Quiz Answer Key and Fun Facts
1. While Hindu nationalist parties have existed for a long time, they shot into prominence after the BJP, the political wing of RSS, came into power. However their first taste of power lasted only a few days. Their second stint was slightly longer. However during their third stint, they became the first non-Congress government to last the whole term of 5 years. How many days did their first stint last?
2. The Hindu Nationalist movement needed an impetus, a tool by which it could convince the people of the need for its existence. This was provided by a temple (or the lack of it) at a particular place. In 1528, it was alleged that Babur, the first of the Mughal rulers, destroyed a temple (dedicated to Lord Ram) and build a Masjid (Mosque) in its place.
In 1992, Communal clashes erupted throughout the country as thousands of karsevaks (Hindu Nationalist movement followers) broke down the mosque in a blatant display of power. Thousands lost their lives in these clashes. In which town was the disputed mosque located?
3. While the BJP was in power (during the third stint), it generally avoided taking controversial pro-Hindu decisions. This was primarily dictated by coalition partners in the ruling alliance. However, at times, BJP did make subtle moves to glorify Hindu Nationalists. Which Hindu Nationalist and freedom fighter's portrait was unveiled right next to Mahatma Gandhi's portrait in the parliament?
4. While it is generally thought that the Congress(I) Party maintains a 'secular' viewpoint, they also have some nationalists amongst their ranks. To help his cause (amongst the Hindus) and to gain one up over the Hindu parties, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mr. Dijvijay Singh, dropped a bombshell when he asked that the slaughter of a particular animal be banned throughout India and that the Centre should promulgate a law to this regard. Which animal was he talking about?
5. On 26th February, 2002, the incidents at Godhra in Gujarat shocked the whole world! A coach (containing karsevaks) was set on fire, allegedly by Moslem miscreants. This soon triggered the worst communal violence the state of Gujarat had ever seen. In a highly polarised election campaign, the fiery Chief Minister of Gujarat was able to cruise to a resounding victory (in the state elections). His 'Modi'fied version of Hindutva appealed to millions of aggrieved Hindus. What was the name of this Chief Minister?
6. Which of these parties do NOT belong to the Sangh Parivar?
7. Praveen Togadia, the firebrand leader of VHP, was often accused of making communally inflammatory speeches. His remarks often attack the Moslems as well as 'pseudo-secularists' of India. He was once arrested in Rajasthan because he violated a state law which prohibited the distribution of a certain item. Which 'item' was he accused of distributing to karsevaks?
8. Certain parties in the 'Hindu alliance' were known for their extremist viewpoints. Which painter faced the wrath of these parties when he exercised his 'cultural freedom' by painting a Hindu Goddess Saraswati and another hostorical character Draupadi nude?
9. This leader from the state of Maharashtra was well known for his fiery, pro-Hindu speeches - which were, more often than not, inflammatory and bordered on extremism. It was primarily because of such speeches that he lost his right to vote. At times, he could be quite unforgiving on non-Maharastrian Hindus, too. What was his name?
10. Often called the 'culture police', Hindu parties have a narrow view of what they call the 'Westernisation of Indian culture'. This includes, but is not limited to, Valentine's Day, Western dress, nudity on the screen and in print, etc. What is the student wing of the BJP (a prominent member of the culture police) called?
Source: Author
ace_sodium
This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor
bloomsby before going online.
Any errors found in FunTrivia content are routinely corrected through our feedback system.