A community of people called Manganiyars is well- known for their

Answer: (b) Musical tradition in North-West India.

The Manganiyars are hereditary folk musicians of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, which lies in north-west India. They are known for their musical tradition, so (b) is correct.

• ✓ (b) Manganiyars are renowned folk musicians of the Thar Desert, chiefly around Jaisalmer and Barmer in western Rajasthan. They are famous for their songs and music, often accompanied by instruments such as the kamayacha.
• ✗ (a) Martial arts of the North-East, such as Thang-ta in Manipur, have no link with the Manganiyars.
• ✗ (c) The Manganiyars practise a folk musical tradition of Rajasthan, not South Indian classical (Carnatic) vocal music.
• ✗ (d) Pietra dura is decorative inlay work in stone, seen at the Taj Mahal in Agra. It is not a Manganiyar tradition.

Remember · Manganiyars (and Langas) are hereditary folk musicians of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, a north-western Indian musical tradition.

Question: UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) 2014, General Studies paper. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 25 Oct 2026 (how we verify). · Report an error