Boost your confidence with these GK questions about Odisha! Perfect for preparing for government job exams and enhancing your knowledge.
1. When did Bhubaneswar become the capital city of Odisha?
A) 1936
B) 1940
C) 1945
D) 1948
Answer: D) 1948
Explanation: Bhubaneswar officially became the capital of Odisha on April 13, 1948, replacing Cuttack, which had served as the capital for over 200 years. Known as the “Temple City,” Bhubaneswar was chosen for its central location and modern urban planning potential, designed by architect Otto Königsberger.
2. Which of the following is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Odisha?
A) Sun Temple Konark
B) Chilka Lake
C) Hirakud Dam
D) Jagannath Puri Temple
Answer: A) Sun Temple Konark
Explanation: The Sun Temple in Konark is a 13th-century architectural marvel built by King Narasimhadeva I. Shaped like a giant chariot with intricately carved wheels and horses, it is dedicated to the Sun God and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.
3. What is Deomali about Odisha?
A) A Famous Folk Dance
B) Highest Mountain Peak
C) A Famous Folk Music
D) Tribal Group in Eastern Odisha
Answer: B) Highest Mountain Peak
Explanation: Deomali is the highest mountain peak in Odisha, located in the Eastern Ghats. It stands at an impressive height of 1,672 meters (5,486 feet) and offers stunning views, making it a favorite among trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
4. Who among the following was the first Odia to become a Supreme Court Judge?
A) Arjit Passayat
B) Ranganath Mishra
C) Indrajit Ray
D) Gatikrushna Mishra
Answer: B) Ranganath Mishra
Explanation: Ranganath Mishra became the first Odia to serve as a Supreme Court judge in 1979. Later, he also held the esteemed position of Chief Justice of India from 1990 to 1991.
5. Which of the following is considered to be the first port in Odisha?
A) Damara
B) Kirtania
C) Chandabali
D) Paradip
Answer: C) Chandabali
Explanation: Chandabali, located on the Baitarani River, is regarded as Odisha’s first port. It was established in the 19th century and played a significant role in trade during British rule.
6. Who among the following is responsible for the effective implementation of Sarba Siksha Abhiyan in Odisha?
A) OPEPA
B) OSSTA
C) DEE
D) DHE
Answer: A) OPEPA
Explanation: The Odisha Primary Education Programme Authority (OPEPA) oversees the implementation of the Sarba Siksha Abhiyan, which aims to ensure universal primary education for children across the state.
7. Who among the following is popularly known as the Grand Old Man of Odisha?
A) Gopabandhu Das
B) Fakir Mohan Das
C) Madhusudan Das
D) Gauisankar Ray
Answer: C) Madhusudan Das
Explanation: Madhusudan Das, known as the Grand Old Man of Odisha, was the first graduate and advocate from the state. He significantly contributed to Odisha’s socio-political and economic development.
8. Odisha State Maritime Museum is located at:
A) Paradip
B) Gopalpur
C) Cuttack
D) Balesore
Answer: C) Cuttack
Explanation: The Odisha State Maritime Museum in Cuttack highlights Odisha’s ancient maritime trade history and features a restored British-era workshop, showcasing the state’s seafaring legacy.
9. First Odia to win Kendriya Sahitya Academy Award:
A) Gopinath Mohanty
B) Sadashiva Mishra
C) Surendra Mohanty
D) Kanhu Charan Mohanty
Answer: A) Gopinath Mohanty
Explanation: Gopinath Mohanty was the first Odia to receive the Kendriya Sahitya Akademi Award in 1955 for his novel Amrutara Santana, which portrays the struggles of tribal life in Odisha.
10. In which year Kalapahad invaded Odisha?
A) 1645
B) 1647
C) 1567
D) 1576
Answer: C) 1567
Explanation: Kalapahad, a general from the Bengal Sultanate, invaded Odisha in 1567, causing widespread destruction, including damage to the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
Odisha GK MCQ
11. Who is the first Odia international cricket player?
A) Debasish Mohanty
B) Shiv Sundar Das
C) Rajib Biswal
D) Sanjay Raul
Answer: A) Debasish Mohanty
Explanation: Debasish Mohanty was the first Odia to represent India in international cricket. Renowned for his swing bowling, he played in both Tests and ODIs during the late 1990s.
12. Bande Utkala Janani, the state song of Odisha, is composed by:
A) Laxmikanta Mohapatra
B) Madhusudan Rao
C) Mayadhar Mansingh
D) Radhanath Ray
Answer: A) Laxmikanta Mohapatra
Explanation: Laxmikanta Mohapatra composed the patriotic song Bande Utkala Janani, which celebrates Odisha’s cultural pride and identity. It was adopted as the state song in 2020.
13. Who among the following was the first martyr of Odisha who sacrificed his life fighting against the British in 1804?
A) Pabitra Mohan Pradhan
B) Jay Krushna Rajguru
C) Baji Raut
D) Surendra Sai
Answer: B) Jay Krushna Rajguru
Explanation: Jay Krushna Rajguru was the first martyr of Odisha. He led a rebellion against the British in 1804 and sacrificed his life for the freedom of his people, making him a symbol of resistance.
14. Sadhana ra Pathe is an autobiography written by:
A) Fakir Mohan Senapati
B) Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab
C) Kunja Bihari Das
D) Rabi Singh
Answer: B) Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab
Explanation: Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab, known as the “Architect of Modern Odisha,” wrote Sadhana ra Pathe to narrate his life journey and his role in Odisha’s social and political development. The book provides insights into his contributions to India’s freedom movement and Odisha’s transformation.
15. Who was the leader of the popular Khurda rebellion?
A) Buxi Jagabandhu
B) Jayee Rajguru
C) Madho Singh
D) Laxman Nayak
Answer: A) Buxi Jagabandhu
Explanation: Buxi Jagabandhu led the Khurda rebellion of 1817 against British rule. This uprising, also known as the Paika Rebellion, was one of the earliest expressions of resistance to British colonialism in India, making him a symbol of Odia pride and defiance.
16. Which book is still followed for the preparation of Panjika in Odisha?
A) Madala Panji
B) Sidhanta Darpana
C) Gupta Chintamani
D) None of These
Answer: B) Sidhanta Darpana
Explanation: Sidhanta Darpana, written by astronomer Samanta Chandra Sekhar, serves as the basis for preparing the Panjika (astrological almanac) in Odisha. This book explains traditional astronomical calculations, ensuring accuracy in determining auspicious dates.
17. Who is known as Mother Teresa of Odisha?
A) Ramadevi
B) Malati Choudhary
C) Kuntala Kumara Acharya
D) Sarala Devi
Answer: A) Ramadevi
Explanation: Ramadevi Choudhury is called the Mother Teresa of Odisha for her selfless service to society. She dedicated her life to empowering women and the underprivileged and played an active role in India’s freedom movement.
18. Who is popularly known as Utkal Keshari in Odisha?
A) Harekrushna Mahatab
B) Gaurishankar Ray
C) Padma Charana Patnaik
D) Biju Patnaik
Answer: A) Harekrushna Mahatab
Explanation: Harekrushna Mahatab, a prominent leader and freedom fighter, is called Utkal Keshari (Lion of Odisha) for his immense contributions to Odisha’s political, cultural, and social development.
19. Sukinda Valley in Odisha is famous for:
A) Iron
B) Nickel
C) Chromite
D) Copper
Answer: C) Chromite
Explanation: Sukinda Valley in Odisha is known for having 97% of India’s chromite reserves, making it a critical source of this mineral, which is used in the production of stainless steel and other alloys.
20. Who is the writer of Govinda Chandra Tika?
A) Jagannath Das
B) Achyutananda Das
C) Balram Das
D) Yosawanta Das
Answer: D) Yosawanta Das
Explanation: Yosawanta Das, one of the Panchasakha (five great saints of Odisha), wrote Govinda Chandra Tika, a spiritual commentary on Lord Krishna’s teachings and devotional practices.
Odisha GK Questions and Answers
21. The tribal language that has the most significant number of speakers is:
A) Kui
B) Mundari
C) Kondh
D) Santhali
Answer: D) Santhali
Explanation: Santhali, spoken by the Santhal tribe, is the most widely spoken tribal language in Odisha. It is recognized as one of India’s scheduled languages and has a rich tradition of folk tales and songs.
22. Who has written the prayer Ahe Dayama Biswabihari?
A) Abinash Mohapatra
B) Ramakrushna Nanda
C) Ramchandra Mishra
D) Satyajit Barala
Answer: B) Ramakrushna Nanda
Explanation: The prayer Ahe Dayama Biswabihari, written by Ramakrushna Nanda, is a timeless hymn dedicated to Lord Jagannath. It reflects devotion and spiritual surrender.
23. The original name of saint Chaitanya was:
A) Biswarup
B) Gangadhar
C) Bishwambar
D) Rupeswar
Answer: C) Bishwambar
Explanation: Saint Chaitanya, the founder of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism movement, was originally named Bishwambar Mishra. He devoted his life to promoting bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna.
24. What percentage of Odisha state land is covered by forest?
A) 33.3%
B) 27.4%
C) 31.38%
D) 32.4%
Answer: C) 31.38%
Explanation: Odisha has 31.38% of its total geographical area under forest cover. This includes dense forests and protected areas, which play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
25. The Gajapatis were a medieval Hindu dynasty that ruled over Kalinga from:
A) 1334 to 1441
B) 1434 to 1467
C) 1534 to 1541
D) 1434 to 1541
Answer: D) 1434 to 1541
Explanation: The Gajapati dynasty ruled Odisha from 1434 to 1541, marking a golden era in its history. Their reign witnessed great advancements in culture, architecture, and military prowess.
26. The kingdom of Odisha reached the zenith of its glory under which dynasty?
A) Ganga Dynasty
B) Bhoi Dynasty
C) Mukunda Deva
D) Mughal
Answer: A) Ganga Dynasty
Explanation: The Ganga Dynasty, particularly under King Anangabhima Deva III and Narasimhadeva I, brought Odisha to its peak. They built the iconic Sun Temple at Konark and expanded the kingdom’s influence.
27. The great poet Jayadeva flourished during which dynasty in Odisha?
A) Ganga Dynasty
B) Gajapati Dynasty
C) Somavamshi Dynasty
D) Keshari Dynasty
Answer: A) Ganga Dynasty
Explanation: The renowned poet Jayadeva, famous for composing the Gita Govinda, flourished during the Ganga Dynasty. His works are celebrated for their devotion to Lord Krishna and artistic excellence.
28. Which of the following communities of Odisha is famous for making the Lankapuri Hanuman figure?
[A] Bhatua community [B] Bogada community [C] Chero community [D] Rana community
Answer: D [Rana community]
Notes:
Rana community of Sonepur district of Odisha is famous for making the Lankapuri Hanuman figure. This figure plays an important role in the Bhadrap Amavas festival.
29. Animal skin is used to make which of the following instruments of Odisha?
[A] Mahuri [B] Mohana Veena [C] Tamak [D] None of the above
Answer: C [Tamak]
Notes:
Animal skin and a wooden base are needed to make the instrument Tamak. Tamak is mainly played in the marriage ceremony.
30. Anasara period is associated with which of the following festivals of Odisha?
[A] Sitalsasthi [B] Dol Purnima [C] Snana Yatra [D] None of the above
Answer: C [Snana Yatra]
Notes:
Anasara period is referred to as the period when Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra along with Sudarshan and Madan Mohan are kept in the sick room for recovery after performing the Snana Yatra.
Odisha GK Questions in English
31. The Sarala Samman Award was constituted by the Government of Odisha in which year?
[A] 1950 [B] 1962 [C] 1983 [D] 1988
Answer: C [1983]
Notes:
In the year 1983, the government of Odisha constituted the Sarala Samman Award in the memory of the first Odia poet Sarala Das.
32. Sahitya Akademi Award 2018 in Odia Language is won by which of the following personalities?
The highest child population (0-6 years age group) is found in the Ganjam district (As per census 2011).
35. The percentage of the total urban population of Odisha is highest in which of the following districts?
[A] Kalahandi [B] Boudh [C] Khordha [D] Sambalpur
Answer: C [Khordha]
Notes:
Khordha district has the highest percentage of the urban population (48.16%). The lowest urban population is found in Boudh.
36. The recent budget of Odisha (2020-21) planned to provide what amount of money to Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) for agricultural education, infrastructure, research?
Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) is situated in Bhubaneswar. The recent budget of Odisha (2020-21) planned to provide Rs. 150 crores to OUAT for agricultural education, infrastructure, research.
37. Panchayati Raj system was started in Odisha in which year?
[A] 1949 [B] 1951 [C] 1955 [D] 1961
Answer: D [1961]
Notes:
Panchayati Raj institution (PRI) was established in Odisha covering all villages in 1961.
38. Odisha Zila Parishad Act was enacted in which year?
[A] 1945 [B] 1959 [C] 1966 [D] 1987
Answer: B [1959]
Notes:
Zila Parishad is the Top Level of the Panchayati Raj system. It is an elected body. Odisha Zila Parishad Act was enacted in 1959. There are 30 Zila Parishad in Odisha.
39. Which of the following districts of Odisha is the smallest district by population?
Ib valley coalfield is situated in Jharsuguda district. Ib is a tributary of Mahanadi.
47. The oldest sugar industry of Odisha is situated in which place?
[A] Aska [B] Banapur [C] Barkul [D] Nagiri
Answer: A [Aska]
Notes:
The oldest sugar factory of Odisha is situated at Aska (Ganjam district).
48. What is the main objective of the Namak Majdoor Awaas Yojana scheme of Odisha?
[A] Creating salt trading point [B] Providing shelters to bona fide salt workers [C] Creating salt store house [D] Providing medical insurance for salt workers
Answer: B [Providing shelters to bona fide salt workers]
Notes:
The main objective of Namak Majdoor Awaas Yojana- Providing shelters to bonafide salt workers in the state.
49. The East Coast Railway zone has how many divisions?
[A] 2 [B] 3 [C] 5 [D] 8
Answer: B [3]
Notes:
The East Coast Railway Zone has three divisions (Sambalpur, Khurda Road, Rayagada).
50. Who served as a Chief Justice of High Court, Chief Justice of Supreme Court and also the governor of Odisha?
[A] S Bobde [B] Dipak Mishra [C] Ranganath Mishra [D] None of the above
Answer: C [Ranganath Mishra]
Notes:
Ranganath Mishra served these three posts. He served as Chief Justice of Odisha High Court for 3 years, as the 21st Chief Justice of India and the Governor of Odisha.
Odisha GK Questions and Answers
51. The subordinate courts works under which of the following authority?
[A] High Court [B] President [C] Governor [D] Chief Minister
Answer: A [High Court]
Notes:
The subordinate courts work under High Court at the district and lower levels.
52. Which lake of Odisha looks like the shape of Horse-shoe?
[A] Chilika [B] Kolab [C] Ansupa [D] Tampara
Answer: C [Ansupa]
Notes:
Ansupa lake looks like a Horse-shoe shape. This lake is 5 km long and 1.6 km wide.
53. The Odisha Millet Mission was launched in which year?
[A] 2010 [B] 2015 [C] 2017 [D] 2019
Answer: C [2017]
Notes:
Odisha Millet Mission was launched in 2017. Its objective was to ensure food and nutrition security in the tribal districts of Odisha.
54. What is the main objective of the National Mission for Protein Supplementation?
[A] Free nutrition assistance [B] To promote animal-based protein production [C] Eradication of malnutrition [D] None of the above
Answer: B [To promote animal-based protein production]
Notes:
National Mission for Protein Supplementation was launched in 2011-12. The main objective- To promote animal-based protein production by developing livestock.
55. Simlipal national park is situated in which district of Odisha?
Taptapani is famous for its sulfur water. It is situated in the Ganjam district.
60. Alumina refinery of Odisha is situated at which place?
[A] Cuttack [B] Koraput [C] Balasore [D] Boudh
Answer: B [Koraput]
Notes:
Alumina refinery is situated in Damanjodi (Koraput District).
GK Questions About Odisha
61. Bhauma-Kara period witnessed a commercial relationship of Odisha with?
[A] Ceylon [B] China [C] South East Asia [D] All of the above
Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
Bhauma Kara period had a commercial relationship with Ceylon, China, South East Asia. The most important industry was cloth manufacturing.
62. Barabati fort was captured by Maratha in the year?
[A] 1739 [B] 1742 [C] 1748 [D] 1757
Answer: B [1742]
Notes:
On 16th April 1742, Bhaskar Pandit sent by Raghuji Bhosle Captured Barabati fort. Odisha was under control of Alivardi Khan that time. Alivardi Khan Managed to save Murshidabad by paying a huge amount of money to Bhaskar Pandit.
63. Who were the first Europeans to enter in Odhisa?
[A] English [B] Portuguese [C] Danish [D] French
Answer: B [Portuguese]
Notes:
Portuguese were the first to enter into Odisha. They had their first settlement in Pipili, Balasore.
64. Who is known as the Gandhi of Odisha?
[A] Gopabandhu Das [B] Surendra Sai [C] Abdul Gaffar Khan [D] Fajlul Haque
Answer: A [Gopabandhu Das]
Notes:
Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das was known as the Jewel of Odisha (Utkalmani). He founded the Satyabadi school. He led the civil disobedient movement in Odisha. S.C Bose gave him the title “father of National movement of Odisha”.
65. When did the Salt satyagraha under the leadership of Gopabandhu Chaudhury reach Inchudi?
[A] 6th April [B] 8th April [C] 12th April [D] 16th April
Answer: C [12th April]
Notes:
Their journey started on 6th April 1930. They reached on 12th April 1930. There were a number of 21 satyagrahis other than Gopabandhu Chaudhury and Harihar Das.
66. The Prajamandal at Gariamal in 1938 formed under the leadership of?
[A] H K Mahtab [B] Sarangdhar Das [C] Both [D] None of the above
Answer: C [Both]
Notes:
HK Mahtab and Sarangdhar Das were the leaders of the Prajamandal Movement. The major reason for this movement was exploitation by the British by imposing different taxes.
67. Who was the first chief minister of Independent Odisha?
[A] Nabakrushna Choudhury [B] Biju Patnaik [C] Harekrushna Mahatab [D] None of the above
Answer: C [Harekrushna Mahatab]
Notes:
Harekrushna Mahatab was the first CM of Odisha. He started the merger of princely state with India. He was popularly known as Utkal Keshari.
68. Which among the following is the largest geographic region of Odisha?
[A] Odisha coastal plains in the east [B] The middle mountainous and highlands region [C] The western rolling uplands [D] The central plateaus
Answer: B [The middle mountainous and highlands region]
Notes:
The middle mountainous and highlands region is the largest geographic region of Odisha. It covers about 3/4th of the state.
69. Severe cyclone Fani made Landfall in Odisha during which month?
[A] May [B] June [C] July [D] October
Answer: A [May]
Notes:
Fani made Landfall in Odisha on 3rd May 2019. The name “Fani” was given by Bangladesh.
