SSC Stenographer 2025 PYQ — Question 50

SSC Stenographer - 08 Aug 2025 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q50

Which of the following accurately describes The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, winner of the 2022 Booker Prize?
1.The novel is set during the civil war in Sri Lanka and explores the afterlife of a photojournalist.
2.It is a non-fictional account of archaeological excavations in the Gandhara region.
3. The author, Shehan Karunatilaka, uses satire and ghosts to comment on violence, memory, and political trauma. 

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

Answer: 1 and 3 only

Explanation

The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka is a work of fiction with strong political and historical themes.

Statement 1 is correct

The novel is set during the Sri Lankan civil war

It follows a dead photojournalist navigating the afterlife

Statement 2 is incorrect

It is not a non-fiction archaeological account

It is a fictional novel, not related to Gandhara excavations

Statement 3 is correct

The author uses satire, dark humor, and supernatural elements (ghosts)

Explores themes like: Violence, Memory and Political trauma

Additional Key Points

Winner of the Booker Prize in 2022

Combines magical realism with political commentary

Highlights the impact of war and media

Set in Colombo during turbulent times

Known for its unique narrative style

Potential Questions & Answers

Q. What is the central theme of the novel?
Ans: Violence, memory, and political trauma

Q. What type of narrative style is used in the novel?
Ans: Satire with supernatural elements