OUSSSC Odisha Police Constable 2026 gk mocktest: Top 20 Questions for OSSSC PEO, Odisha Police SI & Constable Exams

Q1. Maa Tara Tarini Temple — Odisha GK

Correct Answer: (B) Ganjam

(A) Gajapati District

• Located in southern Odisha.
• Paralakhemundi is the district headquarters.
• Chandragiri is famous for its Tibetan settlement.
• Jirang is known for Padmasambhava Mahavihara, an important Buddhist monastery.
• Exam link: Little Tibet — Chandragiri/Jirang, Gajapati district.

(B) Ganjam District

• Correct answer: Maa Tara Tarini Temple is located in Ganjam district.
• The temple stands on Kumari Hills near the Rushikulya River.
• It is dedicated to the twin goddesses Tara and Tarini.
• Purushottampur is the nearby locality.
• Chaitra Jatra is an important festival associated with the temple.
• Exam link: Tara Tarini Temple — Ganjam; Rushikulya River — nearby river.

(C) Puri District

• Located along the coast of the Bay of Bengal.
• Famous for the Shri Jagannath Temple and the annual Rath Yatra.
• Konark Sun Temple is in neighbouring Puri district and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Puri is an important pilgrimage destination known as Shri Kshetra.
• Exam link: Jagannath Temple — Puri; Sun Temple — Konark; Black Pagoda — Konark Sun Temple.

(D) Koraput District

• Located in southern Odisha and known for its hills, forests and tribal heritage.
• Koraput town is the district headquarters.
• Deomali Peak, Odisha’s highest peak, is located in Koraput district.
• The region is known for coffee cultivation and scenic landscapes.
• Exam link: Deomali — highest peak of Odisha; Koraput — southern Odisha.

Quick Revision Table

• Maa Tara Tarini Temple — Ganjam
• Chandragiri / Jirang — Gajapati
• Jagannath Temple — Puri
• Deomali Peak — Koraput
• Rushikulya River — near Tara Tarini Temple

Q2. Little Tibet of Odisha — Important Facts

Correct Answer: (B) Chandragiri / Jirang

(A) Daringbadi

• Located in Kandhamal district, Odisha.
• Popularly known as the Kashmir of Odisha because of its cool climate and scenic hills.
• Known for pine forests, coffee plantations and natural beauty.
• It is a popular hill destination in Odisha.
• Exam link: Kashmir of Odisha — Daringbadi.

(B) Chandragiri / Jirang

• Correct answer: This region is popularly known as Little Tibet or Mini Tibet of Odisha.
• Located in Gajapati district, southern Odisha.
• Chandragiri is known for its Tibetan settlement and cultural heritage.
• Jirang is famous for Padmasambhava Mahavihara, an important Buddhist monastery inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 2010.
• The Tibetan community calls the settlement Phuntsokling, meaning the land of happiness and plenty.
• Exam link: Little Tibet — Chandragiri/Jirang; District — Gajapati.

(C) Mahendragiri

• Located in Gajapati district in the Eastern Ghats.
• Associated with the epic Mahabharata and traditions connected with Parashurama.
• Known for its mountain scenery, biodiversity and religious significance.
• It is an important natural and cultural landmark of southern Odisha.
• Exam link: Mahendragiri — Eastern Ghats and Gajapati district.

(D) Similipal

• Located in Mayurbhanj district, northern Odisha.
• Famous for Similipal Tiger Reserve and its rich biodiversity.
• Known for forests, waterfalls and wildlife, including tigers and elephants.
• Similipal is also recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Exam link: Similipal — Mayurbhanj; Tiger Reserve and Biosphere Reserve.

Quick Revision

• Little Tibet of Odisha — Chandragiri / Jirang
• District of Chandragiri / Jirang — Gajapati
• Kashmir of Odisha — Daringbadi
• Mahendragiri Hills — Gajapati district
• Similipal Tiger Reserve — Mayurbhanj district
• Padmasambhava Mahavihara — Jirang

Q4. Ekamra Kshetra — Important Facts About All Options

Correct Answer: (C) Bhubaneswar

(A) Puri

• Puri is a coastal city and district in Odisha, situated beside the Bay of Bengal.
• It is famous for the Shri Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu.
• The annual Rath Yatra is one of its most famous religious festivals.
• Puri is traditionally known as Shri Kshetra or Purushottama Kshetra.
• Exam link: Jagannath Temple — Puri; Rath Yatra — Puri; Ekamra Kshetra — Bhubaneswar.

(B) Konark

• Konark is located in Puri district, Odisha.
• It is famous for the 13th-century Sun Temple, built by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
• The temple is designed in the form of a gigantic chariot of the Sun God, Surya.
• Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• European sailors historically called it the Black Pagoda.
• Exam link: Sun Temple — Konark; Black Pagoda — Konark; UNESCO World Heritage Site — Konark Sun Temple.

(C) Bhubaneswar

• Correct answer: Bhubaneswar is popularly known as Ekamra Kshetra, particularly its historic Old Town temple area.
• It is the capital of Odisha and is located in Khordha district.
• The city is widely known as the Temple City of India because of its numerous historic temples.
• The Lingaraj Temple is one of its most important religious and architectural landmarks.
• Other notable temples include Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple and Parasurameswar Temple.
• Bindusagar Lake is an important sacred water body near Lingaraj Temple.
• Ekamra Kshetra is traditionally associated with the sacred landscape of Lord Lingaraj and the city’s ancient temple heritage.
• Exam link: Ekamra Kshetra — Bhubaneswar; Lingaraj Temple — Bhubaneswar; Capital of Odisha — Bhubaneswar.

(D) Jajpur

• Jajpur is a district in Odisha with a rich religious and historical heritage.
• It is popularly known as Biraja Kshetra because of the famous Maa Biraja Temple.
• The temple is dedicated to Goddess Biraja, a form of Goddess Durga.
• Jajpur is an important centre of Shakti worship and pilgrimage.
• Exam link: Biraja Kshetra — Jajpur; Maa Biraja Temple — Jajpur.

Quick Revision

• Ekamra Kshetra — Bhubaneswar
• Shri Kshetra — Puri
• Black Pagoda — Konark Sun Temple
• Biraja Kshetra — Jajpur
• Lingaraj Temple — Bhubaneswar
• Jagannath Temple — Puri
• Sun Temple — Konark
• Maa Biraja Temple — Jajpur

Q5. Biraja Kshetra — Important Facts About All Options

Correct Answer: (B) Jajpur

(A) Cuttack

• Cuttack is a historic city in Odisha and was the former state capital before Bhubaneswar became the capital.
• It is situated near the Mahanadi River and its distributaries.
• The Barabati Fort is an important historical landmark of Cuttack.
• Cuttack is famous for silver filigree work, known as Tarakasi.
• The Bali Jatra festival commemorates Odisha’s maritime trade traditions and is held on the banks of the Mahanadi.
• Exam link: Silver filigree — Cuttack; Barabati Fort — Cuttack.

(B) Jajpur

• Correct answer: Jajpur is popularly known as Biraja Kshetra or Viraja Kshetra.
• It is located in Odisha and is an important centre of religious and historical heritage.
• The famous Maa Biraja Temple is dedicated to Goddess Biraja, a form of Goddess Durga.
• The present temple structure dates to the 13th century.
• The sacred Vaitarani River is associated with the religious traditions of Jajpur.
• Jajpur is also known as Nabhi Gaya, a place associated with ancestral rites.
• Exam link: Biraja Kshetra — Jajpur; Maa Biraja Temple — Jajpur; Nabhi Gaya — Jajpur.

(C) Jagatsinghpur

• Jagatsinghpur is a coastal district of Odisha.
• It is associated with the Mahanadi delta and the state’s coastal geography.
• Paradeep Port, one of India’s major ports, is located in Jagatsinghpur district.
• The district has an important role in Odisha’s maritime trade and industrial activity.
• Exam link: Paradeep Port — Jagatsinghpur district.

(D) Bhadrak

• Bhadrak is a district in eastern Odisha.
• It is known for the Maa Bhadrakali Temple, an important religious site.
• Dhamra Port is located in Bhadrak district on the Odisha coast.
• The district has coastal areas and agricultural regions.
• Exam link: Maa Bhadrakali Temple — Bhadrak; Dhamra Port — Bhadrak district.

Quick Revision

• Biraja Kshetra — Jajpur
• Silver filigree / Tarakasi — Cuttack
• Paradeep Port — Jagatsinghpur district
• Maa Bhadrakali Temple — Bhadrak
• Maa Biraja Temple — Jajpur
• Vaitarani River — associated with Jajpur’s sacred heritage

Q6. White Pagoda — Important Facts About All Options

Correct Answer: (B) White Pagoda

(A) Black Pagoda

• The Black Pagoda refers to the famous Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha.
• The temple was built in the 13th century under King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
• It is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
• The temple was designed as a gigantic chariot with carved stone wheels and horses.
• It was used as a prominent coastal landmark by European sailors navigating the Bay of Bengal.
• The Konark Sun Temple was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1984.
• Exam link: Black Pagoda — Konark Sun Temple; Sun God — Surya.

(B) White Pagoda

• Correct answer: The Jagannath Temple in Puri was historically known as the White Pagoda.
• The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra.
• It is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre in Odisha.
• The annual Rath Yatra is one of its most famous religious festivals.
• European sailors used the temple as a landmark when navigating the Bay of Bengal.
• Puri is traditionally known as Shri Kshetra.
• Exam link: White Pagoda — Jagannath Temple, Puri; Rath Yatra — Puri.

(C) Golden Pagoda

• Golden Pagoda is not the historical nickname used for the Jagannath Temple in Puri in this question.
• The name Golden Pagoda is associated with other Buddhist religious sites, including the Kongmu Kham Golden Pagoda in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh.
• Do not confuse this name with the White Pagoda of Puri or the Black Pagoda of Konark.
• Exam link: White Pagoda — Puri; Black Pagoda — Konark.

(D) Silver Pagoda

• Silver Pagoda is not the historical nickname of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
• In this question, it is a distractor rather than the accepted historical name of a major Odisha temple.
• Remember the established pair of historical nicknames used in Odisha GK questions.
• Exam link: White Pagoda — Jagannath Temple; Black Pagoda — Konark Sun Temple.

Quick Revision

• White Pagoda — Jagannath Temple, Puri
• Black Pagoda — Konark Sun Temple
• Jagannath Temple — Puri
• Konark Sun Temple — dedicated to Surya
• Konark Sun Temple — UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984
• Eastern Ganga ruler associated with Konark — Narasimhadeva I

Q7. Which natural freshwater lake in Odisha is shaped like a horseshoe?

Correct Answer: (B) Ansupa Lake

Option A: Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake is a large brackish-water lagoon located along the coast of Odisha. It is famous for migratory birds, Irrawaddy dolphins and its rich biodiversity. It is not the horseshoe-shaped freshwater lake mentioned in this question.

Exam Point: Chilika Lake — brackish water lagoon; famous for migratory birds and Irrawaddy dolphins.

Option B: Ansupa Lake

Ansupa Lake is a horseshoe-shaped freshwater lake in the Banki area of Cuttack district, Odisha. It lies near the Mahanadi River and is known for its scenic surroundings and migratory birds, especially during winter.

Exam Point: Ansupa Lake — horseshoe-shaped freshwater lake; Cuttack district; associated with the Mahanadi River.

Option C: Tampara Lake

Tampara Lake is a freshwater lake in Ganjam district, near Chhatrapur. It is known for its natural scenery and water-based tourism activities. It is not the lake identified by the horseshoe-shaped description in this question.

Exam Point: Tampara Lake — Ganjam district; freshwater lake and tourist attraction.

Option D: Kanjia Lake

Kanjia Lake is located within the Nandankanan Zoological Park area near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It is a freshwater lake associated with boating and the natural surroundings of Nandankanan.

Exam Point: Kanjia Lake — Nandankanan, near Bhubaneswar.

Quick Revision

• Horseshoe-shaped freshwater lake — Ansupa Lake
• Brackish-water lagoon — Chilika Lake
• Tampara Lake — Ganjam district
• Kanjia Lake — Nandankanan Zoological Park

Q8. The Leaning Temple of Huma is located in which district of Odisha?

Correct Answer: (A) Sambalpur

Option A: Sambalpur

The famous Leaning Temple of Huma is located in Huma village, Sambalpur district, on the left bank of the Mahanadi River. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Bimaleswar. Its unusual tilted structure makes it a distinctive religious and architectural landmark of Odisha.

The temple is also known for the sacred Kudo fish found in the nearby river. Maha Shivaratri is an important festival celebrated here.

Exam Point: Huma Leaning Temple — Sambalpur district; Lord Shiva; Mahanadi River.

Option B: Sundargarh

Sundargarh is a district in north-western Odisha. It is known for its forests, mineral resources and tribal culture. Rourkela, an important industrial city famous for the Rourkela Steel Plant, is located in this district.

Exam Point: Sundargarh — Rourkela; Rourkela Steel Plant.

Option C: Jharsuguda

Jharsuguda is a district in western Odisha and an important industrial and transport centre. It is associated with coal-based industries, power generation and Veer Surendra Sai Airport.

Exam Point: Jharsuguda — industrial centre; Veer Surendra Sai Airport.

Option D: Bargarh

Bargarh is a district in western Odisha, known for agriculture, especially paddy cultivation. It is famous for the Dhanu Yatra festival, a large open-air theatrical celebration based on episodes from the life of Lord Krishna.

Exam Point: Bargarh — Dhanu Yatra; paddy cultivation.

Quick Revision

• Leaning Temple of Huma — Sambalpur
• Rourkela Steel Plant — Sundargarh district
• Veer Surendra Sai Airport — Jharsuguda
• Dhanu Yatra — Bargarh

Q9. Which is the highest peak in Odisha?

Correct Answer: (B) Deomali

Option A: Mahendragiri

Mahendragiri is a prominent mountain in the Eastern Ghats, located in Gajapati district of Odisha. It is associated with Hindu mythology and the Mahendragiri hills are known for ancient temples connected with figures such as the Pandavas and Parashurama.

Exam Point: Mahendragiri — Gajapati district; Eastern Ghats; religious and mythological significance.

Option B: Deomali

Deomali is the highest peak in Odisha, with an elevation of approximately 1,672 metres above sea level. It is located in Koraput district and forms part of the Eastern Ghats. Deomali is known for its green hills, scenic valleys and trekking opportunities.

Exam Point: Deomali — highest peak of Odisha; Koraput district; approximately 1,672 metres.

Option C: Malayagiri

Malayagiri is a mountain in Angul district of Odisha. It is part of the state’s hilly landscape and is associated with the forested uplands of the region. Although it is an important hill, it is not the highest peak in Odisha.

Exam Point: Malayagiri — Angul district.

Option D: Gandhamardan

Gandhamardan Hills are located in western Odisha, mainly associated with the Balangir and Bargarh region. The hills are known for medicinal plants, biodiversity and religious sites, including Nrusinghanath and Harishankar temples on opposite sides of the hill range.

Exam Point: Gandhamardan Hills — western Odisha; medicinal plants; Nrusinghanath and Harishankar temples.

Quick Revision

• Highest peak in Odisha — Deomali
• Deomali’s district — Koraput
• Mahendragiri — Gajapati district
• Malayagiri — Angul district
• Gandhamardan Hills — associated with Nrusinghanath and Harishankar temples

Q10. In which year was Odisha formed as a separate province?

Correct Answer: (B) 1 April 1936

Option A: 15 August 1947

On 15 August 1947, India gained independence from British rule. This date is celebrated every year as India’s Independence Day. Odisha had already become a separate province in 1936, before Indian independence.

Exam Point: 15 August 1947 — India’s Independence Day.

Option B: 1 April 1936

Odisha became a separate province on 1 April 1936 under the Government of India (Constitution of Odisha) Order, 1936. The new province brought together Odia-speaking regions that had previously been administered under different provinces. Cuttack was its capital, and Sir John Austin Hubback became its first Governor.

The date is celebrated as Utkala Dibasa (Odisha Day) every year.

Exam Point: Odisha Province — 1 April 1936; first Governor — Sir John Austin Hubback; capital — Cuttack.

Option C: 26 January 1950

On 26 January 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect and India became a republic. This date is celebrated as Republic Day. It is not the date on which Odisha became a separate province.

Exam Point: 26 January 1950 — India became a republic.

Option D: 1 November 1956

On 1 November 1956, a major reorganisation of Indian states took place under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, largely on linguistic lines. Odisha had already been established as a separate province in 1936.

Exam Point: 1 November 1956 — major reorganisation of Indian states.

Quick Revision

• Odisha became a separate province — 1 April 1936
• Utkala Dibasa — 1 April
• India’s Independence Day — 15 August
• India’s Republic Day — 26 January
• States Reorganisation Act — 1956

Correct Answer: (C) Mahanadi

Option A: Baitarani River

The Baitarani is an important river of Odisha. It originates in the Gonasika hills of Keonjhar district and flows through parts of northern Odisha before reaching the Bay of Bengal through the river-mouth system near Dhamra. Its lower basin is vulnerable to flooding during heavy monsoon rainfall.

Exam Point: Baitarani — originates in Keonjhar district; important river of northern Odisha.

Option B: Brahmani River

The Brahmani is one of the major rivers of Odisha. It is formed by the confluence of the South Koel and Sankh rivers near Rourkela. It flows through Odisha and joins the Baitarani river system before discharging into the Bay of Bengal.

Exam Point: Brahmani — formed by the South Koel and Sankh rivers.

Option C: Mahanadi River

The Mahanadi is a major river of east-central India and one of the most important rivers of Odisha. It flows through Chhattisgarh and Odisha before reaching the Bay of Bengal. Historically, severe floods in the Mahanadi basin caused extensive damage to settlements and farmland in Odisha’s delta region. Because of these destructive floods, it became known as the “Sorrow of Odisha” in traditional GK references.

The Hirakud Dam, built across the Mahanadi near Sambalpur, was developed partly to help control floods, as well as to support irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.

Exam Point: Mahanadi — “Sorrow of Odisha”; Hirakud Dam; major river of Odisha.

Option D: Rushikulya River

The Rushikulya is a river that originates in the Eastern Ghats of Odisha and flows through southern Odisha into the Bay of Bengal. Its estuary and coastal area are famous for the mass nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles, especially around the Ganjam coast.

Exam Point: Rushikulya — southern Odisha; famous for Olive Ridley turtle mass nesting.

Quick Revision

• “Sorrow of Odisha” — Mahanadi River
• Hirakud Dam — built across the Mahanadi River
• Brahmani — formed by the South Koel and Sankh rivers
• Baitarani — originates in Keonjhar district
• Rushikulya — famous for Olive Ridley turtle mass nesting

Correct Answer: (B) Daringbadi

Option A: Koraput

Koraput is a district in southern Odisha known for its scenic hills, forests, tribal communities and coffee cultivation. The district is also home to Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha, and is famous for traditional Koraput coffee.

Exam Point: Koraput — Deomali Peak; tribal culture; coffee cultivation.

Option B: Daringbadi

Daringbadi is a hill station in Kandhamal district, popularly known as the “Kashmir of Odisha.” It is famous for its cool climate, pine forests, coffee gardens, waterfalls and green valleys. Winter temperatures can sometimes approach freezing, making it a distinctive hill destination in Odisha.

Exam Point: Daringbadi — Kashmir of Odisha; Kandhamal district; pine forests and coffee plantations.

Option C: Taptapani

Taptapani is a well-known hot spring destination in Ganjam district, Odisha. The name refers to its hot water spring, and the place attracts visitors interested in natural scenery and the surrounding hills.

Exam Point: Taptapani — natural hot spring; Ganjam district.

Option D: Bangiriposi

Bangiriposi is a town in Mayurbhanj district in northern Odisha. It is known as a gateway for journeys towards the forested and hilly areas around Similipal. The region is associated with the natural landscapes and tribal culture of northern Odisha.

Exam Point: Bangiriposi — Mayurbhanj district; gateway towards Similipal region.

Quick Revision

• Kashmir of Odisha — Daringbadi
• Daringbadi district — Kandhamal
• Highest peak of Odisha — Deomali, in Koraput district
• Hot spring — Taptapani, Ganjam district
• Bangiriposi — Mayurbhanj district

Correct Answer: (A) Hirapur

Option A: Hirapur

Hirapur is a village near Bhubaneswar in Khordha district, Odisha. It is famous for the ancient Chausathi Yogini Temple, a circular, open-to-the-sky shrine associated with Tantric traditions. The temple dates to around the 9th century and is dedicated to the sixty-four Yoginis, female deities associated with Shakti.

The temple is an important example of Odisha’s ancient religious heritage and distinctive temple architecture.

Exam Point: Chausathi Yogini Temple — Hirapur, Khordha district; circular, open-air shrine; approximately 9th century.

Option B: Khandagiri

Khandagiri, near Bhubaneswar, is famous for its ancient rock-cut caves. Together with the nearby Udayagiri caves, it forms an important archaeological site associated with Jain history. The caves include inscriptions and carvings connected with ancient Odisha, including the period of King Kharavela.

Exam Point: Khandagiri and Udayagiri — rock-cut caves; Jain heritage; King Kharavela.

Option C: Dhauli

Dhauli, near Bhubaneswar, is associated with the Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka’s transformation after the war. The site contains Ashokan rock edicts and is famous for the white Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist peace monument.

Exam Point: Dhauli — Kalinga War; Emperor Ashoka; Shanti Stupa.

Option D: Ratnagiri

Ratnagiri in Jajpur district is an important Buddhist archaeological site. It is part of Odisha’s Diamond Triangle of Buddhist heritage, together with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri. Archaeological remains include monasteries, stupas and sculptures associated with Buddhist traditions.

Exam Point: Ratnagiri — Jajpur district; Buddhist heritage; part of the Diamond Triangle.

Quick Revision

• Chausathi Yogini Temple — Hirapur
• Khandagiri — Jain-associated rock-cut caves
• Dhauli — Kalinga War and Ashokan edicts
• Ratnagiri — Buddhist archaeological site in Jajpur district
• Odisha’s Buddhist Diamond Triangle — Ratnagiri, Udayagiri and Lalitgiri

Correct Answer: (B) Jayakrushna Rajguru Mahapatra (Jayee Rajguru)

Option A: Veer Surendra Sai

Veer Surendra Sai was a prominent freedom fighter from Odisha who led a prolonged resistance against British rule in the Sambalpur region. Born on 23 January 1809 in Khinda village, he used guerrilla warfare and worked with local tribal leaders and zamindars. He died in captivity at Asirgarh on 28 February 1884.

Exam Point: Veer Surendra Sai — Sambalpur; resistance against British rule; born in 1809.

Option B: Jayakrushna Rajguru Mahapatra

Jayee Rajguru, whose name was Jayakrushna Mahapatra, was a prominent freedom fighter and royal adviser to the King of Khurda. He played a leading role in the Khurda uprising against British rule in the early 19th century. He was captured and executed in 1806.

He is widely recognized as the first martyr from Odisha in the freedom struggle, a distinction also acknowledged in an address by the Vice President of India in 2017.

Exam Point: Jayee Rajguru — first martyr from Odisha in the freedom struggle; associated with the Khurda uprising.

Option C: Baji Rout

Baji Rout was a young boat boy from Odisha who was killed by British police in 1938 during the Prajamandal movement in Dhenkanal. He refused to help the police cross the Brahmani River. He is remembered as one of the youngest martyrs in India’s freedom movement.

Exam Point: Baji Rout — Dhenkanal; Brahmani River; martyr in 1938.

Option D: Laxman Nayak

Laxman Nayak was a tribal freedom fighter from southern Odisha and an important leader of the Quit India Movement in the Koraput region. He was arrested by the British and executed on 29 March 1943. He is remembered for mobilizing tribal communities against colonial rule.

Exam Point: Laxman Nayak — tribal freedom fighter; Koraput region; Quit India Movement; 1943.

Quick Revision

• First martyr from Odisha in the freedom struggle — Jayee Rajguru
• Resistance in Sambalpur — Veer Surendra Sai
• Young martyr associated with the Brahmani River — Baji Rout
• Tribal freedom fighter associated with the Quit India Movement — Laxman Nayak

Correct Answer: (B) Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary

Option A: Bhitarkanika National Park

Bhitarkanika National Park is located in Kendrapara district, Odisha. It is famous for its mangrove forests, saltwater crocodiles and rich biodiversity. The surrounding Bhitarkanika region also contains important coastal habitats for wildlife.

Exam Point: Bhitarkanika — Kendrapara district; mangrove forests; saltwater crocodiles.

Option B: Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary

Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is located off the coast of Kendrapara district, Odisha. It is internationally renowned as an important nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles, which gather in large numbers for mass nesting, a phenomenon known as Arribada. The sanctuary was declared in 1997 to protect marine wildlife and turtle nesting habitats.

Exam Point: Gahirmatha — Olive Ridley turtles; mass nesting (Arribada); Kendrapara district.

Option C: Satkosia

Satkosia is famous for the Satkosia Gorge on the Mahanadi River. The gorge extends through a scenic forested landscape and supports diverse wildlife. Satkosia Tiger Reserve is an important conservation area in Odisha.

Exam Point: Satkosia — Mahanadi River gorge; Satkosia Tiger Reserve.

Option D: Similipal

Similipal is a major protected forest region in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. It is known for its forests, waterfalls, rich biodiversity and tiger conservation. Similipal is recognised as a biosphere reserve and is one of Odisha’s important wildlife conservation areas.

Exam Point: Similipal — Mayurbhanj district; biosphere reserve; tiger conservation.

Quick Revision

• Olive Ridley mass nesting — Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary
• Mass nesting phenomenon — Arribada
• Mangroves and saltwater crocodiles — Bhitarkanika
• Mahanadi Gorge — Satkosia
• Biosphere reserve — Similipal

Correct Answer: (A) 3

Option A: 3 Revenue Divisions

Odisha has three revenue divisions: Central, Northern and Southern. These divisions help organize the state’s revenue administration. Each division covers ten districts.

• Central Division: Headquarters at Cuttack
• Northern Division: Headquarters at Sambalpur
• Southern Division: Headquarters at Berhampur

Exam Point: Odisha — 3 revenue divisions and 30 districts.

Option B: 5 Revenue Divisions

Five is not the correct number of revenue divisions in Odisha. The state’s official administrative structure lists three revenue divisions. Do not confuse revenue divisions with other geographical or planning regions.

Exam Point: Number of revenue divisions in Odisha is 3, not 5.

Option C: 7 Revenue Divisions

Seven is also incorrect. Odisha’s revenue administration is organized into three divisions, each headed by a Revenue Divisional Commissioner.

Exam Point: Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC) — heads a revenue division.

Option D: 10 Revenue Divisions

Ten is incorrect. Each revenue division covers ten districts, but Odisha has three divisions in total. Therefore, ten refers to the number of districts under each division, not the number of divisions.

Exam Point: 10 districts per revenue division × 3 divisions = 30 districts.

Quick Revision

• Total revenue divisions — 3
• Total districts — 30
• Central Division headquarters — Cuttack
• Northern Division headquarters — Sambalpur
• Southern Division headquarters — Berhampur
• Districts under each division — 10

Correct Answer: (B) Mahanadi

Option A: Brahmani River

The Brahmani is one of the major rivers of Odisha. It is formed by the confluence of the South Koel and Sankh rivers near Rourkela. It flows through Odisha and supports agriculture and other activities before reaching the coastal delta region.

Exam Point: Brahmani — formed by the South Koel and Sankh rivers.

Option B: Mahanadi River

The Mahanadi is one of the most important rivers of Odisha. The Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur, dedicated to Maa Samaleswari, stands on the bank of this river. The Mahanadi is also associated with Hirakud Dam, an important multipurpose project used for flood control, irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.

Exam Point: Samaleswari Temple — bank of the Mahanadi; Hirakud Dam — across the Mahanadi.

Option C: Baitarani River

The Baitarani is an important river of northern Odisha. It originates near Gonasika in Keonjhar district and flows through Odisha before reaching the Bay of Bengal coastal region. Its basin supports agriculture and has experienced monsoon flooding.

Exam Point: Baitarani — originates near Gonasika, Keonjhar district.

Option D: Subarnarekha River

The Subarnarekha River originates near Ranchi in Jharkhand and flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal before reaching the Bay of Bengal. It also flows through a small part of northern Odisha.

Exam Point: Subarnarekha — originates near Ranchi, Jharkhand.

Quick Revision

• Samaleswari Temple — Mahanadi River, Sambalpur
• Hirakud Dam — Mahanadi River
• Brahmani — South Koel and Sankh rivers
• Baitarani — Gonasika, Keonjhar district
• Subarnarekha — originates near Ranchi, Jharkhand

Correct Answer: (B) Bande Utkala Janani

Option A: Vande Mataram

Vande Mataram is India’s national song, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. It appeared in his novel Anandamath. The song played an important role in India’s freedom movement and inspired many people during the struggle against British rule.

Exam Point: Vande Mataram — national song of India; Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

Option B: Bande Utkala Janani

Bande Utkala Janani is the official state anthem of Odisha. It was written by the renowned Odia poet Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra. The song celebrates the glory, beauty, culture and identity of Odisha. The Odisha Cabinet accorded it official state anthem status on 7 June 2020.

Exam Point: Bande Utkala Janani — Odisha’s state anthem; written by Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra.

Option C: Jana Gana Mana

Jana Gana Mana is the national anthem of India. It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore. Its first stanza was adopted as India’s national anthem by the Constituent Assembly on 24 January 1950.

Exam Point: Jana Gana Mana — national anthem of India; Rabindranath Tagore.

Option D: Utkala Janani Garima

This is not the official title of Odisha’s state anthem. The recognized title is Bande Utkala Janani. For competitive exams, remember the exact official name rather than similar-sounding phrases.

Exam Point: Official Odisha state anthem — Bande Utkala Janani.

Quick Revision

• Odisha state anthem — Bande Utkala Janani
• Writer — Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra
• Official state anthem status — 7 June 2020
• India’s national song — Vande Mataram
• India’s national anthem — Jana Gana Mana
• Writer of Jana Gana Mana — Rabindranath Tagore

Correct Answer: (A) Gajapati

Option A: Gajapati

Gajapati is a district in southern Odisha, with Paralakhemundi as its headquarters. It is famous for the Jirang Buddhist Monastery, also known as Padmasambhava Mahavihara. Located near Chandragiri, the monastery is an important centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture and is widely known as the “Little Tibet of Odisha.”

The monastery was inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 2010 and is regarded as the largest Buddhist monastery in eastern India.

Exam Point: Jirang Monastery — Gajapati district; Chandragiri; Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

Option B: Rayagada

Rayagada is a district in southern Odisha, known for its hills, forests and tribal communities. The Dongria Kondh community is particularly associated with the Niyamgiri hills in the Rayagada and Kalahandi region. The district is also known for its natural landscapes and cultural diversity.

Exam Point: Rayagada — Niyamgiri hills region; Dongria Kondh community.

Option C: Kandhamal

Kandhamal is a district in Odisha known for its forested hills, tribal culture and agricultural products. It is home to Daringbadi, the popular hill station known as the “Kashmir of Odisha.” Kandhamal is also famous for its turmeric, commonly marketed as Kandhamal Haladi.

Exam Point: Kandhamal — Daringbadi; Kandhamal Haladi (turmeric).

Option D: Sundargarh

Sundargarh is a district in north-western Odisha. It is known for its mineral resources, forests and industrial development. Rourkela, home to the Rourkela Steel Plant, is an important industrial city in this district.

Exam Point: Sundargarh — Rourkela; Rourkela Steel Plant.

Quick Revision

• Jirang Buddhist Monastery — Gajapati
• Jirang’s other name — Little Tibet of Odisha
• Daringbadi — Kandhamal
• Kandhamal Haladi — turmeric from Kandhamal
• Rourkela Steel Plant — Sundargarh district

Correct Answer: (B) Kalinga

Option A: Dravida Style

Dravida architecture is a traditional South Indian temple style, especially associated with Tamil Nadu. Its characteristic features include pyramid-shaped temple towers above the sanctum, known as Vimanas, and large entrance gateways called Gopurams. Famous examples include the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur and the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.

Exam Point: Dravida style — South India; pyramid-shaped Vimana; prominent Gopurams.

Option B: Kalinga Style

Kalinga architecture is the traditional temple architectural style of Odisha. It developed in the historic Kalinga region and flourished particularly between the 7th and 13th centuries. Its features include curved towers called Rekha Deula, assembly halls called Jagamohana, intricate stone carvings and carefully planned temple structures.

Famous examples include the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Sun Temple at Konark.

Exam Point: Kalinga style — Odisha; Lingaraj Temple, Jagannath Temple and Konark Sun Temple.

Option C: Vesara Style

Vesara is an architectural style commonly associated with parts of the Deccan region of India. It is often described in textbooks as combining features associated with northern Nagara and southern Dravida temple architecture. Important examples of Deccan temple architecture include the temples at Pattadakal in Karnataka.

Exam Point: Vesara style — Deccan region; often described as a blend of Nagara and Dravida features.

Option D: Gothic Style

Gothic architecture originated in medieval Europe. It is known for pointed arches, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses and tall stained-glass windows. Famous examples include Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and Chartres Cathedral in France. It is not the traditional architectural style of ancient Odisha’s temples.

Exam Point: Gothic style — medieval Europe; pointed arches and stained-glass windows.

Quick Revision

• Traditional temple architecture of Odisha — Kalinga
• South Indian temple architecture — Dravida
• Deccan temple architecture — Vesara
• Medieval European architecture — Gothic
• Lingaraj Temple — Bhubaneswar; Kalinga style
• Sun Temple — Konark; Kalinga style