Cuttack, April 10: A general knowledge quiz based on characters of the epic Ramayan was held at Rajabagicha Labour Colony Primary School here in the city today.

More than 110 students between four and 14 years of age from different schools took part in the quiz competition that was organised by Oriya Bhasa Sanskruti Prachar Abhiyan.

“This is a small step to promote our culture that is facing a constant threat from western culture. It is observed that many of our children do not have any idea about these mythological characters, which is certainly an area of concern,” said Oriya Bhasa Sanskruti Prachar Abhiyan president Amlan Badan Pattanaik.

Today’s quiz was entirely based on Ramayan and the students were asked questions like who the son of Hanuman was and which god’s avatar was Ram. “Many youngsters will find it hard to recall and answer such questions. We are planning to conduct similar kinds of programs to make aware our children of our past,” said Sishir Rath, secretary.

Apart from the quiz, a drawing competition on the theme of mythological characters was also organised on the occasion.

“I enjoyed taking part in the quiz and the drawing competition because all my friends from the locality participated with me,” said Abhipsa Mishra (4), a student.

“I developed interest about the character of Hanuman from certain cartoon films. I will now try to learn more about our god and goddess,” said another student.

According to the organisers, special classes, apart from such events, would be held to promote Indian culture. “Keeping in view the response, we have decided to organise such programs,” Pattnaik added.