Art & Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

ART & CULTURE MODEL ANSWERS WITH MIND MAP
Q1) Discuss the factors responsible for development of different architectural style of temple
architecture in different parts of India. (150 words)
Approach:
• Briefly explain the prominence of different styles of architecture witnessed in temples of India.
• Highlight the features of different styles like Nagara and Dravida
• List out the characteristics based on, geographic location, different rulers and their ideology, presence
of construction materials, popular culture of different regions etc.
• Conclude by reasserting the significance of Indian temples in building the rich cultural part of the
country.
Answer:
Most of the architectural remains that survive from Ancient and Medieval India are religious in nature. In
different parts of the country, distinct architectural style of temples was result of geographical, ethnic and
historical diversities.
Two broad orders of temples in the country are known as:

i) Nagara in the north, and
ii) Dravida in the south.
The basic form of the Hindu temple comprises the following: garbhagriha, mandapa, shikhara or viman, toran
or gopuram.
Factors responsible for the development of unique features of the Nagara temple style:
i) Patronised by great dynasties: The temples are mostly found in the Northern India, as it remained in touch
with great powers like Guptas, so have grand elaborate structures.
ii) Use of sandstone and bricks: As they were available in abundance in the western part of the country in
Rajasthan and western UP.
iii) Presence of sacred rivers: As the region have presence of surplus water source, also considered sacred
so no need of building water tanks arised.
iv) Temples on raised platform: As flood has remained an issue in northern region, so temples were
constructed on raised platforms.
Factors responsible for the development of unique features of the Dravida temple style:
i) Presence of compound wall: Unlike the nagara temple, the dravida temple is enclosed within a compound
wall, which led to development of markets and villages around those boundary walls.
ii) Presence of skilled craftsmen: the well defined temple, with skilled craftsmen is showcased in the beautiful
interior, and outer works on Vimana and Gopurams.
iii) Presence of large gopurams, which shows continuance of its uniqueness it managed due to remaining
isolated from the external influence.
iv) Southern part of India experiences less rainfall and ephemeral rivers so presence of sacred water tank in
the temple premises.
SPM IAS Academy, D.S. Mansion 2nd floor, Opposite Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Near Assam State Zoo, Zoo Road,
Guwahati, Assam – 781005 Phone: 6901259799, Students’ Support Team: 7099064717,
Email: spmiasacademy@gmail.com
1
v) Temples showcased the supremacy of the rulers like the Great Living Chola Temple, Tanjore shows the
might of the Chola empire.
Hence, we can say that different architectural designs of temples in India are not only reflection of its culture
and glorious history, but also tell about the uniqueness of its presence.
Q2) Discuss the development of temple architecture in Eastern India. (150 words)
Approach:
• Start with brief info about rich history of temples in India.
• Give details about the unique features present in the temples of Eastern India, with examples.
• Conclude that how the temples in Eastern India have developed unique characteristics while
maintaining the glory of rich architecture.
Answer:
The temples in India developed in every region of the country, often the geographical, climatic, ethnic, racial,
historical and linguistic aspects of the region had a greater part to play in shaping the style of the temples in
India.
The Eastern India Temples architecture flourished in the eastern parts of India which include North East,
Bengal, and Odisha. The Eastern Indian temples showed some distinctive traits from the other temples in
different parts of India. Terracotta was the main medium of construction, as well as for moulding plaques
depicting Buddhist and Hindu deities in Bengal.
Eastern India temple in Assam:

An old 6th century carved door frame from Dah Parvatia near Tezpur, shows the Gupta idiom's influence in
the region.
The Tai style, which arrived with the Tais from upper Burma, combined with the prevalent Pala style of Bengal,
resulted in the birth of the Ahom style in and around Guwahati.
Kamkhya temple had been modelled out of a combination of two different styles, namely, the traditional
nagara or North Indian and saracenic or Mughal. Thus, being an unusual combination which came into its
existence on this famous sakti shrine of India, it has been named as the Nilachala Style of Architecture,
Eastern India temples in West Bengal:

The style of architecture became known as the Pala and Sena School of Architecture in the Bengal region.
It arose between the eighth and twelfth centuries A.D., under the patronage of the Pala and Sena dynasties.
While the Palas are revered as protectors of Buddhist monasteries, the region's temples are known to be
built in the Vanga style. The Siddheswara Mahadeva temple in Burdwan, West Bengal, is an example of
early Pala architecture, with a towering curving shikhara capped by a huge amalaka.
The curve of the sloping or curving side of a Bengali hut's bamboo roof was the most noticeable of them,
known as Bangla roof also used in Kamakhya temple.
Eastern India temple in Orissa

Kalinga architecture: Odisha temples belong to a separate sub-style of the Nagara style.
2
In general, the Shikhara, also known as Deul in Odisha, is practically vertical until it turns steeply inwards
towards the top.
The temples' exteriors are elaborately carved and designed, while their interiors are often barren. Outer
walls are also present in Kalinga architecture.
Odisha temples are divided into three categories based on their major architectural features:
Rekha Deula: Rekha refers to a tall, straight structure in the shape of a straight lines. It completely encircles
the garbhagriha.
Pidha Duela: It's a square structure with a pyramid-shaped top that's used to house the outside dance
and offering halls.
Khakra Duela: It's a rectangular structure with a pyramid-shaped truncated roof.

Lingaraj temple, Konark temple are the examples of Kalinga architecture.
Thus, the Eastern India temples mark a distinctive class of Temple Architecture in India keeping the designs of
Nagara style alive in them. Also, a large number of sculptures have been discovered in Assam and Bengal,
indicating the development of significant regional schools in those areas.
Q3) The architecture during Sultanate and Mughal period was influenced by Indo-Islamic style or Indo-
Saracenic style. Discuss it with its features.
Approach:
• ye yaad rakho sabse pahle ki Saracenic name Europeans ne diya tha Islamic ya Arab architecture ko,
India me ise Indo-saracenic ke naam se bulaya gaya.
• So, start with the brief intro about Indo-Islamic or Indo-Saracenic architecture.
• Discuss its features, that how the architecture in India during that time was influence by Islamic
features.
Answer:
The term Indo-Islamic indicates the growth of composite culture as a result of contact, intermixing and
assimilation of the cultural tradition of India and the Islamic world during the medieval period. These
architectural entities or categories showcasing multiple styles are known as Indo-Saracenic or Indo-Islamic
architecture.
Below are the Characteristic features of Indo-Islamic form of architecture, which developed during this time:
1) Use of brick and mortar in buildings: Buildings in Islamic countries were made of brick, lime and mortar,
This is was different from earlier use of stone and natural cementing agents.
2) Use of geometrical patterns: Muslims architectures avoided the use of human figurines rather they opted
for geometrical patters (arabesque), floral patterns, inscriptions in various styles, decorative patterns on marble
(Pietra dura.
3) Introduction of arches and domes: Constructions of arches and domes became popular in the
construction of mosques, graves and in other buildings. Minars were built around mosques and mausoleums
by Islamic monarchs.
3
4) Intricate "jaali" art adorned the structures, symbolizing the value of light in Islamic traditions, though it was
in use in Rajput style.
5) Water's importance was also evident in the building. It was primarily employed for aesthetic, cooling, and
religious reasons, the charbagh method, which divides a garden into four halves used water fountains in the
centre for beautification.
The Indo-Islamic style can also be classified mainly into Sultanate and Mughal style, with differences in their
construction material like during the Sultanate period more use of ruins of Hindu and Jain temples, smaller size
of domes, more use of sand stone etc.
On the other hand during the Mughal period, alongwith original constructions in India use of Persian art like
Pietra Duera with Jali work of Rajpuatna style, use of Buddhist Pagods design in Panchmahal by Akbar
evolved. It showed the more secular approach of construction during the Mughal period.
Indo-Islamic Architecture flourished in Medieval India under the patronage of different dynasties- from Slaves
to Mughals. It holds a key position in the architectural development of our country.
Q4) India has been a great centre of art and sculptures during the early historic period. Discuss the
features of Mathura, Gandhara and Amravati school?
Approach:
• Start with a brief intro about sculptors in India.
• The main demand of the question is differentiating the three schools.
Answer:
Sculpture Art is one of the oldest art forms to exist in India from Indus valley civilization to the Mahajanpad
period and beyond. Sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, Lord Buddha, figures from daily life and so on
are some of the most common themes in sculpture art as seen from the ancient times.
Features of the three schools:

1) Mathura school:
It maintained its originality in sculpture making in India. Sculptures and statues were typically made out of red
sandstone. The Buddha and the Bodhisattva are shown in the beginning as joyful, with little spirituality.
The Mathura School of Arts was known for its Buddha representations, as well as statues of many gods and
goddesses, including Jain Tirthankaras. The school was patronized by the Kushan as well as the Gupta rulers.
2) Gandhara School:
Gandhara art flourished in India during the reign of the Kushan Empire, specially Kanishka. Greek techniques
had a big effect on Gandhara School, as a result, the Gandhara School became known as the Indo-Greek
School of Art
They used Grey/bluish grey sandstone and Buddhism was the main inspiration behind many of the sculptures.
There is a sense of calmness in the depiction of Buddha with less ornamnets. The Buddha and Bodhisattva
figures resemble the Greek God Apollo with broad shoulders, a halo around the head.
4
3) Amravati school:
The 'narrative art' is a prominent feature of the Amaravati school. The Amravati structures are made of striking
white marble.
In human, animal, and floral forms, Amaravati sculptures have a sense of movement and vitality, as well as
profound and serene naturalism.
The Satavahanas were the first to patronize it, followed by the Ikshvakus and other groups.
Sculptures created by these schools though had some differences in their materials and way of representation
still maintained the similarities in representing the culture and religious belief of the country.
Q5) Discuss the reasons that led to the rise of Bhakti movement in India and what was its impact.
Approach:
• Begin with the brief intro about Bhakti movement in India.
• The main demand of the question is reasons behind its rise and impact on Indian society.
Answer:
The Bhakti movement began in the southern portions of India, particularly Tamil Nadu,in the 7th century, and
gradually spread to the Northern India. It was reflected in the poems of the Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) and
Alvars (devotees of Vishnu). They emphasized on developing a loving bond based upon love between the
worshipped and worshipper.
Reason that led to the rise of Bhakti movement:

Social
evils in
the Hindu
Society Role of
Religion's
Religious
complexity
Reformers
Challenge
Influence
from Rival
of Sufism
Increased
Religion
relevance of
common
people
1) Religion’s complexity: The great philosophy of the Vedas and Upanishads was extremely difficult for the
common people to understand. People desired a simple form of worship, as well as simple religious, practices
and social conventions.
2) Social evils in Hindu society: Hindu society was riddled with social evils such as caste rigidity, irrelevant
rituals and religious practises, blind faiths, and social dogmas.
3) Role of Religious Reformers: The chief exponents of the movement were Shankara, Ramanuja, Kabir,
Nanak, Shri Chaitanya, Mirabai, Ramananda, Namdev, Nimbarka, Madhava, Eknath, Surdas, Tulsidas,
Tukaram, Vallabhacharya and Chandidas. They were the propounders of Bhakti movement and gave a call to
5
the people to worship in the simplest possible way of devotion and love.
4) Challenge from Rival Religion: The impact of Buddhism, Jainism and then Islam led to a demand of
reforms in Hinduism to save it from getting sidelined in society. The Hindus had suffered a lot under some of
the fanatic rulers. They wanted some solace to heal their despairing hearts.
5) Influence of Sufism: The Sufi saints of the Muslim community also inspired the movement. Bhakti marga
was an alternative—a simple way of devotion to obtain redemption from worldly existence.
Impact of Bhakti movement:

1) The Bhakti exponents raised their powerful voice against different types of immoral acts like infanticide and
sati and encouraged prohibition of wine, tobacco and other intoxicants. They aimed to set up a good social
order upholding high moral values.
2) Another remarkable impact was bringing about a unity among the Hindu and Muslim communities. The
movement tried to reduce the growing bitterness between the two and bridge the gap. The saints of Bhakti
movement and the Sufi saints spread message of friendship, amity, tolerance, peace and equality among all.
3) The spirit of tolerance, harmony and mutual respect which was inaugurated by the Bhakti saints had another
everlasting impact.
4) The Bhakti movement promoted the growth of vernacular language and literature in different parts of the
country. Kabir, Nanak, Chaitanya and Shankar dev preached in their respective vernacular tongues – Kabir in
Hindi, Nanak in Gurmukhi and chaitanya in Bengali, Shankar dev in Assamese.
5) They were vehemently opposed to the caste system, which segregated people based on their birth and so
taught the Universal brotherhood principle.
The Bhakti movement was a historical religious movement in medieval Hinduism that sought to bring religious
reforms to all strata of society by using devotion to achieve salvation. It empowered the underprivileged and
engendered the growth of vernacular literature in India.
Q6) Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss
Approach:
• In the introduction part, try to define indian heritage and mention what all are its components.
• Then highlight the threats to the Indian art heritage.
• Mention the possible solutions i.e the way forward.
• Conclude on a positive note.
Answer:
India is well known for it’s rich art heritage, having highest representation in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The term heritage has wide connotations spanning across nature, culture., food and other dimensions. Art
heritage primarily refers to the tangible and intangible heritage comprising Paintings and art forms, Ancient
Monuments and Archaeological Sites, Sculpture, Scriptures, Artifacts etc.
Threats to Indian Art Heritage:

• Theft: According to Global Financial Integrity, illegal trade in paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts is
one of the world’s most lucrative criminal enterprises, estimated at $16 billion a year.
• Religious conflict/ Communal riot: attacking on cultural properties of other religion.
6
• Pollution: e.g. Taj Mahal is turning yellow and green due to air pollution.
• Disasters: Tsunami, cyclone, flooding etc.
• Negligence and lack of Interest among younger generation.
Also lack of public awareness, Armed conflict and war, earthquakes and other natural disasters,
pollution, poaching, uncontrolled urbanization and unchecked tourist development pose major problems
to Indian Art Heritage
Why safeguarding is the need of the moment:

• The art heritages are artistic gifts we have got from our ancestors. We have moral responsibility to
safeguard it.
• These are symbols of civilization and are part of Indian identity.
• Art heritages are instruments of national integration. People visits heritages of of different community
=> cultural synthesis and tolerance.
• Economic benefits and job creation:
• Nation image at global level -> Boost to soft power.
• Constitution under Art 49 and Art 51(f) imposes duty on both the state and citizen respectively.
Way forward:
Tapping of the Public —Private Partnership models: For conservation to succeed, the civil society and
corporates must partner with the government.
Aware the masses: make the citizens aware of the importance of their cultural and historical environment and
help them to develop a harmonious relationship with it.
Conservation and development can and should go hand in hand: Preserving and properly promoting India’s
rich intangible cultural heritage by inventorizing and documenting oral traditions, indigenous knowledge systems,
guru- shishya systems, folklores and tribal and oral traditions and also extending patronage to various dance
forms like Bihu, Bhangra, Nautanki, Dandiya and other folk dances besides classical forms.
Safeguarding or preserving things of the past, even restoring things to their former glory are all appreciation or
expressions of respect for the things built by our forefathers. Therefore, it becomes necessary to have modern
ways or to interpret cultural heritage with technological advance methods so that they live longer and goes
through ages.
Q7) What are the main characteristics of dance forms from East India? Explain with the help of suitable
examples.
Approach:
• Start with giving a brief info about dance in India.
• Main demand of the question is the characteristics of dance forms in Eastern part of India, so this
will remain the focus, no need to explain Bharatnatyam and others.
• Give suitable examples from Sattriya, Chhau, Odissi to substantiate the second part of the
answer, i.e. both Classical and Folk dance.
Answer:
In India, the art of dancing has a long and illustrious history that dates back thousands of years. We can find the
evidence of dancing in virtually all major historical sources, including excavations and inscriptions, chronicles,
7
genealogy of kings and artists, literary sources like Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra sculpture and painting from
various historical periods, and more.
• here u can add a figure having map of India with few dance forms, special emphasis on East India.
Main body: Characteristics:

Dances of East India have great historical significances as almost all dance forms from this part of the country
are several hundred years old. For instance, the Ghumura dance from the Kalahandi district of Odisha is said to
have existed from as early as 8000 BC, and this piece of information comes with the backing of a few
archaeological evidences. Apart from the cultural and economic factors, there are some mythological
connections associated with many of these dances from East India.
These dance forms are backed by soothing lyrics and is similar to Bharatanatyam in terms of the mudras and
expressions.
1. To commemorate the ancient mythologies
2. Showcasing the military might of the region, like Thang ta from Manipur, Chhau of WB
3. Portrays everyday emotions like Biraha dance from Bihar represents pain of women whose
partners are away
4. To celebrate good harvest like Bihu
5. To praise the nature and its beauty
• So, in this way u bring more characteristics from different dance forms.
The cultural riches of India are well-known. An important component of Indian culture is the performance of
traditional dances. The majority of classical dance styles had their genesis in temples. Its primary focus was
worship. Therefore, Dance played a vital role in the religious and social lives of the Indian people.
Q8) Glimpse of contemporary social and cultural life in India’s cave architecture and paintings are seen.
Elucidate.
Approach:
• Start with brief intro of Cave paintings and architecture in India.
• Start with highlighting about India’s cave architecture and painting since the Bhimbetka cave paintings
and how it presented the socio-cultural life set up of that time.
• Elucidate on same thing with different examples in the main part of the answer.
Answer:
The cave architecture in India is believed to have begun during the ancient time. The relics, motifs, murals-
paintings and sculptures enlighten us with a lot of information of their contemporary times giving us an impression
of various traditions, customs and lifestyles followed by the inhabitants.
• Add map showing different caves in India.
Giving examples from different caves:

Bhimbetka cave:
It is very interesting to note that the division of labour can be reflected in the paintings of Bhimbetka. Scenes
from day-to-day life like hunting, dancing and even some sex scenes are portrayed in these paintings.
The walls of these shelters are also adorned with religious symbols that were popular with these prehistoric
artists.
8
Ajanta Caves:
Famous fresco paintings of Ajanta are dying princess, flying apsara, and preaching Buddha.
It encompasses both Theravada (Hinayana) and Mahayana Buddhist traditions. It helps us to understand how
Buddhism was pursued in those times.
Badami Caves:
The caves are known for the Nagara and Dravidian styles of architecture and exquisite carvings, sculptures and
beautiful murals.
Ellora Caves:
Showcases a spirit of co-existence and religious tolerance through the outstanding architectural activities carried
out by the followers of three prominent religions: Buddhism, Brahmanism, and Jainism.
Udaygiri caves:
Ancient monumental relief sculpture of Vishnu in his incarnation as the man-boar Varaha, rescuing the earth
symbolically represented by Bhudevi clinging to the boar’s tusk as described in Hindu mythology.
Lomas Rishi Caves:

The Ajivikas sect that competed with Jainism and eventually died out. As per inscriptions it shows they pondered
in caves, rejecting both the Vedas’ authority and Buddhist beliefs.
Nagarjuni Caves:
It testifies Ashoka’s grandson and successor, Dasaratha (reigned in 232 – 224 BC) – has devoted these caves
to Ajivika thus these structures might be some 50 years younger than caves at Barabar.
The paintings on caves and rock-cut structures survive for many centuries. These cave paintings got their
inspiration from nature and local traditions of times. These paintings mostly depicted gods and goddesses,
mythological stories and characters, epics, nature, flora and fauna, humans, and religions of that times.
Q9) With the help of suitable examples, discuss the key features of Buddhist literature.
Approach:
• Start with the background of Buddhist literature.
• write about the details of Buddhist literature.
• Highlight its key features with suitable example is the demand of question.
Answer:
Buddhist literature and texts are religious works belonging to the Buddhist faith. The oldest Buddhist writings
were not written down until several centuries after Gautama Buddha's death. Buddhist writings are classified in
a variety of ways. Western academics use the term "canonical" to refer to Buddhism in a variety of ways. These
religious works were composed in a variety of languages, writing systems, and procedures.
Key features of Buddhist literature:

Vernacular: During his lifetime the Buddha taught not in Vedic Sanskrit, which had become tough to the people,
but in his own Indian dialect, he also encouraged his monks to propagate his teachings in the vernacular. For
example language of Pali and other local languages developed through the teachings of Buddhism.
9
Folklore: Jatakas are very much close to folklore literature and they contain the tales of previous births of
Buddha in poems. The Jataka have also been mentioned in the Khuddaka Nikaya.
Based on discipline and rules: The subject matter of Vinay Pitaka is the monastic rules for monks and nuns. It
can also be called as Book of Discipline. Its three books are Suttavibhanga, Khandaka and Parivara.
Biographical: In Sanskrit Lalit is a Lotus. Lalitvistara is a Sanskrit text that deals with the biography of Buddha.
Buddha Charita is an epic style Sanskrit work by Ashavaghosa. It mainly deals with Buddha’s Life.
Discourse and dialogue: Milinda Panha literal meaning is Questions of Milinda contains the dialogue between
the Indo-Greek King Menander I or Milinda of Bactria, and the sage Nagasena. It is in the question answer format
related to Buddhism.
Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit (BHS): Sanskrit Buddhist literature refers to Buddhist texts composed either in
classical Sanskrit, in a register that has been called “Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit” or a mixture of the two. Most
prominent among which was the Sarvāstivāda.
Buddhism literature arose to suit the needs of a changing society, patronized by an emerging class and left an
indelible mark on India’s culture, philosophy and way of living. These literature also found their influence in
neighboring countries and helped India expand its footprint in these regions, paving way for a cultural connect
to this day.
Q10) How has the concept and practice of secularism evolved in India, and how has it been affected by
global and domestic political developments? Analyse.
Approach:
• Briefly tell about the concept of secularism.
• Next part of the question, discuss the development of Secularism in India
in ancient, medieval and modern stage.
• Next, discuss the challenges in Indian secularism from domestic and external factors.
• End with a way forward to make the Indian secularism true in real sense.
Answer:
Secularism is a doctrine where all religions are given equal status, recognition and support from the state
or it can also be defined as a doctrine that promotes separation of state from religion, however global and
domestic events created challenge before it.
It advocates the separation of religion from politics. It is the principle of separation of government institutions
and persons mandated to represent the state from religious institutions and religious dignitaries. Thus, religion
should be separate from aspects of state and governance.
Secularism in Ancient India-
• Before the arrival of Islam in the 12th century, followed by Mughal and colonials, Indian religions are
known to have co-existed and evolved together for many centuries.
• In ancient India, the Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism) was basically allowed to develop as a holistic religion
by welcoming different spiritual traditions and trying to integrate them into a common mainstream.
• Rulers like Ashoka, Kanishka, Gupta rulers patronized different religions along with the religion or sect
they used to believe, as Gupta rulers were worshipper of Lord Vishnu but also patronized great center of
Buddhist learning at Nalanda.
10
Secularism during the Medival period:
In medieval India, the Sufi and Bhakti movements restored the secular character of Indian society. They spread
the different facets of secularism like tolerance, a sense of brotherhood, universalism, harmony, and peace in
society.
Rulers like Akbar maintained the secular fabric alive with his policies of Din-i-Ilahi.
Also, the leading light of this time was Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, Baba Farid, Saint Kabir Das, Guru Nanak Dev,
Saint Tukaram, and Mira Bai.
Secularism in modern India:

During the British rule, the policy of Divide and Rule played by the British harmed the secular fabric which resulted
into the division of the country.
Indian Secularism is also reflected in its fundamental rights (Article 25-28) where it guarantees each of its citizens
the right to practice any religion.
With the 42nd Amendment of the Constitution of India (1976), the Preamble to the Constitution asserted that
India is a “secular” nation.
Effect of globalization on Indian secularism:
Access to
education
Development Positive Increased

of Urban employement
centres
Imapct opportunities
More exposure
to different
culture
11
Spread of
communal
violence
across border
Seperatist Radicalization
forces from Negative of youth
Pakistan, through
Canada Imapct social media
Negative
portryal of
India's image
Challenges within the Country:
Communal
politics
Domestic
Rise of Pseudo
factors
seperatist secularism for
challenging
forces in vote bank
Indian
border states politics
secularism
Religious
conversions
12
Way forward:
There is need to shift focus from a politically-led Secularism project to a socially-driven movement for
justice. Also, a shift of emphasis from inter-religious to intro-religious issues, without completely ignoring
inter-religious issues.
Indian secularism is not an end in itself but a means to address religious plurality and sought to achieve peaceful
coexistence of different religions.
Q11) Discuss the key features of the Sangam literature. What do you understand by the word
‘agam/akam’ and ‘puram’?
Approach:
• Briefly discuss what do you mean about the word ‘Sangam’. Also, how involvement of Sangam poets
from different social backgrounds led to a rich variety of sangam literature.
• Next u need to discuss the ‘key features’ (here try to make a figure representing the features) and then
explain them in detail.
• Last part is discussing the two given terms in relation with the Sangam literature.
Answer:
Sangam literally means association or confluence of Tamil poets and philosophers in the reign of Pandya
rulers in the southern India between 3rd century CE to 3rd century CE.
The poets involved in these three Sangam came from different social backgrounds like royal families,
farmers, businessmen and even women which was also evident in the rich diversity of Sangam literature.
Key features of Sangam literature:
• Evidence of indigenous literary growth in South India parallel to Sanskrit:
The Tolkappiyam, written by Tolkappiyar, was the first of these works, and it contains information about
the social, economic, and political situations of the Sangam Age, as well as Tamil grammar.
• Secular and religious idea of Tamil society: Sangam poetry is concerned with culture and people.
Except for the odd reference of Hindu gods and more major allusions of numerous gods in the shorter
poems, it is virtually exclusively non-religious.
• Good status of women in Tamil society: The involvement of female Tamil saints like Avvaiyar tells the
equal involvement of women in such works which were not generally encouraged in the Northern part of
the country. Also the two Tamil epics Shilpadikaram and Manimegallai showcase the importance and
high status of women in society.
• Development of linguistic collaboration from other part of the country: The Sangam literature
contains evidence of Sanskrit loan words, implying ongoing linguistic and literary collaboration between
ancient Tamil Nadu and other areas of the Indian subcontinent.
• Developing Political history of the Tamil society: The information about the three major Tamil Kingdoms
the Chola, Chera and Pandyas is available in these literature.
Sangam literature is classified into two types:
1. akam and
2. puram.
Emotions and sentiments in the context of romantic love, sexual connection, and sensuality are central to
Akam poetry.
Puram poetry is concerned with exploits and heroic achievements in battle and public life settings.
Three-fourths of Sangam poetry is akam-themed, with the remaining one-fourth puram-themed.
13
Thus, we can say the Sangam literature do not only tells about the richness of literature but also throws
light on the social and political life of the Tamil society.
Q12) Examine the contribution of Cholas in the development of temple architecture in India.
Answer:
The Chola period saw the culmination of Dravida temple art resulting in the most sophisticated buildings of
medieval India. The Tamil Nadu temples were fully evolved in their style and design by the 8th century.
The Chola kings utilised their wealth earned through their extensive conquest in building exquisite monuments.
It is due to this, the Chola period witnessed the culmination in evolution of dravidian temple architecture
making the Chola temples of that era artistically elaborate and sophisticated.
Chola temples are characteristized by:
More elaborative structures: The temple architecture evolved from the early cave temples and to more
elaborate and complex in the Chola period. Example: Brihadeshwara temple.
Gopurams become meaningful and vibrant: In the chola period simple gopurams evolved into more
exquisite and well composed structures with carvings and series of effigies on them. The dvarapalas at the
entrance to the mandapa, or hall which started from the Pallava period became a unique feature of the Chola
temples.
Elaborate pyramidal storeys: The shape of the main temple tower was in the form of stepped pyramid unlike
the Nagara style Shikhara that is curving.
Polished sculptures: During this period the architectural development reached its zenith. The temples were
decorated with artistic stone pillars and wall decoration. Emphasis was on elongated limbs and polished
features. Example: Carvings of the wheel chariot in Airavatesvara Temple are so fine that all the minute details
are visible.
Few famous examples: Brihadeswarar Temple of Tanjore, is the world’s first complete “granite” temple and
one of the tallest buildings of its kind. It was built by Rajraja Chola-I and is a part of UNESCO’s world Heritage
sites.
Other features: Sanctum of the Chola temples is both circular and square in size. Inner side of the external
walls and the sanctum were beautified. On the upper side of the sanctum special vimanas are built. Dome
shaped sikhara and kalasa were also there on the top of Gopurams.
Brihadisvara temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Brihadisvara temple at Gangaikonda cholapuram was made by
King Rajaraja’s son Rajendra I, who assumed the title “Gangaikonda”.
Thus Cholas contributed extensively to temple architecture and their rule is often referred to golden era of
temple construction in Tamil Nadu. Due to their grandeur, Chola temples have been recognised for their
international importance and therefore get special protection as world heritage by UNESCO.
14
Q13) To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs
to the present day urbanization? Discuss.
Answer:
The Indus Valley Civilization’s (IVC) urban settlements had exceptional planning, particularly in terms of
sanitation and drainage. It has contributed significantly to contemporary urbanisation. Dealing with unplanned
development has been one of the most pressing concerns in Indian urban planning. It was the most
widespread of the three early civilizations of the ancient world, along with Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
Features of IVC urban planning: Their discovery and excavation in the 19th and 20th centuries provided
important archaeological data about the IVC features.
1) Grid like layout of streets: The streets of the IVC were laid out in grid-like layouts, allowing for deliberate
and planned growth. In modern times, Le Corbusier’s ideas for Chandigarh was seemed to be inspired from it,
to facilitate traffic flow and reduce the city’s footprint.
2) Division of city into different zones: The IVC properly defined the town’s residential zones and
common/public areas.
3) IVC’s granaries are also an example of intelligent design, with strategically positioned air ducts and unitized
platforms.
4) The use of tanks and ponds to store water has been noted in the IVC’s rain-scarce cities, particularly
Dholavira. Such a water conservation strategy is still applicable in India’s water-scarce regions.
5) The use of burnt bricks in the Harappan cities. The houses in the IVC were built in such a way that they did
not interfere with the road layout in any way. Instead of opening onto the street, the residences had doors that
opened onto the lanes.
6) Proper drainage system: The IVC’s drains connected each and every residence, allowing residents to
dispose of trash immediately. These sewers were completely covered and connected directly to the main
sewerage outlets. For maintenance, there were holes in the sewers and manholes in the streets so that people
could inspect them out.
Influence of IVC town planning is still seen in modern day town planning, planning of modern storage centers
can be seen of as drawing inspiration from trading districts, granaries, and dockyards.
The Indus Valley Civilization is regarded as India’s first wave of urbanisation. There is no doubt that the Indus
Valley Civilization had a significant impact on Indian urban planning and culture.
Q14) Discuss the significance of initial Buddhist Stupa art and explain in what way they depicted
Buddhist ideals.
Answer:
Stupas are one of the world’s oldest structures present since Vedic period to Mahajanpad period that host
mortal remains of Buddhist monks. The structures of the Stupas are designed in a unique manner that depicts
the underlying Buddhist philosophy and message.
The Stupa represented many things in the Buddhist tradition:

It symbolizes the Parinirvana of the Buddha, it was repository of relics of the Buddha and other monks, for
worship and pilgrimage for monks also is not merely considered a commemorative symbol but also believed to
be the living presence of the Buddha, a depository of his protective powers and living energy.
15
Features of stupa art:
Anda: Anda is the spherical dome that encloses the mortal remains of Buddha preserved for worship by
followers. The anda represents the world mountain, which rises through the center of the Buddhist universe.
Harmika: The chhatra is surrounded by a small fence called the harmika. In Buddhist tradition, fences are
used to gate off sacred areas.
Pradakshinapath: Like the Hindu temples, it symbolizes the importance of the completing a circle showing the
devotion.
Chhatra: The three stone disks on the top of anda, called chatras for short, represent the three jewels of
Buddhism: the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
Torana: The toranas provide the main instructional areas, because they are covered with carvings of religious
scenes and tales of the Buddha.
Thus, Stupas can be considered as teachings of Buddha depicted in structural form, which not only acts as
religious place of worship but helps in propagating message of Buddhism.
Q15) Rock cut architecture find an important place in ancient Indian history. Comment.
Answer:
Rock-cut architecture is the practice of creating a structure, by carving out of the solid natural rock. These
architectures have served as an important means to decipher the culture, religion, customs and skills of our
very talented artisans.
Rock-cut architectures are a great reservoir of knowledge holding and carrying forward the legacy for
centuries. Features as an important source of knowledge:
about Society: The earliest caves were inhabited by humans for the purpose of paintings, as shrines and
shelters. The Bhimbetka caves (a World Heritage Site) on the Deccan Plateau, contain primitive tools and
decorative rock paintings reflecting the interaction of humans with their environment. The interaction which to
date holds an important part of survival.
Showing political influence: Kings patronised the caves in order to show their might, to increase their
holdings and influence and for the purpose of providing facilities to the wanderers. Examples: Barbara caves:
Ashoka, Ellora caves: Rashtrakutas, Badami: Chalukyas
Centre of education: Many caves were used as centres for education and for the purpose of preaching.
Example: In the western ghats, kanheri caves were the biggest centres of education.
Economic relevance: Many caves were specially carved out at the famous trade routes to facilitate and
regulate trade.
Environment Conservation: Water resources are prevalent at Kanheri which shows water harvesting was
practised at caves. Also patronizing these caves lead to restoration and maintenance of these regions.
16
Thus, the ample knowledge preserved by the rock-cut architectures provides insights into the life and times of
ancient people and helps us decipher their society through their own prism as seen from their paintings and
tools discovered in these caves.
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27

Art &amp; Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Art &amp; Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Art &amp; Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

ART & CULTURE MODEL ANSWERS WITH MIND MAP

Two broad orders of temples in the country are known as:

Eastern India temple in Assam:

Eastern India temples in West Bengal:

Eastern India temple in Orissa

Khakra Duela: It's a rectangular structure with a pyramid-shaped truncated roof.

Features of the three schools:

Reason that led to the rise of Bhakti movement:

Impact of Bhakti movement:

Threats to Indian Art Heritage:

Why safeguarding is the need of the moment:

Main body: Characteristics:

Giving examples from different caves:

Lomas Rishi Caves:

Key features of Buddhist literature:

Secularism in modern India:

Effect of globalization on Indian secularism:

Development Positive Increased

Challenges within the Country:

Three-fourths of Sangam poetry is akam-themed, with the remaining one-fourth puram-themed.

The Stupa represented many things in the Buddhist tradition:

You might also like

Art & Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

Art & Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)

Art & Culture (Model Answers With Mindmap)