, a delicate decorative art introduced by
Persian artisans.
 o Saffron: Jammu & Kashmir is the only state in India that produces saffron,
specifically in the Pampore region.
o Famous Mughal Emperor’s Quote: Jahangir once said, "If there is a
paradise on Earth, it is this, it is this, it is this," referring to Kashmir.

Geography and Nature

1. Location: Jammu and Kashmir is located in the northern part of India and shares
borders with Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, as well as international borders with
China and Pakistan.
2. Capital Cities: Jammu is the winter capital, and Srinagar is the summer capital of
Jammu and Kashmir.
3. Scenic Beauty: Often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," the region is known for its
stunning landscapes, including the Kashmir Valley, Dal Lake, and the Himalayan
mountain ranges.
4. Highest Peak: The region is home to some of the world's highest peaks, including K2
(Mount Godwin-Austen), the second-highest mountain in the world, though it is
administered by Pakistan.
5. Rivers: Major rivers in the region include the Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus, which play
a crucial role in the agriculture and ecology of the area.

History and Culture

1. Rich History: Jammu and Kashmir have a rich historical background, having been
ruled by various dynasties, including the Mughals, Dogras, and Sikhs.
2. Kashmir Shaivism: This region is the birthplace of Kashmir Shaivism, a major
tradition of Hinduism that emphasizes the worship of Shiva.
3. Houseboats: Srinagar's famous houseboats on Dal Lake are a unique feature. These
floating homes are a legacy of British colonial times when foreigners were not
allowed to own land in Kashmir.
4. Handicrafts: Jammu and Kashmir are known for their exquisite handicrafts,
including Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, papier-mâché items, and walnut wood
carvings.
5. Cuisine: The local cuisine is diverse and includes famous dishes like Rogan Josh,
Yakhni, Dum Aloo, and the traditional Wazwan, a multi-course meal.

Wildlife and Environment

1. Biodiversity: The region is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the
Hangul deer (Kashmir stag), Himalayan black bear, and various species of migratory
birds.
2. National Parks: Notable national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the region include
Dachigam National Park, Hemis National Park (known for snow leopards), and the
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve.
3. Tulip Garden: The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar is the largest
tulip garden in Asia and a major attraction in the spring season.

Politics and Administration

 1. Article 370: Until August 5, 2019, Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed special autonomy
under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. This was abrogated, and the state was
reorganized into two union territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
2. Independence Movement: The region has a complex and disputed history, with
various political movements advocating for independence or autonomy.
3. UN Mediation: Jammu and Kashmir have been a focal point of disputes between
India and Pakistan, leading to several wars and ongoing international diplomatic
efforts, including United Nations mediation.

Festivals and Religion

1. Amarnath Yatra: One of the most important Hindu pilgrimages, the Amarnath
Yatra, is a challenging trek to the Amarnath Cave, which houses a naturally formed
ice Shiva Lingam.
2. Religious Diversity: Jammu and Kashmir are religiously diverse, with a majority of
Muslims in the Kashmir Valley, Hindus predominantly in the Jammu region, and
Buddhists mainly in Ladakh.
3. Festivals: Besides religious festivals like Eid, Diwali, and Navratri, the region
celebrates unique local festivals like Hemis in Ladakh and the Baisakhi festival in
Jammu.

Trivia

1. "Heaven on Earth": The Mughal Emperor Jahangir famously described Kashmir as

"Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast" (If there is a paradise
on Earth, it is this, it is this, it is this).
2. Oldest Continuous Language: Kashmiri is one of the oldest languages still in use in
the region, with roots that can be traced back over 5,000 years.
3. First Cinema Hall: Srinagar's Palladium Cinema, established in 1932, was one of the
first movie theaters in Kashmir, and it became a significant cultural hub before it was
burned down during the insurgency in the 1990s.
4. Tourist Attractions: Apart from the natural beauty, Jammu and Kashmir are famous
for pilgrimage sites like Vaishno Devi and Shankaracharya Temple, as well as the
Mughal Gardens and the Raghunath Temple.

Gujarat
Round 1: General Knowledge

 Major Cities:
o Ahmedabad: Known for the Sabarmati Ashram, a major center in India’s
freedom movement.
o Surat: Famous for its diamond cutting and polishing industry.
o Vadodara: Known for Laxmi Vilas Palace and its cultural heritage.
 Geographical Features:
o Rivers: Sabarmati, Narmada, Tapi.
 o Desert: Little Rann of Kutch, known for the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary.
o Coastal Area: Longest coastline in India, with notable ports like Kandla and
Mundra.
 History:
o Indus Valley Civilization: Lothal, an important city in the ancient
civilization, is located in Gujarat.
o Independence Movement: Dandi March led by Mahatma Gandhi.

Round 2: Audio Round

 Music & Dance:

o Garba: Traditional dance performed during Navratri.
o Sugam Sangeet: A light form of classical music that is popular in Gujarat.

Round 3: Visual Round

 Landmarks:
o Rani ki Vav: A UNESCO World Heritage site, a stepwell built in the 11th
century.
o Somnath Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva.
o Gir Forest: The only place in the world where Asiatic lions are found.

Round 4: Rapid Fire

 Trivia:
o State Animal: Asiatic Lion.
o Famous Personalities: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
o White Desert Festival: Rann Utsav, celebrated in the Rann of Kutch.’
o State Bird: Greater Flamingo
o State Tree: Banyan (Ficus benghalensis).
o Rann of Kutch: The white salt desert is home to the annual Rann Utsav,
where visitors can experience the unique culture, dance, music, and crafts of
Kutch.
o Famous Personalities: Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space
program, and Dhirubhai Ambani, founder of Reliance Industries.
o Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage
Site, known for its rich history and cultural blend of Hindu and Islamic
architecture.
o Amul: The world’s largest dairy cooperative originated in Anand, Gujarat, and
sparked the White Revolution in India.

Geography and Nature

1. Location: Gujarat is located in the western part of India, bordered by Rajasthan to the
north, Maharashtra to the south, Madhya Pradesh to the east, and the Arabian Sea to
the west.
2. Capital: Gandhinagar is the capital city of Gujarat, while Ahmedabad is the largest
city and a major economic hub.
 3. Rivers: The major rivers flowing through Gujarat include the Sabarmati, Narmada,
Tapti, and Mahi. The Narmada River is particularly significant, and the Sardar
Sarovar Dam on it is one of the largest in the country.
4. Climate: The state has a diverse climate, ranging from arid in the Kutch region to
more humid conditions in the southern parts.
5. Rann of Kutch: The Great Rann of Kutch is a vast salt desert and one of the most
unique landscapes in the world. It hosts the annual Rann Utsav, a cultural festival
showcasing local art, music, and crafts.

History and Culture

1. Ancient Civilization: Gujarat was part of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, with
significant sites like Lothal and Dholavira, known for their advanced urban planning
and maritime trade.
2. Cradle of Mahatma Gandhi: Gujarat is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the
leader of India’s independence movement. His Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad is a
major tourist attraction.
3. Dynasties: Over the centuries, Gujarat has been ruled by various dynasties, including
the Mauryas, Guptas, Solankis, and the Mughals. The region was also an important
center for the spread of Jainism and Buddhism.
4. Gujarati Language: Gujarati, an Indo-Aryan language, is the official language of the
state and is widely spoken by the people.
5. Vibrant Festivals: Gujarat is known for its vibrant festivals, particularly Navratri,
which is celebrated with Garba and Dandiya dances. Other important festivals include
Uttarayan (the kite festival) and Diwali.

Economy

1. Industrial Hub: Gujarat is one of the most industrialized states in India, with major
industries including textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles.
2. Ports: The state has a long coastline and some of the busiest ports in India, such as
Kandla, Mundra, and Pipavav, which play a crucial role in India’s maritime trade.
3. Agriculture: Gujarat is a leading producer of cotton, groundnuts (peanuts), dates, and
dairy products. The state is also known for its extensive irrigation network.
4. Petroleum and Natural Gas: Gujarat has significant reserves of oil and natural gas,
with major refineries located in Jamnagar, operated by Reliance Industries, which is
one of the largest in the world.
5. Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Gujarat has several SEZs, which attract significant
foreign investment and boost the state’s economic growth.

Wildlife and Environment

1. Gir National Park: Gujarat is home to Gir National Park, the only place in the world
where Asiatic lions are found in the wild.
2. Wildlife Sanctuaries: Besides Gir, Gujarat has several other important wildlife
sanctuaries, including the Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary, Marine National Park in
the Gulf of Kutch, and the Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary.
3. Flamingo City: The Great Rann of Kutch is a breeding ground for flamingos, and the
region is often referred to as "Flamingo City" due to the large number of these birds
that migrate there.
Politics and Administration

1. State Formation: Gujarat was formed on May 1, 1960, when the Bombay State was
split into two states—Gujarat and Maharashtra—based on linguistic lines.
2. Political Influence: Gujarat has been politically significant in India, producing
several notable leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who served as the
Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014.
3. Development Model: Gujarat is often cited for its model of economic development,
with a focus on infrastructure, investment, and industrialization.

Trivia

1. Statue of Unity: The Statue of Unity, located near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in
Gujarat, is the world's tallest statue at 182 meters (597 feet). It honors Sardar
Vallabhbhai Patel, India's first Deputy Prime Minister and a key figure in the
country’s independence movement.
2. Somnath Temple: The Somnath Temple, located on the western coast of Gujarat, is
one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva and has a history that dates back
thousands of years.
3. White Revolution: Gujarat played a key role in India’s White Revolution, the world's
largest dairy development program, through the efforts of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the
"Father of the White Revolution," who was based in Anand, Gujarat.
4. Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City): GIFT City in Gandhinagar is
India’s first operational smart city and international financial services center, aiming
to compete with global financial hubs.
5. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Gujarat is home to several UNESCO World
Heritage Sites, including the Rani ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell) in Patan, the historic
city of Ahmedabad, and the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.

Arunachal Pradesh
Round 1: General Knowledge

 Geographical Features:
o Mountain Ranges: Eastern Himalayas.
o Rivers: Siang (Brahmaputra), Kameng, Lohit.
o National Parks: Namdapha National Park, Mouling National Park.
 Major Cities:
o Itanagar: The state capital, home to the Itanagar Fort.
o Tawang: Famous for Tawang Monastery, the largest in India.
 History:
o Ancient History: Believed to be the land of the tribes mentioned in ancient
Indian texts like the Mahabharata.
o Recent History: Played a significant role during the Sino-Indian War of 1962.

Round 2: Audio Round

  Music & Dance:
o Tribal Music: Each tribe has its unique music style, often accompanied by
traditional instruments like the Yoksha (a bamboo flute) and Damru.
o Bardo Chham: A ritualistic dance of the Sherdukpens.

Round 3: Visual Round

 Landmarks:
o Tawang Monastery: The largest monastery in India and second largest in the
world.
o Bamboo & Cane Products: Arunachal is famous for its intricate bamboo and
cane craft.

Round 4: Rapid Fire

 Trivia:
o State Animal: Mithun (a type of cattle).
o Orchids: Arunachal Pradesh is known as the "Orchid State of India."
o Important Festival: Torgya, celebrated by the Monpa people.
o State Bird: Great Hornbill.
o State Tree: Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus).
o Unique Fact: Arunachal Pradesh is the first state in India to greet the sunrise,
earning it the title "Land of the Rising Sun."
o Famous Tribes: Nyishi, Adi, Apatani, Monpa, and Mishmi, each with their
unique customs and traditions.
o Ziro Valley: Known for the Ziro Music Festival, which attracts music lovers
and artists from across the country.
o India’s First Water Village: Hong Village in Arunachal Pradesh, known for
its traditional Apatani tribe and their unique method of rice-fish cultivation.

Geography and Nature

1. Location: Arunachal Pradesh is located in the northeastern corner of India, bordering

Bhutan to the west, China to the north, Myanmar to the east, and the Indian states of
Assam and Nagaland to the south.
2. Capital: The capital city of Arunachal Pradesh is Itanagar, which is situated in the
western part of the state.
3. Topography: The state is largely mountainous, with the Eastern Himalayas running
through it. It is known for its dense forests, deep river valleys, and high-altitude
passes.
4. Rivers: Major rivers include the Brahmaputra (known as the Siang River in
Arunachal Pradesh), Subansiri, Lohit, Kameng, and Tirap. These rivers are crucial for
the region’s ecology and are sources of hydroelectric power.
5. Climate: Arunachal Pradesh has a diverse climate ranging from subtropical in the
lower regions to alpine in the higher altitudes. The state experiences heavy rainfall
during the monsoon season.

History and Culture

 1. Tribal Heritage: Arunachal Pradesh is home to a large number of indigenous tribes,
each with its own unique culture, language, and traditions. Some of the major tribes
include the Nyishi, Apatani, Adi, Galo, Monpa, and Mishmi.
2. Languages: The state is linguistically diverse, with over 50 distinct languages and
dialects spoken, mostly from the Tibeto-Burman language family. Hindi and English
are widely used for official communication.
3. Traditional Festivals: Festivals in Arunachal Pradesh are deeply connected to the
agricultural cycles and tribal traditions. Notable festivals include Losar (Tibetan New
Year), Mopin, Solung, Dree, and Si-Donyi. These festivals often involve elaborate
rituals, dances, and feasts.
4. Historical Influence: The region has historical connections with Tibetan Buddhism,
especially in the areas near Tawang, where the Tawang Monastery is located. The
Monpa and Sherdukpen tribes are followers of Tibetan Buddhism.
5. British and Indian Administration: Arunachal Pradesh was previously known as
the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) during British rule and continued as such
until 1972, when it became a Union Territory. It was granted statehood on February
20, 1987.

Economy

1. Agriculture: The economy of Arunachal Pradesh is primarily agrarian, with rice,

maize, millet, pulses, and potatoes being the major crops. Shifting cultivation, known
as "jhum," is practiced by several tribes.
2. Horticulture: The state is also known for horticultural products like oranges, apples,
pineapples, and kiwi. Arunachal Pradesh is one of the largest producers of kiwis in
India.
3. Hydropower Potential: Arunachal Pradesh has significant potential for hydroelectric
power generation due to its many fast-flowing rivers. Several large and small
hydropower projects are under development.
4. Tourism: With its scenic beauty, rich culture, and adventure opportunities, tourism is
an emerging sector in the state. Popular tourist destinations include Tawang, Ziro
Valley, Namdapha National Park, and the Mechuka Valley.

Wildlife and Environment

1. Biodiversity Hotspot: Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most biodiverse regions in

India, with a wide variety of flora and fauna. The state is home to numerous rare and
endangered species, including the red panda, snow leopard, clouded leopard, and
various species of orchids.
2. National Parks and Sanctuaries: The state has several protected areas, including
Namdapha National Park, which is the largest national park in India by area and is a
biodiversity hotspot. Other important wildlife sanctuaries include Pakhui (Pakke)
Wildlife Sanctuary, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mouling National Park.
3. Biosphere Reserves: The Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve is a significant
conservation area, highlighting the state’s commitment to preserving its natural
heritage.
4. Orchid Diversity: Arunachal Pradesh is known as the "Orchid State of India," with
more than 500 species of orchids found here, many of which are endemic to the
region.
Politics and Administration

1. State Formation: Arunachal Pradesh was initially part of the North-East Frontier
Agency (NEFA) before becoming a Union Territory in 1972. It was granted full
statehood on February 20, 1987.
2. Strategic Importance: Due to its location bordering China, Arunachal Pradesh has
significant strategic importance for India. The state has seen historical border disputes
with China, particularly in the Tawang region.
3. Ethnic Diversity and Governance: Arunachal Pradesh's administration needs to
accommodate the diverse ethnic groups and ensure the protection of their cultural
identities. The state has an autonomous district council in certain regions to manage
local affairs.

Trivia

1. Tawang Monastery: Tawang Monastery, located in the town of Tawang, is the

largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world after the Potala Palace
in Lhasa, Tibet. It is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism.
2. Ziro Music Festival: The Ziro Valley hosts the Ziro Music Festival, one of India’s
most popular outdoor music festivals, attracting musicians and attendees from all over
the world.
3. Indo-China Border: Arunachal Pradesh shares a long and sensitive border with
China, leading to historical and ongoing territorial disputes between the two countries.
The Line of Actual Control (LAC) runs along this border.
4. Sela Pass: Sela Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, located at an
altitude of around 13,700 feet. It connects Tawang to the rest of Arunachal Pradesh
and offers breathtaking views.
5. Unique Tribes: The Apatani tribe of the Ziro Valley is known for their sustainable
farming practices, particularly their unique paddy-cum-fish cultivation. The older
women of this tribe were once known for their distinctive facial tattoos and large nose
plugs, though this practice has mostly faded.
6. Bomdila Pass: Bomdila is a scenic town and a pass that offers panoramic views of
the Eastern Himalayas. It is also known for its apple orchards, monasteries, and the
Bomdila Monastery.

Madhya Pradesh
Round 1: General Knowledge

 Major Cities:
o Indore: The largest city in Madhya Pradesh, known for its culinary delights.
o Bhopal: The capital city, famous for its lakes and the Taj-ul-Masajid.
o Gwalior: Known for the Gwalior Fort and Scindia dynasty.
 Geographical Features:
o Rivers: Narmada, Tapti, Chambal.
o National Parks: Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench.
 History:
 o Maurya and Gupta Empires: Significant historical sites from these ancient
empires.
o Kingdoms: Malwa, Bundelkhand, and Gondwana.
o Monuments: Bhimbetka rock shelters (ancient rock art), Khajuraho Temples
(famous for their erotic sculptures).

Round 2: Audio Round

 Music & Dance:

o Tribal Music: Gond and Baiga tribes have their unique music styles.
o Classical Music: Gwalior Gharana, one of the oldest Khayal gharanas in
Indian classical music.
o Folk Music: Alha Udal songs, songs of valor and heroism.

Round 3: Visual Round

 Landmarks:
o Sanchi Stupa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the oldest stone
structures in India.
o Khajuraho Group of Monuments: Famous for their Nagara-style
architectural symbolism and erotic sculptures.
o Mandu: Known for its Afghan architecture and the tale of Rani Roopmati and
Baz Bahadur.

Round 4: Rapid Fire

 Trivia:
o State Animal: Barasingha (Swamp Deer).
o Famous Personalities: Tansen (classical musician), Birbal (courtier in
Akbar’s court).
o Important Festival: Lokrang Festival, a celebration of tribal and folk art.
o State Bird: Asian Paradise Flycatcher.
o State Tree: Banyan (Ficus benghalensis).
o Famous Tiger Reserves: Madhya Pradesh is known as the "Tiger State of
India," with renowned reserves like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench.
o Bhimbetka Rock Shelters: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient
caves are home to some of the oldest known rock art in the world, dating back
to the Paleolithic era.
o Jain Pilgrimage: Ujjain is an important pilgrimage center for Jains, with the
famous Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
o State Dance: Rai Dance, performed by the Gond tribe, is a traditional dance
of joy and celebration.

Karnataka
Round 1: General Knowledge
  Major Cities:
o Bengaluru: Capital city, known as the "Silicon Valley of India."
o Mysuru: Known for its palaces and Dasara festival.
o Mangaluru: A major port city, known for its beaches and diverse culture.
 Geographical Features:
o Rivers: Cauvery, Tungabhadra, Krishna.
o Mountain Ranges: Western Ghats, Nandi Hills.
o National Parks: Bandipur, Nagarhole, Bannerghatta.
 History:
o Vijayanagara Empire: Hampi was the capital of this powerful South Indian
empire.
o Mysore Kingdom: Ruled by the Wadiyar dynasty, known for Tipu Sultan.
o Architecture: Chalukya and Hoysala temples are notable for their intricate
carvings.

Round 2: Audio Round

 Music & Dance:

o Carnatic Classical Music: A major form of classical music in South India,
with famous exponents like Tyagaraja and Purandara Dasa.
o Yakshagana: A traditional theatre form that combines dance, music, dialogue,
and costume.

Round 3: Visual Round

 Landmarks:
o Mysore Palace: A stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
o Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ruins of the
Vijayanagara Empire.
o Gol Gumbaz: The mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, with the second-
largest dome in the world.

Round 4: Rapid Fire

 Trivia:
o State Animal: Indian Elephant.
o Famous Personalities: Visvesvaraya (Engineer), Kuvempu (Poet Laureate).
o Important Festival: Mysore Dasara, a grand celebration of victory of good
over evil.
o State Bird: Indian Roller.
o State Tree: Sandalwood (Santalum album).
o Famous Temples: The Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara
Temple in Halebidu, known for their exquisite Hoysala architecture.
o Silk Industry: Karnataka is the largest producer of silk in India, particularly
known for Mysore Silk.
o Coffee: The state is the largest producer of coffee in India, with major coffee-
growing regions in Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Hassan.
o Karnataka’s UNESCO Sites: Hampi, Pattadakal, and Western Ghats (as part
of a larger biosphere) are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.