A quick resource for you to practice Malayalam cinema GK MCQs
Malayalam cinema has a rich history, from the early silent films to the global recognition of contemporary works. This GK post covers exam-worthy questions for UPSC and state exams, including iconic films, directors, festivals, and award milestones.
🎞 Did You Know? – In the history of Malayalam cinema
- Balan (1938), the first Malayalam talkie, had only two songs.
- Jallikattu (2019) was India’s third Malayalam Oscar submission.
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Table of Contents
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History & Key Facts of Malayalam Cinema
Malayalam cinema—often called Mollywood—is one of India’s most respected film industries. Known for its strong storytelling traditions, literary adaptations, and socially rooted themes, Malayalam films have earned national and international recognition for decades.
- Early Years (1920s–1940s): Malayalam cinema began with Vigathakumaran (1928) and evolved through mythological and drama-based films.
- Golden Era (1950s–1970s): The arrival of filmmakers like Ramu Kariat and Adoor Gopalakrishnan brought realism and artistic excellence.
- New-Gen Wave (2010s–Present): Innovative screenwriting and character-driven stories led to global acclaim, with films like Drishyam, Premam, Kumbalangi Nights, and Jallikattu.
Today, Malayalam cinema is globally admired for its authenticity, strong narratives, and creative filmmaking techniques — making it a frequent topic in UPSC and State PSC exam questions.
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Malayalam Cinema GK MCQs – Set 1 for UPSC & State Exams
- Which was the first Malayalam talkie?
A) Vigathakumaran
B) Balan
C) Swyamvaram
D) Jallikattu
Answer: B) Balan
Explanation: Balan (1938) is widely recognized as the first Malayalam sound film. - Who is considered the pioneer of Malayalam New Wave cinema?
A) Lijo Jose Pellissery
B) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
C) Priyadarshan
D) Shaji N. Karun
Answer: B) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
Explanation: His films, including Swayamvaram (1972), set the foundation of artistic cinema in Kerala. - Which Malayalam film was selected as India’s official entry for the 93rd Academy Awards?
A) The Great Indian Kitchen
B) Jallikattu
C) Kumbalangi Nights
D) Drishyam
Answer: B) Jallikattu
Explanation: Jallikattu (2019), directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, was selected as India’s official entry for the 93rd Academy Awards (2021). Although the film was released in 2019, its Oscar submission took place in 2020, which is why it is associated with the 2021 ceremony. - Vigathakumaran (1928) is known as:
A) First talkie
B) First silent film in Malayalam
C) First color film
D) First New Wave film
Answer: B) First silent film in Malayalam
Explanation: Directed by J.C. Daniel, it is considered the first Malayalam feature film. - Which festival is among the top platforms for Malayalam cinema?
A) Cannes Film Festival
B) International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK)
C) Sundance Film Festival
D) Venice Film Festival
Answer: B) International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK)
Explanation: IFFK is one of Asia’s leading film festivals showcasing regional cinema. - Who directed the acclaimed film ‘Swayamvaram’?
A) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
B) Shaji N. Karun
C) Lijo Jose Pellissery
D) Priyadarshan
Answer: A) Adoor Gopalakrishnan - Which Malayalam film released in 2021 is known for its realistic portrayal of modern family relationships and digital-age challenges?
A) Home (#Home)
B) Drishyam
C) Balan
D) Jallikattu
Answer: A) Home (#Home) Explanation: Home (2021), directed by Rojin Thomas, is a Malayalam film that focuses on realistic family relationships, generational differences, and the impact of technology on modern households. The film was widely appreciated for its relatable storytelling and emotional depth. - Which Malayalam film is considered the first in the New Wave era?
A) Swyamvaram
B) Balan
C) Vigathakumaran
D) Adaminte Makan Abu
Answer: A) Swyamvaram - Which director’s works contributed to the rise of Malayalam cinema internationally?
A) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
B) Priyadarshan
C) Lijo Jose Pellissery
D) Both A & C
Answer: D) Both A & C - Which Malayalam film was India’s third submission for the Oscars?
A) Guru
B) Adaminte Makan Abu
C) Jallikattu
D) Swyamvaram
Answer: C) Jallikattu
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Malayalam Cinema GK FAQs – Key Questions Answered
Q1. When did Malayalam cinema begin?
A: Malayalam cinema began with the silent film Vigathakumaran in 1928, directed by J.C. Daniel.
Q2. Who is considered the father of Malayalam New Wave cinema?
A: Adoor Gopalakrishnan, known for films like Swayamvaram (1972), pioneered the New Wave movement in Malayalam cinema.
Q3. Which festivals showcase Malayalam cinema internationally?
A: The International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) and other international film festivals like Cannes have screened Malayalam films.
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Conclusion
Malayalam cinema GK is an important component of questions related to Indian cinema, national awards, and regional film movements in UPSC and State-level examinations. Regular practice of MCQs, supported by a clear understanding of historical and cultural context, helps strengthen exam readiness.
Use this resource alongside other Cine GK posts to develop a balanced and exam-oriented understanding of Indian cinema.
This learning path covers cinema history, awards, regional industries, and landmark films relevant for UPSC and State Exams.
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More Reading Resources & Cinema GK Practice
Diving into these sections will help you build a solid understanding of cinema GK for UPSC, state PSC and other competitive exams.
Continue Exploring Malayalam Cinema & Cine GK
To build a deeper understanding of Malayalam cinema GK, combine historical context with regular MCQ practice.
- Explore Malayalam cinema history: Mollywood: The Malayalam Film Industry — From Literary Roots to Global Applause
Practice More Cinema GK MCQs
- Next MCQ Set: Cine GK UPSC Practice – Must-Answer MCQs (Part 6)
- Previous Sets: Cine GK MCQs (Part 1–5)
Regional Cinema GK Series
- Tamil Cinema GK – Must-Know Questions for UPSC & State Exams
- Upcoming: Telugu / Kannada / Bengali Cinema GK
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Further Reading
For additional background and contextual understanding of Malayalam cinema, refer to the following authoritative sources:
- The Hindu – Malayalam Cinema Section
Features, retrospectives, and industry-related articles. - Wikipedia – Malayalam Cinema
Overview of the history, development, and key milestones of Malayalam cinema.
🔖 Attribution Note:
These external links open in a new tab and are provided strictly for reference and educational purposes. All rights remain with the respective publishers and content owners.
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