GK Quiz Questions and Answers on Kolkata

General knowledge questions are known to be one of the simplest ways to understand the history, culture, and identity of a city. 

One such city is Kolkata, which has a long history and it offers a rich mix of literature, architecture, freedom, history, food traditions, and artistic heritage. 

A quiz about Kolkata is not just about memorising facts as it will also help you to connect with the city’s past and present.

From colonial landmarks and famous personalities to festivals and institutions, Kolkata has shaped many important moments in Indian history. 

This city was also a major part of British India and it still remains a major centre for education, art, theatre, and intellectual movements. 

Exploring the city through quiz questions allows readers to build awareness in a fun and structured way.

1. When was Kolkata officially renamed from Calcutta?

A. 1985

B. 1995

C. 2001

D. 2010

Answer: C

Explanation: The city’s official name changed from Calcutta to Kolkata in 2001. The India Code website mentions: “WHEREAS it is expedient to change the name of the City of Calcutta and

to give effect to the changed name, Kolkata,in place of Calcutta, so far and so long accepted universally in any law or document or instrument, on any structure, building, monument, road, lake, ground or any object of public importance or any other instrument having the force of law”

2. Which river flows beside Kolkata?

A. Yamuna

B. Godavari

C. Hooghly

D. Narmada

Answer: C

Explanation: NASA mentions: “North of the Bay of Bengal in eastern India, the city of Calcutta (large purple area) hugs the eastern bank of one of the myriad channels that split off the Ganges River before it empties into the Bay. The arm of the Ganges that runs through Calcutta is known as the Hooghly River.”

3. Kolkata was the capital of British India until which year?

A. 1905

B. 1911

C. 1920

D. 1947

Answer: B

Explanation: The Sathee website mentions: “Kolkata was the capital of India from 1772 to 1911.”

4. Which famous bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah?

A. Bandra Bridge

B. Howrah Bridge

C. Golden Bridge

D. Victoria Bridge

Answer: B

Explanation: The Howrah District website mentions: “An iconic landmark in Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge is a huge steel bridge over the Hooghly River. It is considered to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Also known as Rabindra Setu, it connects Howrah and Kolkata. It carries 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians daily.”

5. Which festival is most grandly celebrated in Kolkata?

A. Diwali

B. Holi

C. Durga Puja

D. Pongal

Answer: C

Explanation: Durga Puja is Kolkata’s biggest festival, known for elaborate decorations, art installations, and cultural celebrations.

6. Which sport is strongly associated with Kolkata?

A. Cricket

B. Football

C. Tennis

D. Hockey

Answer: B

Explanation: Kolkata has a deep football culture and is home to historic football clubs and passionate supporters.

7. What is the famous marble monument built in memory of Queen Victoria?

A. Red Fort

B. India Gate

C. Victoria Memorial

D. Gateway of India

Answer: C

Explanation: The Victoria Memorial is a major tourist attraction and museum showcasing colonial history.

8. Who is considered the founder of modern Kolkata?

A. Lord Curzon

B. Job Charnock

C. Robert Clive

D. Warren Hastings

Answer: B

Explanation: Job Charnock is traditionally credited with founding the city in 1690, though historians debate the exact origins.

9. Kolkata is the capital of which state?

A. Odisha

B. Assam

C. West Bengal

D. Bihar

Answer: C

Explanation: Kolkata serves as the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal.

10. Which fort in Kolkata played a key role in early British defence?

A. Fort William

B. Red Fort

C. Agra Fort

D. Fort St. George

Answer: A

Explanation: Fort William was built by the British East India Company to protect its trading interests in Bengal.

Quizzes like this turn learning into an enjoyable exercise. Kolkata’s history, culture, and daily life offer endless topics to explore. Whether you scored high or learned something new, each question adds a small piece to your understanding of this iconic city. 

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