Question 1

Which of the following films was directed by the Indian filmmaker Buddhadeb Dasgupta?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your knowledge of Indian cinema and, more specifically, your ability to link important films with their directors. Buddhadeb Dasgupta was a highly respected Indian filmmaker known mainly for his art and parallel cinema. Identifying which film belongs to his filmography is a common type of general knowledge test in examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: • The question asks for a film directed by Buddhadeb Dasgupta. • The options list four popular film titles from different genres and directors. • Only one option correctly matches his filmography. • We assume the films are well known enough that their directors can be matched with basic film knowledge or revision. Concept / Approach: The core approach is to recall or quickly identify which films belong to mainstream commercial cinema and which to parallel or art cinema associated with Buddhadeb Dasgupta. "Krantiveer", "Mohra", and "1942 - A Love Story" are famous commercial Hindi films with different directors. "Character" corresponds to his style and body of work. Using elimination along with a basic memory of Bengali and Hindi art films helps to reach the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that Buddhadeb Dasgupta is primarily associated with serious, art house cinema. Step 2: Recall that "Krantiveer" is a mainstream Hindi film directed by Mehul Kumar. Step 3: Recall that "Mohra" is an action film directed by Rajiv Rai. Step 4: Recall that "1942 - A Love Story" is a romantic film directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. Step 5: By elimination, identify "Character" as the film related to Buddhadeb Dasgupta's filmography and select it as the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can look up the list of films directed by Buddhadeb Dasgupta in standard film encyclopedias or credible online databases. These lists include films such as "Charachar" (often anglicised as "Character") and other acclaimed works. None of the other option titles appear under his name. Cross checking director names for the other three films further confirms that only "Character" fits the requirement of the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Krantiveer" is a social action drama directed by Mehul Kumar, not by Buddhadeb Dasgupta. "Mohra" is a popular 1990s action thriller directed by Rajiv Rai and is part of commercial Bollywood cinema. "1942 - A Love Story" is a period romance film directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and does not belong to Buddhadeb Dasgupta's body of work. Common Pitfalls: One common mistake is to guess based only on the seriousness of the title. Students may also confuse "Character" with similarly named films or assume that more famous commercial titles must have been directed by a well known art filmmaker. Careful association of directors with their typical genres helps avoid this confusion. Final Answer: The film directed by Buddhadeb Dasgupta among the options given is "Character".

Question 2

Which of the following books is most closely associated with Gandhian thought and philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on Gandhian thought and the key texts that express Mahatma Gandhi's ideas. General knowledge exams often ask which book best reflects Gandhi's political and social philosophy. Recognising the correct work helps you connect freedom struggle history with the core ideas of non violence, self rule, and moral politics. Given Data / Assumptions: • Four important books on modern Indian history and politics are listed. • Only one is primarily written by Mahatma Gandhi and directly sets out his philosophy. • "India Wins Freedom" is connected with Abul Kalam Azad. • "India Divided" relates to Rajendra Prasad and "The Discovery of India" relates to Jawaharlal Nehru. Concept / Approach: The key concept is to link each title with its correct author and underlying theme. "Hind Swaraj", written by Gandhi in the early twentieth century, is the most direct expression of his political philosophy. By mapping each book to its known author, we can identify which work conveys Gandhian thought and avoid confusing it with other freedom movement writings. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Associate "India Wins Freedom" with Abul Kalam Azad and not with Gandhi. Step 2: Associate "India Divided" with Dr Rajendra Prasad, who analysed the partition question. Step 3: Associate "The Discovery of India" with Jawaharlal Nehru and his reflections on Indian civilisation. Step 4: Recognise that "Hind Swaraj" is the famous work in which Gandhi discusses self rule, civilisation, and non violence. Step 5: Conclude that "Hind Swaraj" is the book you would consult to understand Gandhian thought. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify by checking reliable references on Gandhi's writings. "Hind Swaraj" is consistently described as his key political text in which he criticises modern industrial civilisation and argues for moral self rule. Lists of autobiographies and memoirs of other leaders clearly show that the remaining titles belong to authors other than Gandhi. This cross mapping of titles and authors confirms that only "Hind Swaraj" fits the description in the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "India Wins Freedom" is the autobiography of Abul Kalam Azad and, while it covers the freedom struggle, it is not the primary source of Gandhian philosophy. "India Divided" is a work by Rajendra Prasad discussing partition and constitutional issues, not a core expression of Gandhi's ideas. "The Discovery of India" is Nehru's reflective work on Indian civilisation and history, not specifically a text of Gandhian philosophy. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to pick any book with the word "India" in the title, assuming it must reflect Gandhian thought. Another pitfall is confusion between leaders and their writings, especially when many freedom fighters wrote important books. Careful revision of authorship and themes prevents these errors. Final Answer: The book most closely associated with Gandhian thought and philosophy is "Hind Swaraj".

Question 3

Who has written the Booker Prize winning Nigerian novel "The Famished Road"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines your knowledge of world literature, particularly major prize winning novels. "The Famished Road" is a well known magical realist novel set in Nigeria and is closely associated with the Booker Prize. Being able to link such novels with their authors is a standard requirement in competitive exams and general knowledge tests. Given Data / Assumptions: • The novel in question is "The Famished Road". • It is described as a Booker Prize winning work set in Nigeria. • The options include four writers: Emile Zola, V. S. Naipaul, Ben Okri, and Dinmani. • We assume the question refers to the famous Booker Prize winning novel published in the early nineteen nineties. Concept / Approach: The strategy is to connect the novel's style and context with the correct author. "The Famished Road" belongs to the tradition of African literary fiction and magical realism. Ben Okri, a Nigerian writer, is best known for this book. The other authors, although prominent, are linked to different national and thematic contexts. This is a classic matching exercise of authors and their celebrated works. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that "The Famished Road" is set in Nigeria and follows a spirit child named Azaro. Step 2: Identify Ben Okri as a Nigerian author who gained international fame through this novel. Step 3: Note that Emile Zola was a French novelist associated with naturalism, not modern Nigerian magical realism. Step 4: Recall that V. S. Naipaul wrote about the Caribbean, India, and other regions, but not this specific book. Step 5: Conclude that Ben Okri is the only option that correctly matches "The Famished Road". Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification can be done by consulting lists of Booker Prize winners, which clearly show Ben Okri as the author of "The Famished Road". Literary guides to African fiction also consistently associate this title with him. None of the other options are ever cited as authors of this novel, confirming that your identification is accurate. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Emile Zola was a nineteenth century French writer whose notable works include "Germinal" and "Nana"; he did not write "The Famished Road". V. S. Naipaul was a Trinidadian born British writer known for works like "A House for Mr Biswas" and "In a Free State", not this Nigerian magical realist novel. Dinmani is not associated in standard literary references as the author of "The Famished Road" and is likely included as a distractor. Common Pitfalls: Students may be tempted to choose V. S. Naipaul simply because he is a Nobel laureate and very famous. Another common error is to ignore the geographical clue about Nigeria and pick a European author by guesswork. Always pay attention to contextual hints such as country, style, and prize when matching novels to authors. Final Answer: The novel "The Famished Road" was written by Ben Okri.

Question 4

Who is the author of the classic Russian novel "Crime and Punishment"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests familiarity with classic world literature and specifically with major Russian novels. "Crime and Punishment" is one of the most studied psychological novels in the world and regularly appears in reading lists and examination syllabi. Knowing its author helps build a mental map of important literary works and their creators. Given Data / Assumptions: • The novel under discussion is "Crime and Punishment". • It is recognised as a classic of Russian literature. • The options list four well known authors from different times and regions. • We assume standard attributions of major novels as found in literature textbooks and exam guides. Concept / Approach: The core concept is to connect each author with the correct style and famous works. Fyodor Dostoevsky is synonymous with deep psychological novels exploring guilt, morality, and faith, and "Crime and Punishment" is one of his most celebrated works. The other authors, while famous, wrote different kinds of literature and are associated with other major titles. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that "Crime and Punishment" follows the character Raskolnikov and his inner turmoil after committing a crime. Step 2: Identify this as the hallmark style of Fyodor Dostoevsky, who wrote several novels about moral and existential struggle. Step 3: Note that Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is known for works on Soviet labour camps, such as "One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich". Step 4: Recognise Lewis Carroll as the author of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland", not of Russian psychological novels. Step 5: Understand that Vladimir Nabokov wrote novels such as "Lolita" and is not the author of "Crime and Punishment". Verification / Alternative check: Verification is straightforward: any reliable literature reference, including encyclopedias and reading lists, attributes "Crime and Punishment" to Fyodor Dostoevsky. The work appears alongside his other novels like "The Brothers Karamazov" and "The Idiot". None of the other options are ever named as the author of this specific novel, which confirms your answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn wrote about the Soviet era and repression, but his major works were published in the twentieth century and are distinct from Dostoevsky's nineteenth century novels. Lewis Carroll primarily wrote fantasy and children's literature in English, so he has no connection with "Crime and Punishment". Vladimir Nabokov, though Russian born and a celebrated novelist, is famous for modernist works like "Lolita" and not for this nineteenth century psychological classic. Common Pitfalls: One common error is confusion between different Russian authors, especially Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, and Solzhenitsyn. Another mistake is to answer quickly on the basis of partial memory of names without properly connecting them to the correct titles. Regular revision of author book pairs helps avoid these slips. Final Answer: The classic novel "Crime and Punishment" was written by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Question 5

The film "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" won the Academy Award (Oscar) in how many categories?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your awareness of major film awards, specifically the Academy Awards, and record setting achievements. "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" is well known for sweeping the Oscars in the year of its nomination. Remembering the exact number of categories it won in is a popular trivia and competitive exam question. Given Data / Assumptions: • The film is "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King". • The question asks for the number of Oscar categories it won. • Options include four possible numbers: 10, 9, 11, and 12. • We assume the recognition refers to the official count announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Concept / Approach: The main idea is factual recall, but a bit of reasoning about records can also help. "The Return of the King" is often cited for winning every category for which it was nominated and tying the record for most Oscars won by a single film. That record number is 11, shared with a few other films. Recognising this association gives you the correct value without rote memorisation alone. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that there is a well known record for films that won 11 Oscars. Step 2: Remember that "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" is one of the films that hold this record. Step 3: Check the options and note that 11 appears as one of the choices. Step 4: Compare with other known record holders like "Ben-Hur" and "Titanic", which are also cited as 11 award winners. Step 5: Conclude that the film in question also won 11 Oscars and select 11 as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Verification can be performed by consulting official Oscar records, which clearly list "The Return of the King" as winning 11 awards and sweeping all its nominations. Film history books and credible online databases repeat this number consistently. Since none of the other options represent the established record figure for this film, your selection of 11 is confirmed. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The number 10 is close to the record but does not match the officially recorded total for this film. The number 9 is below the widely publicised figure and does not reflect the sweep that "The Return of the King" achieved. The number 12 exceeds the known record of 11 Oscars for a single film and therefore cannot be correct for this movie. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse the exact number because 10 and 11 are both high and appear similar in memory. Another pitfall is mixing up the achievements of different record holding films. A practical strategy is to remember that the historic record is specifically 11 Oscars, shared by a small group of films, including this one. Final Answer: "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" won 11 Oscars.

Question 6

Rabindranath Tagore received the Nobel Prize in Literature for which of the following works?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question assesses your knowledge of Indian literature and major international awards. Rabindranath Tagore was the first non European Nobel laureate in Literature. Identifying the specific work that brought him this honour is a frequent question in exams related to literature, history, and general awareness. Given Data / Assumptions: • The question focuses on Rabindranath Tagore's Nobel Prize in Literature. • Four options are provided: "Gitanjali", "Rajatarangini", "Chokher Bali", and "None of these". • We assume standard Nobel Prize records as maintained by the Nobel Foundation and literary histories. • Only one option correctly identifies the work associated with the award. Concept / Approach: The main idea is factual recall but also understanding the relative importance of Tagore's works. "Gitanjali", often translated as "Song Offerings", is a collection of poems that gained him world wide recognition. "Chokher Bali" is an important novel, and "Rajatarangini" is a historical chronicle written by Kalhana, not Tagore. By mapping each title to its author and importance, you can identify the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Rabindranath Tagore's Nobel Prize came in 1913. Step 2: Remember that the prize citation mentioned his deeply sensitive, fresh, and beautiful verse in "Gitanjali". Step 3: Recognise that "Chokher Bali" is a well known Bengali novel by Tagore but is not the work linked to the Nobel citation. Step 4: Know that "Rajatarangini" is a historical work about Kashmir written by Kalhana, not by Tagore. Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options and select "Gitanjali" as the work for which Tagore was awarded the Nobel Prize. Verification / Alternative check: Official Nobel Prize documentation and literary histories clearly state that Tagore was honoured for "Gitanjali" and its English translation. The Nobel website describes this work as central to the award. Cross checking authorship of "Rajatarangini" confirms it belongs to Kalhana, and "Chokher Bali" is not cited in the prize justification. This confirms "Gitanjali" as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Rajatarangini" is not a work by Tagore at all; it is an ancient chronicle of the kings of Kashmir written by Kalhana. "Chokher Bali" is a Tagore novel, but the Nobel Prize in Literature was not specifically awarded for this work. "None of these" is incorrect because "Gitanjali" is present among the options and is the correct, historically attested answer. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse Tagore's various works and may feel that any famous title could be linked to the Nobel Prize. Another pitfall is not recognising that some options, such as "Rajatarangini", do not belong to Tagore at all. A solid strategy is to memorise the key works responsible for major awards for each author. Final Answer: Rabindranath Tagore received the Nobel Prize in Literature for his work "Gitanjali".

Question 7

The English novel "In Custody" is written by which of the following authors?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question assesses your familiarity with Indian English literature. "In Custody" is an important novel that explores themes of language, culture, and personal failure. Linking it to its author is a standard general knowledge task, especially in exams that emphasise Indian authors writing in English. Given Data / Assumptions: • The novel title is "In Custody". • Four author options are provided: Vikram Seth, Shobhaa De, Anita Desai, and V. S. Naipaul. • Only one of these writers actually wrote "In Custody". • The question assumes awareness of major works of Indian English fiction. Concept / Approach: The main approach is matching known novels to their authors. Anita Desai is well known for introspective, character driven novels, and "In Custody" is one of her significant works, later adapted for film. The other listed authors are famous but are associated with different titles. Using elimination and basic literary knowledge leads to the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that "In Custody" tells the story of a lecturer and an old Urdu poet, dealing with decline and cultural loss. Step 2: Associate that style and subject matter with Anita Desai, known for psychological and social themes. Step 3: Recognise that Vikram Seth is known for novels such as "A Suitable Boy" and "An Equal Music". Step 4: Shobhaa De mainly writes popular fiction and columns focusing on social and urban themes, not this particular novel. Step 5: V. S. Naipaul, though a major writer, did not write "In Custody", which confirms Anita Desai as the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify the authorship by checking any standard literature guide or the credits of the film adaptation of "In Custody". These references consistently attribute the novel to Anita Desai. Bibliographies of the other authors do not list this title among their works, strengthening the identification. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Vikram Seth is associated with novels such as "A Suitable Boy" and poetry collections, not "In Custody". Shobhaa De writes contemporary Indian fiction and non fiction centred on urban life and glamour, but not this literary novel. V. S. Naipaul's work focuses on post colonial themes and global issues; "In Custody" is not part of his bibliography. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes select the most famous name, such as V. S. Naipaul, without carefully linking titles to authors. Another mistake is confusing "In Custody" with other well known Indian English novels like "A Suitable Boy". The best way to avoid this is to memorise a small table of major authors and their key works. Final Answer: The novel "In Custody" was written by Anita Desai.

Question 8

Panchatantra, the famous collection of animal fables, was composed by which ancient Indian scholar?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your awareness of classical Indian literature. Panchatantra is a collection of moral stories and animal fables that has influenced children's literature, folklore, and moral education across many cultures. Knowing who is traditionally credited with composing these stories is a common requirement in exams on general knowledge and culture. Given Data / Assumptions: • The work in question is Panchatantra, a collection of animal fables. • Four ancient writers are offered as options. • Only one of them is broadly accepted in tradition as the composer of Panchatantra. • We assume the conventional attribution used in textbooks and cultural histories. Concept / Approach: The method here involves matching famous works with their traditional authors. Panchatantra is associated with Vishnu Sharma, who is said to have composed these stories to instruct princes through fables. Kalidasa is linked with classical Sanskrit drama and poetry, Surdas with devotional poetry, and Vishakhadatta with historical plays. Recognising these associations allows you to eliminate the incorrect options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify Panchatantra as a didactic collection of interconnected animal fables used to teach statecraft and ethics. Step 2: Recall that tradition attributes Panchatantra to Vishnu Sharma, who was said to be a wise teacher of princes. Step 3: Note that Kalidasa is famous for works like "Abhijnanasakuntalam" and "Meghaduta", not Panchatantra. Step 4: Recognise that Surdas is a Bhakti poet known for devotional songs in praise of Krishna. Step 5: Remember that Vishakhadatta wrote plays such as "Mudrarakshasa" and is not associated with Panchatantra, confirming Vishnu Sharma as correct. Verification / Alternative check: Standard literature texts on Sanskrit and Indian storytelling consistently note Vishnu Sharma as the composer or compiler of Panchatantra. The introductory sections of many Panchatantra translations mention his name and provide the traditional story of a king handing over his sons to Vishnu Sharma for instruction. Since the other authors are firmly linked to other genres, this strongly verifies the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Kalidasa is famed as a classical poet and dramatist, not a compiler of animal fables. Surdas belongs to the Bhakti movement and is known for devotional songs rather than instructive animal stories. Vishakhadatta is recognised for political and historical drama, not for Panchatantra. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse different ancient authors because all the names sound similar and are linked to Sanskrit literature. Another pitfall is to pick Kalidasa simply due to his fame. A reliable preparation strategy is to maintain a clear mental list of major Indian works and their primary authors or compilers. Final Answer: Panchatantra is traditionally attributed to Vishnu Sharma.

Question 9

Which of the following books was written by Mahatma Gandhi as his autobiography?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests knowledge of autobiographical writings by major Indian leaders. Mahatma Gandhi wrote a famous autobiography that describes his life, experiments with truth, and the development of his philosophy of non violence. Identifying this book correctly is essential in history and general awareness sections of competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: • Four books are provided, each linked to important figures or events. • Only one of them is Gandhi's autobiography. • The question expects you to distinguish between autobiographies, biographies, and historical narratives. • We assume standard attributions used in school and college level history texts. Concept / Approach: The core method is to map each title to its correct author and genre. Gandhi's autobiography is widely known under the title "An Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth", often shortened to "My Experiments with Truth". The other books listed are associated with different leaders or are written by other authors about the freedom movement. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gandhi wrote an autobiography focusing on his moral and spiritual experiments. Step 2: Remember the title phrase "My Experiments with Truth", which is directly associated with Gandhi. Step 3: Note that "The Discovery of India" is an extensive historical and cultural work by Jawaharlal Nehru. Step 4: Recognise that "India Wins Freedom" is the autobiography of Abul Kalam Azad. Step 5: Understand that "Freedom at Midnight" is a historical narrative by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins, not Gandhi's own writing, confirming "My Experiments with Truth" as correct. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can refer to standard history and political science textbooks, which clearly list "My Experiments with Truth" as Mahatma Gandhi's autobiography. Bibliographies of Nehru and Azad show their respective works, while "Freedom at Midnight" appears under the names of foreign authors. This cross checking confirms that only one option correctly matches Gandhi's autobiography. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "The Discovery of India" is authored by Jawaharlal Nehru and focuses on the history and culture of India. "India Wins Freedom" covers the life and reflections of Abul Kalam Azad, not Gandhi. "Freedom at Midnight" is a narrative about the final year of British rule in India, written by foreign journalists, not an autobiography by Gandhi. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse titles because all these works relate to the freedom movement. Another pitfall is to think that any book about India's independence might be Gandhi's autobiography. Careful association of each book with its correct author and genre is the best way to avoid such mistakes. Final Answer: Mahatma Gandhi's autobiography is "My Experiments with Truth".

Question 10

What was the original birth name of the Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your knowledge of popular culture and the real names behind famous stage names. Marilyn Monroe is one of the most iconic Hollywood actresses of the twentieth century. Many celebrities adopt professional names that differ from their birth names, and this is a popular topic in quiz and general knowledge contexts. Given Data / Assumptions: • The celebrity in question is Marilyn Monroe. • The options list four possible names, including her stage name and three alternatives. • Only one option corresponds to the widely known original name used in general knowledge sources. • We assume the question follows the convention that she was originally known as Norma Jean or Norma Jeane Baker before adopting her screen name. Concept / Approach: The main idea is factual recall about a specific detail of a famous personality's life. Marilyn Monroe became world famous under that name, but her birth and early life records refer to her as Norma Jean or Norma Jeane Baker. By associating this earlier name with the screen legend, you can choose the correct option and reject distractors that simply play with similar sounding combinations. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Marilyn Monroe was not born with the name 'Marilyn Monroe'. Step 2: Remember that general knowledge references frequently state her original name as Norma Jean or Norma Jeane Baker. Step 3: Review the options and identify "Norma Jean Baker" as the closest match to that historically recognised birth name. Step 4: Recognise that the option "Marilyn Monroe" itself is her adopted stage name, not her birth name. Step 5: Eliminate the remaining two options as they do not figure in standard biographical accounts, and select "Norma Jean Baker" as correct. Verification / Alternative check: Biographical sources on Hollywood history consistently report that Marilyn Monroe was born as Norma Jeane and, in many quiz style references, this is given as Norma Jean Baker. Although detailed records mention surname variations, general knowledge books converge on Norma Jean Baker as the recognised earlier name. The other alternatives do not match these sources, confirming the correct option for exam purposes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Marilyn Monroe" is the stage name she adopted in her film career, not her original birth name. "Dorothy Monroe" is not a name associated with Marilyn Monroe in standard biographies. "Katherine Baker" is also not part of documented accounts of her life and appears as a constructed distractor. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to overlook the phrase "original birth name" and simply pick "Marilyn Monroe". Another pitfall is to be confused by small spelling differences in first names and to overthink minor variations. The safest approach is to remember the familiar quiz pairing: Marilyn Monroe and Norma Jean Baker. Final Answer: The original birth name widely associated with Marilyn Monroe in general knowledge references is Norma Jean Baker.

Question 11

Who is the author of the novel "Arctic Summer"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests awareness of early twentieth century English literature. "Arctic Summer" is an unfinished novel by E. M. Forster, an important writer known for works set in British and colonial society. Knowing which author is associated with this title helps distinguish among several major modernist writers listed in the options. Given Data / Assumptions: • The title given is "Arctic Summer". • Four authors are provided: E. M. Forster, D. H. Lawrence, James Joyce, and Joseph Conrad. • The question assumes familiarity with modernist era English authors. • Only one of the writers listed is traditionally linked with this particular novel. Concept / Approach: The approach is to associate each author with their major works and thematic concerns. E. M. Forster is best known for novels like "A Passage to India" and for his incisive social commentary. "Arctic Summer" appears among his lesser known works. The other authors wrote important novels but are closely tied to different titles and styles, making them distractors rather than correct answers. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that E. M. Forster wrote both well known and lesser known novels in the early twentieth century. Step 2: Remember that "Arctic Summer" is identified in literary histories as one of his unfinished works. Step 3: Consider D. H. Lawrence, who wrote novels like "Sons and Lovers" and "Lady Chatterley's Lover", not "Arctic Summer". Step 4: Consider James Joyce, associated with "Ulysses" and "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man". Step 5: Consider Joseph Conrad, known for "Heart of Darkness" and nautical tales, not this novel, and then select E. M. Forster as the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: Literature companions and critical studies of E. M. Forster list "Arctic Summer" among his works, often noting its unfinished status. Bibliographies of Lawrence, Joyce, and Conrad do not show this title. Therefore, cross checking with any reliable author bibliographies will confirm that "Arctic Summer" is associated specifically with E. M. Forster. Why Other Options Are Wrong: D. H. Lawrence did not write a novel by this title; his prose is focused on family and social relationships in different settings. James Joyce concentrated on experimental, stream of consciousness narratives and did not produce a work called "Arctic Summer". Joseph Conrad's novels often centre on seafaring and colonial themes, but this title is not part of his acknowledged bibliography. Common Pitfalls: Because all four options are important modernist writers, students may confuse their works or guess randomly. Another pitfall is to associate the word "Arctic" with Conrad's sea stories, even though this particular title is not his. Careful review of author book lists helps avoid such confusion. Final Answer: The novel "Arctic Summer" is associated with E. M. Forster.

Question 12

Who is the author of the Kannada novel "Aavarana: The Veil"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines your knowledge of modern Indian regional literature, specifically Kannada novels. "Aavarana: The Veil" is a controversial and widely discussed work that deals with history, religion, and identity. Knowing the author is important for students of Indian literature and for general knowledge examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: • The novel is titled "Aavarana: The Veil". • Four Indian writers are listed as options. • Only one of them is a Kannada novelist known for this work. • We assume the question refers to the original Kannada author, not later translators. Concept / Approach: The main approach is to match each author with their language and major works. S. L. Bhyrappa is a renowned Kannada novelist whose works engage with philosophy, history, and society. "Aavarana" is one of his notable novels. U. R. Ananthamurthy and Girish Karnad are also famous Kannada writers but linked to different works, while Kiran Nagarkar writes primarily in English and Marathi. Recognising these associations allows you to identify the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify "Aavarana: The Veil" as a Kannada novel dealing with historical and cultural themes. Step 2: Recall that S. L. Bhyrappa has written many controversial and philosophical novels, including "Aavarana". Step 3: Note that U. R. Ananthamurthy is known for works like "Samskara", not "Aavarana". Step 4: Recognise that Girish Karnad is best known as a playwright and author of plays such as "Tughlaq" and "Hayavadana". Step 5: Realise that Kiran Nagarkar wrote novels such as "Cuckold", not this Kannada work, and therefore select S. L. Bhyrappa. Verification / Alternative check: Research into contemporary Kannada literature consistently lists "Aavarana" as a novel by S. L. Bhyrappa. Discussions about the novel's themes and controversies in literary criticism and media also clearly name him as the author. Bibliographies of the other writers do not include this title, which supports your answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: U. R. Ananthamurthy did not write "Aavarana"; his major prose works are different. Girish Karnad is primarily a playwright whose key contributions lie in theatre, not the authorship of this novel. Kiran Nagarkar writes in other languages and his known novels do not include "Aavarana: The Veil". Common Pitfalls: Candidates may guess based solely on recognition of names, especially when all listed writers are prominent. Another pitfall is to confuse one Kannada author's work with another due to language commonality. An effective strategy is to memorise at least one landmark work for each major regional writer. Final Answer: The Kannada novel "Aavarana: The Veil" was written by S. L. Bhyrappa.

Question 13

Who is the author of the book "Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your awareness of contemporary political writing in India. The book "Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance" offers an analysis of Narendra Modi's style and approach to administration. Knowing its author is useful for exams that include current affairs, politics, and related literature. Given Data / Assumptions: • The title given is "Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance". • Four options list prominent journalists and a politician. • One of them is the actual author of the book. • We assume the book is in the context of Indian political analysis rather than a formal government document. Concept / Approach: The strategy is to associate recent political books with their authors, many of whom are senior journalists or commentators. Uday Mahurkar is known for his work as a journalist and for studying Narendra Modi's governance model. The other options are also public figures but have authored different books or are primarily known for other roles. Matching the title to Uday Mahurkar gives the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the book is a political commentary on Narendra Modi's governance style. Step 2: Recall that Uday Mahurkar, a senior journalist, wrote a book specifically titled "Centrestage" about Modi's governance model. Step 3: Note that Rajdeep Sardesai has written books such as "2014: The Election that Changed India", not this one. Step 4: Understand that Shekhar Gupta is a prominent editor and commentator but is not credited with this specific book. Step 5: Recognise that Piyush Goyal is a politician and minister rather than the author of this detailed journalistic study, so select Uday Mahurkar. Verification / Alternative check: Book catalogs and news reports about "Centrestage" clearly name Uday Mahurkar as the author. Reviews of the book refer to his journalistic experience and his access to governance case studies from Gujarat and the central government. Since none of the other options are cited as authors of this book, cross checking with reference lists confirms the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Rajdeep Sardesai is a noted journalist and author, but his major books focus on elections and politics, not this governance study. Shekhar Gupta is known for columns and television shows; he did not author "Centrestage". Piyush Goyal is a political leader and minister, not the writer of this analytical work on Modi's governance model. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may choose the most famous television journalist by guesswork. Another pitfall is not distinguishing between commentators who have written about Modi and those who have written different political books. The best practice is to link each high profile political title with its specific author while revising. Final Answer: The book "Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance" was written by Uday Mahurkar.

Question 14

Regarding the Magna Carta of 1215, which one of the following statements is NOT correct?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on the historical document Magna Carta and asks you to identify a false statement about it. Magna Carta, sealed in 1215, is a cornerstone in the development of constitutional governance and the rule of law. Understanding what it did and did not guarantee is important in history and civics examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: • Four statements describe supposed features or facts about Magna Carta. • Only one of these statements is incorrect. • The document relates to the conflict between King John and his barons in England in 1215. • We assume standard historical interpretations of Magna Carta as found in school level history texts. Concept / Approach: The approach is to recall the main provisions and historical context of Magna Carta. It established limits on royal power, protections for certain rights, and procedures for justice, such as fair trial. However, it did not grant modern style freedoms such as broad freedom of speech to all citizens. By comparing each statement with these known facts, you can pick out the incorrect one. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Magna Carta was sealed at Runnymede near the River Thames after pressure from the barons. Step 2: Remember that it required, among other things, lawful judgment and due process, which evolved into the idea of trial by a jury of peers. Step 3: Understand that King John was effectively compelled by the barons to agree to Magna Carta. Step 4: Consider whether the document granted freedom of speech to all English citizens. This is a modern concept that developed much later. Step 5: Conclude that the claim that Magna Carta assured freedom of speech to all citizens is inaccurate and therefore the incorrect statement. Verification / Alternative check: History texts describe Magna Carta as guaranteeing certain feudal rights, limiting arbitrary royal actions, and setting out legal procedures. There is no clause that provides general freedom of speech for everyone. The location at Runnymede and the barons forcing King John to consent are well established facts. Modern constitutional freedoms, such as broad protection of speech, emerged gradually through later documents and laws, not directly from Magna Carta. This confirms that the first statement is false. Why Other Options Are Wrong (that is, why they are correct statements): The requirement of lawful judgment and fair procedures in Magna Carta later influenced the idea of trial by a jury of peers, so statement about trial by peers reflects its spirit. The mention of Runnymede is historically accurate; this is where King John met the barons in 1215. The idea that King John was forced by the barons to accept the charter is supported by historical accounts of the dispute and the pressure he faced. Common Pitfalls: Students often assume that any celebrated historical document granted all modern democratic rights, including complete freedom of speech. This leads them to accept the first statement. Another pitfall is not distinguishing between the specific rights granted in 1215 and liberties that evolved centuries later. Careful reading of the question and a clear timeline of constitutional development help avoid these errors. Final Answer: The incorrect statement about Magna Carta is: "The document assured all English citizens freedom of speech."

Question 15

The book "Taste of India" is written by which of the following authors?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines knowledge of culinary and cultural literature related to India. "Taste of India" is a well known cookbook that introduces Indian cuisine to an international audience. Recognising its author connects the world of food writing with general knowledge, an increasingly popular area in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: • The title provided is "Taste of India". • Four options list prominent writers from different fields. • Only one of them is primarily known as a cookery writer and television personality. • We assume standard attributions for popular cookbooks and culinary literature. Concept / Approach: The main approach is to classify each option by field of expertise. Madhur Jaffrey is a celebrated authority on Indian cooking and has authored several cookbooks, including "Taste of India". Ramachandra Guha is a historian, Khushwant Singh is known for journalism and fiction, and Chetan Bhagat writes popular novels. This classification makes it straightforward to pick the right answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify "Taste of India" as a cookbook and culinary guide rather than a work of history or fiction. Step 2: Recall that Madhur Jaffrey gained international fame through her Indian cookery books and television shows. Step 3: Note that Ramachandra Guha writes on history and politics, not recipes. Step 4: Recognise that Khushwant Singh is known for humour, columns, and novels, not for cookery writing. Step 5: Understand that Chetan Bhagat is a novelist whose books centre on youth and social themes, and therefore select Madhur Jaffrey as correct. Verification / Alternative check: Listings of cookery books and culinary authors clearly credit "Taste of India" to Madhur Jaffrey. Her works are widely sold and referenced in bookstores, libraries, and food media. The other options are easily checked and found to have different bibliographies with no connection to this title. This cross verification confirms the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ramachandra Guha writes about Indian history, cricket, and politics but has not authored a cookery book called "Taste of India". Khushwant Singh is known for his sharp humour and works like "Train to Pakistan", not for recipe collections. Chetan Bhagat writes popular fiction and non fiction on youth and modern India; he is not recognised as a culinary author. Common Pitfalls: Students may quickly choose a familiar Indian writer without considering the nature of the book. Another mistake is ignoring the culinary context of the title. A quick mental check of each author's field helps avoid such errors and leads directly to Madhur Jaffrey. Final Answer: The book "Taste of India" was written by Madhur Jaffrey.

Question 16

The philosophical work "The Republic" was written by which classical Greek thinker?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests knowledge of classical Western philosophy. "The Republic" is one of the most influential works in political and moral philosophy, describing ideas such as justice, the ideal state, and the philosopher ruler. Knowing its author is crucial for students of philosophy, political science, and general knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: • The work mentioned is "The Republic". • Four classical Greek figures are listed as options. • Only one of these wrote the dialogue known as "The Republic". • We assume the standard scholarly attribution followed in philosophy texts. Concept / Approach: The main approach is to distinguish the roles of these thinkers. Socrates appears mainly as a character and teacher in Plato's dialogues but did not write any books himself. Plato wrote "The Republic" as a dialogue featuring Socrates. Aristotle was Plato's student, and Pythagoras was earlier and mainly known for contributions to mathematics and mysticism. This mapping clearly points to Plato as the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that "The Republic" is structured as a dialogue in which Socrates discusses justice and the ideal state. Step 2: Remember that Plato wrote dialogues in which Socrates is the central speaker. Step 3: Note that Aristotle wrote later treatises such as "Politics" and "Nicomachean Ethics", not "The Republic". Step 4: Recognise that Pythagoras is associated more with mathematical and mystical teachings and left no such written dialogue. Step 5: Conclude that Plato is the author who composed "The Republic" and select him as the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: Any introductory philosophy textbook or history of Western thought will list "The Republic" under Plato's works. The dialogue is central to Platonic philosophy and introduces key concepts such as the theory of forms and the philosopher ruler. The bibliographies of Aristotle and studies of Socrates make it clear that they did not write this work. This provides a reliable verification of the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aristotle was Plato's student and developed his own system of thought; his major political work is "Politics", not "The Republic". Pythagoras is primarily remembered for mathematical and mystical teachings and did not author this dialogue. Socrates is widely regarded as having left no written works; our knowledge of his ideas comes through Plato and other writers. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes wrongly attribute "The Republic" to Socrates because he is the main speaker in the dialogue. Another mistake is mixing up Aristotle's "Politics" with Plato's "Republic". Careful reading of basic philosophy summaries makes it easier to remember which author wrote which foundational text. Final Answer: "The Republic" was written by the Greek philosopher Plato.

Question 17

Which author is known for having published 59 new books in the single year 1955?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question explores knowledge of children's literature and the extraordinary productivity of some authors. Publishing 59 new books in a single year is a remarkable achievement and is often cited as a record in quizzes. Linking this figure to the correct writer helps you appreciate the scale of output in popular literature. Given Data / Assumptions: • The year of reference is 1955. • The figure is 59 new books published within that year. • Four notable authors are listed: Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, Enid Blyton, and Stephen King. • We assume the question follows widely quoted statistics from publishing history and children's literature references. Concept / Approach: The key idea is to recognise which of these authors is famous for very high volume production, especially in children's books and series. Enid Blyton is known for writing hundreds of books, including many series, over her career. The others, while prolific, did not reach the same annual publishing numbers, especially in the year mentioned. Therefore, associating the record with Enid Blyton is logical. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Enid Blyton wrote numerous children's series such as "Famous Five" and "Secret Seven". Step 2: Understand that she frequently published several books per year and is often mentioned in records for high output. Step 3: Consider Mark Twain, a nineteenth century American author with a relatively smaller number of major works. Step 4: Consider Ernest Hemingway, whose carefully crafted novels and stories were not produced at such a rapid pace. Step 5: Realise that Stephen King is prolific in horror and suspense but began publishing later and did not publish 59 books in 1955, confirming Enid Blyton as the author in question. Verification / Alternative check: Publishing histories and biographical notes on Enid Blyton highlight that she reached a peak of around 59 new books in 1955. This statistic is frequently repeated in trivia and discussions of her productivity. The bibliographies of Twain, Hemingway, and Stephen King show far fewer works in any single year and in different periods, which confirms that the record figure applies to Enid Blyton. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mark Twain, though famous, lived in an earlier era and did not publish at this extreme yearly rate. Ernest Hemingway produced a smaller, carefully edited body of novels and stories; his style and working method do not match such a high volume in one year. Stephen King is well known for horror fiction published mainly from the late twentieth century onward; 1955 does not align with his career timeline. Common Pitfalls: One pitfall is to pick Stephen King simply because he is known for being prolific, ignoring the specific year mentioned. Another error is to choose a more familiar author like Mark Twain or Hemingway without considering their genres and the number of books they wrote. Paying attention to both the time period and the scale of output helps you make the right choice. Final Answer: The author who published 59 new books in the year 1955 is Enid Blyton.

Question 18

In the novel "Frankenstein", Victor changes from an optimistic young man to one who is anxious and which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines your understanding of character development in Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein". The story follows Victor Frankenstein and the consequences of his attempt to create life. Knowing how Victor's personality changes over the course of the novel demonstrates not just memory of the plot but also an understanding of its moral and psychological themes. Given Data / Assumptions: • The protagonist is Victor Frankenstein. • At the beginning, he is described as optimistic and eager to achieve scientific success. • The question states that he later becomes anxious and asks which trait best completes this change. • Four options are given: remorseful, confident, honest, and cowardly. Concept / Approach: The core concept is to recall Victor's emotional state after he realises the consequences of creating the creature. He becomes overwhelmed with guilt and regret as his creation causes harm to others. The trait that best captures this guilt and sorrow is remorse. Confidence and honesty do not summarise his dominant emotional shift, and cowardice, while present at times, does not define the moral tone as strongly as remorse does. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall Victor's initial enthusiasm for natural philosophy and his desire to push the limits of science. Step 2: Remember his horror and fear when he first sees the living creature he has made. Step 3: Note how he gradually realises that his actions have led to suffering and death among his loved ones. Step 4: Identify the persistent guilt and regret he feels, which are central to his internal conflict. Step 5: Recognise that "remorseful" best summarises the emotional state of a person who deeply regrets what they have done, and choose it over the other options. Verification / Alternative check: Reading key passages from the novel, especially after each tragedy caused by the creature, shows Victor reflecting on his responsibility and expressing deep regret. He often laments his ambition and the destructive chain of events he set in motion. Literary analyses of "Frankenstein" also describe Victor as a figure consumed by remorse. These sources confirm that remorse, rather than confidence or simple honesty, characterises his later personality. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Confident" is opposite to his emotional state; his certainty is shattered as the results of his experiment unfold. "Honest" is not the key character trait being tested here; while he does reveal some truths, his primary emotion is not mere honesty. "Cowardly" might seem tempting because Victor sometimes avoids directly confronting his creation, but the question highlights a moral and emotional change, for which remorseful is more accurate and central. Common Pitfalls: Some students might confuse Victor with the creature or focus on single incidents rather than the overall character arc. Another pitfall is to choose cowardly because Victor flees from difficult situations, overlooking that the novel repeatedly emphasises his guilt and sorrow. A careful reading of his reflections after each tragic event makes the choice of remorseful clear. Final Answer: Victor in "Frankenstein" changes from an optimistic young man to someone who is anxious and deeply remorseful.

Question 19

Who authored the book titled "Jinnah Often Came to Our House", which won The Hindu Prize for Best Fiction in 2016?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The question asks about the author of the book titled "Jinnah Often Came to Our House", a work of Indian English literature that won The Hindu Prize for Best Fiction in 2016. Many competitive examinations include questions on contemporary books and authors because they reflect awareness of current literary contributions, major awards, and cultural debates. Knowing the correct pairing of a book with its author helps candidates avoid confusion between similarly titled works and well known writers. This question specifically tests familiarity with modern Indian writing in English and with prestigious Indian literary prizes. Given Data / Assumptions: • The book title is "Jinnah Often Came to Our House". • The book won The Hindu Prize for Best Fiction in 2016. • Four author names are suggested as options. • Only one of these options correctly matches the book. • The task is to identify the correct author, not the theme or genre. Concept / Approach: To answer questions on books and authors, candidates should build a mental map linking major titles with their writers, especially when awards or important historical figures are involved. "Jinnah Often Came to Our House" is a work of fiction that blends personal memory, history, and politics related to the subcontinent and Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The Hindu Prize is a respected Indian literary award, so winners of this prize are frequently asked in general knowledge examinations. The approach is to recall which of the listed authors is associated with this specific award winning novel and to eliminate famous authors who are linked to different books and genres. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Observe that the book title includes the name Jinnah, which suggests a connection to the history of India and Pakistan and to partition era themes. 2. Recall that "Jinnah Often Came to Our House" is a novel written by diplomat turned writer Kiran Doshi, who focuses on historical and political narratives. 3. Evaluate option a, Kiran Doshi, and match this name with the remembered fact that he won The Hindu Prize for Best Fiction in 2016 for this very book. 4. Consider option b, Salman Rushdie, who is famous for works such as "Midnight's Children" and "The Satanic Verses", but not for this particular title. 5. Consider option c, Khushwant Singh, a noted writer and journalist known for "Train to Pakistan" and other works, again not matching the given book. 6. Consider option d, Vikram Seth, known for "A Suitable Boy" and other novels, also not linked to "Jinnah Often Came to Our House". 7. From this comparison, confirm that Kiran Doshi is the only correct match for the given title and award combination. Verification / Alternative check: A quick cross check method is to recall award news: The Hindu Prize winners are often noted in year end current affairs. For the year 2016, the fiction category was widely reported as being won by Kiran Doshi for "Jinnah Often Came to Our House". None of the other authors listed were associated with this award that year. Additionally, bibliographic lists of Rushdie, Khushwant Singh, and Vikram Seth do not contain this title, which further confirms that these names are distractors. Therefore the memory that Kiran Doshi is the author of this book is consistent and reliable when compared with alternative sources of knowledge about contemporary Indian English fiction. Why Other Options Are Wrong: • Salman Rushdie is associated with novels such as "Midnight's Children" and "The Moor's Last Sigh", not with "Jinnah Often Came to Our House". • Khushwant Singh is known for books like "Train to Pakistan" and "The History of Sikhs", rather than the given title. • Vikram Seth wrote "A Suitable Boy", "An Equal Music" and other works, but he did not author this particular book. Common Pitfalls: Many learners quickly associate political or historical sounding titles with very famous authors such as Salman Rushdie or Khushwant Singh because they are widely known names. Another common mistake is to ignore the award detail and only guess based on popularity. Exam setters often mix several prominent authors in one question, but only one author truly matches the specific title and award. It is also easy to confuse "Jinnah Often Came to Our House" with other partition related novels if one has not revised contemporary Indian fiction carefully. To avoid these pitfalls, candidates should regularly update their reading of lists of award winning books and consciously pair lesser known authors with their important works. Final Answer: The book titled "Jinnah Often Came to Our House", which won The Hindu Prize for Best Fiction in 2016, was authored by Kiran Doshi.

Question 20

Who is the author of the contemporary Indian English novel "The Windfall"?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on the correct pairing of a modern Indian English novel with its author. "The Windfall" is a witty and popular novel that deals with sudden wealth and changing social status in urban India. Competitive examinations often include such questions because they test awareness of recent literature, particularly widely reviewed novels that highlight social themes. Knowing who wrote "The Windfall" helps differentiate among a group of prominent and emerging Indian authors. Given Data / Assumptions: • The title of the book in question is "The Windfall". • The book is a work of contemporary Indian English fiction. • Four possible authors are listed as options. • Only one option correctly identifies the author of this novel. • The task is purely about book and author matching, not about the plot or characters. Concept / Approach: Book and author questions are best answered by deliberately memorizing pairs of recent titles and their writers. "The Windfall" became well known for its humorous yet insightful portrayal of a middle class Delhi family that suddenly becomes rich. The name of its author, Diksha Basu, is often mentioned in book reviews, interviews, and contemporary literature discussions. The approach involves recalling which of the listed writers produced that specific novel, while eliminating authors known primarily for other titles or for different literary styles. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Associate the title "The Windfall" with its core theme of unexpected wealth and social climbing in India. 2. Recall that the novel is written by Diksha Basu, an Indian American writer whose debut gained international attention. 3. Examine option b, Diksha Basu, and recognize that this name is correctly linked with "The Windfall". 4. Consider option a, Arundhati Roy, who is famous for works such as "The God of Small Things" and later "The Ministry of Utmost Happiness", not "The Windfall". 5. Consider option c, Amitav Ghosh, known for historical and climate oriented novels like "The Shadow Lines" and "The Hungry Tide". 6. Consider option d, Chetan Bhagat, a popular commercial novelist linked with titles like "Five Point Someone" and "2 States". 7. Since only Diksha Basu matches the specific book "The Windfall", select option b as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative verification method is to recall book reviews or bookshop displays that highlight "The Windfall". Many review articles explicitly describe it as Diksha Basu's novel about a Delhi couple whose life changes after a big financial windfall. Literature related current affairs compilations for exams often list the title under her name. None of the other listed authors have this book in their bibliographies. If one consults lists of works by Arundhati Roy, Amitav Ghosh, or Chetan Bhagat, "The Windfall" does not appear, confirming that they are distractor options only. Why Other Options Are Wrong: • Arundhati Roy is associated with different award winning titles and a very different narrative style, not with "The Windfall". • Amitav Ghosh focuses on historical, environmental, and maritime narratives in novels like "Sea of Poppies", rather than the middle class satire of this book. • Chetan Bhagat writes mass market fiction set around engineering colleges, corporate offices, and modern relationships, and he did not author "The Windfall". Common Pitfalls: Candidates often guess that any well known Indian author must have written a modern sounding book title, so they pick more famous names like Arundhati Roy or Amitav Ghosh without specific recall. Another pitfall is confusing "The Windfall" with other novels that also deal with family, wealth, or social change. Because the title sounds generic, it can be mentally mislinked with several authors. To avoid these mistakes, it is helpful to maintain short notes pairing contemporary titles with their relatively newer authors, including writers like Diksha Basu who may not yet be household names but who regularly appear in exam questions. Final Answer: The contemporary Indian English novel "The Windfall" was written by Diksha Basu.

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