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Facts On Indian Mythology : –

No. Question Answer
1. What was the condition on which Ganesha agreed to write the Mahabharata? Ganesha said, “I will be the scribe if you can recite it without break.”
2. What was the condition Vyasa laid down for Ganesha to write Mahabharata? Vyasa said, “You will not inscribe if the meaning is not clear to you.”
3. What was the original name of Mahabharata? Jaya. It was said of the Mahabharata, “What is here may be found elsewhere too but what is not here cannot be found anywhere.”
4. For how many days was the Battle of Kurukshetra fought? Eighteen days.
5. Where did the battle between Rama and Ravana take place? Lanka.
6. What is the meaning of the word ‘Shiva’? The auspicious one.
7. What was the initial reaction of Kumbhakarna when he heard about the abduction of Sita by Ravana? He disapproved of it and advised Ravana to restore Sita to Rama.
8. What was the name of Sugriva’s wife? Ruma.
9. Why did Hanuman leap towards the Sun soon after birth? He thought it was an eatable.
10. Who made Rama and Lakshmana expert archers? Vishwamitra.
11. What was the name of the kingdom ruled by Drupada? Panchala.
12. How did earth come to be called as Prithvi? King Prithu was the first among men to till the soil and make it yield crops. The word Prithvi is derived from Prithu.
13. What was the name of the Yajna performed by Dasharatha to obtain sons? Putrakameshti Yajna.
14. What does the word Bhishma mean? The terrible. When he took the vow to remain celibate throughout his life, the gods showered flowers on him, while uttering the word “Bhishma”.
15. Sage Pulastya’s grandson became a mighty king. Who was he? Ravana.
16. Why did Dasharatha kill Shravan Kumar? He mistook the sound of water being filled in the pot by Shravan Kumar for an animal drinking water.
17. Who performed the Putrakameshti Yajna for King Dasharatha? Rishyashringa.
18. What was the original name of Indrajit? Meghanada.
19. Who was the father of Bhishma? King Shantanu.
20. What were the names of Kama’s foster parents? Radha and Adhiratha.
21. What was the name by which Kama was called by his father when he was young? Vasushena.
22. Where did Drona go when he was insulted by Drupada? Hastinapura.
23. Who was Devayani? Devayani was the daugher of Shukracharya.
24. Who threw Devayani into a well? Sharmishtha, the daughter of Vrishaparva, the king of the asuras.
25. Who took Devayani out of the well? King Yayati.
26. Who was the mother of Bhishma? Ganga.
27. What was the name of Sati’s father? Daksha Prajapati.
28. How many children did Gandhari have? 101. A hundred Kauravas and a daughter.
29. Who was the only daughter of Gandhari and who was her husband? Dushshala. Jayadratha was her husband.
30. Who was the mother of Shakuntala? Menaka.
31. How was Hiranyaksha related to Hiranyakashipu? He was his brother.
32. What was the name of Dhruva’s father? Uttanapada.
33. What was the name of Satyabhama’s father? Satrajit, a Yadava chieftain.
34. From whom did Kama receive the divine armour? He was born with the divine armour (kavacha) and earrings (kundala).
35. Who took Krishna and Balarama to Mathura from Vrindavan? Akrura.
36. Why is Rama sometimes called Raghava? Raghava means a descendant of Raghu. In this sense not only Rama but also Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna can be called Raghava. But traditionally the eldest male was given the appellation.
37. What is the name of Indra’s elephant? Airavata.
38. Why did King Shibi cut off his flesh? Shibi had given refuge to a dove. When the kite claimed that the dove was his lawful prey, Shibi offered to give any other flesh in lieu of the dove. To this, the kite asked for the flesh cut from Shibi’s right thigh equal in weight to the dove.
39. Where in modern India was the ancient kingdom of Virata? Ajmer.
40. What was the capital of Indra’s kingdom? Amaravati.
41. Who was Vali’s son? Angada.
42. What was the name of Shakuntala’s husband? Dushyanta.
43. Where did Janaka find Sita? Sita was found when a field was being ploughed for preparing the spot for a Yajna to be performed by Janaka (Sita literally means furrow).
44. Who offered poisoned sweets to Bhima when he was young? Duryodhana.
45. In what disguise did Arjuna go to Mount Raivataka to abduct Subhadra? In the disguise of a sanyasi (with the permission of Krishna).
46. Who were Abhimanyu’s parents? Arjuna and Subhadra.
47. A son of Hiranyaksha, he ruled over Pragjyotisha. He was such a menace to the devas that Indra implored Krishna to help him. At this request Krishna along with his wife Satyabhama, attacked the city of Pragjyotisha and killed this asura. Name the asura. Narakasura.
48. Who was the half-brother of Dhruva? Uttama.
49. What is the meaning of the word Pandava? Pandava means an offspring of Pandu. Therefore Yudhishthira is a Pandava., So is Arjuna and their brothers.
50. Who did Ekalavya consider as his Guru? Dronacharya. Ekalavya made a statue resembling Dronacharya and practised archery in front of the statue.
51. When the Kauravas led by Duryodhana went to Dvaitavana forest to enjoy the sight of the suffering Pandavas, who fought with them and took Duryodhana
prisoner?		 Chitrasena, the Gandharva.
52. Who defeats the Gandharva King Chitrasena and frees the Kauravas? Arjuna.
53. Which are the ten incarnations of Vishnu? 1.Matsya(Fish)
2. Kurma (Tortoise)
3. Varaha (Boar)
4. Narasimha (Man-Lion)
5. Vamana (Dwarf)
6. Parashurama (Rama of the Axe)
7. Rama
8. Krishna
9. Buddha
10. Kalki
Jayadeva was one of the first to consider Buddha as an avatar. Till then Balarama was considered an avatar.
54. Who crowned Kama as the king of Anga? Duryodhana.
55. What was the name of Draupadi’s father? Drupada.
56 With whom does Nala play the game of dice? Pushkara, his cousin. (His brother according to some versions.)
57 What was the name of Draupadi’s brother? Dhrishtadyumna.
58 How did Hanuman get the name Anjaneya? Because he was the offspring of Anjana.
59 Who succeeded Aja to the throne of Ayodhya? Dasharatha.
60 Who presented the bow, Gandiva to Arjuna? Varuna at the request of Agni.
61 What was the real name of Bhishma? Devavrata.
62 What was the name of the Kaurava, who joined the Pandavas in the Battle of Kurukshetra? Yuyutsu. He was a half-brother of the Kauravas.
63 What was the name of Krishna’ show? Saranga.
64 With what weapon did Krishna kill Shishupala? Sudarshana Chakra.
65 To whom does Yudhishthira offer the first worship at the time of the Rajasuya Yajna? To Krishna.
66 Who killed Jarasandha in a wrestling duel? Bhima.
67 Why is Arjuna called Partha? From Pritha, the real name of Kunti. (Though the name Partha is equally applicable to Yudhishthira and Bhima also, Arjuna was more often referred to as Partha).
68 Who built the palace at Indraprastha for the Pandavas? Maya.
69 Of which kingdom was Shalya, the king? Madra.
70 Why did Gandhari cover her eyes? Her husband* Dhritarashthra was blind. She wanted to share his fate. Hence she blindfolded herself.
71 On behalf of the Kauravas, who played the game of dice with the Pandavas? Shakuni.
72 Who prompts Durvasa to go, with his disciples, to the hermitage of the Pandavas? Duryodhana.
73 What was the name of Rama’s bow? Kodanda.
74 Who was the charioteer of Krishna? Daruka.
75 What was the name of the kingdom ruled by Jarasandha? Magadha.
76 Where is Upaplavya? It was a minor city in the kingdom of Virata.
77 What was the name assumed by Draupadi when the Pandavas lived in disguise in King Virata’s kingdom? Sairandhri.
78 Why is Kama sometimes called Radheya? From his foster mother, Radha. Radheya means an offspring of Radha.
79 Identify the child who was blessed in the following manner by the devas: –
Vishnu – “May you live your life as the greatest devotee              of god”
Indra – “No weapon of any kind will wound or hit your            body”
Agni – “Fire will never affect you.”		 Hanuman.
80 What form did Maricha assume to deceive Rama? And why? He assumed the form of a golden deer and lured Rama away from his hermitage. When Rama’s arrow pierced him, he cried out, imitating Rama’s voice, “Ha, Lakshmana”. When Lakshmana went out to help Rama, Ravana seized the opportunity to abduct Sita.
81 Who was called as Vaasudeva? Vaasudeva means an offspring of Vasudeva. Both Krishna and Balarama could be called Vaasudeva but traditionally only Krishna is called Vaasudeva.
82 What was the real name of Draupadi? Krishnaa.
83 How did Sita get the name Janaki? From Janaka, her father.
84 When Bhima was poisoned by the Kauravas and thrown into the depths of River Ganga, how was he saved? It is believed that Nagaloka is situated deep below the river. Here Bhima was bitten several times by the serpents, which neutralised the effect of poison in his body.
85 What is the origin of the name, Panchavati, where Rama is said to have built a hermitage? Five Banyan trees. Pancha (Five) Vata
(Banyan tree).
86 Who was Kacha’s father? Brihaspati.
87 For how many years did Janamejaya’s Sarpa-satra last? Twelve years.
88 Who were the physicians to the devas? Ashwini twins.
89 Heroes in ancient times often had more than one name. Given below are sets of names. Identify the name by
which they are commonly known: –
a.Kapidhvaja, Bibhatsu, Dhananjaya, Savyasachi, Kiriti,
   Krishna.
b.Ajatashatru, Dharmaja, Dharmaputra, Mridangaketu. c.Vallava, Marutatmaja, Vayusuta, Pawanaputra.		 a. Arjuna.
b. Yudhishthira.
c. Bhima.
90 Who seized Draupadi by the hair and dragged her into the court? Dushshasana.
91 What did Sita give Hanuman to be shown to Rama? Chudamani (Crest Jewel).
92 When Ganga descended from heaven, who bore the force of her descent? Shiva.
93 Who was Purochana? A minister of Duryodhana who built the shellac palace at Varanavata.
94 What was the virtue for which Kama was famous? Generosity.
95 What was the name assumed by Arjuna in Virata’s palace? Brihannala.
96 Whose incarnation was Lakshmana supposed to be? Lakshmana is said to be the incarnation of Maha Shesha (the great snake).
97 When Hanuman was asked to bring Sanjivani from Gandhamadana, why did he carry the whole mountain? Because he could not recognize the Vishalyakarani (Sanjivani) from other herbs.
98 What was the name of Dronacharya’s father? Sage Bharadwaja.
99 Who was Lakshmana’s wife? Urmila.
100 What was the capital of Janaka’s kingdom? Mithila.
101 Where did Arjuna hide his weapons before entering
Virata’s palace?		 On a Shami tree.
102 What was the name of king Virata’s son? Uttara Kumar.
103 What was the name of King Virata’s wife? Sudeshna.
104 What was the name of the bow, which Rama broke in Janaka’s capital? Shiva-Dhanush.
105 What was the name of the vulture that fought with Ravana to save Sita? Jatayu.
106 How many heads does Brahma have? Four (To indicate that he could see in all the four directions).
107 What was the name of the Vali’s wife? Tara.
108 Whom did Sugriva send to meet Rama on his behalf? Hanuman.
109 Who were the Ashta-Dikpalakas? The guardians of the eight directions.
110 For whom does Nala work as a charioteer? King Ritupama.
111 When Kunti meets Kama to dissuade him from fighting, what assurance does he give her? Her sons, with the exception of Arjuna will not come to harm from him.
112 Soon after the Pandavas and the Kauravas gathered in Kurukshetra, why did Yudhishthira go to meet Bhishma? To seek his blessings.
113 Who was Indra’s wife? Shachi.
114 How had the Kauravas arranged their army on the thirteenth day? Chakravyuha, the wheel formation. In this formation the army was arranged in circles within circles.
115 On the bank of which river is Ayodhya? Sarayu.
116 How did Ganga get the name Jahnavi? River Ganga came down to earth and submerged the hermitage of Sage Jahnu. Angry at this, Jahnu drank up the river, but later, at the request of Bhagiratha, pushed Ganga out through his ear. From him Ganga got the name Jahnavi.
117 In which disguise did Indra approach to seek the armour (Kavacha) and earrings (Kundala) of Kama? In the guise of a Brahmin.
118 What was the name assumed by Yudhishthira in Virata’s palace? Kanka.
119 Who was Ravana’s wife? Mandodari.
120 What was the name of Mandodari’s father? She was the daughter of Maya.
121 Who was the family priest of the Pandavas? Dhoumya.
122 What was the name of the Rakshasi, whose mouth Hanuman enters en route to Lanka? Surasa.
123 To whom does Sugriva assign the task of mustering the monkey forces? Nala.
124 Why did Kacha go to Shukracharya’s place? To know the secret of immortality.
125 In which Upanishad would you find the dialogue between Nachiketa and Yama? Kathopanishad.
126 Whom did Dasharatha send to fetch Rama to Kaikeyi’s palace? Sumantra, the minister.
127 Who goes to the court of the Kauravas as the ambassador of the Pandavas? Krishna.
128 Why did Duryodhana construct a palace in Varanavata for the stay of the Pandavas? The palace was made of shellac and other combustible material. Duryodhana wanted to burn the Pandavas alive.
129 Who were Babhruvahana’s parents? Chitrangada and Arjuna.
130 On the bank of which river is Chitrakoot? River Mandakini.
131 When Hanuman thought it was difficult to leap to Lanka, who built his self-confidence? Jambavan.
132 Of which kingdom was Chitrangada the princess? Manipur.
133 How did Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti die? They died in a forest fire.
134 Who performed the funeral rites of Jatayu? Rama.
135 What was the name of the kingdom from where Bharata returned after Dasharatha’s death? Kekaya, the kingdom of his maternal uncle.
136 Who sends a man to dig a tunnel in the Shellac palace at Varanavata to help the Pandavas? Vidura.
137 On which mountain did Hanuman rest when he made the leap to Lanka? Mainaka.
138 Who taught Duryodhana how to wield a mace? Balarama.
139 Who was the mother of Dhritarashtra? Ambika.
140 Who killed Kumbhakarna? Rama.
141 How many Puranas are there? Though there are a number of puranas, according to tradition, only 18 puranas are recognised.
142 When Drona held a test in archery in a field outside Hastinapura, what was the target? The head of a wooden bird hanging from a branch of a tree. (In common folklore it is referred to as the eye of the bird).
143 Who was Dhruva’s mother? Suniti.
144 Who first gives the news to Bharata about Rama’s arrival from Lanka? Hanuman.
145 What was the name of Ahalya’s husband? Sage Gautama.
146 Where does the marriage of Arjuna and Subhadra take place? Dwaraka.
147 What was the name of the sage who prevented the Vindhya Mountains from rising higher? Sage Agastya.
148 In which vehicle did Rama, Lakshmana and Sita return to Ayodhaya from Lanka? Pushpaka vimana.
149 Which animals were yoked to the Pushpaka Vimana? Golden Swans.
150 Kushasthali was another name of a famous city on the west coast. What was the name of this city? Dwaraka.
151. Who advises Duryodhana (and Dhritarashtra) to give half the kingdom to the Pandavas after their marriage to Draupadi? Bhishma.
152. After whom is our country named Bharat? After Bharata, son of Shakuntala.
153. What was the name of King Raghu’s wife? Indumati.
154. Who was the mother of Maricha? Tataka,
155. What was the vehicle of Kama? Parrot.
156. What was the name of King Raghu’s father? Dilipa.
157. Who was the wife of King Dilipa? Sudakshina.
158. Who was Sushena, mentioned in the Ramayana? The Royal Physician.
159. On the bank of which river was the ashram of Valmiki? On the bank of River Tamasa.
160. Who gave the day-to-day account of the Battle of Kurukshetra to Dhritarashtra? On the bank of River Tamasa.
161. Who did Duryodhana appoint as Bhishma’s bodyguard during the battle of Kurukshetra? Dushshasana.
162. What were the names of the wives of Vichitravirya? Ambika and Ambalika.
163. For how many days did Abhimanyu fight in the Battle of Kurukshetra? Thirteen days.
164. When all his weapons were destroyed, with what did Abhimanyu fight? The wheel of his chariot.
165. When Krishna goes to Hastinapura, with whom does he stay? Vidura.
166. How was Kunti related to Krishna? Aunt (Krishna’s father’s sister).
167. Where did Krishna reveal his divine form to Arjuna? On the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
168. What was the colour of Arjuna’s horses? White.
169. What was the name of Sage Agastya’s wife? Lopamudra.
170. What was the name of Rukmini’s brother? Rukmi.
171. How does Duryodhana win over Shalya, the maternal uncle of Nakula and Sahadeva, to his side? By establishing rest houses all along the way to Kurukshetra and providing hospitality to Shalya and his retinue. Having accepted Duryodhana’ s hospitality Shalya could not refuse his request to fight against the Pandavas.
172. How many chapters are there in the Gita? Eighteen.
173. During the battle with Ravana, Lakshmana, Sugriva and other monkeys fell unconscious because of the Nagastra released by Indrajit. Who did Shri Rama call to revive the unconscious heroes? Garuda.
174. What was the Yajna performed by Yudhishthira, after the Battle of Kurukshetra? Ashwamedha.
175. Bharata’s mother was Shakuntala. Who was his father? Dushyanta.
176. Who were Ghatotkacha’s parents? Hidimbaa and Bhima.
177. How was Kripacharya related to Ashwatthama? His maternal uncle.
178. Who was Kubera’s father? Sage Vishrava.
179. Who was killed by Kama using the weapon, Shakti or Amogha? Ghatotkacha.
180. What was the name of Arjuna’s son from Uloopi? Iravan.
181. What was the colour of Bhishma’s flag? White.
182. What was the objective of Vishwamitra in performing severe austerities? He wanted to become a Brahmarshi
(Brahma + Rishi).
183. On the bank of which lake was the ashram of Shabari? LakePampa.
184. After Rama lays siege to Lanka, whom does he send as his ambassador? Angada.
185. How many sons did Draupadi have? Five.
186. Krishna had vowed not to take up any weapon during the battle of Kurukshetra. Who made Krishna take up a weapon? Bhishma.
187. Who was the father of Subhadra? Vasudeva.
188. What was the name of Arjuna’s conch-shell? Devadatta.
189. Who was the founder of the dynasty of Ayodhya in which Rama was born? Ikshvaku.
190. To which dynasty did Kartaviryarjuna belong? Hehaya.
191. What was the capital of Kartaviryarjuna? Mahishmati.
192. Who was the guru of Dasharatha? Vasishtha.
193. What was the name of Prahlada’s father? Hiranyakashipu.
194. How did Ganga get the name Bhagirathi? Because Bhagiratha brought her down from heaven.
195. Who tried to send Trishanku to heaven in his bodily form? Vishwamitra.
196. Who killed Kartaviryarjuna? Parashurama.
197. Who was the guru of Janaka? Shatananda.
198. How did Parvati come to be called Apama? To win over Shiva, Parvati practised great austerities and lived without eating even a leaf. (Parna means leaf and Aparna means without even a leaf.)
199. Who killed the sons of Draupadi after entering the Pandava camp at night on the eighteenth day? Ashwatthama.
200. For how many days was Kama the commander of the Kaurava army? Two Days.
201 Who sends a chariot to Rama during the war with Ravana? Indra.
202 Who accompanies Dasharatha when he visits the Devas to help them in the war against the Asuras? Kaikeyi.
203 Who was the father of Jamadagni? Richika.
204 Who was Parashurama’s father? Jamadagni.
205 What did Vamana ask from King Bali? Land equivalent to his three paces. With one pace he measured the earth. With the second pace he measured the heaven and asked Bali where should he place his third pace. Ball asked Vamana to place his foot on his, Ball’s, head.
206 What was the name assumed by Nala when he was transformed into an ugly Dwarf? Bahuka.
207 Who was the king of Mahishmati who had defeated Ravana? Kartaviryarjuna. (Also known as Sahasrarjuna)
208 Who was the mother of Yadu? Devayani.
209 What does Shiva do when Ravana tries to lift Kailasa? He presses it down with his toe.
210 On the battlefield when Bhishma fell, how did Arjuna provide him a bed? By shooting a few arrows into the ground.
211 What was the name of Krishna’s conch-shell? Panchajanya.
212 When Bhishma wanted to drink water while lying on a bed of arrows during the battle of Kurukshetra, who fulfilled his wish? Arjuna provided the water by shooting an arrow deep into the ground.
213 What job did Bhima do at Virata’s palace? Cook.
214 From whom does Ravana seize control of Lanka? From his step-brother, Kubera (also known as Vaishravana).
215 Who inspired Valmiki to sing of Rama? Narada.
216 Who were Pradyumna’s parents? Rukmini and Krishna.
217 Why doesn’t Rama enter Lanka for the coronation ceremony of Vibhishana? Since Rama had been exiled to the forests, he did not’ think it fit to bring a break in the period of exile by entering the capital city.
218 Why did Sage Kanva name the child of Menaka as Shakuntala? Because he saw Shakunta birds (peacocks) gathered around the child.
219 Who tries to prevent Hanuman from entering when he makes the leap to Lanka and reaches the city wall? Lanka Lakshmi also called Lanka Devi. She was the guardian deity of the city,
220 What was the name of the mountain on which Arjuna performed tapas to please Shiva? Indrakeela.
221 Name two generals in the monkey army. Nala, Neela, Jambavan.
222 Who told Bhima how to kill Jarasandha? Krishna.
223 What was the vehicle of Shiva? Nandi, the bull.
224 Who was the mother of Ganesha? Parvati.
225 How does Ganesha get the head of an elephant? Shiva cuts off Ganesha’s head. When Parvati sees this, she feels very upset. She insists on bringing him back to life immediately. Shiva replaces Ganesha’s lost head with that of an elephant.
226 What happened when Hiranyakashipu kicked the pillar in his palace? Out of the pillar emerged Narasimha – Vishnu in the form of man-lion.
227 Where did Krishna shift his people from Mathura? Dwaraka.
228 Where in modern India is Prabhasa, a place of pilgrimage in ancient days, where the Yadavas fought among themselves? In Saurashtra on the west coast.
229 When the Pandavas handed over the Kingdom to Parikshit, whom did they entrust with the task of guiding the king? Yuyutsu.
230 Why did Krishna want to kill Kaliya? Kaliya had poisoned the water of Yamuna, as a result of which even trees on its banks dried up and many human lives were lost.
231 Jamadagm had something which Sahasrarjuna wanted. What was it? The cow – Kamadhenu.
232 How many brothers did Ravana have? His two brothers were Vibhishana and Kumbhakarna. He had a half brother named Kubera. (Khara and Dushana are also referred to as brothers in some texts.)
233 What was the relationship of Maricha and Ravana? Maricha was the maternal uncle of Ravana.
234 Where did Dushyanta and Shakuntala meet? In the hermitage of Sage Kanva.
235 Where did Luv and Kush narrate the story of Rama (Ramayana)? At the court of Rama.
236 What did an Akshauhini consist of? An Akshauhini consisted of 21,870 chariots, equal number of elephants, 65,160 horses and 1,09,350 soldiers.
237 Who was Aghasura? Aghasura was a huge serpent who was waiting for Krishna to enter his mouth, so that he could swallow him.
238 How did Krishna kill Aghasura? After entering the mouth of Aghasura, Krishna became bigger and bigger, suffocating the wicked Asura. This also helped the cowherds to safely come out of the dead Aghasura’s mouth.
239 Who were the twins among the Pandavas? Nakula and Sahadeva.
240 When the Pandavas had gone on a hunting expedition, the barking of one of their hunting dogs was silenced by seven arrows, stuck in its mouth. When Arjuna saw this, he was dumbfounded at the skill of the archer. Identify the archer. Ekalavya. Genealogy of Rama:
The genealogy of Rama is traced to Vishnu, h Ragkuvamsham, Kalidasa gives a great account q, Dilipa – Raghu – Aja – Dasharatha.
241 Who burnt the 60,000 sons of Sagara? SageKapila.
242 When Rama and Lakshmana are injured who ordered Hanuman to bring the herbs needed to revieve them? Sushena.
243 Why did Dushyanta forget Shakuntala? When Sage Durvasa visited Kanva’s ashram, Shakuntala was lost in the thoughts of Dushyanta. He cursed her, “May he forget you, in whose memory you are now lost.” (It must be noted however that the original version in the Mahabharata does not mention this. This version is found in Abhijnana Shakuntalam by Kalidasa.)
244 How did Savitri trick Yama to bring her husband back to life? She asked for a hundred sons. After granting that boon, Yama had to give back the life of Satyavan.
245 Who was Dyumatsena? He was Satyavan’s father.
246 How much portion of the kheer got from Putrakameshti Yajna did Dasharatha give Kausalya? Half the portion.
247 In whose ashram did Rama meet Shabari? Sage Matanga.
248 What was the name of Kamsa’s father? Ugrasena.
249 Where did Arjuna meet Subhadra for the first time? InDwaraka.
250 How did Krishna come to be called Ranchod (the one who shunned the battle)? Because he avoided giving battle to Jarasandha and went to Dwaraka from Mathura alongwith his people.
251 After Lakshmana chops off Shurpanakha’s nose, to whom does she go? To Khara and Dushana.
252 What was the capital of the Kaurava’s kingdom? Hastinapura.
253 What is the modern name for Indraprastha? Delhi.
254 What were the names of Subhadra’s brothers? Krishna and Balarama.
255 What caused the outburst of the first shloka uttered by Valmiki? Once while returning from River Tamasa, Valmiki saw a hunter shooting down one of a pair of Krauncha birds. The other bird cried piteously. The intense emotion created by this incident made Valmiki speak in verses. Immediately Brahma appeared and advised Valmiki to write the story of Rama.
256 Where is Kurukshetra? In modern Haryana, about 40 kilometres to the north of Delhi.
257 What are the four yugas, according to Indian Mythology? a) Krita yuga.
b) Treta yuga.
c) Dwapara yuga.
d) Kali yuga.
258 Vasudeva and Devaki were in prison at the time of Krishna’s birth. How could Vasudeva get out of prison and take baby Krishna to Gokul? Vasudeva found to his surprise that his fetters and chains had fallen off. The prison doors automatically opened and the guards were all asleep. This enabled him to walk out of the prison and go to Gokul.
259 Rukmini was in love with Krishna. However her brother Rukmi, wanted to give her hand in marriage to another king. Identify this king. Shishupala.
260 Why did Drona want to humiliate Drupada? Because when Drona had sought Drupada’s help, he had been humiliated.
261 How did Arjuna kill Kama? When Kama was trying to lift the wheel of his chariot, which had sunk in the mud, Arjuna shot him.
262 Who killed Vritra? Indra.
263 Why did Kamsa want to kill Krishna? There had been a prediction that Devaki’s eighth child would kill him. Therefore he wanted to kill the eighth child.
264 Who carried the message of Nala to Damayanti? A swan with golden wings.
265 Why were Luv and Kush required to fight Rama’s army? Because they had tied the horse of the Ashwamedha sacrifice.
266 Where did Luv and Kush grow up? In Valmiki’s Ashram.
267 Where did Krishna first meet Sudama? In Guru Sandipani’s ashram.
268 Why had Sudama gone to Dwaraka? To seek Krishna’s help.
269 Why did Rama get angry with Sagara? Because he didn’t prepare a way for Rama to reach Lanka.
270 How many Akshauhinis of army did the Kauravas have before the battle of Kurukshetra? Eleven akshauhinis. The Pandavas had seven akshauhinis.
271 Who incited Ravana to fight with Rama? Shurpanakha.
272 Who in the Mahabharata, is also known as Matsyagandha? Satyavati, wife of King Shantanu.
273 What is Bhagavad-Gita? It means the song sung by the Lord. It consists of the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
274 From whom did Dronacharya learn the use of weapons? From his father, Sage Bharadwaja aod later also from the hermit, Agnivesha.
275 Who gave divine weapons to Dronacharya? Parashurama.
276 Who told the monkey army that he had seen Ravana carrying Sita across the ocean? The vulture, Sampati.
277 Who was the charioteer of Kama, when he became the commander of the Kaurava army? Shalya.
278 How did Hanuman protect himself from the jaws of Surasa? Hanuman began to increase his size, Surasa opened her jaws wider and wider. Suddenly Hanuman reduced himself to the size of a thumb, entered her mouth and came out in a flash.
279 When Vishwamitra was taking Rama and Lakshmana to the court of Janaka they came upon an Ashrama, which contained a stone. What happened when Rama’s feet touched the stone? Ahalya came back to life.
280 What was the name of the elephant that blocked the entrance of the wrestling arena when Krishna came near it and tried to kill him? Kuvalayapida.
281 Who was Balarama’s wife? Revati. She was the daughter of Revata, king of Kushasthali. It is said in the puranas that Revata went with his daughter to Brahma with a request that he suggest a suitable groom for her. Thousands of years had lapsed between the time Revata left for the abode of Brahma and returned to earth. Men were of far less height. Balarama used his plough to reduce the height of Revati and then married her.
282 Whom did Krishna send to convey the importance of love and devotion in life to the gopis of Vrindavan? Uddhava, a minister and friend of Krishna.
283 What was the name of the demon who came in the guise of an ass to kill Krishna? Dhenukasura.
284 Who had sent Bakasura to Vrindavan to kill Krishna? Kamsa.
285 When the cowherds started worshipping Govardhan instead of him what did Indra do? He sent heavy rains to Gokula intending to submerge it in water.
286 Who conducted the naming ceremony of Krishna? Sage Gargacharya.
287 How did Krishna save his cowherd friends from the raging fire, after he had subdued Kaliya? When Krishna came out of the river Yamuna after suppressing the serpent, Kaliya, it was late and the sun had set. Yadavas spent the night near the river. Suddenly a fire broke out and enveloped them. Krishna swallowed the fire and all was quiet again.
288 For how many days did Krishna uphold Mount Govardhan on his finger? Seven days.
289 How old was Krishna when he held aloft the Govardhan Mountain? Seven years.
290 Who was the mother of Indrajit? Mandodari.
291 Who freed Nanda from the coils of a python? Krishna.
292 Who told the Yadavas that Krishna and Balarama were in reality the children of Vasudeva? Gargacharya.
293 What was the original name of Indraprastha, before the Pandavas began to rule over it? Khandavaprastha.
294 Who killed Mushtika? Balarama.
295 Krishna preferred a particular colour for his robes. Which was it? Yellow. (Pitambara)
296 What form did Keshi, the demon assume to kill Krishna? That of a horse.
297 How did Krishna kill Keshi? He thrust his left arm into the open mouth of the demon. His arm began to swell inside Keshi’s mouth. The demon suffocated and died.
298 Which bird’s feather was Krishna fond of placing on his head? Peacock.
299 What did Krishna do after killing Kamsa? He requested Ugrasena to take charge of the kingdom.
300

 What was the name of the humpback who met Krishna on the main road of Mathura?

301. To whom did the women of Vrindavan offer prayers? Durga
302. How did Krishna get the name Murari? Murari literally means: – Enemy of Mura. Krishna killed Mura, a demon, in a battle.
303 What was the name of Nanda’s wife? Yashoda.
304 Who was the wife of Bharata (of the Raghu dynasty)? Mandavi, Sita’s cousin.
305 Who saved Takshaka from Janamejaya’s sarpa-satra? SageAstika.
306 Of which kingdom was Jayadratha, the king? Sindhu.
307 In addition to Jarasandha’s army, what was the army the Yadavas had to face? Kalayavana’s army.
308 Why did Shiva bum Kamadeva? Because he disturbed the serenity of Shiva’s mind.
309 What was the name of Jambavati’s father? Jambavan.
310 Who killed Satrajit? Shatadhanwa.
311 According to tradition what time was Krishna bom? After midnight, when the star Rohini was on the ascendent, in the month of Shravana, on the day of Ashtami.
312 Who sent Akrura to Hastinapura to enquire about the Pandavas? Krishna.
313 How many times did Jarasandha attack Mathura? Eighteen.
314 Where did Krishna say, “I will be born again and again when there is decline of Dharma”? Kurukshetra.
315 Who was the tutor of Abhimanyu? After his initial training from Arjuna, Abhhnanyu was tutored by Pradyumna.
316 Who carried puva (Pohe i.e. beaten rice) to Krishna? And in return what did Krishna give to him? Sudama. Krishna built a palace for him and filled that palace with wealth and gifts.
317 What was the name of the crane that picked Krishna and swallowed him? Bakasura.
318 What did Krishna do to free himself from the crane? He created unbearable heat and the crane spat him out.
319 What was the name of Savitri’s father? Ashwapati.
320 Who was the charioteer of Indra? Matali.
321 What is the main philosophy of Gita? Work for work’s sake and not for any gain.
322 What strategy did Krishna suggest to Arjuna to defeat Drona? They made DronaTielieve that his son, Ashwatthama had been killed. This led Drona to lay down his weapons thus enabling Dhrishtadyumna to kill him.
323 What was the musical instrument dear to Krishna? Flute.
324 When did Kamsa free Vasudeva and Devaki? After the birth of their eighth child.
325 Below which tree did Krishna usually play the flute? Kadamba.
326 On which day of the battle of Kurukshetra did Krishna take up Sudarshan Chakra to slay Bhishma? Ninth day.
327 Who was the father of Snakuni? Subala.
328 When Kaliya coiled his body around Krishna, what did Krishna do? Krishna made his body swell.
329 What are the four Vedas? Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Atharvaveda.
330 What constitutes Vedic literature? The four Vedas mentioned above. Each of these four has four divisions: First come the Samhitas, then come Brahmana – a treatise relating to prayer and sacrificial ceremony. Next come the Aranyakas, forest texts meant for the forest-dwelling hermit. They are appendices to the Brahmanas. Fourth is Upanishads – appendices to Aranyakas. Together they constitute Vedic literature.
331 How many sala trees does Rama pierce with one arrow? Seven.
332 How did Kalayavana die? Muchukunda opened his eyes. And when his gaze fell on Kalayavana he turned into ashes.
333 Durvasa goes with his disciples to the place where the Pandavas were living. How does Krishna help Draupadi serve food to so many? Krishna visits the place and says that he is hungry. There is no food in the vessel, but Krishna sees a leaf and eats it. This makes Durvasa and his disciples feel they have eaten a full meal.
334 In which forest did the Pandavas spend most of their days during the exile? In Kamyaka forest.
335 From where did Krishna get the Parijata tree? Devaloka (Indra’s palace).
336 Who were the parents of Aniruddha? Pradyumna (son of Krishna) and Rukmavafi.
337 Who was instrumental in kidnapping Aniruddha? Usha, daughter of Banasura.
338 From whom did Krishna get the earrings of Aditi? Narakasura. Krishna killed him in battle and got back the earrings.
339 When Dushshasana was pulling and removing the sari of Draupadi who made her sari endless? Krishna.
340 Both Duryodhana and Arjuna had gone to seek Krishna’s help. Whom did Krishna give the first choice? Arjuna, since Krishna had seen him before seeing Duryodhana.
341 Why was Jarasandha angry at Krishna? Because Krishna had killed the husbands of his two daughters.
342 When Sugriva brought Sita’s jewellery from the cave what did Lakshmana say? “I do not recognize the bracelet and earring, but I know these anklets for I worshipped her feet alone.”
343 How did Jambavan encourage Hanuman to jump across die ocean to Lanka? By narrating Hanuman’s acts of strength and bravery in his early life.
344 How was Krishna related to Abhimanyu? Abhimanyu was his nephew (sister’s son).
345 Why did Arjuna take the vow that he would kill Jayadratha before sunset the next day? Because Jayadratha had prevented the Pandavas from entering the Chakravyuha (the wheel formation of the army). This enabled the Kauravas to kill Abhimanyu who had breached the Chakravyuha all alone.
346 When did Varuna give the Sudarshana Chakra to Krishna? At Agni’s request Varuna gave the Sudarshana Chakra to Krishna to help him in the burning of the Khandava forest. (According to another version Vishwakarma gave the weapon to Vishnu).
347 Name the fabulous city constructed by Vishwakarma on top of the mountain Trikuta? Lanka.
348 When Duryodhana crowns Karna as the king of Anga, what does he say? Kama asks, “What can I do in return for the honour bestowed on me?” Duryodhana replied, “Your staunch friendship.”
349 It was once suspected that Krishna was a thief. What was he accused of stealing? Syamantaka gem.
350 Who had given the Syamantaka gem to Satrajit? Surya.
351 When Dhritarashtra met the Pandavas, how did he try to kill Bhima? By holding him close to his chest and crushing him. Krishna, however, had placed a statue of Bhima in front of him.
352 Who killed Prasena, the brother of Satrajit? A lion.
353 To which deity did Rukmini pray? Goddess Parvati.
354 Who kidnapped Pradyumna when he was just ten years old? Shambara.
355 Which was the vehicle used by Krishna when he went with Satyabhama to give battle to Narakasura? Garuda.
356 What is the name of the serpent on which Vishnu rests? Maha Shesha.
357 Who leaves Sita near the ashram of Valmiki? Lakshmana.
358 Who was the mother of Shatrughna? Sumitra.
359 When Yudhishthira goes away to the forest to lead a peaceful life whom does he crown as the King? Parikshit.
360 What food did Shabari offer Rama? Berries.
361 Who was the son of Parikshit? Janamejaya.
362 Why did Janamejaya conduct the Sarpasatra (Yajna to annihilate sarpas/nagas)? A sarpa (serpent) had killed his father, Parikshit. To avenge his death Janamejaya performed the sarpa-satra (Yajna) to bring about total annihilation of the race of nagas (sarpas).
363 What was the name of the place ruled by Sugriva? Kishkindha.
364 Who taught Arjuna singing and dancing? Chitrasena taught dance and music to Arjuna when Arjuna went to Devaloka.
365 Who taught Uttara to dance? Aijuna.
366 Who brought back to life the dead child of Uttara? Krishna.
367 In the game of dice whom did Yudhishthira lose first: Draupadi or himself? Himself.
368 Where did Bhima meet Hanuman? Gandhamadana.
369 What are the names by which Kamadhenu is referred as? Surabhi and also Nandini.
370 How did Parvati create Ganesha? Parvati created Ganesha from the saffron paste on her body.
371 Who was the father of Veda Vyasa? Sage Parashara.
372 What was the name of India’s son? Jayanta.
373 How was the beginning of any battle signalled in the days of the Mahabharata? By blowing conches.
374 Where was the hermitage of Sage Bharadwaja? At Prayag (modern Allahabad).
375 Why did Sati burn herself? Her husband, Shiva, had been insulted and abused by her father.
376 Why is Arjuna referred to as Kapidhwaja? Because on his flag was the image of Hanuman. Kapidhwaja literally means monkey (kapi) banner (dhwaja).
377 Why did Nanda and the cowherds decide to move away from Gokul and settle down in Vrindavan? The mysterious happenings in Gokul in which Krishna, the beloved son of their leader had been involved, made them shift to a safer place.
378 What was the feat performed by Dronacharya, which impressed the Kuru princes? He took a blade of grass and threw it with force at the Vishti in the well. Then he threw the second blade of grass which got attached to the first one. He kept on doing it till he could reach out to the top one and pulled it out. Vishti-Danda was an ancient form of the game which is called Gilli-Danda.
379 When Duryodhana, Shakuni and Kama wanted to arrest Krishna, what did he do? He showed his Vishwarupa.
380 When Jarasandha heard from his daughters about the killing of Kamsa, what vow did he take? “I will not rest till I wipe out the entire race of the Yadavas.”
381 When the Devas, Danavas and Manavas went to Brahma to know the secret of happiness what did he say? “Da”: – The suras thought that by “Da” Brahma meant “Damyata” (meaning, exercise self-control), the asuras thought by “Da” Brahma meant “Dayadhwam” (be merciful) and the humans thought by “Da” Brahma meant “Dadhatu” (give).
382 Who was the mother of Veda Vyasa? Satyavati.
383 Kubera the lord of wealth ruled his kingdom from this fabulously wealthy city. What was the name of the city? Alakapuri.
384 When Rama was in exile, Bharata ruled over Ayodhya in his brother’s name. Name the village from where he ruled as Rama’s deputy. Nandigrama.
385 After abducting Sita, Ravana kept her confined in the Ashoka grove. Among the rakshasis who guarded her, only two were friendly to her. Name them. Sarama and Trijata.
386 Who was the Commander-in-Chief of the Pandavas during the battle of Kurukshetra? Dhrishtadyumna.
387 Who were the stepbrothers of Bhishma? Chitrangada and Vichitravirya.
388 Who was the sage who cursed Vali that his head would blow up if he ever entered Rishyamooka again? Rishi Matanga.
389 What is the origin of the word Varanasi? The name Varanasi originated from two rivers “Varana” and “Asi”.
390 Which was the capital of Videha? Mithila. King Janaka ruled over the kingdom of Videha.
391 What was the colour of Indra’s elephant, Airavata? White.
392 Who tried to win over Kama to the Pandava’s side? Krishna and Kunti.
393 Who was the brother of Maricha who was killed by Rama? Subahu.
394 What was the name of Sage Rishyashringa’s wife? Shanta.
395 Who was the twin brother of Lakshmana? Shatrughna.
396 What was the name of the kingdom ruled by Nala? Nishadha.
397 Why did Sage Agastya drink the water of the ocean? Because the evil Kalakeyas had hidden at the bottom of the ocean. Agastya drank the water so that the devas (suras) could destroy them.
398 Why does Sugriva request Rama to pierce any of the Sala trees with his arrow? He wanted to assure himself that Rama was more powerful than Vali.
399 Who killed the demon Kalanemi? Hanuman.
400 When did the Pandavas come to know that Kama was their brother? After the battle of Kurukshetra when obsequies were to be offered to the dead ones, Kunti tells everyone that Kama was her son.
401 Shwetaketu was very proud of his knowledge. What did his father, Uddalaka, do to help his son get rid of the pride? And what was the reply given by Shwetaketu? Uddalaka called his son to his side and asked, “By studying all about the things you can see, hear and understand, you think you are knowledgeable. But have you learnt about that which you cannot see and hear.” To this Shwetaketu replied “No, father! I do not know anything about that.”
402 To whom did the Pushpaka-vimana originally belong? Kubera.
403 How many tusks did Airavata have? Four.
404 How much land was Duryodhana prepared to give to the Pandavas? Nothing. Not even a needlepoint of land.
405 Why did Ravana ask the rakshasis to escort Sita to the
battlefield?		 To see the unconscious Rama.
406 Who was the warrior who was said to have been born to kill Drona? Dhristadyumna.
407 What was the name of the tree present in Indraloka that had the power of providing any object asked of it? Kalpavriksha.
408 From where did King Sagara rule? Ayodhya.
409 Who was the mother of the Devas? Aditi.
410 Where did the Pandavas live soon after the completion of their period of staying incognito? At Upaplavya in Virata’s kingdom.
411 What were the four boons granted by Yama to Savitri? a. The sight of her blind father-in-law to be     restored,
b. The kingdom of her father-in-law to be restored c. 100 sons to be born to her father so that the     family line could be continued
d. 100 sons to be born to her of Satyavan.
412 Who was the chief minister of Ravana who was killed by Vibhishana in the battle against Sri Rama? Prahasta.
413 Who were the two wives of Pandu? Kunti and Madri.
414 How did Krishna get the name Damodara? Dama means rope. Udara means abdomen. When Krishna was yet a child, he was tied to a mortar with a rope. He dragged the mortar and tried to pass through the space between two trees. The mortar got stuck and when Krishna tugged at the rope the trees got uprooted and Krishna became free.
415 On the bank of which river is Panchavati? Godavari.
416 According to the Puranas where is the abode of Shiva? Mount Kailasa.
417 What was Kama’s bow called? Vijaya.
418 What was the name of the mountain that was used to churn the Ocean of Milk? Mandara.
419 With what words did Gandhari bless Duryodhana during the battle of Kurukshetra? Victory is where Dharma is. (Yato dharmastato jaya).
420 Where did Duryodhana hide towards the end of the eighteenth day of the battle of Kurukshetra? Inside a lake.
421 Who accompanies the Pandavas and Draupadi on their journey to Swarga? Yama in the guise of a dog.
422 What is the name of Ganesha’s brother? Karttikeya.
423 Drona imparted the knowledge of the ‘Brahma Shiras’ to Arjuna. What was the incident that pleased Drona to such an extent that he did so? Once while bathing in the Ganga, Drona encountered a crocodile that bit into his legs and held on to it. Of all the disciples who were with him only Arjuna moved forward and killed the crocodile. This pleased Drona.
424 What are the four stages of a man’s life, according to tradition? Brahmacharya, Grahasthya, Vanaprastha, and Sanyasa.
425 According to the Vana Parva five people could be considered as a person’s guru. Who are they? Father, Mother, Agni, Atman and Guru.
426 Who were Indra’s parents? Kashyapa and Aditi.
427 Who created the rift between Sunda and Upasunda? Tilottama.
428 Who gave the akshayapatra to Yudhishthira? Surya.
429 Anjalikavedha was an art by which the practitioner could subdue an elephant. Who among the Pandavas had mastered this art? Bhima.
430 After Sri Rama had captured Lanka, who was the Asura who led Sita to him? Avindhya.
431 What is the meaning of Pundarikaksha? Lotus eyed.
432 Ekalavya cut the thumb of his right hand as the guru dakshina for Drona. What did Arjuna, Drona’s favourite pupil, offer as a guru dakshina? Arjuna defeated Drupada, the king of Panchala and brought him bound to Drona.
433 Who killed Tataka? Rama.
434 Who killed Akampana in the battle at Lanka? Hanuman.
435 Veda Vyasa wrote the Mahabharata. His son was also erudite and was responsible for spreading the knowledge of the Mahabharata. What was his name? Shuka.
436 What was in the possession of Indravarma, the king of Malava that helped in the slaying of Drona in the battle of Kurukshetra? An elephant named Ashwatthama. Bhima killed this elephant and announced that Ashwatthama was dead. At this Drona lay down his arms and was slayed.
437 Marichi, Angiras, Atri, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu and Vasishtha are the sons of Brahma. What are tiiey called collectively? Saptarshis (Seven rishis).
438 What was the name of Sage Atri’s wife? Anasuya.
439 What was the vehicle of the Asnwini Kumars? Donkey.
440 In whose ashram did Shakuntala grow up? The ashram of Kanva.
441 King Bali was the grandson of an ardent devotee of Vishnu. Who was his grandfather? Prahlada.
442 Chyavana was an old and blind sage. By whom was his youth and eyesight restored? Ashwini Kumar(s).
443 Parikshit was living in a closely guarded tower. How could a serpent bite him? Takshaka entered a fruit in the shape of a worm and this was taken to the king by a Naga in the guise of a Brahmin.
444 Why did Balarama choose to remain neutral in the battle of Kurukshetra? Though Duryodhana sought Balarama’s help he refused to side with the Kauravas saying that he could not forsake Krishna.
445 Who was known for his bad temper among the rishis? Durvasa.
446 After he was crowned king, from whom did Yudhishthira seek instructions in state craft? From Bhishma, who was lying on a bed of arrows.
447 On whose side did Bhagadatta fight in the battle of Kurukshetra? On the side of the Kauravas.
448 During the Pandava’s exile why did Bhima go to the Gandhamadana Mountain? To get the Saugandhika flowers for Draupadi.
449 Who was the Nishada King who rowed Rama, Ska and Lakshmana across the river Ganga when they were on their way into the forests? Guha.
450 How did Kama’s slaying of Ghatotkacha help the Pandavas? Karna used the Shakti to kill Ghatotkacha. This was the weapon Karna could use only once. Therefore he had reserved it against Arjuna. Since Karna used it against Ghatotkacha, Arjuna was saved.

451 Amba, one of the daughters of the king of Kashi vowed to take revenge on Bhishma because she blamed him for her sorry plight. After receiving a boon from Shiva, she was reborn and in that birth was instrumental in killing Bhishma. Who was she reborn as? Shikhandi.
452 What were the names of Harishchandra’s wife and son? Chandramati (sometimes referred to as Taramati) and Lohitashva (Rohitashva)
453 Over which kingdom did Harishchandra rule? Ayodhya.
454 Who built the palace for Yama? Vishwakarma.
455 How was Jarasandha related to Kamsa? He was the father-in-law of Kamsa.
456 Who told Janamejaya that Parikshit had been bitten by Takshaka? Sage Uttanka.
457 How was Shishupala related to Krishna? They were cousins. Shishupala’s mother, Shrutasrava was the sister of Krishna’s father.
458 To whom did Shiva present the Pashupatastra? Arjuna.
459 After Sugriva was driven away from Kishkindha by Vali where did he set up his kingdom? Rishyamooka.
460 What was the name of Drona’s wife? Kripi.
461 Why is Krishna also called Keshava? Because he killed the asura Keshi.
462 Before the battle of Kurukshetra Krishna promised his help to both the Kauravas and the Pandavas. How did he manage to keep his promise? To the Kauravas he promised the help of his entire army. To the Pandavas, his personal help (without his taking up any weapons).
463 Who killed the asura Pralamba? Balarama.
464 Where did Kunti stay when the Pandavas went into exile for 12 years? WithVidura.
465 Who did Kama approach to learn the science of archery? Parashurama.
466 There were two occasions when Parashurama met Krishna. One was when Krishna and Balarama went to Mount Gomanta. When was the other? The second instance was when Krishna was on his way to the court of the Kauravas as the messenger of the Pandavas.
467 She was a demoness who dreamt about the destruction of Lanka by a monkey. Who was she? Trijata.
468 Who was the guru of both Krishna and Balarama? Sandipani.
469 Whose sons were Kumbha and Nikumbha? Kumbhakarna.
470 Sanjaya was the person who narrated the course of the battle of Kurukshetra to Dhritharashtra. He was able to do so because he received a boon by which he could see the battle. When did this divine sight end? After the death of Duryodhana.
471 What did Vishwamitra seek from Dasharatha? He wanted Rama and Lakshmana to accompany him and help him to perform Yajnas peacefully.
472 The battle of Kurukshetra entailed tremendous destruction. Who was entrusted with the duty of reconstruction by Yudhishthira? Sanjaya.
473 Vajranabha is a weapon used by Vishnu. It is however better known by another name. What is that name? Sudarshana-Chakra.
474 How did Krishna help Arjuna in killing Jayadratha? On hearing that Jayadratha was responsible for Abhimanyu’s death Arjuna had vowed to kill him before sunset the next day. During the course of the battle Krishna hid the sun. Thinking that the sun had set, Jayadratha came out and moved freely. When Krishna released the sun, the sun shone again and Jayadratha was killed by Arjuna.
475 Who is the consort of Madana, the god of love? Rati.
476 What was the name of the kingdom ruled by Dasharatha? Kosala. Its capital was Ayodhya.
477 What happened when Rama strung the bow of Shiva at Janaka’s palace (at the time of Sita’s swayamvara)? The bow broke into two pieces with a thunderous sound.
478 When did Parashurama meet Sri Rama? When Rama and Lakshamana were on their way to Ayodhya after their marriage.
479 What did Parashurama want from Rama? He sought to battle with Rama.
480 What was the task Parashurama set before Rama? He gave Rama the great bow of Vishnu and wanted Rama to draw the bow.
481 Who poisoned the ears of Kaikeyi when the whole city was happy that Rama would soon be crowned king? Manthara.
482 With what argument did Manthara convince Kaikeyi to seek the banishment of Rama? The main point made by her was that Kausalya would become the Queen Modier. Kaikeyi would have to bow to her wishes.
483 When did Dasharatha give the boons to Kaikeyi? In the course of a battle with Asuras, an arrow had hit him and he had fallen wounded. Sensing danger to his life Kaikeyi drove the chariot through the army of Asuras. Hence he granted her boons.
484 Who gave robes made of bark to Rama? Kaikeyi.
485 Where did Rama, Lakshmana and Sita take their first rest after leaving Ayodhya? On the bank of the river Tamasa.
486 What were the names assumed by Nakula and Sahadeva while living in disguise at the palace of Virata? Granthika and Tantripala.
487 What was the real name of Kuchela, Krishna’s boyhood friend? Sudama.
488 Who suggested to Rama the place they could live in happiness? What was the name of the place? Sage Bharadwaja suggested to Rama that they could live happily on Mount Chitrakoot.
489 Who first conveyed the news of Dasharatha’s death to Rama? Bharata.
490 Why did Bharata place Rama’s sandals on the throne? This was done as a symbol of Rama’s authority who was away.
491 What was the name of the forest that Rama, Lakshmana and Sita went to from Chitrakoot? Dandaka Forest.
492 What was the name of Parashurama’s mother? Renuka.
493 Why did Sage Kapila reduce the sons of Sagara to ashes? They accused him of stealing the horse of the Ashwamedha Yajna.
494 Who was the Commander-in-chief of the armies of Jarasandha? Shishupala.
495 What was the weapon of Indra? Vajra, the thunderbolt.
496 What was the name of Vishwamitra’s ashram? Siddhashram.
497 What was the advice given by Maricha to Ravana when he spoke of his plan to carry away Sita? Do not antagonise Rama.
498 Where was Sandipani’s ashram? Avanti.
499 With what instrument did Drona take out the ring, which was in the well? With an arrow.
500 Give the name of any one son of Draupadi. Prativindhya, Shrutasoma, Shrutakirti, Shrutasena (or Shrutakarma) and Shatanika.
501 What was the capital of Drupada’s kingdom? Kampilya.
502 Among the names of Bhudevi (Bhumidevi) is Kashyapi. Why is she known by this name? Parashurama once gifted the whole earth to Sage Kashyapa. From this comes the name Kashyapi.
503 Who were the three children of Samjna from Surya? Manu, Yama and Yami.
504 When Nachiketa asked for the secret of immortality, what did Yama reply? “When all the desires- cherished by the mind cease, it is here and now that the mortal becomes immortal.”
505 What was the name of Ashtavakra’s father? Kahodara (also known as Khagodara). The child, Ashtavakra was crooked in eight parts.
506 Which sage narrated the story of Sage Ashtavakra to the Pandavas? Sage Lomasha.
507 Where in modern India is Panchavati? Near Nasik in Maharashtra.
508 When the Gandharva King Chitrasena defeated the Kauravas and captured Duryodhana, what does Bhima do? He feels very happy and dances for joy.
509 How does Yudhishthira rebuke Bhima for expressing happiness, when Duryodhana was captured by Chitrasena? Yudhishthira says, “When we have our differences we are five and the Kauravas are a hundred, but when we are facing an outsider we should be a hundred and five.”
510 Who succeeded to the throne of Hastinapura after the death of King Shantanu? Chitrangada.
511 On which day of the battle of Kurukshetra did Kama start fighting for the Kauravas? Eleventh day. He did not want to take up arms so long as Bhishma was the commander of the Kaurava army. Bhishma had insulted Kama as “Sutaputra” (son of a charioteer).
512 Yudhishthira was also called Ajatashatru. What did the name mean? One without any enemy.
513 For which skill was Nala well-known? Nala was a great charioteer.
514 How did Nala win back his Kingdom? Nala played a game of dice with Pushkara and won it back.
515 Which was the kingdom of which Rukmini was the princess? Vidarbha.
516 Who is die god of death according to Indian Mythology? Yama.
517 Who was the mother of Lakshmana? Sumitra.
518 What happened when Kamsa seized the baby from Devaki’s hand and dashed her against a stone surface? The Divine infant manifested herself as an eight-armed goddess and said,” Kamsa, the one who is destined to kill you still lives.”
519 How did Hanuman convince Sita that he was a messenger of Rama? Hanuman gave the ring Rama had given him to show to Sita.
520 Who was the family priest of the Yadavas? Gargacharya.
521 When Vasudeva, holding the baby Krishna in his arms, reached the banks of the river Yamuna, what happened? The river waters parted.
522 Whom did Kamsa send to Gokul to kill all newborn babies? Putana.
523 What is sage Agastya known for? He stamped the Vindhya Mountain down. He is also said to be the writer of Tamil grammar.
524 What was the picture on the flag of Krishna? Garuda.
525 When the Devas and the Asuras churned the ocean of milk what did they want from the ocean? Amrit, the divine nectar.
526 What is Alakananda? A river, which flows through Devaloka (the land of Devas). After descending to earth it is called Ganga.
527 What was the first product that arose when the Ocean of Milk was churned? Halahala, deadly poison. The message that is conveyed here is important. When we start churning our mind in search of truth what comes out of the churning are doubts, despair, etc. It is when we continue the churning that we receive knowledge that gives peace.
528 Why did Amba curse Bhishma? Because he seized her by hand and wanted to carry her away to be wife of the Kuru princes.
529 The Pandavas had decided to construct a palace at Indraprastha. During this discussion who joined in and gave them the description of the courts of Indra, Yama, Varuna, Kubera and Brahma? Narada.
530 For how many years was Rama banished to the forest? Fourteen years.
531 Who was the Guru of the Devas (gods)? Brihaspati.
532 Where did Hanuman find Sita in Lanka? In the Ashoka Vana (forest).
533 What was the musical instrument that was always carried by Narada? Veena.
534 What were the names of the sons of Madri? Nakula and Sahadeva.
535 Why did Hiranyakashipu want to kill his own son? Because Prahlada, his son had become a devotee of his arch enemy, Vishnu.
536 How did Krishna get the name Giridhari? Because he held Mount Govardhan on his little finger. [Giridhara literally means holder (dhara) of a mountain (giri)]
537 When Indra was unable to defeat the asura Vritrasura, he sought the advice of Brahma. Brahma’s advice was to approach die son of sage Bhrigu and ask him for a bone from his body. This bone was to be converted into an astra that would kill the asura. Name the sage who donated his bone and thereby discarded his life so that the devas could triumph over the asuras. Sage Dadhichi.
538 Where did Bharata meet Rama after he set out from Ayodhya? At Chitrakoot.
539 Who were the Asuras? They were not much different from Suras (Devas), their cousins. According to one interpretation the word “Asura” is derived from ‘Asu’, which means ‘life’ and ‘ra’, which means ‘engrossed in’. Hence those who are engrossed in life were called Asuras.
540 When Sita was presented garments made of bark before leaving for the forest who forbade her from wearing them and why? Vasishtha, because it was only Rama who had been banished.
541 Why is Draupadi also called Panchali? Because she was the daughter of the King of Panchala (not because she had five husbands.)
542 What was the capital of Vidarbha? Kundinapura.
543 What was the name of Jatayu’s elder brother? Sampati.
544 Who was the commander of the Kaurava army after the death of Bhishma? Dronacharya.
545 Who is considered to be the architect of the Devas? Maya. Sometimes he is considered only as a carpenter of the Asuras.
546 Where did Rama meet Sugriva? Kishkindha.
547 Where did Krishna teach the Gita to Arjuna? On the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
548 Why is Sita sometimes called Vaidehi? Because she was the daughter of the King of Videha.
549 Who was Dhumraksha, referred to in the Ramayana? A minister of Ravana.
550 Who was anointed as the heir apparent to the kingdom of Kishkindha after the battle of Lanka? Sugriva’s son, Angada.
551 Who told Kamsa that Krishna and Balarama were, in reality, the sons of Vasudeva? Narada.
552 How was Dundubhi related to Ravana? He was Ravana’s brother-in-law.
553 Who killed Dundubhi? Vali.
554 Who was crowned King of Lanka after Havana’s death? Vibhishana.
555 What was the name of the place where Rama meets Guha, the Nishada King? Shringaverapura.
556 How was Hanuman captured by Indrajit? Indrajit, the son of Ravana, used the Brahmastra to bind Hanuman.
557 On his return from Lanka where did Rama meet Bharata? Nandigrama.
558 What was the boon sought by Raktabija from Shiva? If one drop of his blood fell on the battlefield, many Raktabijas would arise from the blood and fight the enemy. It conveys the idea that violence begets more violence.
559 In the Ashoka grove when Ravana produces the head of Rama who assures Sita that it is not a real one? Sarama.
560 According to puranas who is holding the earth on their back? The eight elephants known as Diggajas.
561 How many verses are there in the Ramayana? About 24,000.
562 What was the name of the monkey general who supervised the construction of the bridge to Lanka? Nala.
563 Who drove the chariot in which Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita left for the forest after Rama was banished? Sumantra.
564 Name the people who went to Magadha to subdue Jarasandha? Bhima, Arjuna and Krishna.
565 Where did Urmila live while her husband Lakshmana was keeping company of Rama in the forest? In Ayodhya, in the palace.
566 What was the name of Urmila’s father? King Kushadhvaja.
567 When the Yaksha asked Yudhishthira what is the greatest wonder, what did he reply? Day after day countless people die, yet the living wish to live forever.
568 Who were the companions of Shakuntala in Kanva’s ashram? Anasuya and Priyamvada.
569 Who killed Sunda and Upasunda? They fought with each other and got killed.
570 How was Shakuni related to Duryodhana? He was Duryodhana’s mother’s brother, his maternal uncle.
571 What kind of sacrifice was Vishwajit? At a Vishwajit sacrifice one has to give away everything he possesses.
572 How did Nahusha incur the anger of rishis? He made the rishis carry him in a Palanquin. He felt they were slow. -Hence shouting at them he said “Sarpa” (go fast). Hearing this Sage Agastya cursed him “Sarpo Bhava” (be a serpent).
573 Who killed Tarakasura? Karttikeya.
574 What was the pseudonym assumed by Bhima at the palace of Virata? Ballava (sometimes referred to as Vallala)
575 How many horses were yoked to Arjuna’s chariot? Four.
576 Who was the founder of the Yadava clan? Yadu, son of Yayati.
577 Which mountain was the abode of Sage Parashurama? Mount Mahendra.
578 Who were the three warriors in the Kaurava army who planned an attack on the sleeping Pandavas? Ashwatthama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma.
579 Who was the consort of Shiva? Parvati, also known as Shakti (strength). Through this concept it is communicated that the one who has strength alone can be Shiva (good).
580 What did Mt Mainaka tell Hanuman when he was en route to Lanka? “Your father once helped me. Rest here for a while.”
581 In which disguise did Hanuman meet Rama? In the disguise of a Brahmin.
582 What was the threat Ravana held out to Sita? “If you do not yield within two months my cook will mince your limbs for my morning meals.”
583 On whose shoulders did Rama ride during the battle with Kumbhakama? Hanuman.
584 In what disguise did Shiva appear before Parvati while she was performing penance? In the disguise of a hermit.
585 What was the name of the bow of Shiva? Pinaka.
586 What was the name of Ravana’s father? Vishrava.
587 What role did Trinavarta play in the life of Krishna? Trinavarta assumed the form of a whirlwind and swooped the baby Krishna off and attempted to kill him.
588 What was the vehicle of Agni? Male Goat.
589 Who occupied Duryodhana’s palace after the battle of Kurukshetra? Bhima.
590 What is said to be the vehicle of Yama, God of Death? Buffalo.
591 He was the brother in law of Virata, King of Matsyadesha. He was killed by Bhima because he had molested Draupadi. Who was he? Kichaka.
592 When devas and asuras were churning the ocean of milk a deva arose from it with a Kamandalu in one hand and a danda in the other. Who was he? Dhanwantari, who is said to have taught ayurveda to the world.
593 Who was Yayati’s father? Nahusha.
594 Who killed Shikhandi? Ashwatthama.
595 Who was the guru of Banasura? Shukracharya.
596 Who was responsible for the origin of the land mass that we now know as Kerala? Parashurama.
597 In which avatar did Lord Vishnu kill Hiranyakashipu? Narasimha Avatar.
598 Kripacharya and his sister Kripi were abandoned as children. Who took pity on them and brought them up? King Shantanu.
599 Who set fire to the camp of the Pandavas? Kritavarma.
600 Who broke      Ganesha’s. tusk? Parashurama.

Trivakra.

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