50 GK Questions on Rabindranath Tagore — Quiz with Answers
Rabindranath Tagore, often referred to as 'Gurudev', stands as one of the most towering and influential figures in Indian literature and world culture. His profound contributions spanned poetry, music, drama, painting, and socio-political thought, leaving an indelible mark that continues to inspire. This comprehensive General Knowledge (GK) quiz, featuring 50 multiple-choice questions, offers an in-depth exploration of his life, works, philosophy, and historical significance. From his Nobel Prize-winning masterpiece, Gitanjali, to his role in the Indian national movement and his founding of Visva-Bharati University, this quiz challenges and enhances your knowledge about the Bengal Poet. Test your expertise on his major works, biographical facts, political stances, and enduring legacy, essential knowledge for students and enthusiasts of Indian Literature MCQs and global history.
Test Your Knowledge: Rabindranath Tagore Quiz (50 Questions)
1. In which year was Rabindranath Tagore awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature?
- A. 1901
- B. 1913
- C. 1921
- D. 1941
2. For which collection of poems did Rabindranath Tagore win the Nobel Prize?
- A. Gitanjali
- B. The Gardener
- C. Stray Birds
- D. Fireflies
3. What was the name of the school he established in Santiniketan, Bengal?
- A. Jorasanko Bidyalaya
- C. Patha Bhavana
- B. Calcutta Bidyalaya
- D. Rabindra Bharati University
4. Tagore renounced his knighthood in protest against which historical event?
- A. Partition of Bengal
- B. Simon Commission
- C. Non-Cooperation Movement
- D. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
5. Which country's national anthem, besides India's, was composed by Rabindranath Tagore?
- A. Bangladesh
- B. Sri Lanka
- C. Nepal
- D. Myanmar
6. What is the name of the university that grew out of the school he founded?
- A. Calcutta University
- B. Visva-Bharati University
- C. Presidency University
- D. Rabindra Bharati Mahavidyalaya
7. Tagore belonged to which Bengali family of Kolkata?
- A. Jorasanko Tagore family
- B. Shobhabazar Raj family
- C. Belgachhia family
- D. Cossimbazar family
8. What was Tagore's pen name?
- A. Bhanusingha Thakur
- B. Dwijendralal Ray
- C. Bankim Chandra
- D. Bhanu Singha Thakur
9. The original Bengali title of 'Gitanjali' is...
- A. Sanchayita
- B. Sonar Tori
- C. Gitanjali (same title)
- D. Punascha
10. What profession, besides writing and composing, did Tagore take up late in life?
- A. Sculpture
- B. Painting
- C. Architecture
- D. Photography
Exploring Tagore's Literary Masterpieces and Nobel Legacy
11. The play 'Raktakarabi' (Red Oleanders) is an allegory about...
- A. Capitalism and oppression
- B. Rural life and love
- C. Historical warfare
- D. The freedom struggle
12. Which famous novel by Tagore deals with the complex theme of patriotism vs. humanitarianism?
- A. Gora
- B. Ghare Baire (The Home and the World)
- C. Sesher Kobita
- D. Jogajog
13. 'Jana Gana Mana', India's national anthem, was first published under the title...
- A. Vande Mataram
- B. Jai He
- C. Bharat Bhagya Vidhata
- D. Adhinayak Jay He
14. Tagore was a close friend and intellectual peer of which famous scientist?
- A. Isaac Newton
- B. Nikola Tesla
- C. Albert Einstein
- D. Max Planck
15. What is the name of the famous poetic drama about a postmaster in a small village?
- A. Dak Ghar (The Post Office)
- B. Chitrangada
- C. Malini
- D. Chandalika
16. Tagore founded the rural reconstruction institute Sriniketan near Santiniketan in which year?
- A. 1905
- B. 1922
- C. 1935
- D. 1947
17. The novel Gora primarily addresses themes of...
- A. Romantic love
- B. Peasant uprising
- C. Modern science
- D. Indian nationalism, caste, and identity
18. Tagore's collection of short stories is considered pioneering in Bengali literature. Which is a famous story?
- A. Kabuliwala
- B. Tithidore
- C. Pather Panchali
- D. Debi
19. Tagore translated some of his own works into English. Who helped popularize his translated works in the West?
- A. George Bernard Shaw
- B. T.S. Eliot
- C. W.B. Yeats
- D. Ezra Pound
20. What is the name of Tagore's collection of philosophical reflections and aphorisms?
- A. Crescent Moon
- B. Stray Birds
- C. Balaka
- D. Sonar Tari
Key Biographical Insights and Historical Context: Tagore GK Questions and Answers
21. Tagore was born in the year...
- A. 1857
- B. 1871
- C. 1861
- D. 1881
22. What was Rabindranath Tagore's father's name?
- A. Debendranath Tagore
- B. Dwarkanath Tagore
- C. Surendranath Tagore
- D. Satyendranath Tagore
23. The phrase 'Where the mind is without fear' is the opening line of a poem from which collection?
- A. The Gardener
- B. Gitimalya
- C. Sonar Tari
- D. Gitanjali
24. In the novel Sesher Kobita, the main character's name is...
- A. Gora
- B. Amit Ray
- C. Nikhil
- D. Sandip
25. Tagore wrote music for over 2,000 songs, collectively known as...
- A. Rabindra Sangeet
- B. Nazrul Geeti
- C. Bhatiali
- D. Shyama Sangeet
26. Which honor was bestowed upon Tagore by the British Crown in 1915, which he later relinquished?
- A. Padma Bhushan
- B. Sir
- C. Knighthood
- D. Order of the Bath
27. Tagore's educational philosophy in Santiniketan emphasized...
- A. Military training
- B. Strict urban curriculum
- C. Technical education only
- D. Learning in harmony with nature
28. The famous drama 'Visarjan' (Sacrifice) is based on the theme of...
- A. Rural poverty
- B. Religious fanaticism
- C. Colonial rule
- D. Industrialization
29. Tagore's first published poetry collection was...
- A. Kabi Kahini
- B. Sandhya Sangeet
- C. Prabhat Sangeet
- D. Manasi
30. What was the original language of 'Amar Shonar Bangla', the national anthem of Bangladesh?
- A. Hindi
- B. Urdu
- C. Bengali
- D. Sanskrit
Rabindranath Tagore: International Reach and Humanitarian Ideals
31. Tagore was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Who was the second?
- A. Yasunari Kawabata (Japan)
- B. Kenzaburō Ōe (Japan)
- C. Naguib Mahfouz (Egypt)
- D. Octavio Paz (Mexico)
32. Tagore played a key role in the cultural exchange between India and which East Asian country?
- A. Korea
- B. Vietnam
- C. Indonesia
- D. Japan and China
33. The concept of 'Visva-Bharati' literally means...
- A. Indian Culture
- B. Universal Knowledge
- C. World Fellowship/University
- D. Bengal's Heritage
34. Which literary form is Tagore credited with popularizing in Bengali literature?
- A. Epic Poetry
- B. Short Story
- C. Detective Fiction
- D. Science Fiction
35. The poem 'The Home and the World' is a critique of which political movement?
- A. Swadeshi Movement
- B. Quit India Movement
- C. Sepoy Mutiny
- D. Permanent Settlement
36. What title was Rabindranath Tagore generally known by, meaning 'Divine Teacher'?
- A. Kavi Guru
- B. Mahakavi
- C. Biswa Kavi
- D. Gurudev
37. Tagore's works were primarily written in which language?
- A. Hindi
- B. Sanskrit
- C. Bengali
- D. English
38. The Nobel Prize controversy regarding Gitanjali stemmed from...
- A. The prize was awarded for his own English translations
- B. Tagore refused to accept the prize initially
- C. He co-shared the prize with another writer
- D. The original Bengali text was lost
39. Which Western poet played a major role in introducing Tagore's work to the English-speaking world?
- A. Robert Frost
- B. W.B. Yeats
- C. Walt Whitman
- D. Ezra Pound
40. The period of the 1890s, when Tagore wrote many of his famous short stories, is known as the...
- A. Santiniketan Period
- B. Calcutta Period
- C. Political Period
- D. Shelaidaha Period (while managing family estates)
Advanced Indian Literature MCQs on Rabindranath Tagore
41. Which of the following is NOT one of Tagore's major novels?
- A. Gora
- B. Chokher Bali
- C. Devi Chaudhurani
- D. Sesher Kobita
42. The term Rabindra Sangeet encompasses which genres of music?
- A. Folk, classical, and Western influences
- B. Only classical ragas
- C. Exclusively devotional songs
- D. Only songs for theatrical performances
43. Tagore passed away in which year?
- A. 1925
- B. 1941
- C. 1951
- D. 1937
44. Who gave Tagore the honorific title 'Gurudev'?
- A. Mahatma Gandhi
- B. Subhash Chandra Bose
- C. Jawaharlal Nehru
- D. Mahatma Gandhi (though often disputed, most accepted)
45. Tagore traveled extensively and visited which country in 1912, leading to the Nobel Prize?
- A. England
- B. USA
- C. Germany
- D. Russia
46. The protagonist of the novel Chokher Bali (A Grain of Sand) is...
- A. Binodini
- B. Mahendra
- C. Binodini, an educated widow
- D. Bihari
47. The Bengali song 'Ekla Chalo Re' (If no one responds to your call, then go your own way alone) is a favorite of which Indian leader?
- A. Sardar Patel
- B. Mahatma Gandhi
- C. Indira Gandhi
- D. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
48. Which Tagore play explores the conflict between nature's rhythm and mechanical routine?
- A. Malini
- B. Chandalika
- C. The Post Office
- D. Muktadhara (The Waterfall)
49. Tagore’s family were early supporters of which socio-religious reform movement?
- A. Brahmo Samaj
- B. Arya Samaj
- C. Ramakrishna Mission
- D. Prarthana Samaj
50. The poem 'Where the Mind is Without Fear' is considered a powerful statement on...
- A. Romantic love
- B. Nature's beauty
- C. Ideal freedom and education
- D. Economic policy
Nobel Prize Winner Quiz: Conclusion and Significance
This extensive Rabindranath Tagore Quiz, featuring 50 challenging questions, serves as a comprehensive assessment and learning tool on the life and monumental impact of Gurudev. From pinpointing the year he became the first non-European Nobel Prize Winner in Literature (1913) for Gitanjali, to identifying his seminal works like Gora and Ghare Baire, and recognizing his role in giving India and Bangladesh their national anthems, the quiz covers the breadth of his influence. His legacy, spanning from the philosophical ideals of Visva-Bharati to his unwavering stance against colonial oppression, makes him a crucial subject for Tagore GK Questions and Answers. Mastering these questions not only tests general knowledge but also deepens appreciation for his revolutionary contributions to Indian Literature MCQs and global humanist thought, reaffirming his status as a true world poet.
Rabindranath Tagore: The Polymath, Poet, and Visionary Educator
Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941), a towering figure in modern Indian history, transcends the simple definition of a writer. He was a polymath—a poet, novelist, playwright, composer, philosopher, social reformer, and painter—whose work reshaped Bengali literature and music, and introduced Indian culture to the West. His winning of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for Gitanjali marked a watershed moment, making him the first non-European and the first lyricist to receive the prestigious award. His artistic output is astonishingly vast, comprising over 2,000 songs (Rabindra Sangeet), numerous novels, short stories, dramas, and thousands of poems.
Tagore’s genius was rooted in his ability to blend traditional Indian spiritual and philosophical concepts with modern, humanist thought. His works often grapple with universal themes: the nature of love, the conflict between tradition and modernity, the search for national and individual identity, and the critique of narrow nationalism versus universal humanitarianism. The enduring appeal of Tagore GK Questions and Answers lies in this universal relevance of his themes, making his life and work mandatory for students preparing for any examination involving Indian Literature MCQs.
The Nobel Prize and the Mysticism of Gitanjali
The collection Gitanjali (Song Offerings) is arguably Tagore’s most famous work globally. Initially written in Bengali, Tagore himself translated a selection of these poems into English prose. This English version, published in 1912 with an enthusiastic introduction by W.B. Yeats, captivated the Western literary world. The poems, characterized by their lyrical mysticism, spiritual devotion, and profound simplicity, resonated deeply with readers searching for a philosophical antidote to industrial-age materialism. The Nobel Prize Winner Quiz section highlighted this pivotal achievement, which catapulted Tagore onto the world stage.
"The one thing that is absolutely essential for a man is to have some kind of work which is in harmony with his nature." This philosophy underpinned his educational vision and his refusal to be confined by one discipline.
Tagore’s Revolutionary Educational Experiment: Santiniketan
In 1901, Tagore established a school in Santiniketan (Abode of Peace) in rural West Bengal, which later evolved into Visva-Bharati University. His educational philosophy was a radical departure from the rote learning imposed by the colonial system. He championed learning in a natural, open-air environment, focusing on holistic development—blending intellectual rigor with artistic and emotional cultivation. Key aspects of his educational model include:
- Harmony with Nature: Classes conducted under trees, emphasizing the connection between the student and the natural world.
- Cultural Synthesis: Encouraging the exchange of ideas between the East and the West, aiming for a truly global education (hence the name Visva-Bharati, or World University).
- Practical and Creative Arts: Integration of music, painting, drama, and craft alongside academics.
- Sriniketan (Rural Reconstruction): A related effort started in 1922 to bring education and cooperative enterprise to the surrounding villages, demonstrating his commitment to social upliftment.
Tagore excelled across all major genres: Poetry (Gitanjali, Sonar Tori), Novels (Gora, Chokher Bali), Short Stories (Kabuliwala), and Drama (Raktakarabi, Dak Ghar).
Founded Patha Bhavana (school) and Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, pioneering an open-air, creative, and intercultural model of education.
Composed over 2,000 songs known as Rabindra Sangeet, a distinct genre blending Indian classical, folk, and Western musical elements.
Tagore on Politics, Nationalism, and the Jallianwala Bagh
Although often seen as primarily a literary and spiritual figure, Tagore was deeply engaged with the political landscape of his time. He was a powerful voice against the rigid nationalism that he felt could lead to xenophobia and conflict. His novel Ghare Baire (The Home and the World) explores this tension, critiquing the extremist tendencies within the Swadeshi movement.
His most profound political act was the renunciation of his British Knighthood in 1919 following the brutal Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. In his letter to the Viceroy, he famously wrote: "The time has come when badges of honor make our shame glaring in the incongruous context of humiliation, and I for my part propose to take all consequences, that may be upon me, of setting them aside." This act solidified his moral authority and his position as a conscience of the nation.
Internationalism and the Concept of the Universal Man
Tagore was perhaps India's first great cultural ambassador. He traveled extensively across five continents, meeting and exchanging ideas with global figures like Albert Einstein, H.G. Wells, and Romain Rolland. His vision was centered on the concept of the 'Universal Man' (Visva Manush), an individual who connects with humanity across all geographical and cultural boundaries. This internationalist ideal is the foundation of Visva-Bharati, intended to be a center where the world meets India.
His influence is truly global, extending even to the national anthems of two countries: 'Jana Gana Mana' for India and 'Amar Shonar Bangla' for Bangladesh. This unique achievement underscores his unparalleled contribution to both political and cultural history, a frequent target for challenging Nobel Prize Winner Quiz questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Rabindranath Tagore
Key Takeaways
- Nobel Laureate: Tagore was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature (1913) for Gitanjali, a core fact for any Nobel Prize Winner Quiz.
- Educational Vision: He founded Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, promoting a holistic, nature-centric, and internationalist model of education.
- Political Morality: He famously renounced his knighthood after the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, demonstrating a powerful moral and humanitarian stance against British rule.
- Two National Anthems: He composed the national anthems for two nations: India ('Jana Gana Mana') and Bangladesh ('Amar Shonar Bangla').
- The Polymath: His work spans poetry, drama, novels (Gora, Ghare Baire), over 2,000 songs (Rabindra Sangeet), and painting, confirming his status as an unparalleled literary figure.
Conclusion
Rabindranath Tagore's legacy is one of expansive humanism and unparalleled artistic creation. His profound philosophical poetry, innovative educational theories, and moral courage in the face of colonial oppression make him a timeless figure. Engaging with his life and works, particularly through exercises like the Rabindranath Tagore Quiz, provides essential insights into Indian history, literature, and the universal pursuit of beauty and truth. His vision of a world free from fear and division continues to resonate, ensuring that 'Gurudev' remains one of the brightest stars in the firmament of world literature.
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