Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Sikkim
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Festivals from India's northeastern and Himalayan regions are increasingly featured in general knowledge examinations. Losoong is one such festival connected with the agrarian and cultural life of Sikkim. This question checks whether you can correctly identify the state where Losoong is mainly celebrated.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The festival named is Losoong.- The options include several Indian states, some from the Himalayan and northeastern belt and others from distant regions.- We assume knowledge that Losoong is linked with the Sikkimese new year and harvest.
Concept / Approach:
Losoong marks the end of the harvest season and is celebrated mainly in Sikkim as the Sikkimese new year. The festival includes traditional dances, rituals and festivities involving the Bhutia community and others. While Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh also have rich festival traditions, Losoong is particularly associated with Sikkim. Kerala and Punjab belong to different cultural zones and have their own distinct festival calendars, which do not include Losoong.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recall that Losoong is recognised as the Sikkimese new year and harvest festival.2. Understand that it is celebrated by communities living in Sikkim, especially the Bhutia people.3. Compare the options: Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh are Himalayan states but are not known specifically for Losoong.4. Recognise that Kerala and Punjab are far from this cultural zone and have different prominent festivals.5. Select Sikkim as the state where Losoong is traditionally celebrated.
Verification / Alternative check:
Tourism and cultural information about Sikkim highlights Losoong as an important festival marking the new year for the Bhutia community. It is often mentioned alongside other Sikkim festivals such as Losar. These references confirm that Losoong belongs to Sikkim rather than to the other states listed, helping you verify your answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Arunachal Pradesh: has unique festivals like Losar and Solung, but Losoong is not primarily identified with this state.- Kerala: known for Onam, Vishu and other south Indian festivals, not for Losoong.- Punjab: celebrates Baisakhi, Lohri and many other festivals, but Losoong is not part of its traditional calendar.- Himachal Pradesh: rich in local fairs and religious festivals, but Losoong is specifically linked with Sikkim.
Common Pitfalls:
Because some festival names in Himalayan and northeastern regions sound similar, candidates may confuse Losoong with Losar or other local new year celebrations. Another mistake is to guess based on random association with any hill state. To avoid this, it helps to remember that Losoong equals Sikkimese new year, and Losar can appear in multiple Himalayan contexts but is more widely known among Tibetan Buddhist communities. Keeping these links clear will reduce confusion in exam situations.
Final Answer:
Losoong is a traditional festival celebrated mainly in the state of Sikkim.
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