ART & CULTURE SIMPLIFIED FOR UPSC CSE

2019 + 2020
By Arpita Sharma
Preface

I am very happy and pleased to present all my warriors cum UPSC Aspirants a thoroughly
researched and hopefully well presented simplified e-book on Art and Culture for UPSC CSE
– Prelims and Mains (GS-1) .
Since last 4 years , the UPSC has asked 4-6 Questions from Art and Culture section in
Prelims and 2-3 Questions are always asked in GS-1 ( Mains ). So , after thorough research
and analysis of Previous 10 Year’s Question Papers and in-depth analysis of the different
aspects of Art and Culture in India , I am very pleased to present this e-book to all of you .
This e-book will act as a one stop solution when it comes to preparing Art and Culture for
Prelims as well Mains .
Constructive suggestions and remarks are welcome to further improve this book and they
shall be gladly acknowledged .
Arpita Sharma
(Author)
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q1. Consider the following statements about Khajuraho temples .

1. They were developed by Chandela rulers.
2. The temples were made of sandstones.
3. Khajuraho temples has the influence of Dravidian style of temple
architecture.
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
a) 1 and 3
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q1. Consider the following statements about Khajuraho temples .

1. They were developed by Chandela rulers.
2. The temples were made of sandstones.
3. Khajuraho temples has the influence of Dravidian style of temple
architecture.
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
a) 1 and 3
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q2. Which of the following are the Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India ?
1. Sirpur
2. Kushinagar
3. Nagapattinam
4. Karla Caves
Select the correct code:
a) 1 , 2 and 3
b) 1 , 2 and 4
c) 2 , 3 and 4
d) All of the above
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q2. Which of the following are the Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India ?
1. Sirpur
2. Kushinagar
3. Nagapattinam
4. Karla Caves
Select the correct code:
a) 1 , 2 and 3
b) 1 , 2 and 4
c) 2 , 3 and 4
d) All of the above
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q3. Consider the following statements about Kuchipudi

1. Most of the Kuchipudi recitals have a secular theme.
2. The dance involves only two components of classical dances,
Nritta and Nritya.
3. The Kuchipudi dance style is a manifestation of the earthly
elements in the human body.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Mock Test – Before beginning let us check what kind of questions are
asked from Art and culture and check our preparation ☺

Q3. Consider the following statements about Kuchipudi

1. Most of the Kuchipudi recitals have a secular theme.
2. The dance involves only two components of classical dances,
Nritta and Nritya.
3. The Kuchipudi dance style is a manifestation of the earthly
elements in the human body.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
 Contents
Chapter 1 : Indian Social Structure in Ancient India
Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO List, Handicrafts
Chapter 3 : Performing Arts
Chapter 4 : Musical Instruments
Chapter 5 : Puppetry In India
Chapter 6 : Indian Architecture
Chapter 7 ; Mauryan Stupas
Chapter 8 : Sculpture
Chapter 9 : Gupta Science and Technology
Chapter 10 : Architecture of Early Modern Period
Chapter 11 : Post Mauryan Architecture
Chapter 12 : Indo-Islamic Architecture
Chapter 13 : Indian Painting
Chapter 14 : Religions
Chapter 15 : Classical Languages
Chapter 16 : Important Current Affairs
 Chapter 1 : Indian Social Structure in Ancient India
• Initial differentiation of Arya varna & Das varna (Based on color) later developed into a
complex ‘varna system’, which in place of the tribe divided society into Brahmana,
Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra categories.
• The first two ‘varnas’ exploited the most numerous and productive
Vaishya varna, whereas the three in unision exploited the Shudras.

✓ ‘Varna/Jati’ system underwent further changes when

new groups such as the Shakas, Kushanas, Parthians
and Indo-Greeks people arrived in India.
✓ Growth of urbanization, craft production, and trade
resulted in the rise of guilds or ‘shreni’ which in later
times became castes.
✓ The behavior of guild members was controlled
through a guild court. Customarily the guild (shreni-
dharma) had the power of law.
 Untouchables (Antyajas)
1. Untouchability took roots during the last phase of Vedic
period & became a separate social category in the age
of the Buddha.
2. Sometimes they were called the fifth varna (panchamd)
3. They were not allowed to reside in the caste villages and
had to stay in special quarters outside the main
settlements. Their main task was to carry and cremate
the corpses.
4. The law-books have prescribed that they should be
dressed in the garments of the corpses they cremated,
should eat food from broken vessels and should wear
only iron ornaments.
5. By the Gupta period their status fell so much that they
were forced to further strike a wooden clapper on
entering a town.
6. The hunters (nishada), fishermen (kaivartas) leather
workers (charmakaras), sweepers (kukkusa), and basket
makers (vend) all became untouchables.
7. ‘Dom’ and ‘Domb’ was a tribe which became an
untouchable category after coming into contact with the
caste divided groups.
 Q. Consider the following statements
1. The first Varna was Brahmins, were expected to study and
teach the Vedas, execute sacrifices and rituals.
2. Women were also grouped with the Shudras
Select the correct ones :
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

➢ The first Varna was Brahmin. They were expected to study and
teach the Vedas, execute sacrifices and rituals.
➢ Kshatriyas were the second Varna. They were likely to fight battles
and guard the nation.
➢ The third group was the Vaishyas. They were expected to be
farmers, and traders. Both the Kshatriyas and the Vaishyas could do
sacrifices. Shudras were the fourth Varna.
➢ They are supposed to serve the other three groups. They could not
perform any rituals.
➢ Frequently, women were also grouped with the Shudras. Both
Shudras and women were not allowed to learn the Vedas.
 Purushartha, Ashrama & Sanskara

The three concepts of ‘purusharth’, ‘ashrama’, and ‘samskara’ are interlinked

means aims of life which is divided into four

‘ashramas’ or stages of life

There-are four aims of life

1. ‘dharma’ (right conduct),
2. ‘artha’(pursuits through which livelihood is earned),
3. ‘kama’ (worldly desires) and
4. ‘moksha’ (salvation)
 Purushartha, Ashrama & Sanskara
•To enable a person to practise the four ‘purusharthas’, the life of a
person is divided into four ‘ashrama’ or stages
•For each ‘ashrama’ there are prescribed ‘samskaras’ or rites that need to
be performed
•The first ‘ashrama’ is known as ‘brahmacharya’, which a person enters
after the ‘upanayana sanskara’ or the sacred thread ceremony
✓ During the period of this ‘ashrama’ he receives education and learns to discipline his
will and emotions.
✓ He has to live with the guru at his ‘ashrama’ in the forest & learn to obey and serve
him.
✓ He begs alms for himself & his teacher + does odd jobs like fetching water & cleaning
✓ He practises the ideals of plain living and high thinking. Even a royal prince
performed all these duties.
✓ The ‘brahmacharya’ stage thus prepared the individual to take on the
responsibilities of a householder.
 Purushartha, Ashrama & Sanskara
The Second ashrama is ‘grihastha ashrama’ , the most important stage in a
person’s life.
✓ During this period, he practices artha and kama in accordance with
the
✓ He gets married, begets children and earns livelihood to support his
family and discharge his obligations towards the society.
After discharging all the duties of a householder, he enters the
‘vanaprastha ashrama’.
✓ During this stage he leaves the family and retires to the forest, where
he practices detachment from all worldly pursuits and interests.
✓ He had to live only on fruits and vegetables and wear clothes made of
deer-skin or barks of a tree.
 Purushartha, Ashrama & Sanskara
1. He practices meditation and austerities as well, and if he dies in this stage he
attains moksha , Otherwise, he enters the ‘sanyasa ashrama’ in which he practises
complete renunciation.
2. It is also possible that the system of the ashramas was evolved partly to counter
unorthodox sects such as Buddhism and Jainism which encouraged young men to take up
asceticism and by-pass family life altogether, a practice which did not receive the
approval of the orthodox, though in later time provision was made for it.
3. According to the scheme, the four stages of life began not with physical birth, but with
sacred thread ceremony.
4. Thus the child could become the full member of the society only after investiture with the
scared thread. This was one of the important ceremonies or ‘samskara’ at all the
stages of life of a man from his conception to death.
5. Sanskaras are prescribed for the 3 upper varnas, not for the shudras and
untouchables.
 Purushartha, Ashrama & Sanskara
Jajmani System

a) Developed during early medieval period and continued till modern times in the rural society
b) A complementary relationship between the groups of dominant peasant castes on the one hand and service
and artisan castes on the other
c) In this system the service castes rendered services to the land-owning peasant castes as well as to the high
and dominant castes and were entitled to traditionally fixed shares of the produce and in some cases to a
small plot of land.
d) Thus, the leather-workers, the barbers, the priests, the garland makers, the ploughmen, and various
types of smiths worked for the high castes or dominant landowning groups and were paid in kind on
certain occasions or in the form of a land allotment.
e) However, such service castes always retained some freedom to sell their goods and services.
f) During medieval period this system of relationships acted as a safeguard in times of distress and calamities.
g) Thus, it was noted that during famines the artisans who were not tied into the Jajmani system were harder
hit than even the rural poor.
h) This system of service-relationship is now breaking up under the influence of monetization,
urbanization and industrialization.
Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts
Indian Festivals

• India is a land of fasts and festivals.

• The Indian men and women observe these festivals throughout the year.
• These festivals are being observed from time immemorial.
• People are observing them right from the dawn of human civilization.
Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts
Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts
Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts

UNESCO Representative List of India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts

UNESCO Representative List of India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Chapter 2 : Indian Festivals, India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO
List, Handicrafts

Indian Handicrafts
 Chapter 3 : Performing Arts
Rasanubhuti: The 8 Rasas

The Rasanubhuti is the ultimate aim of these dance forms. Natya Shastra speaks
of Eight Rasas. They are as following:
1) Shringar: Love
2) Hasya: Humorous
3) Karuna: Sorrow
4) Raudra: Anger
5) Veer: Heroism
6) Bhayanak: Fear
7) Bibhats: Disgust
8) Adbhoot: Wonder

Note: Later Abhinav Gupta added a ninth one to it, Shanta: Peace.
 Chapter 3 : Performing Arts
Classical Dance
Salient facts:
1. The Rig Veda mentions dance (nrti) and danseuse (nrtu).
2. The discovery of the bronze statue of a dancing girl in Harappan culture
testifies to the fact that some women in Harappa performed dances.
3. The figure of Lord Shiva as Nataraja represents the creation and
destruction of the cosmic cycle.
4. Dances performed inside the sanctum of the temple according to the
rituals were called Agama Nartanam.
5. Dances performed in royal courts to the accompaniment of classical music
were called Carnatakam.
The term “classical” was introduced by Sangeet Natak Akademi to denote the Natya Shastra-
based performing art styles.
 Classical Dance
The term “classical” was introduced by Sangeet Natak Akademi to denote the Natya Shastra-
based performing art styles.
Bharata Natyam (Tamil Nadu)
Bharatnatyam dance is known to
be ekaharya, where one dancer takes on
many roles in a single performance.
The person who conducts the dance
recitation is the Nattuvanar.
1. The Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikesvara is
textual source for it.
2. The dance movements are characterized by bent
legs, while feet keep rhythm.
3. Hands may be used in a series of mudra
The Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikesvara is one of
the main sources of textual material, for the study of
the technique and grammar of body movement in
Bharatnatyam Dance.
• As a solo dance, Bharatnatyam leans heavily on
the abhinaya or mime aspect of dance -
the nritya, where the dancer expresses
the sahitya through movement and mime.
• Shabdam follows the jatiswaram in a Bharatnatyam
dance performance.
• The accompanying song is generally in adoration of
the Supreme Being.
Kathakali (Kerala)
Dazzling classical dance of Kerala is Kathakali. ‘Katha’= Story or tale, ‘Kali’= Performance and
Art.
Its roots are in ancient ‘Kutiyattam’ (Classical Sanskrit Dance Drama) and
‘Krishnattam’ (Dance-Drama depicting Stories of Hindu God Krishna).

Movements in Kathakali are influenced by ancient martial arts and athletic

tradition. It is basically a Dance-Drama.

Kathakali was traditionally a male-dominated dance and now females are too
welcomed in this dance form.

Kathakali has similarities with other dance forms like that of the Japanese ‘
Noh’ and ‘Kabuki’ dance forms have similarities with Kathakali.

The famous artists of Kathakali

a) Kalamandalam Krishna Prasad.
b) Kalamandalam Kesavan Namboodiri.
c) Kalamandalam Gopi
Mohini Attam (Kerala)
1. Mohiniattyam is
characterized by swaying
movements of the upper
body with legs placed in a
stance similar to the plie
position.
2. The eyes play an important
role in the direction of the
movement.
3. The performer wear the
white and gold costume
Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)
Kathak (Uttar Pradesh) Odissi (Orissa)
1. The movements include 1. The technique of Odissi
intricate footwork includes repeated use of
accented by bells worn the tribhangi, (thrice
around the ankles and deflected posture) in
stylized gestures adapted which the body is bent in
from normal body three places, the shape of
language. a helix.
2. Lucknow, Banaras and 2. This posture and the
Jaipur are recognized as characteristic shifting of
the three schools of it. the torso from side to
side, make Odissi a
difficult style to execute.
• Kuchipudi exhibits scenes from the Hindu Epics,
legends and mythological tales through a
combination of music, dance and acting.
• Taranagam is the main unique piece of Kuchpudi
repertoire, also known as plate (made by brass)
dance. In that the dancer must dance upon a brass
plate, placing the feet upon the raised edges.
Manipuri (Manipur)

✓ It has two major streams.

✓ One is the Sankeertana which is the devotional aspect and the other is
Raasa.

Sattriya (Assam)

✓ Dressed in white costumes and turbans, head gears, they include khol
playing, performing dance, creating soundscapes, floor patterns and
choreographic designs.
Q. How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?
(2012)
1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in
Bharatanatyam.
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of
Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 Feature of Kuchhipudi
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Kuchipudi vs Bharatanatyam
✓ Bharatnatyam costume has three fans of dissimilar lengths. While Kuchipudi dress
has only one frill/fan lengthier than the lengthiest fan in the former.
✓ In Bharatnatyam, there is no side Pallu but in Kuchipudi separate pallu is stitched
seen on the left side.
✓ Two buns are used in Kuchipudi while only one in Bharatnatyam.
 Classical Music
1. The earliest tradition of Indian music may be traced to Sama Veda which contained the slokas
that were put to music.
2. The earliest text dealing exclusively with performing arts is Bharata’s Natyashashtra.
3. Matanga’s Brihaddesi : ragas were first named and discussed at great length.
4. Sangeet Ratnakara written by Sarangdeva in the thirteenth century mentions 264 ragas.

Hindustani Music
• Hindustani Sangeet is usually considered to be a mixture of
traditional Hindu musical concepts and Persian performance
practice.
Classical
Music • Hindustani music is based on the raga system.
Carnatic Music
• Carnatic Sangeet is the South Indian system of classical music.
• Carnatic Sangeet is found in the South Indian states of Kerala,
Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
 Classical Music
Six Ragas

Gharanas
Classical Music
Difference between Hindustani and Carnatic Music
Folk Music

✓ Each state of India has its own form of music that is the basis of their cultural affirmation, the folk
tradition is the music of the people and has no hard and fast rules.
1. Wonawan: It is the folk music from Kashmir, sung during wedding ceremonies and is considered very
auspicious.
2. Pandwani: It is the folk music of Chhattisgarh, which is based on grand epic Mahabharata. Well-known
artists Tijanbai related with this music.
3. Alha: This is the folk music of Madhya Pradesh and Bundel Khanda (U.P.), it is a heroic ballad song with
intricate words.
4. Ovi: This is music of Maharashtra and Goa, sung by women.
5. Pai song: It is folk music of Madhya Pradesh sung during festivals.
6. Maand: It is folk music of Rajasthan. The songs are usually bards singing the glory of the Rajput Rulers.
7. Powada: It is folk music of Maharashtra. They are usually ballads sung for the heroes of the post like
Shivaji.
8. Khongjom Parva: It is an important folk music from the state of Manipur.
9. Sohar: It is folk song of Bihar, sung during childbirth.
10. Bhagawati: It is folk song of Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Earliest text was Bharat Muni’s Natya Shastra Prelims
Science of Music: Gandharva Veda Facts :

1. The origin of Khayal is attributed to Amir Khusro

2. Qawwali is an innovation of Amir Khusro
3. Mirza Galib is regarded as the father of Ghazals.
4. The Nawab of Rampur devised a system of notation
and classification of Ragas under ‘Thats’
5. Mustak Hussain Khan, Haffeez Ahmad Khan and
Ustad Fida Hussain Khan Popularised Hindustani
vocal music in the west
6. The origin of Khayal is attributed to Amir Khusro
7. Qawwali is an innovation of Amir Khusro
8. Mirza Galib is regarded as the father of Ghazals.
9. Dhun is free from formal ragas disciplines
composed on the basis of folk music.
10. Gat is a well-defined composition and it is preceded
by the Alap.
11. Dhamur Veena the bow shaped harp is considered
the oldest instrument.
12. Tamil and Dravidian music derived inspiration from
Thevaram and Silpadikaram
 Musical Instruments
For any music to be created, one needs to have some semblance of music
instruments.

Awanad/ Avanaddha Vadya

These are also called Percussion instruments as one has to strike or scrap or strike
them with another similar instrument to produce musical sound. These are believed
to be oldest musical instruments. Examples of this group include Tabla, Mridangam,
Drum, Dhol, Congo.

Sushira Vadya
In this group, the sound is produced by blowing air into a hollow column. Hence
they are also known as wind instruments.
a) The pitch of the note is determined by controlling the air passage.
b) The melody is played by using the fingers to open and close the instrument.
c) The simplest and the commonest among this group of instruments is the flute.
d) Other wind instruments include Shehnai, Pungi, Harmonium, Nadaswaram.
 Chapter 4 : Musical Instruments
For any music to be created, one needs to have some semblance of music
instruments.
Ghana Vadya
1. The earliest musical instruments created by man are said to be the Ghana
Vadya or solid instruments.
2. Once constructed, they do not require any special tuning.
3. They are principally rhythmic in function and are best suited as an
accompaniment to folk and tribal music and dance.
4. Different Ghana Vadya include Manjira, Ghatak,Jaltarang, Kanch-tarang,
Jhanj, Khartal.
Taal/ Tata Vadya
• These instruments produce sound by the vibration of strings. which may be made of
vegetable fibre, metal, silk or artificial elements like nylon.
• The string may be struck, plucked, rubbed (bowed), or occasionally blown by the
wind to produce sound.
• The degree to which a string is tightened determines the pitch of the note.
✓ Different string instruments include - Veena, violin, Santoor, Sarangi, Sitar.
 Chapter 5 : Puppetry in India
a) The puppets are believed to be around since the time of Harappa and Mohenjodarocivilisation
dating back to 2300 BC.
b) Several dolls with strings are found in some of the harappan cities.
c) Silappadikaaram is earliest reference to the art of puppetry is found in Sangam literature.

The different forms of puppetry in India are discussed below:

Types of puppet Salient features Examples

String Puppets Marionettes having jointed limbs controlled Kathputli (Rajasthan)

by strings, allow far greater flexibility Kundhei (Orissa)
Gombeyatta (Karnataka)

Shadow Puppets They are cut out of leather, which has been treated Togalu Gombeyatta
to make it translucent. (Karnataka)
Shadow puppets are pressed against the screen with Tholu Bommalata (Andhra
a strong source of light behind it. Pradesh)
Ravanachhaya (Orissa)
Rod Puppets It is supported and manipulated by rods from
Putul Nautch (West Bengal)
below.
Kathi Kandhe (Orissa)
Indian Architecture Chapter 6
• Indian Architecture evolved in various ages in different parts and regions of the
country.
• Apart from these natural and obvious evolutions from the pre-historic and historic
periods, evolution of Indian architecture was generally affected by many great and
important historic developments.
Gupta Architecture Schools of Temple Architecture in India
The temple architecture in India reflects a synthesis of arts, the ideals of Dharma, beliefs, values and
the way of life.

• The temple architecture in India reflects a synthesis of arts, the ideals of Dharma, beliefs, values and
the way of life.
• The architectural principles of Indian temples are described in Shilpa Shastras and Vastu Sastras.
Nagara School of Temple Architecture

This school of temple architecture originated during the Gupta

Period. The distinct features of this school are given below:
a) The temple belong to this school has a square with a number of
graduated projections in the middle of each side giving a
cruciform shape with a number of re-entrant angles on each
side.
b) Shikhara is the prominent structure of this school which
exhibits a tower (shikhara) gradually inclining towards in a
convex curve, using a concentric rotating squares and circles
principle.
c) The projections in the plan are also carried upwards to the top
of the Shikhara and thus, there is strong emphasis on vertical
lines in elevation.
d) It is associated with the land between the Himalayas and
Vindhyas.
Dravidian School of Temple Architecture
The temples of this school consist almost invariably of the four
following parts, differing only according to the age in which they
were executed.
1. The principal part, the temple itself, is called the Vimana (or
Vimanam). It is always square in plan and surmounted by a
pyramidal roof of one or more stories; it contains the cell where
the image of the God or his emblem is placed.
2. The porches or Mandapas which always cover and precede the
door leading to the cell.
3. Gopurams are the principal features in the quadrangular
enclosures that surround the more notable 44 temples.
4. Pillared halls or Chaultris—properly Chawadis used for various
purposes and which are the invariable accompaniments of these
temples.
5. It is associated with the temples of southern India or Deccan
region.
Vesara School of Temple Architecture
• It was emerged during early medieval period and evolved from the combination
of both Nagara and Dravida styles of temple architecture.
• It came into existence during the later Chalukyas of Kalyani and Hoysalas
dynasty.
• This is also known as Chalukya style or Karnataka style. This school is
prevalent in the Deccan and Central India, between the Vindhyas and the river
Krishna.
• Mahadeva Temple, Itagi build under Chalukya Empire and Chennakesava
Temple, Belur build under Hoyasala Empire is a classic example of this style.
• The distinct features this school of temple architecture are given below:
1. It has two principal components Vimana and Mandap joined by Antrala.
2. The temple belongs to this school has reduced height of temple as compare to
Nagara and Dravida School of Architecture however it retains the tiers.
PRELIMS !
Chapter 7 : Stupas of Mauryan period
Q. THE STUPA IS AN IMPORTANT FORM OF BUDDHIST
ARCHITECTURE, THOUGH IT PREDATES BUDDHISM.
DISCUSS THE RELIGIOUS, ARCHITECTURAL AND
PHILOSOPHICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF VARIOUS BUDDHIST
STUPAS. (250 Words)
Structure of Answer:

• In the introduction, write a line or two about how

Stupas are embodiment of Buddha’s ideology and
himself. Also write how architectural style of Stupa
has various forms across Asia symbolising various
aspects of Buddhism.
• In the body, as per question’s demand there are
THREE parts(religious, architectural and
philosophical significance). Discuss each with
suitable examples. Notice that question is about
‘various forms’ of Buddhist Stupas.
• In the conclusion, write the need for preserving
these structures. Or write any relevant conclusion.
Stupas of Mauryan period
Salient features of Buddhist architecture

▪ Buddhist Stupa: The Buddhist Stupas were built at

places where Buddha’s remains were preserved and at
the major sites where important events in Buddha’s life
took place. Stupas were built of huge mounds of mud,
enclosed in carefully burnt small standard bricks. One
was built at his birthplace Lumbini; the second at Gaya
where he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi
Tree, the third at Sarnath where he gave his first
sermon and the fourth at Kushinagar where he passed
away attaining Mahaparinirvana at the age of eighty.
▪ Chaitya: A chaitya is a Buddhist shrine or prayer hall
with a stupa at one end.
▪ Vihara: It refers to “dwellings” or “refuges” used by
wandering monks during the rainy season
Stupas of Mauryan period

Q1. Consider the following

I. It is hemispheric in structure which consisted of
circular terrace.
II. Stupas during Mauryan Age constructed with the
help of bricks.
Which of the above statement (s) is/are correct about
the architecture of Stupa?
Code:
A. Only I
B. Only II
C. Both I and II
D. Neither I nor II
Ans: C
Explanation: The initial stupas were hemispheric in structure
which consisted of circular terrace (medhi) on which a
hemispherical mound called anda was raised off the ground.
Mauryan age stupas were built using bricks. Hence, C is the
correct option.
 Stupas of Mauryan period
Q2. Which of the following is the oldest stone structure
in India and was commissioned by the Mauryan King
Ashoka?
A. Sanchi Stupa
B. Amaravati Stupa
C. Peshawar Stupa
D. Nagarjunakonda Stupa
Ans: A
Explanation: The Buddhist vihara at Sanchi is famous
for its Great Stupa in Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh.
Sanchi Stupa is the oldest stone structure in India and
was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka in
the 3rd century BC. Hence, A is the correct option.
Q3. Which of the stupa was founded under supervision of the great Mahadeva-Bikshu emissary of the
Emperor Ashoka?
A. Sanchi Stupa
B. Amaravati Stupa
C. Peshawar Stupa
D. Nagarjunakonda Stupa
Sarnath School Mathura School

Relaxed attitude in the body of the sculpture. Visible bends Mathura School had a columnar rigidity in similar works

Very fine draping – almost invisible on the body but left In the Mathura School, the drapes were elaborate and
hanging out on the sides folds were very much visible

The body in its smooth and shining plasticity constitutes the Mathura sculpture was more rigid
principal theme of the Sarnath artists

At Sarnath the material used was cream coloured sandstone Mathura sculpture was made of moderately fine red
sandstone.
 Chapter 8 : Sculpture

Metal Statues:
The art of casting statues on a large scale by the cire process was practised by Guptan craftsmen
with conspicuous success.
• Two remarkable examples of Gupta metal sculpture are:
– A copper image of the Buddha, about eighteen feet high at Nalanda in Bihar, and
– Sultanganj Buddha of seven and half feet.

लॉस्ट-वैक्स कासस्टिं ग (सिसे

"निवेश कासस्टिं ग", "सटीक Lost-wax casting (also called "investment
कासस्टिं ग" या फ्रेंच में सीयर casting", "precision casting", or cire
पेड्यू भी कहा िाता है ) वह perdue in French) is the process by which a
प्रक्रिया है सिसके द्वारा एक
duplicate metal sculpture (often silver, gold, bra
डुसललकेट धातु मूनतिकला
(अक्सर चािंदी, सोिा, पीतल ss or bronze) is cast from an original sculpture.
या कािंस्य) मूल मूनतिकला से Intricate works can be achieved by this method.
डाला िाता है । इस ववधध से
िटटल काम हाससल क्रकए िा
सकते हैं।
Chapter 9 :
❖ The artists depicted the ruler in various poses.
❖ The study of these imageries is very interesting. Mainly the
images celebrated the martial qualities and the valor of the ruler.
In many coins of Samudragupta, he is depicted as carrying an axe.
In others, he is carrying a bow in his left hand and an arrow in his
right hand.
❖ The coins of Kumaragupta I (c. 415-450 CE) depicted him riding
an elephant and killing a lion. Another very interesting image of
Samudragupta depicted him as playing a ‘veena’, a stringed
musical instrument.
❖ There are also some instances of Gupta coins which were jointly
issued by the king and the queen. The ‘king-queen’ types of coins
were issued by Chandragupta I, Kumaragupta I, and Skandagupta.
❖ These coins depicted both the figures of the king and queen in a
standing pose. Kumaradevi, the name of the queen of
Chandragupta I is known from these coins. But the other two
kings did not mention the name of their queens in their joint
issues.
Q. How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of the Gupta
numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times ? (250 words)

Ideal Answer Structure :

Introduction : Write about coins of Gupta Period in general
Main Body : Write in detail about their excellence, like
different types, made of different metals
Write about reasons for decline quality after Gupta Period, for
example political and economic chaos, Invasions by outsiders
Conclusion : Balance you answer by stating that though
quality decreased but it was revived to some extent in other
kingdoms, especially the southern ones and in Mughal era, if
you want to mention.
 Chapter 10 : Architecture of Early Modern Period

Mauryan architecture
Mauryan art and architecture depicted the influence of Persians and Greeks.

During the reign of Ashoka many monolithic stone pillars were erected on
which teachings of ‘Dhamma’ were inscribed.

The highly polished pillars with animal figures adorning the top (capitals) are
unique and remarkable.

The lion capital of the Sarnath pillar has been accepted as the emblem of
the Indian Republic

The stupas of Sanchi and Sarnath are symbols of the achievement of Mauryan
architechture.
 Chapter 11 : Post Mauryan Architecture
It led to the establishment of Gandhara Art, Mathura art and Amravati Art.

• High influence of Hellenistic and Greek art features.

• Grey-sandstone is used.
• Mainly Buddhist images are found
• Patron- Kushana
• Found in north-west India
• Spiritual Buddha images. Very stylish with wavy hair, has beard
and moustache and lean body.
• Both seated and standing images are found.
• Eyes are half closed and ears are large.
• The gestures are as follows:
a) Abahayamudra : Don’t fear
b) Dhyanamudra : Meditation
c) Dharmachakramudra: A preaching mudra
d) Bhumisparshamudra: Touching the earth
 Post Mauryan Architecture
It led to the establishment of Gandhara Art, Mathura art and Amravati Art.

▪ Indigenous in nature
▪ Spotted red sandstone
▪ Buddhism, Jainism and hindu images are found.
▪ Patronised by Kushana
▪ North India. Mainly region of Mathura
▪ Delighted Buddha and not spiritual look
▪ No beard and moustache
▪ Strong muscular feature
▪ Most of them are seated.
▪ Eyes are open with small Ears.
 Post Mauryan Architecture
It led to the establishment of Gandhara Art, Mathura art and Amravati Art.

• Indigenous in nature
• White marble
• Mainly Buddhism
• Patronised by Shatavahanas
• Deccan region near Krishna-Godavari delta.
• Mainly depicts stories of jatakas.

These features are important for

both Prelims and Mains !
Questions in mains can be asked
to explain the features and in
prelims they can give you 4
features and ask to pick the
correct one !
 Chapter 12 : Indo-Islamic Architecture
These features are important for
both Prelims and Mains !
Questions in mains can be asked
to explain the features and in
prelims they can give you 4
features and ask to pick the
correct one !
1. The designing was done on plaster through incision or
stucco.
2. The designs were either left plain or covered with
colours.
3. Motifs were also painted on or carved in stone. These
motifs included varieties of flowers, both from the sub-
continent and places outside, particularly Iran.
4. Walls were also decorated with cypress, chinar and
other trees as also with flower vases.
5. In the fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth centuries tiles
were also used to surface the walls and the domes.
6. Popular colours were blue, turquoise, green and yellow.
Subsequently the techniques of tessellation (mosaic
designs) and pietradura were made use of for surface
decoration particularly in the dado panels of the walls.
At times lapis lazuli was used in the interior walls or on
canopies.
7. Other decorations included arabesque, calligraphy and
high and low relief carving and a profuse use of jalis.
 Modern Architecture
Neo-classical or the new classical
• Its characteristics included construction of
geometrical structures fronted with lofty pillars.
• It was derived from a style that was originally
typical of buildings in ancient Rome, and was
subsequently revived, re-adapted and made
popular during the European Renaissance.
• It was considered particularly appropriate for
the British Empire in India.
• The British imagined that a style that embodied
the grandeur of imperial Rome could now be
made to express the glory of imperial India.
 Modern Architecture
Graeco-Roman architecture
It made innovative use of covered arcades
at ground level to shield the shopper and
pedestrian from the fierce sun and rain of
Bombay.

Neo-Gothic
• It is characterised by high-pitched roofs, pointed
arches and detailed decoration.
• The Gothic style had its roots in buildings,
especially churches, built in northern Europe
during the medieval period.
• The neo-Gothic or new Gothic style was revived
in the mid-nineteenth century in England.
 Chapter 13 : Indian Painting
Prehistoric painting: Theme of painting were Hunting theme (group Hunting
scenes); Figures of animals & birds; Battle Scenes; Dancing Scenes. Example;
Bhibetka Caves (MP).

Mural paintings: Indian Mural Paintings are paintings made on walls of caves
and palaces. The caves of Ajanta, Ellora and Elephanta also on the Bagh
caves and Sittanvasal are examples of it.

Miniature Paintings: Miniature paintings are executed on books and albums, and on perishable
material such as paper and cloth.
• The Palas of Bengal were the pioneers of miniature painting in India.
• The art reached its zenith during the Mughal period and was pursued by the painters of
different Rajasthani Schools of painting, like Bundi, Kishangarh, Jaipur, Marwar and Mewar.
• The Ragamala paintings also belong to this school, as do the Company paintings produced
during the British Raj.
 Indian Painting
Pala School Mughal School Rajasthani school

The themes of the paintings were

mostly religious and love subjects,
They are representations of based on Lord Rama and Lord
Buddhist yantras, graphic symbols Krishna. Court scenes were depicted
which were visual aids to the as also royal portraits
Indian Mural Paintings are
mantras and the dharamis (types of
paintings made on walls of
ritual speech).
caves and palaces. The
caves of Ajanta, Ellora and
Elephanta also on the Bagh
caves and Sittanvasal are
examples of it.

Pahari school
The Pahari School was lively and
romantic, technically superior with
soft tonal shading, exquisitely
created backgrounds that merged
with the theme, and attitudes and
postures highly evocative of the
moods they were to convey.
Indian Painting
Deccani school
Deccani painting developed at
Bijapur, Ahmadnagar,
Golkonda and Hyderabad, the
former states that formed the
region known as Deccan.
Tanjore paintings are of
popular Hindu deities and
scenes from Hindu epics.
Company school of painting
European artists brought with them the
technique of oil painting.
One popular imperial tradition was that
of picturesque landscape painting.
Another tradition of art that became
immensely popular in colonial India was
portrait painting. There was a third
category of imperial art, called “history
painting”.
 Religions
Q. WHY IS JAINISM KNOWN A TRANSTHEISTIC RELIGION?
EXAMINE ITS TRANSTHEISTIC NATURE IS REFLECTED IN
Chapter 14 ITS ART AND ARCHITECTURE. (250 WORDS )
Structure of Answer :

• In the introduction write that ideology of Jainism has had profound impact on its
art. Also write its enduring significance.
• In the body, in TWO parts, address demand of the question: First, why it’s
called transtheistic religion and how its unique nature has affected art and
architecture. In the second part, divide it into 3-4 parts (each for Art, temple
architecture, cave architecture etc)
• In the conclusion, write about relevance and significance of Bahubali as an
embodiment of peace and non-violence (as it’s in news).
Brahminism vs Buddhism/Jainism vs Devotional Paths (Bhakitsm, Sufism, and Sikhism)

• Brahminism based on caste-system was prominent during the

Medieval period. But there was opposition to the same as well.
• Many people were uneasy with such ideas and turned to
the teachings of the Buddha or the Jainas according to
which it was possible to overcome social differences and
break the cycle of rebirth through personal effort.
• Others felt attracted to the idea of a Supreme God who could
deliver humans from such bondage if approached with
devotion (or bhakti).
Intense devotion or love of God is the legacy of various kinds of bhakti and Sufi movements that have evolved
since the eighth century. The idea of bhakti became so popular that even Buddhists and Jainas adopted these
beliefs.
✓ Bhakti was accepted as a means to attain moksha along
Bhakti cult with jnana and karma.
✓ The development of this cult took place in South India when
the Nayanars and Alwars moved against the austerities
propagated by the Buddhist and Jain schools and professed
that ultimate devotion to god was the means to salvation.
Brahminism vs Buddhism/Jainism vs Devotional Paths (Bhakitsm, Sufism, and Sikhism)

Some of the important leaders of the movement are:

1. Namadeva and Ramananda (Maharashtra and Allahabad) – Both of them taught the concept of
bhakti to all the four varnas and disregarded the ban on people of different castes cooking together
and sharing meals.
2. Sankara and Ramanuja – The propounders of Advaita (non-duality) and vishishta
adwaitha (qualified non-duality) respectively. They believed god to be nirguna
parabrahma and satguna parabrahma respectively.
3. Vallabhacharya – propounder of shuddha adwaitha or pure non-duality.
4. Chaitanya (Bengal) – relied on the use of music, dance and bhajans to get in touch with God.
‘love’ was the watchword of the chaitanya cult.
5. Kabir – was a disciple of Ramananda, and was raised by a Muslim weaver. He stood for doing
away with all the unnecessary customs and rituals in both religions and bringing union between
these religions.
6. Guru Nanak.
7. Nimbakacharya – founder of the Radha-Krishna cult. He expressed this relation to substantiate
the importance of marriage. It was also used as an example of God’s love to the people.
Brahminism vs Buddhism/Jainism vs Devotional Paths (Bhakitsm, Sufism, and Sikhism)
 Basavanna’s Virashaivism
• This movement began in Karnataka in the 12th
century which argued for the equality of all human
beings and against Brahmanical ideas about caste
and the treatment of women.
• They were also against all forms of ritual and idol
worship.

Nathpanthis, Siddhas, and Yogis

a) Criticised the ritual and other aspects of conventional religion and the
social order, using simple, logical arguments.
b) They advocated renunciation of the world.
c) To them, the path to salvation lay in meditation on the formless
Ultimate Reality and the realization of oneness with it.
d) To achieve this they advocated intense training of the mind and body
through practices like yogasanas, breathing exercises and meditation.
e) These groups became particularly popular among “low” castes.
Sufi Movement and Islam

The word Sufi means wool.

The preachers from Arabia wore wool to protect

themselves from dust winds.
The Sufi movement is believed to have begun in
Persian countries against the highly puritan Islamic
culture.
The saints organized themselves
into twelve silsilas or orders.

The important among them were the Chisti and

Suhrawardi silsilas, both of which belonged to the ba-
shara order.
 Sufi Movement and Islam
The Chisti Silsila was begun by Khwaja
Moinuddin Chisti who came to India
around 1192.

The most famous

of the Chisti saints
were Nizamuddin
Auliya and
Naziruddin chirag-
i-Delhi.

They mingled freely with people of low classes, even Hindus. The chistis didn’t
want anything to do with the administration or money. They led simple austere
lives
 Baba Guru Nanak (1469-1539) and Sikhism
Established a centre at Kartarpur
named Dera Baba Nanak on the
river Ravi.
Guru Angad compiled the
compositions of Guru Nanak,
to which he added his own in a
new script known as Gurmukhi.
The three successors of Guru Angad
also wrote under the name of
“Nanak” and all of their compositions
were compiled by Guru Arjan [5th
Guru who was executed by
Jehangir]in 1604.
The sacred space thus created by Guru
Nanak was known as dharmsal. It is now
known as Gurdwar.
Before his death Guru appointed
Lehna also known as Guru
Angad as his successor.
The compilation was added with
the writings of other figures like
Shaikh Farid, Sant Kabir, Bhagat
Namdev and Guru Tegh Bahadur.
In 1706 this compilation was
authenticated by Guru Gobind
Singh. It is now known as Guru
Granth Sahib.
 Baba Guru Nanak (1469-1539) and Sikhism
By the beginning of the 17th century,
the town of Ramdaspur (Amritsar) had
developed around the central Gurdwara
called Harmandar Sahib (Golden
Temple).
It was virtually self-governing
and also referred as ‘a state
within the state’ community.
This fumed Mughal emperor
Jahangir which led to the
execution of Guru Arjan in
1606.
The Sikh movement began to get
politicized in the 17th century, a
development which culminated in
the institution of the Khalsa by
Guru Gobind Singh in 1699 and
this entity is called as Khalsa
Panth.
Guru Nanak’s idea of
equality had social and
political implications
because his idea of
liberation was not that of a
state of inert bliss but rather
the pursuit of active life with
a strong sense of social
commitment.
 SIKHISM
Sikhs believe that God is
Monistic or Non-dual.

God is both Saguna

(with attributes) and
Nirguna (without
attributes) and is called
by names such
as Sat (truth), Sat
Guru (true Guru), Akal
Purkh (timeless
being), Kartar (creator)
and Wahi-Guru (praise
to the God).
 The Khalsa and five K’s
1. The concept of Khalsa, literally meaning ‘the pure’, was
introduced by Guru Gobind Singh.
2. He established this new fraternity with five followers (later
known as Panj Pyares), who were baptized with amrit as
Khalsas.
3. It was made obligatory for every Sikh to wear the Five K’s –
Kesha (long hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet),
Kaccha (short drawers) and Kirpan (sword).
The Guru Granth Sahib (also known as the Adi Granth) is
considered the Supreme Spiritual Authority and Head of the
Sikh religion. It is a collection of devotional hymns and poetry
which proclaims God, lays stress on meditation on the True
Guru (God) and lays down moral and ethical rules for
development of the soul, spiritual salvation and unity with
God.
Each of the Gurus signed their hymns as Nanak. Guru Granth Sahib
has 3,384 hymns, of which Guru Nanak Dev contributed 974 hymns
including sloks and pauris. It also contains Bhagatas of Kabir,
Namdev, Ravidas, Sheikh Farid, Trilochan, Dhanna, Beni, Sheikh
Bhikan, Jaidev, Surdas, Parmanand, Pipa and Ramanand. The fifth
Guru Arjan Dev began the great task of collection of the holy
compositions as Sri (Amritsar) and compiled the Holy Granth Sahib.
 ISLAM

Basic Islamic Beliefs are:

• Tawheed: This means, believe in One, Unique,
Incomparable God Who is the Creator, the Ruler and
the Sustainer of the universe, and none has the right to
be worshipped but He alone
• Belief in the existence of Angels of God as the
honoured creatures
• Belief in God’s Revealed Books
• Belief in the Prophets and Messengers of God
• Belief in the Day of Judgement and Life after Death
• Belief in Predestination – God’s complete authority
over human destiny
 Main sects of Islam
The followers of Muslim are divided into two main sects: Shiah and Sunni. Though essentially following the
same beliefs and tenets, they differ on two points: the succession to Prophet Muhammad, and the
religious authority in Islam after him.
A. Shiism is a minority branch of Islam which makes up about one tenth of the total population of the
Muslim world. The Shiites form an important part of the population in a number of Arab countries like
Iraq, Bahrain, Lebanon and Iran. The Shiahs consider Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet as his rightful
heir. They maintain that Ali was the first legitimate Imam or Khalifah (Caliph) .
There are two main shiite sects:
1. The “Twelvers” are by far the largest group of Shiah Islam.
2. The Ismailites or Seveners are the second largest shiite sect.
successor
B. Sunnism is the main branch of Islam and recognizes the legitimacy of the first four Khalifahs or
Caliphs. The Sunnis believe that the office of the Prophet was not hereditary and no one could claim to be
his sole heir. The community chooses one amongst themselves as their leader or the Khalifah.
There are four orthodox sects among the Sunni Muslims
i.e. Hanafiyah , Shafiyah , Malakiyah and Hanbaliyah
 Buddhism
Siddhartha Gautama to Buddha
1. When Prince Siddhartha Gautama was 29 years old he decided
to abandon lay life.
2. He left his palace at 29, with Channa- the charioteer and his
favourite horse, Kanthaka in search of ‘Mahabhinishkramana’
(truth).
3. He wandered for 6 years.
4. He initially meditated with Alara Kama.
5. But he was not convinced that Alara Kama could help him
Basic facts about Buddha obtain liberation from sorrow by mental discipline and
1. Siddhartha Gautama is the original knowledge.
name of Buddha. 6. Udraka Ramputra was his second teacher.
2. Siddhartha Gautama was born in 624 7. He attained ‘Nirvana’ or ‘Enlightenment’ at 35 at Gaya in
BC, in a Sakya clan in Lumbini near Magadha (Bihar) under a pipal tree.
Kapilvastu (Nepal). 8. He delivered the first sermon at Sarnath.
3. He was born to Shudhodana and 9. His first sermon is called ‘Dharmachakrapravartan’.
Mahamaya. 10. The ‘Dharmachakrapravartan’ means ‘Turning of the Wheel of
4. He was married to Yashodhara and he Law’.
had a son Rahula. 11. He attained Mahaparinirvana at Kushinagar in 483 BC at the
age of 80 in the Malla republic.
 Three Ratnas of Buddhism
1) Buddha
2) Dhamma – The teachings of Budhha
3) Sangha – Community of Buddhist monks and nuns

Dhamma
Teachings of Buddha are known as Dhamma.
Astanga Margha
Eight-fold Path of Buddha is known as Astanga margha.
The Four Great Truths:
The Eight fold path is:
a) The world is full of sorrow and misery. Belief in Nirvana
1) Right livelihood
b) The cause of all pain and misery is When desire and rebirth ends, nirvana is
2) Right observation
desire. attained. Freedom from the cycle of
3) Right determination
c) Pain and misery can be ended by killing birth, death and rebirth is attained by
4) Right action
or controlling desire. following the 8-fold path. Buddhism
5) Right meditation
d) Desire can be controlled by following does not recognise the existence of God
6) Right exercise
the Eight Fold Path. and soul.
7) Right speech
Belief in Ahimsa
8) Right memory
The concept of Ahimsa means one
should not cause harm to any living
being, animal or man.
 Buddhist Mudras, Hand Gestures and their Meaning

Dhyan Mudra

1. It is also known as Samadhi or Yoga mudra.

2. It is performed with the help of two hands which are placed on the lap and
place the right hand on the left hand with stretched fingers (thumbs facing
upwards and other fingers of both the hand resting on each other.)
3. This is the characteristic gesture of Buddha Shakyamuni, Dhyani Buddha and
the Medicine Buddha.
According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth in the future,
achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma.
 Law of Karma
According to Law of Karma, Man reaps the fruits of his past
deeds.
Sangha
✓ The word Sangha is a combination of Pali and Sanskrit
languages.
✓ The Sangha is most commonly referred to the monastic
community of bhikkhus (monks) and bhikkhunis (nuns).
✓ Apart from Sangha, the worshippers were called
Upasakas.
Spread of Buddhism:

1. Pali language has a prominent role in the spread of Buddhism.

2. Emperor Ashoka and Kaniska had a keen interest in spreading Buddhism.
3. Buddha also organised the Sangha as a religious order, whose doors were open to everybody, irrespective
of caste and sex.
4. They promoted education through residential universities like Valabhi, Nalanda and Vikramshila.
5. After the death of Buddha, the monks assembled four times and the effect of these events had a great
impact of spreading of Buddhism.
 Different Schools of Buddhism
Hinayana (Theravada)
1. Means ‘ the Lesser Path’ and
signifies ‘Doctrines of the
Elders.
2. Considered the orthodox
school and to be truer to
Budhha’s teachings than
Mahayana . It was the original
school of Buddhist philosophy.
3. Scriptures are written in Pali
– the language that Buddha
taught in .
Mahayana
Means ‘the Greater Path’ . These terms
Mahayana , Hinayana were coined by
the Mahayana school .
ववधसमिक , freethinking
It is the heterodox school of Buddhist
philosophy . It originated later than
Hinayana.
Scriptures are written in Sanskrit .
Vajrayana
Means ‘Vehicle of Thunderbolt’.
Also called ‘Diamond School is
also reffered to as Tantric or
esoteric Buddhism.
The period of Vajrayana
Buddhism has been classified as
the final period of Buddhism in
India . पारिं पररक
परम
Philosophical basis : TWO
TRUTHS DOCTRINE – identifies
conventional and ultimate truths.
Vajrayana texts use a highly
symbolic language ‘Samdhya-
Bhasha’ or “Twilight Language”
 Different Schools of Buddhism
Hinayana (Theravada)
4. A school of Buddhism which
treats Buddha as nothing more
than a human being . Does not
believe in idol worship and tries
to attain individual salvation
through self discipline and
meditation . Ultimate aim is
nirvana. The extinction of the
flame of desire
5. Found in Sri Lanka , main
bastion in Myanmar , Thailand
and other parts of South East
Asia . Ashoka patronised it .
Mahayana
Treats Buddha as god and worships
idols of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas
embodying Buddha Nature . Mahayana
believes in universal liberation from
suffering for all beings . Ultimate aim of
Mahayana is ‘spiritual upliftment’ .
Found in Japan , China , other Asian
countries . Kanishka patronised it and
later Harsh Vardhana supported it as
well .
Ruler of Kushan
Dynasty
Vajrayana
Its followers believed that
salvation can be best attained
by acquiring the magical power ,
which they called Vajra .
Vajrayana rituals and devotion
employs mantras , mandalas (
diagrams and paintings used in
visualisation practices) . Focus
is put on the role of Guru ( Lama
in Tibetan translation).
Became popular in Eastern India
, particularly in Bengal and Bihar
and is predominant in the
Himalayan nations of Tibet ,
Nepal , Bhutan and Mongolia.
 Noble Eightfold Path
The Noble Eightfold Path consists of a set of eight
interconnected factors or conditions, that when
Right View
developed together, lead to the cessation of dukkha. Right Right Intention
The Eight factors are: Concentration
1. Right View (or Right Understanding): Viewing
reality as it is, not just as it appears to be
2. Right Intention (or Right Thought): Intention
Right 8 Fold Right Speech
Mindfulness
of renunciation, freedom and harmlessness Path Right Action
3. Right Speech: Speaking in a truthful and non-
hurtful way
4. Right Action: Acting in a non-harmful way Right Effort
5. Right Livelihood: A non-harmful livelihood Right
6. Right Effort: Making an effort to improve Livelihood
7. Right Mindfulness: Awareness to see things for
what they are with clear consciousness The concept of 8-Fold path forms the theme of :
8. Right Concentration: Correct meditation or Dharma-Chakra Pravartana Sutta
concentration, explained as the first four jhānas
 Jainism
Jainism is of ancient origin &
believed to have 24
Tirthankaras / Great teachers in
their religion
1st one was Rishabdev (Born in
Ayodhya) who is said to have
laid the foundation of orderly
human society & realised that
the source of Jaina philosophy
was Adinath.
23rd was Parshavnath (Born in
Varanasi) & Last and 24th was
Vardhamana Mahavira (Born
540 BC at Kundangrama near
Vaishali)
3 principles of Jainism → Triratnas
1. Right faith (believe in teachings
& wisdom of Mahavira)
2. Right Knowledge (Acceptance of
theory that there is no god &
world has been existing without
a creator & all objects possess a
soul)
3. Right conduct (Refers to
observance of 5 great vows)
✓ Ahimsa
✓ Satya
✓ Asteya (Not to steal)
✓ Parigraha (Not to acquire
property)
✓ Brahamcharya (observe
continence / not to led immoral
life → added by Mahavira)
Jainism
3 principles of Jainism → Triratnas

1. Right faith (believe in teachings

& wisdom of Mahavira)
2. Right Knowledge (Acceptance of
theory that there is no god &
world has been existing without
a creator & all objects possess a
soul)
3. Right conduct (Refers to
observance of 5 great vows)
✓ Ahimsa
✓ Satya
✓ Asteya (Not to steal)
✓ Parigraha (Not to acquire
property)
✓ Brahamcharya (observe
continence / not to led immoral
life → added by Mahavira)
 Jainism
Teaching of Jainism

A. Rejected the authority of Vedas & objected to Vedic rituals & sacrifices
B. Even practice of agriculture was considered sinful as it caused injury to earth, worms
& animals
C. Doctrine of ascetism & renunciation was carried to great lengths by practice of
starvation, Nudity & other form of self-tortures (Penance for all sins committed)
D. Although Parvanath (23rd Teacher) asked people to cover their upper & lower body
part but Mahavira asked them to discard cloths altogether ( Extreme austerity)
E. Mahavira did not condemn Verna system as Buddhism did as according to Mahavira ,
a person born in higher or lower verna is the consequences of the sins of past life &
through penance & meritorious life they can attain liberation
F. Jainism mainly aimed at freedom of Individual from worldly bonds
Twelve small vows (anuvrats) of Jainism
Spread of Jainism
1. Admitted both women and shudras in its
order of followers
2. Used prakrit (common language) for
preaching instead of sanskrit
3. 200 years after the death of Mahavira, there
was a serious famine in Ganga valley. Many
Jain followers led by Chandragupta Maurya &
Bhadrabahu left for south (Karnataka) & rest
stayed back under the leadership of
Sthalbahu. Emmigrants spread Jainism in
south India.
4. Meanwhile Sthalbahu changed the code of
conduct for the monks which led to division
of Jainism into 2 sects Swetambars (White
clad / Northerners) & Digambars ( Naked /
Sky Clad / Southerners)
5. 1st Jain council was held at Pataliputra led by
Sthalbahu & 2nd was held at Valabhi where
12 Anagas of Swetambars were finally
compiled
 Jains

Digambaras ( naked or Sky-Clad) Svetambaras ( clothed in

white)

1. Digambars believe that because of certain

deformities peculiar to their sex, women cannot
attain Mukti in the present life, but can do so in
a future birth.
2. The Digambar Jains does not recognize
Sabastra Guru. They hold that Mahavira Swami
was a Bal Brahmachari and he had never
married, nor did he have any raj.
1. Swetambars believe in Sabastra Mukti, that
women can attain salvation.
2. The Swetambar Jains holds that Mahavira
Swami married and ruled and had a daughter.
They are also of the view that the 19th Tirthankara
was a lady Mallahkumari.

# they are allowed to have 14 possessions

# they must renounce all possessions , including
including lion-cloth , shoulder-cloth , etc..
clothes and is allowed only 2 possessions :
Rajoharana ( small peacock-feather broom for
brushing insects away) and a Kamandalu ( wooden
water pot for toilet hygiene)
 Jains

Digambaras ( naked or Sky-Clad) Svetambaras ( clothed in

white)

3. After Mahavira , they lived under the 3. During the famous Magadha Famine ,
leadership of Bhadrabahu and they under the leadership of Sthalabahu
migrated south and lived in the old had stayed back at Magadha .
traditional way .

4. On attaining enlightenment , 4. Svetambaras tradition holds that

an omniscient is freed from the even the omniscient requires food.
needs of ordinary existence .
 थििंकरों की मूर्तियों के बारे में ,
दिगंबरबार परं परा तीिंकरों की मर्ू तियों को Jains
नग्न, अनौपचाररक और थचंतनशील मूड
में कमजोर आंखों के रूप में िशािती ।

Digambaras ( naked or Sky-Clad) Svetambaras ( clothed in

white)

5. Regarding idols of Thirthankaras , 5. Svetambaras tradition depicts the idols

digamabaras tradition represents the
idols of tirthankaras as nude ,
unadorned and with downcast eyes in
the contemplative mood.
6. They use the term ‘Purana’ for the
hagiographies .
of Tirthankaras as wearing a lion-cloth ,
bedecked with jewels and with glass eyes
inserted in the marble .
6. They use the term ‘Charita’.

the writing of the

lives of saints.
Chapter 15 : Classical Languages
Classical languages are those which are ancient, of an independent
nature and not a derivative of any other tradition.

The criteria evolved by Government to determine

declaration of a language as a Classical language is as
under:
1. High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over
a period of 1500-2000 years;
2. A body of ancient literature/texts, which is
considered a valuable heritage by generations of
speakers;
3. The literary tradition be original and not borrowed
from another speech community;
4. The classical language and literature being distinct
from modern, there may also be a discontinuity
between the classical language and its later forms or
its offshoots.
Today six languages are included
in the list of Classical Languages:
1. Tamil (since 2004)
2. Sanskrit (since 2005)
Asked in Prelims
3. Telugu (since 2008)
Thrice !
4. Kannada (since 2008)
5. Malayalam (since 2013)
6. Odiya (since 2014).
a) Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize 2015

• Historian Ramachandra Guha has been awarded with the Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize in the
academic category.
• The Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize, established in 1990 by the Japanese city of Fukuoaka,
recognises outstanding achievements by individuals or groups in preserving and creating the
unique and diverse cultures of Asia

The Fukuoka Prize is offered in three categories:

Grand prize Arts and Culture prize

Academic prize
b) Golden City Gate Award
• Kerala Tourism’s new campaign on responsible tourism has bagged the prestigious ‘Golden City
Gate Award’ at the worlds leading travel trade show ITB in Berlin.
• Responsible Tourism policies in Kerala, tempered by an understanding of the uniqueness of the
destination, have created a positive impact on the larger interests of the people, on the
destinations natural treasures and on the vibrant culture of the state.
• These initiatives have led to several life-changing stories and have become the heart of it.
Golden Gate Award is entitled as Oscar in tourism communication.
• It is awarded every year for the ultimate recognition in global tourism communication at the
ITB-Berlin which is the world’s leading travel trade show

c) PATA Award
The Kerala Tourism has bagged this year’s Pacific Asia Travel Association award
for its Muziris Heritage Project in the ‘Heritage & Culture’ category

About Muziris Heritage Site

a. The Government of Kerala has initiated the Muziris Heritage Project to reinstate the historical and cultural
significance of the legendary port of Muziris.
b. The region is dotted with numerous monuments of a bygone era that conjure up a vast and vivid past.
c. The entire project is designed to involve and integrate the local community in all intended developmental
initiatives.
b) Golden City Gate Award
• Kerala Tourism’s new campaign on responsible tourism has bagged the prestigious ‘Golden City
Gate Award’ at the worlds leading travel trade show ITB in Berlin.
• Responsible Tourism policies in Kerala, tempered by an understanding of the uniqueness of the
destination, have Pacific Asia aTravel
created Association
positive impact on the larger interests of the people, on the
• Founded in 1951,
destinations natural treasures and on the the Pacific Asiaculture
vibrant Travel Association
of the state.
(PATA) is a not-for profit association
• These initiatives have led to several life-changing stories and that is have become the heart of it.
Golden Gate Award internationally
is entitled asacclaimed for acting
Oscar in tourism as a catalyst for
communication.
• It is awarded every theyear
responsible development
for the ultimate of travel
recognition and tourism
in global tourismto,communication at the
ITB-Berlin which is from
the and within
world’s the Asia
leading travelPacific
traderegion.
show
Winner privileges:
1. Gain a major boost to anc)organisation's
PATA Award marketing and
public relations profile
The Kerala Tourism has bagged this year’s Pacific Asia Travel Association award
2. Attract valuable media coverage in various PATA
for its Muziris Heritage Project in the ‘Heritage & Culture’ category
communications channels including the weekly PATA
About Muziris HeritageVoice
Site e-newsletter, press releases and social media
a. The Government ofchannels
Kerala has initiated the Muziris Heritage Project to reinstate the historical and cultural
significance of the legendarytoport
3. Entitled of Muziris.
leverage the prestigious PATA Gold Awards
b. The region is dotted with numerous
Winner logo on monuments of a bygone era that conjure up a vast and vivid past.
their collaterals
c. The entire project is designed to involve and integrate the local community in all intended developmental
initiatives.
SENTINELESE TRIBE
• For Prelims: Who are Sentinelese? Geographical
location of North Sentinel Island.
• For Mains: Why are they vulnerable, what needs
to be done and how recent moves by the
government is affecting their fundamental and
moral rights?
Steps taken to ensure the protection of
Sentinelese:
1. The entire North Sentinel Island along with 5 km
coastal sea from high water mark is notified
as tribal reserve.
2. The Government respects their way of life style, They have been protected under:
therefore, has adopted an ‘eyes-on and hands- a) A &N Islands (PAT) Regulation 1956.
off’ practice to protect and safeguard the b) Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes
Sentinelese tribe. (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
3. A protocol of circumnavigation of the North c) Restrictions under Foreigner (Restricted Area) Orders,
Sentinel Island has been notified. The ships and 1963.
aircrafts of Coast Guard and boats of Marine d) Visa Manual Conditions/Passport Act 1920, Indian
Police make sorties around North Sentinel to keep Forest Act, 1927 and Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
surveillance.
SENTINELESE TRIBE
Who are the Sentinelese?

▪ The Sentinelese are a negrito tribe who live on the North Sentinel
Island of the Andamans.
▪ The inhabitants are connected to the Jarawa on the basis of physical,
as well as linguistic similarities.
▪ Their numbers are believed to be less than 150 and as low as 40.
▪ Based on carbon dating of kitchen middens by the Anthropological
Survey of India, Sentinelese presence was confirmed in the islands to
2,000 years ago.
▪ Genome studies indicate that the Andaman tribes could have been
on the islands even 30,000 years ago.
Why are they said to be vulnerable?

i. It is said they have made little to no advancement in the over 60,000 years and still live very primitive lives,
surviving mainly on fish and coconuts.
ii. They are very vulnerable to germs since they have not had contact with the outside world. Even a common flu
virus carried by a visitor could wipe out the entire tribe.
iii. Since the 1960s, there have been a handful of efforts to reach out to the tribe but all have largely failed. They
have repeatedly, aggressively made it clear that they want to be isolated.
Sahapedia

A. Sahapedia is an open online resource on

the Arts, Cultures and Heritage of India.
"Saha", Sanskrit for "together with", is
an invitation to explore together the
richness of our cultural landscapes.
B. Sahapedia is a orientation of not-for-
profit society.
C. It also seeks to educated and spread
knowledge about practices and rituals,
histories, institutions, people, built
spaces and natural environment.
D. It will be accessible across user groups
such as scholars, practitioners, students,
teachers, traveller and enthusiasts.
E. It will also play important role in
integrating activities and services
including research, documentation,
digitization and conservation.
Chettinad Cotton Saree Gets Indian Handloom Tag
• Chettinad Cotton Saree also known as "kandaangi" of Tamil
Nadu, unique in the dramatic and spontaneous use of colour and
pattern with bold checks, stripes and contrasting hues has got the
Indian Handloom tag under the India Handloom Brand Scheme
after checking various quality parameters stipulated by the
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and offered a logo.
• "India Handloom Brand" is an endorsement to quality of the
handloom products in terms of raw material, processing,
embellishments, weaving design and other parameters besides
social and environmental compliances for earning the trust of the
consumers. (saris, dress materials, bed-sheets, scarf, shawl etc. are
endorsed under it).
It seeks to ensure this by giving particular attention to
the following:
a) Production of high quality, defect free, hand-woven,
authentic "niche product“
b) Zero defect
c) Authentic traditional design
d) Zero impact on environment
e) Social compliance
Advantages of tag

a) Customer will be assured of the quality

of the product as per specification.
b) Bulk buyers and exporters will be able
to source quality fabrics as per his/her
design produced in time and establish
a distinct market positioning for
authentic hand-woven fabrics of India.
c) Weaver will be able to get bulk orders
and higher wages by interacting directly
with the market.
d) Weaver entrepreneur (younger
generation) will take up traditional
profession of production of quality
handloom fabrics in bulk and marketing
within and outside the country.
e) It will empower women and
disadvantaged segments.
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
Kalaripayattu (Oldest Martial Art in India)
Originated: In the state of Kerala in 4th century A.D.

Techniques and Aspects of Kalaripayattu: Uzhichil or the massage with Gingli oil, Otta,
Maipayattu or body exercises, Puliyankam or sword fight, Verumkai or bare-handed fight etc.

About it:
▪ Kalari is a Malayalam word which means School/gymnasium/training hall where Martial arts
are practiced or taught.
▪ Kalaripayattu was introduced as martial art by a legend, sage Parasurama, who built temples.
▪ This art is used as a means of unarmed self-defence and a way to achieve physical fitness
today. Also used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
▪ It includes mock duels (armed and unarmed combat) and physical exercises, important aspect
is the style of fighting and is nor accompanied by any drumming or song.
▪ Its important key is footwork which includes kicks, strikes and weapon based practice.
▪ Its popularity also increases with the movie Ashoka and the Myth.
▪ Women also practiced this art, Unniyarcha; a legendary heroine won many battles using this
martial art.
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
2. Silambam (is a kind of Staff Fencing)
Originated: In Tamil Nadu, a modern and scientific martial art.

Techniques of Silambam: Swift movements of the foot, use of thrust,

cut, chop, sweep to achieve mastery & development of force, momentum
& precision at different levels of the body, snake hits, monkey hits, hawk
hits etc.
About it:
• Silambam is promoted in Tamil Nadu by the rulers Pandya, Chola and
Chera and the reference to the sale of Silambam staves, pearls, swords
and armours can be seen in a Tamil literature ‘Silapaddigaram’.
• This art also travelled to Malaysia, where it is a famous sport apart
from a self defence technique.
• For mock fighting and self-defence the long-staff technique is used.
Infact, Lord Muruga (in Tamil Mythology) and sage Agasthya are
credited with the creation of Silambam. Even during Vedic age,
training was imparted to young men as a ritual and for an emergency.
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
3. Thang-ta and Sarit Sarak
Originated: This art was created by the Meitei people of Manipur.
About it:
➢ Thang refers to a ‘sword’ while Ta refers to a ‘spear’ and is an armed
martial art whereas Sarit Sarak is an unarmed art form that uses hand
to hand combat.
➢ In 17th century this art was used by Manipuri kings against Britishers
later on when Britishers captured the area this technique was
banned.
➢ Thang-Ta is also known as HuyenLallong, which is a popular ancient
martial art which uses other weapons including an axe and a shield.
➢ It is practiced in 3 different ways: Firstly, ritualistic in nature linked
with tantric practices, secondly, mesmerising performance of sword
and sword dances and thirdly, is the actual technique of fighting.
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
4. Gatka
Originated: Punjab
About it:
• Gatka is a weapon based martial art form
performed by Sikhs of Punjab.
• Gatka means whose freedom belongs to grace.
Others say that ‘Gatka’ comes from a Sanskrit
word ‘Gadha’ means mace.
• This art uses weapons like Kirpan, Talwar and
Kataar.
• It is displayed in various occasions, celebrations in
the state including fairs.
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
5. Pari-Khanda
 Top most famous Martial Arts in India
6. Kuttu Varisai
 Q1. Consider the following statements about Indian
Puppetry
1) There were presence of puppets at excavation sites Q2.
at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.
2) The oldest written reference to puppetry is found in
the Tamil classic Silappadikaram.
3) Kathputli and Yampuri and examples of string puppet.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above

The excavation sites at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro have yielded

puppets with sockets attached to them, which suggest the
presence of puppetry as an art form. However, the oldest written
reference to puppetry is found in the Tamil classic
Silappadikaram, written around 1st and 2nd century B.C.
Kathputli is a String puppet and Yampuri is a rod puppet.
Q3. Consider the following statements about the ritual Q4. The raga which is sung late in
theatre Ankia Nat.
1. It is the traditional one-act play of Uttar Pradesh. night is
2. It was started by the Saint Shankaradeva in the a) Raga Darbari
16th century A.D. b) Raga Todi
3. It depicts incidents from the life of Lord Rama. c) Raga Bhopali
4. Masks are used to depict special expressions. d) Raga Bhimpalasi
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3 ✓ Todi should be performed in the late morning.
b) 2 and 4 ✓ Raga Bhopali should be sung after sunset.
c) 1 , 2 and 3 ✓ Bhimpalasi should be sung in late Afternoon.
d) 2 , 3 and 4 ✓ Raga Darbari is played deep into the night,
considered to be one of the more difficult to
✓ It is the traditional one-act play of Assam. It was master. Raga Darbari is a raga in the Kanada
started by the famous Vaishnava Saint family, which is thought to have originated in
Shankaradeva in the 16th century A.D. It depicts Carnatic music and brought into North Indian
incidents from the life of Krishna. music by Miyan Tansen, the 16th-century
✓ One of the unique features of this form of theatre composer in Emperor Akbar’s court.
is the use of masks to depict special expressions.
Q5. With reference to Madhubani paintings, consider the
following statements. Solution: b)
1. It finds mention in the ancient Indian text of
Ramayana. a) Madhubani which means ‘forest of honey’, is
2. Brushes are extensively used to create the paintings. a style of folk painting old enough to find
3. These are folk paintings that originated in Central mention in some of the ancient Indian texts
India. like Ramayana. It is also known as Mithila,
4. The paintings are largely secular in nature and for its origin in the Mithila region in Bihar.
depiction of objects. b) Instead of contemporary brushes, objects
5. Since the paintings have been confined to a limited like twigs, matchsticks and even fingers are
geographical range, the themes as well as the style used to create the paintings.
are more or less, the same. c) Since the paintings have been confined to a
Which of the above statements is/are correct? limited geographical range, the themes as
a) 1 , 2 , 3 and 4 well as the style are more or less, the same.
d) Madhubani is now found on apparel, paper,
b) 1 and 5
canvas, and other products, which boast of
c) 1 , 4 and 5 designs inspired by Hindu deities such as
d) 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 Krishna, Rama, Lakshmi, Shiva, Durga,
Saraswati, all of whom have been painted in
Madhubani since ancient times.

Q5. With reference to Dhrupad, one
of the major traditions of India that
has been kept alive for centuries,
which of the following statements
are correct?
1. Dhrupad originated and
developed in the Rajput
kingdoms during the Mughal
period.
2.Dhrupad is primarily a devotional
and spiritual music.
3.Dhrupad Alap uses Sanskrit
syllables from Mantras.
Select the correct answer using the
codes given below :
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the above is correct
Q6. How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?
1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not
in Bharatanatyam.
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of
Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of
movements.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q7. In the context of cultural history of India, a pose in dance and
dramatics called ‘Tribhanga’ has been a favourite of Indian artists from
ancient times till today. Which one of the following statements best
describes this pose?
a) One leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved
at waist and neck
b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and make-up are combined to
symbolize certain epic or historic characters
c) Movements of body, face and hands are used to express oneself or
to tell a story
d) A little smile, slightly curved waist and certain hand gestures are
emphasized to express the feelings of love or eroticism
 Q9. Consider the following historical places:
1. Ajanta Caves
2. Lepakshi Temple
Q8. With reference to the history of 3. Sanchi Stupa
Indian rock-cut architecture, Which of the above places is / are also known for mural paintings?
consider the following statements: (a) 1 only
1. The caves at Badami are the (b) 1 and 2 only
oldest surviving rock-cut caves (c) 1, 2 and 3
in India. (d) None
2. The Barabar rock-cut caves
were originally made for Ajivikas
by Emperor Chandragupta Q10. With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India,
Maurya. consider the following statements regarding Sankhya school:
3. At Ellora, caves were made for 1 .Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transrmigration of
different faiths. soul.
Which of the statements given 2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-knowledge that leads to liberation
above is/are correct? and not any exterior influence or agent.
(a) 1 only Which of the statements given above is /are correct?
(b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(c) 3 only (b) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
 Check Yourself

Q11. Which of the following statement(s) about "Kathak" is\are

correct: Q13. Which of the following dance form is
called "Ballet of the East"?
i. It was patronized and practiced by Wajid Ali Shah
ii. Its main centers are Jaipur, Banaras and Lucknow. a. Bharatanatyam
iii. Both men and women take part. b. Kathakali
c. Kathak
a. i & ii d. Kuchipudi
b. ii & iii
c. iii & i
d. All of the above
Q12. Which of the following statement(s) about 'Mohini Attam" is\are correct:
Q14. Tribhanga body position is
i. It borrows heavily from both Kathakali and Bharatanatyam. associated with which of the
following classical dance form
ii. It is performed by both men and women.
a. Bharatanatyam
a. i b. Kathakali
b. ii c. Odissi
c. Both i & ii d. Kuchipudi
d. None