Art & Culture - Cad 2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS DECRYPTION
(CAD)
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ART & CULTURE
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March 2023 to February 2024
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(Important Current Affairs for UPSC CSE )
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Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Contact no : 094442 27273
Table of Contents
❖ G20 Summit Cultural Showcase
❖ Phulkari
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❖ Chikankari
❖ Meenakari
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❖ Zardozi Embroidery
❖ Bharat Mandapam
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❖ Lord Nataraja
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❖ Konark Chakra
❖ Nagara and Dravida Style of Architecture
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❖ Nalanda University
❖ Dokra Metalcraft
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❖ Tanjore Paintings
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❖ Brass Statue of Lord Buddha
❖ Sharda Devi Temple
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❖ 12 Jyotirlingas
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❖ Chausath Yogini Temple

❖ New Parliament House
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❖ Important Fort
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❖ Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Spirit

❖ Jantar Mantar
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❖ Allah Baksh and Mewari Style Painting

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❖ Bagh Print
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❖ Panamalai Paintings
❖ Cheriyal Scroll Painting
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❖ Pichwai Painting
❖ Cham Lama Dance
❖ Kolkali Dance
❖ Pulikkali
❖ Gilgit Manuscripts
Contact no : 094442 27273
❖ Ol Chiki Script
❖ Keeladi
❖ Key Facts- INDIA Awards
❖ Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024
❖ Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)
❖ Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)
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❖ FIDE Grand Swiss Open
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❖ 20th Asian Games
❖ World University Game
❖ South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship 2023
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❖ 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards
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❖ Mihir Bhoja
❖ Saint Meera Bai
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❖ Rani Durgavati
❖ Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
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❖ Dayanand Saraswati
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❖ Sri Aurobindo Ghosh
❖ Sri Alluri Sitarama Raju
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❖ Shri Ramalinga Swamigal

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❖ Nobel Prize in Literature for 2023

❖ Sahitya Akademi Award
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❖ Ramon Magsaysay Award

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❖ Shantiniketan
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❖ Hoysala Temples
❖ UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
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❖ UNESCO Prix Versailles

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❖ Garba Dance
❖ UNESCO Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage Award
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❖ United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)

❖ Utsav Portal

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1. G20 Summit
G20 SUMMIT CULTURAL SHOWCASE
Cultural Diplomacy can be described as a course of action, based on the
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exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and other aspects of culture or
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identity, to strengthen relationships, enhance socio-cultural cooperation,
promote national interests, and beyond. In present times, it is extensively
used within the international dynamics to facilitate economic and political
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relations between nations. This is because cultural diplomacy emphasises the
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promotion of mutual comprehension, which is perceived as a means to
nurture enduring relationships and establish trust among nations.
Cultural Events and Exhibitions:

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The G20 summit in India was a cultural extravaganza that allowed world
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leaders and delegates to experience India’s culture firsthand. Some key
highlights of the summit are:
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The G20 Spouses’ Events in which designer Manish Malhotra presented his
collection inspired by the traditional crafts of Phulkari, Chikankari, and
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Zardosi, showcasing ‘Culture Corridor-G20 Digital Museum’ to foreign

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delegates.
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The G20 leader’s retreat, featuring the performance of AR Rahman .

The G20 Culture Gala and Exhibition at the National Museum.
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All the events were a testament to India’s glorious legacy and heritage.
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India’s Cultural Showcase:

Bharat Mandapam (inspired from Anubhav Mandapam).
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Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja (Chola style).

Konark Chakra of Odisha’s Sun Temple and Image of Nalanda University
(used as iconic backdrops).
Thanjavur Paintings and Dhokra art.

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Brass statue of Lord Buddha sitting under Bodhi tree.
Diverse musical heritage (Hindustani, Folk, Carnatic, Devotional).
1. Phulkari
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Literally means 'flower work'. It is the traditional embroidery of Punjab and
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the entire cloth is embroidered and filled with flowers.
2. Chikankari
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The word literally means embroidery. It is the traditional process of hand
embroidery and it is basically practiced in the city Lucknow in India.
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3. Meenakari
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(2021) Banarasi Pink Meenakari Gifts were presented to US Vice President
Kamala Harris and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison by Prime
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Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to the United States of America.
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Meenakari, also known as enamelling, is the art of decorating a metal

surface by mixing minerals. Meenakari was brought to India by the
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Mughals.
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This process is often used on Kundan. Under this, between the stone and the
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mount on one side of the article, there is a gold layer inlay of precious gems,
while on the other side the shiny layer is plated with the Meena technique.
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The Meenakari of Varanasi is part of its rich cultural heritage. It was

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given a GI Tag in the year 2015.

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4. Zardozi embroidery
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Zardozi embroidery is beautiful metal embroidery, which was once used to
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embellish the attire of the Kings and the royals in India.
It was also used to adorn the walls of the royal tents, scabbards, wall hangings
and the paraphernalia of regal elephants and horses.
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Zardozi embroidery work involves making elaborate designs, using gold
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and silver threads. Further adding to the magnificence of the work are the
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studded pearls and precious stones.
Zardosi embroidery has been in existence in India from the time of the Rig
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Veda. There are numerous instances mentioning the use of zari embroidery as
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ornamentation on the attire of gods.

Initially, the embroidery was done with pure silver wires and real gold leaves.
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However, today, craftsmen make use of a combination of copper wire, with a

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golden or silver polish, and a silk thread.

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5. Bharat Mandapam
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The G20 Summit in the national capital started to host prominent global
leaders, including US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
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This summit is set to take place at the International
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Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) complex, also known as Bharat
Mandapam, situated within New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan. Prime Minister
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Narendra Modi inaugurated this impressive complex on July 26 of this year. It

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features cutting-edge amenities such as a convention centre, exhibition

halls, and an amphi theatre.
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The IECC complex is India’s largest MICE (meetings, incentives,

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conferences, and exhibitions)

The architectural design of the convention centre incorporates elements
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from India’s traditional art and culture, representing the nation’s rich
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heritage and modern achievements.

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The term ‘Bharat Mandapam’ is derived from Lord Basaveshwara’s concept

of ‘Anubhav Mantapa,’ which was a significant institution in the 12th
century. Anubhav Mantapa is considered one of the earliest parliaments in
human history, where poets and socio-spiritual reformers known as
Sharanas discussed and deliberated on various reforms.
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Lord Basaveshwara:
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He was an Indian 12th-century Philosopher, Statesman and a social
reformer.
He was Lingayat saint in the Shiva-focussed Bhakti movement, and Hindu
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Shaivite social reformer during the reign of the Kalyani Chalukya/Kalachuri
dynasty.
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The Lingayats are a Hindu sect with a wide following in southern India that
worships Shiva as the only deity.
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He is also known as Bhakti Bhandari (literally, the treasurer of devotion), or

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Basaveswara (Lord Basava).

Contribution:
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Basavanna spread social awareness through his poetry known as

Vachanaas.
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Several important Lingayat works are credited to Basavanna, including

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Vachana such as the Shat-sthala-vachana, Kala-jnana-vachana,

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Mantra-gopya, Ghatna Chakra-vachana and Raja-yoga-vachana.

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Basavanna, like Gautama Buddha, taught people how to live happily in a

rational social order which later came to be known as the Sharana
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movement.
The Sharana movement attracted people from all castes, and like most
strands of the Bhakti movement, produced a corpus of literature, the
vachanas, that unveiled the spiritual universe of the Veerashaiva saints.

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Basava fought against the inhuman practice of the caste system, which
discriminated against people based on their birth.
The Anubhava Mantapa established by Basava laid down the foundation of
social democracy.
Basava believed that man becomes great not by his birth but by his
conduct in the society.
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He taught the dignity of manual labour by insisting on work as worship.
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In this historical context:
Prabhudeva, a renowned Yogi, served as the President, while Lord
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Basaveshwara acted as the Prime Minister.
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The members of the Anubhav Mantapa were not elected by the people;
instead, they were chosen or nominated by the higher authorities of the
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6. Lord Nataraja
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Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja

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This remarkable Nataraja statue, crafted from an ashtadhatu (eight-metal

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alloy) by artisans from Tamil Nadu, weighs 18 tonnes.

The statue is sculpted by the renowned sculptor Radhakrishnan Sthapaty of
Swami Malai in Tamil Nadu.

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The design of this Nataraja statue draws inspiration from three revered
Nataraja idols: the Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, the Uma
Maheswarar Temple in Konerirajapuram, and the Brihadeeswara (Big)
Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Thanjavur. This offers a deep
insight into the history and religious symbolism of Lord Shiva's dancing form.
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The Nataraja sculpture at Bharat Mandapam is made using the lost wax
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method.
What is the Lost Wax Method?
Sculptors who created the Nataraja statue which is placed at the Bharat
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Mandapam, New Delhi, trace their lineage 34 generations back to the Cholas.
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The crafting process used is the traditional 'lost-wax' casting method,
indigenous to the Chola era.
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The lost-wax method dates back at least 6,000 years, a copper amulet
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crafted using this method at a neolithic site in Mehrgarh, Balochistan (present
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day Pakistan) is dated to circa 4,000 BC.
Notably, the Dancing Girl of Mohenjo Daro was also crafted using this
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technique.
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Evolution of Nataraja Iconography:

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Nataraja's symbolism grew more complex under the Cholas.

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Lord Shiva is a complex deity in the Puranic pantheon, embodying both

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destructive and ascetic qualities.

Nataraja, the 'Lord of Dance,' is celebrated for his invention of 108
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diverse dances. The dancing Shiva became associated with both creation and
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destruction, embodying the dualities of life.

The dance was seen as a cosmic dance, with Shiva as the cosmic dancer, and
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the world as the stage.

Iconic Elements of Nataraja:
In iconic representations, Nataraja is depicted within a flaming aureole or
halo, symbolizing the circle of the world.

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His long, flowing dreadlocks signify the energy and dynamism of his dance.
Nataraja is typically shown with four arms, each holding symbolic objects
that convey deeper meanings.
Symbolism in Nataraja's Attributes:
Nataraja holds a damru (hand drum) in his upper right hand, which draws
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all creatures into his rhythmic motion, and in his upper left arm, he
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wields Agni (fire), symbolizing his power to destroy the universe.
Beneath one of Nataraja's feet lies a crushed dwarf-like figure,
representing illusion and worldly distractions.
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In ornamentation, one ear of Shiva has a male earring while the other has
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a female.
This represents the fusion of male and female and is often referred to as
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Ardhanarishwar.
A snake is twisted around the arm of Shiva. The snake symbolises the
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kundalini power, which resides in the human spine in the dormant stage.
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If aroused, one can attain true consciousness.
Nataraja as Protector and Reassurer:
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Despite the formidable symbolism associated with Nataraja, he also serves as

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a protector.
The 'abhayamudra' (fear-allaying gesture) made with his front right hand
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reassures devotees, offering protection from fear and doubt.

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Nataraja's raised feet and his gesture with his front left-hand point to his
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feet, inviting devotees to seek refuge in him.

Nataraja's Smile:
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One of the distinctive features of Nataraja's iconography is his almost always

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present broad smile.

The French historian Renee Grousset beautifully described Nataraja's smile
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as representing both "death and life, both joy and pain."

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7. Konark Chakra
Konark Chakra of Odisha’s Sun Temple
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About Konark Sun Temple

● Also known as Black Pagoda, Arka Kshetra and Padma Kshetra.
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● Built during the 13th century under the reign of Eastern Ganga King
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Narasimhadeva-I.
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● Sun temples highlight the celestial movement of the Sun.

● Materials used: Chlorite, Laterite and Khondalite rocks-
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Rabindranath Tagore describe it as the place where the language of

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stone surpasses the language of man.

● Other prominent sun temples: Martand (J&K), Katarmal
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(Uttarakand), Surya pahar (Assam), Dakshinaaka (Bihar),

Arasavalli (Andra Pradesh), Suryanar Kovil (TN), Modera(Gujarat),
and Brahmanya (MP).

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Structure of the Temple
● Period: Kalinga Architecture.
● Entrance: The main entrance, the Gajasimha - gaja meaning elephant
and simha referring to lions.
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● Lions resemble pride, elephants resemble wealth and both of them
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kill the human.
● Natya Mandapa after Gajasimha, the hall for dance and theatre.
● Jagamohan or Mukhasala: assembly hall of the temple.
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● Deul: The Jagamohan is followed by the deul where the idol is placed.
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● Bhoga-mandira (kitchen) to make bhoga for the deity and devotees.
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Kalinga Architecture:
● Nature: The Nagara style of Northern India and the Dravida style of
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South India were combined to create the Kalinga architecture.
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● Typical architecture: Kalinga temple consists of two parts –
● a sanctum (deul) and a hall (Jagamohana). However, early-period
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temples were devoid of Jagamohana.

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● Later additions to the temple style include natya-mandapa and then

bhoga-mandir.
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● Categories: The architecture is broadly classified into three main

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categories:Rekha deul: Pidha Deul or Bhadra Deul, Khakhara Deul.

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Architectural features of the Temple:

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● Sun rays: sun's first rays would illuminate the sanctum and the
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presiding deity.
● Chariot Design: It has been designed like the chariot of Surya, the
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Sun God.
● Konark Wheel: The rims are carved with designs of foliage with
various birds and animals, whereas the medallions in the spokes are
carved with the figures of women in various luxurious poses.

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● Seven Horses: These seven horses have been named in Bhagawat Gita
which possibly stand for the rhythmic representation of the sacred
verses of the Vedas.- The seven horses are also named after the seven
colours of the rainbow.
● Carvings of the Temple:
● War Horses: There are two carved war horses in front of the
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southern side crushing down the warrior.
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● This figure of the war horse of Konark has been accepted as the
symbol of the state Government of Odisha.
● Sun God: three carvings of the Sun God at three location to catch the
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sun at dawn, at noon and at sunset.
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● Others: Some carvings depict sensuous details while others exhibit
mythical creatures and animals like elephants and birds.
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● Different Interpretations of the Konark Wheel: Time, Life cycle,
Zodiac signs, Dharmachakra, Sun dial, Symbol of democracy.
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The Ganga dynasty is one of two distinct but distantly related Indian
dynasties. The western Ganga ruled in Mysore state (Gangavadi) from
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about 250 to 1004 CE. The eastern Gangas ruled Kalinga from 1028 to
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1434-35. The Gangas were one of South India’s most prestigious ancient
dynasties. The Ganga dynasty’s rise and fall represent an important but
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underappreciated chapter in Mysore history. The Ganga period also saw the
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growth of Sanskrit literature. The rule of the Ganga dynasty is one of the
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important parts of Odisha's history. Kolar and Talakadu were capitals of

Ganga dynasty.
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Overview of the Western Ganga Dynasty

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It is a well-believed view that the Western Gangas came to power at a period

when many indigenous clans fought for independence due to the decline
of the Pallava kingdom, which is sometimes connected to the historical
development of Samudra Gupta’s southern conquests.

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Around 350 to 550 CE, the Western Ganga ruled from Kolar. Later, they
moved to Talakadu on the banks of the Kaveri River in what is now the
Mysore region.
Kirtivarman I (350–370 CE): The founder of the Western Ganga Dynasty,
he established his rule in present-day Karnataka.
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The Eastern Ganga Dynasty was a medieval Indian dynasty that ruled over
parts of present-day Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal from the
11th to 15th centuries. They were known for their patronage of art, culture,
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and architecture, including the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. The
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dynasty played a significant role in spreading Hinduism and Buddhism in
their region and maintained maritime trade and naval power. They eventually
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declined due to external invasions and internal conflicts, leading to the
rise of the Vijayanagara Empire. Narasimha IV, the last known king of the
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Eastern Ganga dynasty, The Eastern Ganga dynasty is claimed to have been
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founded by Kamarnava, who went to Kalinga with his four brothers from
Kolahalapura in Gangabadivishaya (of Mysore), abandoning his home realm to
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his paternal uncle. After conquering the Savara Chief called, Baladitya, he
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traveled to Mahendragiri and worshipped Gokarneswara Siva. It is impossible

to establish how much of the tale is founded on historical events.
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8. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NAGARA AND DRAVIDA STYLE OF

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ARCHITECTURE
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Nagara Style Dravidian Style

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Tower ● Shikara in the Nagara ● The main temple tower

style of temple is called Vimana in
architecture. Dravidian style.
● One can find multiple ● In the Dravidian style
shikara in the Nagara of temple architecture,
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style of temple only one Vimana is
architecture. visible.
● Shikara in Nagara style ● The Vimana here is like
curves inwards a stepped pyramid.
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water tank Water tank is absent in the A large water reservoir or
Nagara style of temple a temple tank is seen in
architecture. south Indian temples.
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Gopuram Gopuram is not prominent The southern temples are
in Nagara style of temple enclosed in a huge
architecture. Though, the boundary wall called
presence of huge boundary
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walls can be seen in the
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Odisha school of Nagara
architecture.
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Purpose of In North India, temples are In South India, temples

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temple generally built for aesthetic served larger purposes apart

building purposes. from aesthetic purposes
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like administration
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purposes, holding control

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over areas, as centres of

education, etc.
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Nagara Style: Salient Features:

Panchayatana temples are a type of Nagara temple that consists of a central
shrine surrounded by four smaller shrines.
The central shrine is dedicated to the main deity of the temple, while the
four smaller shrines are dedicated to the deities of the four cardinal directions.
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The images of river goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna, are often found
outside the garbhagriha of Nagara temples.
These images represent the purity of water, and their presence is meant
to remind worshippers of the importance of purity.
The shikhara is the main tower of a Nagara temple. It is often divided into
three types: Latina, Phamsana, and Valabhi.
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An Amalak is placed over the vertical end of the Shikhara. Over the
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Amalak is the spherical-shaped Kalash.
The Nagara style of temple architecture is a beautiful and intricate style that
is found throughout northern India. It is a testament to the skill and artistry
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of the Hindu temple builders.
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Dravidian Style: Salient Features

The Dravidian style of temple architecture is a type of Hindu temple
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architecture that originated in southern India.

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It is characterized by its stepped pyramids, called vimanas, which rise up

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linearly rather than curving.

Dravidian temples also feature a huge boundary wall, water tanks, and a
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covered ambulatory passageway around the garbhagriha, or inner

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sanctum, where the deity is worshipped.

Unlike the Nagara style of temple architecture, the subsidiary shrines in
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Dravidian temples do not have a vimana.

There is only one vimana in Dravidian temples, and it is located on top of
the main temple.
The garbhagriha is connected to the assembly hall by a vestibular tunnel
called the Antarala.
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Images of dwarapalas, or guardian deities, can be seen at the entrance of
the garbhagriha.
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Similarities between Dravidian and Nagara styles of temple architecture
are as under:
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The origin of both can be traced to regional dynasties of the time. E.g.,
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Cholas and Chalukyas in the South and Solankis and Chandelas in the North.
Under both styles of temple building, equal emphasis has been placed on
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intricate carvings and the use of sculptures.
Both portray the society and literature of their time.
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9. Nalanda university
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About the Nalanda university

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The Nalanda Mahavihara site is in the State of Bihar, in north-eastern India.

It includes stupas, shrines, viharas (residential and educational buildings)
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and important art works in stucco, stone and metal.

It engaged in the organized transmission of knowledge over an uninterrupted
period of 800 years.
During the reign of Gupta monarch Sakraditya(Kumaragupta I), the
historic Nalanda University was founded in 427 AD.

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Mahayana monks Asanga and Vasubandhu are said to have found Nalanda
in 5th century AD.
The university was largely focused on Buddhist studies, but it also offered
courses in fine arts, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, politics, grammar,
logic, epistemology, science and the art of combat.
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Despite the fact that it covered all Buddhist sects, Mahayana Buddhism was
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the dominant focus.
It drew experts and students from all over the world, with some coming all the
way from Tibet, China, Korea, and Central Asia.
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Nagarjuna (Madhyamika Shunyavad) and Aryabhatta, the astronomer,
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are two of Nalanda’s most famous scholars.
The medium of instruction was given in Sanskrit.
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The university reached its zenith during the reign of Harshavardhana and
the Pala emperors.
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Hiuen Tsang(Xuanzang), a Chinese traveller, visited Nalanda University
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during King Harsha’s reign and gave a thorough account of the university.
Itsing, a Chinese scholar, stated that Nalanda housed 2,000 students and was
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supported by funds from 200 villages.

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The institution was a focus of academic activity until 1197 AD, when Turkish
ruler Qutbuddin Aibak’s general Bakhtiyar Khilji destroyed it.
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The ancient university has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage

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Site.
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10. Dokra Metalcraft

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West Bengal's Lalbazaar is not just an art hub, but is also becoming a center
for dokra, a popular metalcraft.
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In 2018, Dokra craft from West Bengal was presented with the Geographical
Indication (GI) tag.

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Dokra is a form of ancient bell metal craft practiced by the Ojha
metalsmiths living in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West
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Bengal and Telangana.
However, the style and also the workmanship of this artisan community
varies in different states.
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The name ‘Dhokra’ comes from the Dhokra Damar tribes, who are the
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traditional metal smiths of West Bengal.
Their technique of lost wax casting is named after their tribe, hence Dhokra
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metal casting.
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The Dokra artifacts are made in brass and are unique in that the pieces do
not have any joints. The method is combining metallurgical skills with wax
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techniques employing the lost wax technique, a unique form where mould is
used only once and broken, making this art the only one-of-its-kind in the
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world.
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The tribe extends from Jharkhand to Orissa to as far ahead to Chattisgarh,

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Rajasthan and even Kerala.

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Each figurine takes about a month to make.

The dancing girl of Mohenjo-Daro (Harrapan Civilization) is one of the
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earliest dhokra artefacts that is now known.

Dokra Art is still used to craft artefacts, accessories, utensils and jewellery.

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11. Tanjore paintings
● They are characterized by their rich and vivid colors, glittering gold
foils, and inlay of glass beads and precious gems.
● Tanjore paintings are also called "Palagai Padam." This name
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means "picture on a wooden plank" because they are usually drawn
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on hard wooden boards. Most of these paintings have figures that are
decorated with sparkly decorations and bold colours. This ancient type
of art is often seen as special or holy.
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● In the old days, they used precious stones like diamonds and rubies
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to decorate these paintings. The pictures were put on 22-karat gold
foil.
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● One special thing about Tanjore paintings is the chubby faces of the
gods and goddesses. This makes the paintings feel pure and special.
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● These paintings are often about stories from Hindu mythology. There
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are also paintings of important events from myths, like the wedding of
Meenakshi, romantic scenes of Radha and Krishna, and the crowning of
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Shri Rama.
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● The artists who make these paintings take great care in creating the
base of each painting. This gives each painting a unique 3D feel.
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● People often give these paintings as presents during festivals like Diwali
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and Pongal or at weddings. They're also used to decorate houses and

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businesses.
● The bold colours, shiny stones, and splashes of gold in these paintings
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can brighten up a room. They make a space feel warm and lively.
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Thanjavur: Repository of Indian Crafts

● Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu is famous for Brihadisvara temple, which
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together with two other 11th century Chola temples (the Brihadisvara
Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at
Darasuram) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
● It has four distinctive handicrafts that have won GI (geographical
indication) tags:
Contact no : 094442 27273
Dancing Dolls
● Thalaiyati Bommai are dancing dolls, painted in bright colours and
intricate designs
● During Dasara, the dolls are available everywhere from stores to
makeshift stalls.
● The papier mache (a composite material consisting of paper pieces or
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pulp) and clay dolls are set up in elaborate tiered displays that relate
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mythological stories during the ‘Bommai Kolu’ celebrations as part of
Dasara.
Metal Art Plates
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● Maratha King Serofji Bhonsle was a patron of this art and many of
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Thanjavur’s iconic crafts started during his reign and flourished.
● The plates are made of silver, brass, copper and sometimes bronze.
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● They are embossed with figures of gods and goddesses surrounded by
floral patterns.
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Thanjavur Paintings
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● Thanjavur paintings are renowned for their vivid colours, rich gold leaf
work and glass bead inlay.
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● They reflect the influences of both the Maratha period in the 1700s,
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when they originated, and the Nayakas who ruled the region before the
Marathas.
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● They are painted on wooden panels with religious themes representing

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Hindu gods and goddesses, and episodes from religious texts.

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Saraswati Veena
● It is one of the most important instruments for Carnatic music and
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revered for its resonant quality.

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● It is made from the wood of a mature jackfruit tree, taking an artisan

two-three months of patient chipping away to complete it.
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The bulb of the instrument is intricately carved with floral motifs or the image
of Goddess Saraswati, and then polished for a gleaming finish.

Contact no : 094442 27273
12. Brass Statue of Lord Buddha
Brass statue of lord buddha sitting under bodhi tree:
In Buddhism, mudras are hand gestures or positions that are used during
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meditation and other practices to help focus the mind, channel energy, and
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deepen one's connection to the teachings.
Here are some of the mudras commonly used in Buddhism:
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● Dhyana Mudra: In this mudra, the hands are placed on the lap, with the
right hand on top of the left, and the thumbs touching. This mudra
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symbolizes meditation, concentration, and inner peace.
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● Anjali Mudra: This is the most common mudra used in Buddhism, and
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it involves pressing the palms together in front of the chest, with the
fingers pointing upwards. It represents respect, greeting, and
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gratitude.
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● Vitarka Mudra: This mudra is also known as the "teaching mudra" or

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"gesture of discussion," and it involves holding the right hand up, with
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the thumb and index finger touching to form a circle. It represents the
transmission of knowledge and the communication of the Buddha's
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teachings.
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● Varada Mudra: In this mudra, the right hand is extended downwards,

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with the palm facing outwards. It represents generosity,

compassion, and the granting of wishes.

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● Abhaya Mudra: This mudra involves raising the right hand up to
shoulder height, with the palm facing outwards. It represents
fearlessness, protection, and the dispelling of negativity.
● Bhumisparsha Mudra: This mudra involves touching the ground with
the fingertips of the right hand, while the left hand rests on the lap.
It represents the moment of the Buddha's enlightenment, and the
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gesture symbolizes the earth witnessing his attainment of
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enlightenment.
● Uttarabodhi Mudra: In this the hands are held in front of the chest
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with the fingers of the left hand pointing upward and the fingers of
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the right hand pointing downward. The thumbs are then placed together
in the center, creating a triangle shape. This mudra represents the union
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of wisdom and compassion, the balance of masculine and feminine
energies, and the attainment of enlightenment through the
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integration of all aspects of thyself.
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● DharmaChakra Mudra: In this the hands are held in front of the chest
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with the thumb and index finger of each hand forming a circle. The
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remaining three fingers of each hand are extended upwards,

representing the Three Jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the
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Dharma (his teachings), and the Sangha (the community of

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practitioners). The circle made by the thumb and index finger

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represents the wheel of the Dharma, which. This mudra represents the
constant cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and the Buddha's
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teachings as the means to break free from this cycle.

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● Karana Mudra: In this the left hand is brought up to the heart, palm
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facing forward. The index and little fingers point straight upward.
while the other three fingers are curled towards the palm. This gesture
is often seen in depictions of the Buddha or bodhisattvas, as a symbol of
protection and dispelling of negativity. The index finger is said to

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represent the energy of wisdom and the ability to overcome
obstacles.
● Jnana Mudra: In this the index finger and thumb are brought
together to form a circle, while the other three fingers are extended
outwards. This gesture represents the unity of individual
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consciousness with the universal consciousness, and the connection
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between the practitioner and the teachings of the Buddha.
● Tarjani Mudra: In this, the index finger is extended upward, while the
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other fingers are curled towards the palm. Tarjani Mudra, also known as
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the "threatening gesture". It is used as a symbol of warning or
protection against evil forces or harmful influences.
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Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called
‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolizes (2012)
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(a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from
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disturbing his meditation

(b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the
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temptations of Mara
(c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and
finally dissolve into the Earth, and thus this life is transitory
(d) Both the statements (a) and (b) are correct in this context

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13. Sharda Devi temple
Diwali is celebrated at Sharda Devi temple in J&K for the first time in 75
years. The ancient temple and its centre were rebuilt with a view to
reviving centuries-old pilgrimage to Sharda Peeth temple in
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Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
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About Sharda Peeth:

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Sharda Peeth is an abandoned Hindu temple and ancient centre of

learning.
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Location:It is located in the village of Sharda in the valley of Mount

Harmukh, along the Neelam River in the Pakistani-administered
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territory of occupied Kashmir. It lies 16 miles to the northwest of the Line of

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Control.
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As a Centre of Learning: Between the 6th and 12th centuries CE, it was
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one of the foremost centres of higher learning, hosting scholars such as

Kalhana, Adi Shankara, and Vairotsana.
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It is also said to be where Paṇini and Hemachandra completed and stored

their writings on Sanskrit grammar.
Religious significance: Sharda is the most revered religious place for Kashmiri
Pandits. They believe that Sharada in Kashmir is a tripartite embodiment

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of the goddess Shakti: Sharada (goddess of learning), Saraswati (goddess
of knowledge), and Vagdevi (goddess of speech).
It is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas throughout South Asia that
commemorate the location of fallen body parts of the Hindu deity Sati.
● Shankari Devi Temple- Trincomalee (Thirukonamalai)- Sri Lanka
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● Kamakshi Amman Temple- Kanchipuram- Tamil Nadu
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● Shrinkala Temple Pradmunyee- (Pandua)- West Bengal
● Chamundeshwari Temple- Mysuru- Karnataka
● Jogulamba Devi- Alampuram- Telangana
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● Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple- Srisailam- Andhra Pradesh
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● Mahalakshmi Temple- Kolhapur- Maharashtra
● Ekveera Temple- Mahur- Maharashtra
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● Mahakaleswar Temple- Ujjain- Madhya Pradesh
● Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple- Pithapuram- Andhra Pradesh
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● Biraja Temple- Jajpur- Odisha
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● Bhimeswara Temple- Draksharamam- Andhra Pradesh
● Kamakhya Temple- Guwahati- Assam
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● Alopi Devi Mandir- Prayagraj- Uttar Pradesh

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● Jwalamukhi Temple- Jwalamukhi- Himachal Pradesh

● Mangla Gauri Temple- Gaya- Bihar
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● Vishalakshi Temple- Varanasi- Uttar Pradesh

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● Sharada Peeth Sharda, Kashmir- Pakistan Administered Kashmir

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Contact no : 094442 27273
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14. 12 Jyotirlingas
12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva:
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15. Chausath Yogini Temple
Chausath Yogini Temple:
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History of Old Parliament House:
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The Old Parliament Building was designed by British architects Edwin
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Lutyens and Herbert Baker and was constructed between 1921 and 1927.
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The foundation stone was laid by HRH Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught
and Strathearn, in 1921.
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It was inaugurated in January 1927 by Viceroy Lord Irwin as the seat of the
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Imperial Legislative Council.

The third session of the Central Legislative Assembly was held in this
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house on 19 January 1927.

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Following the British withdrawal from India, it was taken over by the
Constituent Assembly of India, and then by the Indian Parliament after India’s
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Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950.

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For 73 years, it housed the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, the lower and
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upper houses respectively in India’s bicameral parliament.

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Contact no : 094442 27273
About the Chausath Yogini Temple:
It is situated in Mitaoli village, in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh.

It was built by King Devpala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty and was the
venue of providing education in astrology and mathematics based on the
transit of the Sun.
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The Archaeological Survey of India has declared the temple an ancient and
historical monument.
It is also known as Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple because of the presence of
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a multitude of shiva lingas inside its cells.
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It is circular, with 64 chambers dedicated to the 64 yoginis, and a central
shrine dedicated to Shiva.
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Within the main central shrine there are slab coverings which have
perforations in them to drain rainwater to a large underground storage.
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The design of the temple has withstood earthquake shocks, without any
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damage to its circular structural features, in the past several centuries.
The Kachchhapaghatas were a Rajput dynasty that ruled between 10th
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and 12th centuries. Their territory included north-western parts of Central

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India (present-day Madhya Pradesh). The Kachhwaha Rajputs of Amber were

from the same family.
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The Sanskrit word Kachchhapa-aghata literally means "tortoise killer". The

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Kachchhapaghatas were originally the vassals of the Gurjara Pratiharas

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and the Chandelas. They became powerful towards the end of the 10th
century. After the death of the Chandela king Vidyadhara in 1035 CE, the
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Chandela kingdom was weakened by repeated Muslim Ghaznavid (Yamini)

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invasions. Taking advantage of this situation, the Kachchhapaghatas gave up

their allegiance to the Chandelas.
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Contact no : 094442 27273
16. New Parliament House
Some other magnificent Parliament buildings:
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1. Binnenhof, The Hague
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Netherlands’ Binnenhof is essentially a complex of buildings located in the
city of The Hague. Built in the 13th century to serve as a residence of the
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counts of Holland, the most eye-catching part of it is the Ridderzaal (Knights’
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Hall). Binnenhof became the seat and symbol of the Dutch Republic in around
1585, when the States-General, along with other bodies of the Dutch
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Republic’s central government, established themselves in the complex. Today,
it houses the meeting place of both houses of the States General of the
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Netherlands, as well as the Ministry of General Affairs and the office of the
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Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
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2. National Parliament House, Dhaka

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Designed by the famous architect Louis Kahn, Bangladesh’s National

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Parliament House is one of the largest legislative complexes in the world.

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Its commission was given in 1962 and it took two decades to finish its
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construction — the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War halted the work for some
time. A symbol of democracy and pride for the Bengali people, the
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building has a monumental presence. The National Parliament House consists

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of nine closely connected concrete and limestone blocks, including a prayer

hall and passageways that encircle the octagonal parliamentary chamber.
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Contact no : 094442 27273
3. The Capitol, Washington DC
Completed in 1800, the Capitol is widely recognised as a symbol of American
democracy, where the Congress meets. Spread over 1.5 million square feet,
comprising over 600 rooms, and miles of corridors, the building is a fine
example of 19th-century neoclassical architecture. Its design takes
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inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome structures. The Capitol has
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been expanded numerous times and the most notable addition to it is its
magnificent white dome. Built between 1855 and 1866, the dome has a height
of 88 metres and overlooks the city of Washington.
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4. The Great Hall of the People, Beijing
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The decision to construct the Great Hall of the People was taken in August
1958, when the Communist Party ordered to build 10 ‘Great Buildings’ to
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mark the 10th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. More than
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30,000 people, including 7,000 technicians and workers from across the
country worked on the structure, which got ready within a period of ten
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months and was inaugurated in September 1959. The Great Hall of the People,
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located west of Tiananmen Square, comprises the State Banquet Hall which
can accommodate 5,000 diners at a single sitting, the Great Auditorium with a
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room for 10,000 delegates, and the office building of the Standing Committee
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of the People’s Congress of China.

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5. The National Assembly Complex, Abuja

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Covering an area of 40,000 sq m, Nigeria’s National Assembly Complex was

opened in 1999 after 30 months of construction. The building, which
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houses the federal government of the country, consists of a ceremonial plaza, a

distinctive green dome-shaped roof and two chambers which are serviced by a
central atrium. Built by using local materials such as Nigerian granite and
resources, the National Assembly Complex features a precast curtain facade
along with shaded windows that protect it from the direct impact of sunshine.
Contact no : 094442 27273
6. The Palace of Parliament, Bucharest
Constructed between 1984 and 1997, the Palace of Parliament in Romania

is one of the world’s biggest and heaviest buildings — it’s 276 ft tall and
4.10 million tonnes in weight. The behemoth building was conceived by
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Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and a team of roughly 700 architects
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led by Anca Petrescu, who was just 32 years old when the construction began.
Reports suggest it took between 20,000 and 100,000 people, including
soldiers, political prisoners and volunteers to finally realise the Palace of
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Parliament. Its vast marble halls comprise the Senate and Chamber of
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Deputies as well as museums, a conference centre and eight underground
levels and a bunker room with thick concrete walls said to be impervious to
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radiation — Ceausescu feared a nuclear war, hence, the bunker room was
connected to the main state institutions through 20km of tunnels.
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7. The Reichstag, Berlin
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Inaugurated in 1894, the Reichstag was the headquarter of the Weimar

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Republic (1919-33) before it sustained severe damages in 1933 shortly after

Adolf Hitler was sworn in as Chancellor of Germany. It was also damaged in
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1945, during World War II, when Russia attacked Berlin. The Reichstag was
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restored and modernised during the 1960s and then went through
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renovation in the 1990s after which it became home to the parliament of the
reunified Germany. During the renovation, a huge operatic steel and glass
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dome was also added to the structure.

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17. IMPORTANT FORT
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1. Red Fort
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The Red Fort is a historic fort in the city of Delhi (in Old Delhi) in India that
served as the main residence of the Mughal Emperors. Emperor Shah Jahan
commissioned construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1638, when he
decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Originally red and white, its
painting is credited to architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who also constructed
the Taj Mahal. It was renovated between May 1639 and April 1648 based on
Contact no : 094442 27273
an earlier fort. On 15 August 1947, the first prime minister of India, Jawaharlal
Nehru, raised the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate. Every year on
India’s Independence Day (15 August), the prime minister hoists the Indian
tricolour flag at the fort’s main gate and delivers a nationally broadcast speech
from its ramparts.
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2. Golconda Fort
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The Qutb Shahi dynasty ruled the Golconda Sultanate in south India from
1518 AD to 1687 AD. The Qutb Shahis were descendants of Qara Yusuf from
Qara Qoyunlu, a Turkoman Muslim tribe. After the collapse of Bahmani
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Sultanate, the “Qutb Shahi” dynasty was established in 1518 AD by Quli Qutb
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Mulk who assumed the title of “Sultan”. In 1636, Shah Jahan forced the Qutb
Shahis to recognize Mughal suzerainty. The dynasty came to an end in
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1687 during the reign of its seventh Sultan Abul Hasan Qutb Shah, when
Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb seized Golconda fort and occupied the
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kingdom. The kingdom extended from the parts of modern day states of
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Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The Golconda sultanate was
constantly in conflict with the Adil Shahis and Nizam Shahis.The Qutb Shahis
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were great patrons of persianate Shia culture, eventually it also adopted

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the regional culture of the Deccan (Telugu culture, language and the newly
developed Deccani dialect of Urdu). Although Telugu was not their mother
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tongue, the Golconda rulers spoke and wrote Telugu, and patronized Telugu so
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exclusively that they were termed the “Telugu Sultans”. The Qutb Shahis were
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known for their secular rule.

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3. Gwalior Fort
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Gwalior Fort (Gwāliiyar Qila) is a hill fort near Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh,
India. The fort has existed at least since the 10th century, and the inscriptions
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and monuments found within what is now the fort campus indicate that it may
have existed as early as the beginning of the 6th century. The fort has been
controlled by a number of different rulers in its history.
The present-day fort consists of a defensive structure and two main

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palaces, Gujari Mahal and Man Mandir, built by Man Singh Tomar (reigned
1486–1516 CE). The Gujari Mahal palace was built for Queen Mrignayani.
It is now an archaeological museum. The second oldest record of “zero” in
the world was found in a small temple (the stone inscription has the oldest
record of the numeric zero symbol having a place value as in the modern
decimal notation), which is located on the way to the top. The inscription is
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around 1500 years old.
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4. Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort is situated on the promontory called the Cheel ka Teela (Hill
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of Eagles) of the Aravalli range; it overlooks the Amer Fort and the Maota
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Lake, near Amer in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The fort was built by Jai Singh II in
1726 to protect the Amer Fort and its palace complex and was named after
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him.The fort, rugged and similar in structural design to the Amer Fort, is also
known as Victory Fort. It has a length of 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) along the
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north–south direction and a width of 1 kilometre (0.62 mi). The fort features a
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cannon named “Jaivana”(Jaivana Cannon), which was manufactured in the fort
precincts and was then the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Jaigarh Fort and
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Amer Fort are connected by subterranean passages and considered as one

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complex.
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5. Junagarh Fort
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Junagarh Fort is a fort in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. The fort
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was originally called Chintamani and was renamed Junagarh or “Old

Fort” in the early 20th century when the ruling family moved to Lalgarh
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Palace outside the fort limits. It is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan
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which is not built on a hilltop. The modern city of Bikaner has developed
around the fort.The fort complex was built under the supervision of Karan
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Chand, the Prime Minister of Raja Rai Singh, the sixth ruler of Bikaner, who
ruled from 1571 to 1611 AD. Construction of the walls and associated moat
commenced in 1589 and was completed in 1594. It was built outside the
original fort of the city (the first fort built by Rao Bikaji), about 1.5 kilometres
(0.93 mi) from the city centre. Some remnants of the old fort are preserved
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near the Lakshmi Narayan temple.Historical records reveal that despite the
repeated attacks by enemies to capture the fort, it was not taken, except for a
lone one-day occupation by Kamran Mirza. Kamran was the second son of the
Mughal Emperor Babur who attacked Bikaner in 1534, which was then ruled
by Rao Jait Singh.The 5.28 hectares large fort precinct is studded with palaces,
temples and pavilions. These buildings depict a composite culture, manifest in
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the mix of architectural styles.
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18. Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat spirit
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Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat spirit: Its triangular design, by Padma Shri
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architect Bimal Patel, is inspired by India's cultural diversity and built to
meet the needs of the next 150 years.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Spirit

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● Lok Sabha Hall is based on the theme of the National Bird, Peacock.
● Rajya Sabha Hall is based on the theme of the National Flower, the
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Lotus.
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● National tree, the banyan, has been planted on the premises of the
Parliament. Inclusion of the symbolic Sengol (sceptre), symbolising the
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transfer of power, is placed next to the Speaker's chair.

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● Ashoka Pillar on the roof of Parliament House.

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● Hand-woven carpets from Bhadohi, known as 'Carpet City' due to its

beautiful hand-woven carpets, in Uttar Pradesh have been fitted in the
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new Parliament House.

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● Six gates dedicated to water, land, and sky that express its gratitude to
the friendly nature of Indian civilization.
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● Ashok Chakra is made on the gate of the new Parliament House, and
Satyamev Jayate is written.
● Wood from Nagpur, marble of Gujarat, stone work from Rajasthan
and bamboo wood flooring from Tripura is used.

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Early temples found in India before the distinctive styles emerged can be
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Sandhara type (without Pradikshinapatha)

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Nirandhara type (with Pradakshinapatha) and

Sarvatobhadra (which can be accessed from all sides)

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19. JANTAR MANTAR
About:
Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur built five Jantar Mantars in eighteenth
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century: New Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi. These
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completed between 1724 and 1735.
It consists of about 20 primary stationary instruments.
These are massive brick replicas of well-known instruments, many of which
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have unique qualities of their own.
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The instruments make it possible to observe astronomical positions with the
naked eye. The observatory is an example of Ptolemaic positional
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astronomy. S
Jantar Mantar, Jaipur:
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The monument was finished in 1734.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has the largest stone sundial in the
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world.
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The observatory’s primary aim was to build astronomical tables and

anticipate the times and motions of the sun, moon, and planets.
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In 1968, it was designated as a monument of national significance.

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Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (1693-1744):

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He was an excellent astronomer and warrior. With the passing of his father,
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Maharaja Bishan Singh, he ascended to the throne at the age of two.

As a feudatory of the Mughals, Aurangazab gave Jai Singh the title of
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Sawai, which means to “one and a quarter,” a title that was retained by all of
Jai Singh’s descendants.
He was taught by the top teachers and intellectuals in art, science, philosophy,
and military affairs.
Jai Sing descended from the Kucchwaha Rajput clan. who assumed control
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in the twelfth century.
He constructed the Jantar Mantar, or Astronomy Observatories, in Mathura,
Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, and Ujjain.
It is he who gave Jaipur its name.
20. Allah Baksh and Mewari Style Painting
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Who was Allah Baksh?
● About: Allah Baksh was a court painter employed by Maharaja Jai
Singh of Udaipur during the late 17th century.
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Paintings and Portrayal:
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● Each painting by Allah Baksh meticulously portrays the details of
characters' costumes, the flora and fauna in the background, and the
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depiction of magical and mystical events.
● These miniatures encapsulate a delightful representation of the
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Mahabharata, showcasing a dialogue between the verbal and visual
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imaginations of the poet and the painter.
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What is Mewari Style Miniature Painting?

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About: Mewār painting, one of the most important schools of Indian miniature
painting of the 17th and 18th Centuries. It is a school in the Rājasthanī style
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and was developed in the Hindu principality of Mewār (in Rājasthān state).
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It is a highly refined and intricate form of painting characterized by its

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attention to detail, vibrant colors, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The works of the school are characterized by simple bright color and direct
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emotional appeal.
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The comparatively large number of paintings to which dates and places of

origin can be ascribed make possible a more comprehensive picture of the
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development of painting in Mewār than in any other Rājasthanī school.
What is Miniature Painting?
About:
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Miniature paintings are colorful handmade paintings very small in size. One
of the outstanding features of these paintings is the intricate brushwork
which contributes to their unique identity.
The colors used in the paintings are derived from various natural sources
like vegetables, indigo, precious stones, gold and silver.
They were often painted for either books or albums, on perishable
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material including paper, palm leaves and cloth.
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The Palas of Bengal are considered the pioneers of miniature painting in
India.
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The tradition of miniature paintings was further taken forward by the artists
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of various Rajasthani schools of painting, including the Kishangarh, Bundi
Jaipur, Mewar and Marwar.
Schools of Miniature Painting:

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Pala School: The earliest Indian miniature paintings are related to the Pala
School dating back to the 8th century A.D.
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This school of painting emphasized on the symbolic use of colors and the
ER
themes were often taken from the Buddhist tantric rituals.

K
Jain School: The Jain School of painting gained prominence in the 11th
A
century A.D when religious texts like ‘Kalpa Sutra’ and ‘Kalkacharya
M
Katha’ were portrayed in the form of miniature paintings.

G
Mughal School: The amalgamation of Indian paintings and Persian miniature

IN
paintings gave rise to the Mughal School of miniature painting.

Interestingly, Persian miniature paintings were largely influenced by
K
Chinese paintings.
Rajasthani School: The decline of the Mughal miniature paintings resulted in

the rise of the Rajasthani School. Rajasthani School of painting can be further
divided into various schools depending on the region they were created
Contact no : 094442 27273
in. The Mewar School, Marwar School, Hadoti School, Dhundar School,
Kangra and Kullu Schools of art are all part of Rajasthani School of painting.
Pahari School: Pahari School of miniature painting emerged in the 17th
century A.D. These paintings originated in the kingdoms of North India, in the
Himalayan region.
Deccan School: The Deccan School of miniature painting flourished in places
Y
like Ahmednagar, Golconda, Tanjore, Hyderabad and Bijapur from 16th to
EM
19th century A.D.
The Deccan School of miniature painting was largely influenced by the rich
traditions of the Deccan and the religious beliefs of Turkey, Persia and Iran.
D
CA
21. Bagh Print
A
MP Tourism Board in association with district administration Dhar
recently launched a training camp on manufacturing sustainable bags
S
based on Bagh Print.
IA
About Bagh Print:

S
ER
It is the name of a block printing technique unique to a small village

called Bagh in Madhya Pradesh.
K
The craft, as well as the village, derive their names from the river ‘Baghini’
A
that flows through the village.

M
It was started by the community of Muslim Khatris (they were converted to

Islam under the influence of a Sufi saint) in 1962 when they migrated from
G
Manawar to Bagh.
IN
Weaving and hand block printing process with the geometric designs,
imaginative use of red and black natural colours and taking advantage of
K
the chemical properties of the river and effective use of colours results in Bagh
Prints in a unique art form.
Features:

Contact no : 094442 27273
In this printing technique, the cloth used is cotton and silk cloth which are
subject to the treatment of a blend of corroded iron fillings, alum and
Alizarin.
The designs are patterned by skilled artisans.
They are created using natural dyes, which are eco-friendly and
Y
non-hazardous.
EM
On completion of the printing process, the printed fabric is subject to
repeated washing in the flowing waters of the river and then dried in the
sun for a specific period to obtain a fine luster.
D
CA
22. Panamalai Paintings
A
1,300-year-old Pallava paintings in ruins at Tamil Nadu’s Panamalai
The panel depicting the dance of Lord Shiva has almost faded away and
S
only the face of goddess Parvathi and a few patches remain now
IA
About Panamalai Paintings

S
ER
Historical Roots and Evolution

K
Panamalai paintings have their origins in the Panamalai hills of Tamil Nadu,
A
India.
M
The art form has a rich history dating back several centuries, evolving as an
integral part of indigenous tribal culture.
G
Over time, these paintings have adapted and incorporated elements from
IN
the changing cultural landscape, while retaining their traditional essence.

K
Themes and Motifs:
Nature's Abundance: Panamalai paintings prominently feature depictions of

animals, birds, trees, and flowers, reflecting the profound connection of
the indigenous community with their natural environment.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Cultural Expressions: The art form encompasses a wide range of themes,
including representations of tribal life, rituals, and folklore, providing a
visual narrative of the tribe's customs and traditions.
Spiritual and Mythical Narratives: Panamalai paintings often showcase
Y
mythological stories and spiritual beliefs, offering insights into the tribe's
EM
unique worldview and cosmology.
Artistic Techniques and Practices
D
CA
Natural Sourcing: Artists utilize pigments and dyes derived from local
plants, resulting in a distinctive and authentic color palette that reflects the
A
region's biodiversity. S
Skillful Application: Panamalai artists employ meticulous brushwork and
IA
finger-painting techniques to create intricate designs, fine lines, and detailed
patterns, showcasing their high level of skill and precision.
S
Vibrant Palette: Bold and vibrant colors are a hallmark of Panamalai

ER
paintings, contributing to their visual appeal and enhancing the overall impact
of the artwork.
K
A
23. Cheriyal Scroll Painting

M
CHERIYAL SCROLL PAINTING

G
IN
Cheriyal scroll painting will be presented to the spouses of the heads of state
from around the world, who will gather for the upcoming G20 Summit.
K
About Cheriyal scroll painting:

It is a popular and modified version of Nakashi art, considered highly rich
in the local motifs.

Contact no : 094442 27273
This art form is unique to the state of Telangana and made mostly in
Hyderabad currently.
The Nakashis are the artists of Telangana and the scrolls constitute a key
element of the social and cultural setting of Telangana.
This traditional art form is considered an inseparable part of the profession
Y
comprising the story-telling and balladeer community called Kaki
EM
Padagollu.
Themes: These scrolls are painted in a narrative format similar to a film
roll or even comic strips and depict stories from Indian mythology as well
D
as the shorter stories related to the Puranas and Epics (Mahabharata,
CA
Ramayana, Shiva Puranam, Markandey Puranam)
The Cheriyal paintings represent a distinct local invention, based mainly on
A
local traditions.
The ballads and folk stories of Gauda, Madiga and other communities.
S
IA
Characteristics: These are painted in vivid hues with mostly primary
colors, showing a predominance of red colour in the background.
S
The main narrative involves scenes from common rural life such as
ER
women performing kitchen chores, men working in fields or

experiencing merry, festival settings, etc.
K
Artists have displayed these scrolls which are also accompanied by music
A
and dance.
M
The traditional scrolls are mostly of vertical format and illustrate the stories
through a series of horizontal panels.
G
Compared to the long scrolls in the past, artists have adapted to paint smaller
IN
versions of these scrolls that only depict any single episode or few
characters from the traditional stories.
K
One of the recent innovations is the painting of single pictures instead of a

continuous scroll for the purpose of wall decorations.
This painting also received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in the year
2007.

Contact no : 094442 27273
24. Pichwai (Pichvai) Painting
PICHWAI (PICHVAI) PAINTING
Recently, artists in Chennai hosted an art exhibit showcasing Pichwai, some
Y
dating back 350 years.
EM
About Pichwai Painting:
D
It is a traditional style of painting that originated in the state of Rajasthan,
CA
India.
The history of this art form can be traced back to the 17th century.
A
It is believed to have originated in the town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan.
Theme: It mainly features the various stages of Lord Krishna’s life.
S
Material used: The artists use stone pigments, especially for gold and
IA
silver tones. The brighter orange, red, chrome yellow and kesari colours
come from vegetable dyes
S
Other schools of Pichwai— Nathdwara, Kishangarh and Bundi in

ER
Rajasthan.
They are often used to decorate the backdrops of Hindu temples, where
K
they serve as a visual representation of the stories associated with Lord

A
Krishna.
M
These paintings have distinct features of a heavier body and large

elongated eyes, with a broad nose of Shrinathji, similar to the features of
G
the idol at the temple.

IN
The paintings are often filled with details, such as flowers, animals, and
geometric patterns, which are arranged in a symmetrical and balanced
K
composition.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Some of the famous Pishwai Paintings are:
Shrinathji in Black & Gold
Ras Leela – Krishna with Radha
Giriraja Pichwai – depicting Lord Krishna carrying Govardhana
mountain on his little finger
Y
EM
25. Cham Lama Dance
CHAM LAMA DANCE
D
CA
G20 delegates visited Hemis Monastery in Leh of Ladakh. The foreign
delegates witnessed the famous Cham dance.
A
A traditional Cham Lama dance is an event held by Tibetan monasteries
S
during special Buddhist festivals.
IA
Monks in colourful costumes wear masks and they dance to the music
played from traditional instruments (such as the ritual drum), also
S
performed by monks. The longer it goes on, the more they seem to get in a
ER
trance.
The dancers have to be both well-trained and strong as the ritual dance must
K
be performed very precisely and the masks are very heavy.

A
Cham was introduced in the eight Century by Padmasambhava (who

M
introduced Tantric Buddhism to Tibet), to subjugate the local demons that

were obstructing the building of the first monastery in Tibet, Samye.
G
Many of the figures performing the dance are animal characters. The
IN
pictures are made at the annual Buddhist Festival at Trongsa Dzong, the
largest dzong fortress in Bhutan, located in Trongsa (formerly Tongsa), in the
K
centre of the country.

This five-day festival known as the Trongsa Tsechu is held in the courtyard
of the temple every year in December or January. The festival celebrates the
arrival of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) to Bhutan in the 8th century, a
mark of triumph of Buddhism over evil.
Contact no : 094442 27273
By attending a Tsechu, visitors gain the Buddha’s blessing or and
experience spiritual release through the tantric deities.
About Hemis Monastery:

It is a Buddhist monastery located in Leh City, Ladakh.
It belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism.
Y
The monastery was first established in the 11th century and later
EM
re-established in the 17th century by the Ladakhi King Sengge Namgyal.
It is also famous for its 2-day religious ceremony known as the Hemis Festival.
This festival is celebrated in honour of Padmasambhava which is observed
D
here in June.
CA
It is the biggest and very richly endowed monastery.
A
S.NO Monastery State S Feature
1. Tabo Monastery Himachal founded in 996 CE by the

IA
Pradesh Tibetan Buddhist lotsawa
(translator) Rinchen Zangpo
S
(Mahauru Ramabhadra)
ER
2. Tsuglakhang Sikkim
K
Monastery
A
3. Namgyal Monastery Himachal It is founded by third Dalai

M
Pradesh Lama Gendun Gyatso

G
4. Thiksey Monastery Ladakh affiliated with the Gelug sect

IN
of Tibetan Buddhism.
K
5. Tawang Monastery Arunachal largest monastery in India and

Pradesh second largest in the world
after the Potala Palace in
Lhasa, Tibet.
6. Bylakuppe Karnataka largest teaching center of the

Contact no : 094442 27273
Monastery Nyingma lineage of Tibetan
(Namdraling Buddhism in the world.
Monastery)
7. Shashur Monastery Himachal

Pradesh
Y
8. Mindrolling Tibet one of the six major
EM
Monastery monasteries of the Nyingma
School
D
9. Ghum Monastery West Bengal. It belongs to the Gelukpa or
CA
the Yellow Hat sect and is
known for its 15 feet (4.6
A
m)-high statue of the Maitreya
Buddha.
S
IA
10. Kye Gompa Himachal
Monastery Pradesh
S
ER
11. Lingdum Monastery Sikkim
12. Alchi Gompa Ladakh

K
Monastery
A
13. Phugtal Monastery Ladakh

M
14. Shankar Monastery Ladakh

G
IN
15. Nako Monastery Himachal

Pradesh.
K
16. Rumtek Monastery Sikkim It is also called the

Dharmachakra centre.
17. Pemayangtse Sikkim

Monastery
Contact no : 094442 27273
18. Gonjang Monastery Sikkim
19. Karzok Buddhist Ladakh

Monastery
20. Bharatpur Buddhist West Bengal

Monastery
Y
EM
26. Kolkali Dance
D
CA
KOLKALI DANCE
A
Kolkali, performed by the mothers’ grouping of the Thrissur Archdiocese
in remembrance of St. Thomas’ arrival in India
S
IA
About
● Origin- Kolkali is a traditional folk art form performed in the
S
Malabar region of Kerala. Also, Known as Thattinmelkali when

ER
performed on wooden stages.

● Performance Style- The dance involves moving in a circle, striking
K
small sticks, and maintaining rhythm with special steps. The circle
A
expands and contracts as the dance progresses.

● Cultural Significance- Popular in the Kerala School Kalolsavam,
M
considered the biggest cultural event in Asia.

G
● Styles- Two styles: Actual Kolkali and Thekkan Koladi. Actual Kolkali
IN
includes Thacholikali, Rajasooyam, etc. Actual Kolkali is nearly on the

verge of extinction.
K
● Occasions for Performance- Celebrations of joy, spreading happiness,

and during the paddy harvest season.
● Community Participation- Villagers, regardless of caste and creed,
actively participate.
● Inclusivity- Performed by troupes from Muslim, Christian, and
Contact no : 094442 27273
Harijan communities.
● About St. Thomas- St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus
Christ, is believed to have arrived in India in the 1st century AD.
According to tradition, he landed in the southwestern state of Kerala.
St. Thomas is credited with spreading Christianity in India,
particularly in the Malabar Coast region.
Y
EM
27. Pulikkali
D
Pulikkali
CA
Recently, human tigers and leopards pranced about the streets in a
A
rollicking show of Pulikkali to lend a carnivalesque finish to Onam
celebrations.
S
IA
About Pulikkali:
S
Pulikkali (Tiger Dance) is one of the folk art forms of Kerala.

ER
On the fourth day of the Onam festival, artists paint their bodies like tigers
with stripes of yellow, red and black and dance to the rhythm of traditional
K
percussion instruments such as thakil, udukku and chenda.

A
The Swaraj Ground in Thrissur district plays host to this carnival that has
M
people appearing in various unique hues and masks.

The main theme of this folk art is tiger hunting, with participants playing
G
the role of tiger and hunter.

IN
It was introduced by the erstwhile ruler of Cochin, Maharaja Rama Varma

Sakthan Thampuran.
K
Key facts about Onam:

It is the biggest and the most important festival in the state of Kerala.
It is a harvest festival celebrated at the beginning of the month of Chingam,
the first month of the Malayalam Calendar (Kollavarsham).
Contact no : 094442 27273
The Carnival of Onam lasts from four to ten days. The first day, Atham and
the tenth day, Thiruonam, are the most important of all.
According to a popular legend, the festival is celebrated to welcome King
Mahabali, whose spirit is said to visit Kerala at the time of Onam.
Another key feature is Vallamkali, the Snake Boat Race, held on the river
Pampa.
Y
Kaikotti kali and Thumbi Thullal are two graceful dances performed by
EM
women on Onam.
Some Other Art Forms of Kerala:
OttamThullal
D
Talamaddale
CA
Kalaripayattu
Kathakali
A
Mohiniyattam
Mudiyettu
S
IA
Ottam Thullal:
S
Ottam Thullal is a dance-drama performing art form of Kerala, created by

ER
Kunchan Nambiar, as an alternative to the Chakyar koothu.

Kunchan Nambiar used it as a medium to protest against the prevalent
K
socio-political structure and prejudices of the society in his time. It went

A
on to become the most popular folk art presented in Kerala temples.

M
The distinguishing factor of Ottanthullal is the performer himself singing

and playing the story, which is a tedious task. Another person will recite
G
the same verses. The accompanying instruments for Ottanthullal are

IN
Mridangam and Idakka.

K
Chakyar koothu:
It is a performance art from Kerala.
It is primarily a type of highly refined monologue where the performer
narrates episodes from Hindu epics and stories from the Puranas.
It is also a traditional equivalent of the modern stand-up comedy act,
Contact no : 094442 27273
incorporating commentary on current socio-political events.
Talamaddale
Context: The traditional art of ‘talamaddale’, a variant of Yakshagana
theatre, has gone virtual in times of COVID-19. A performance was streamed
live on social media on June 13.
Y
About Talamaddale:
EM
It is an ancient form of performance dialogue or debate performance in
Southern India in the Karavali and Malnad regions of Karnataka and
D
Kerala.
CA
The plot and content of the conversation is drawn from popular mythology
A
but the performance mainly consists of an impromptu debate between
characters involving sarcasm, puns, philosophy positions and humour.
S
IA
How is it different from Yakshagana?
S
Unlike the Yakshagana performance, in the conventional ‘talamaddale,’ the

ER
artists sit across in a place without any costumes and engage in testing
their oratory skills based on the episode chosen.
K
A
If music is common for both Yakshagana performance and ‘talamaddale’, the

M
latter has only spoken word without any dance or costumes.

G
Hence it is an art form minus dance, costumes and stage conventions.

IN
28. Gilgit Manuscripts

K
Recently, the Minister of State for Culture inaugurated an exhibition under

the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) titled "Hamari Bhasha, Hamari
Virasat” and mentioned about Gilgit Manuscripts to celebrate 75th
International Archives Day at National Archives of India, New Delhi.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Y
About Gilgit Manuscripts:
EM
It was written between the 5" -6" centuries CE, which is the oldest surviving
manuscript collection in India.
D
It was written on the birch bark folios documents written on pieces of
CA
inner layer of the bark of birch trees found in Kashmir region.
It contains both canonical and non-canonical Jain and Buddhist works
A
that throw light on the evolution of many religious-philosophical literature.
What are Manuscripts?
S
IA
A manuscript is a handwritten composition on paper, bark, cloth, metal,
palm leaf or any other material dating back at least seventy-five years
S
that has significant scientific, historical or aesthetic value.

ER
These are found in hundreds of different languages and scripts. Often, one
language is written in a number of different scripts.
K
For example, Sanskrit is written in Oriya script, Grantha script, Devanagari

A
script and many other scripts.

M
These are distinct from historical records such as epigraphs on rocks, farmans,
revenue records which provide direct information on events or processes in
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history. Manuscripts have knowledge content.

IN
29. Ol Chiki script

K
Recently, the Prime Minister of India for saluting the immortal tribal
revolutionaries on Hul Diwas used the Ol Chiki script of Santhali language.
About Ol Chiki script:

Contact no : 094442 27273
It was created in 1925 by Raghunath Murmu (1905-1982), writer and
teacher from what is Mayurbhanj State (now part of Odisha) in India as a
way to write Santali a Munda language.
Ol Chiki is also known as Ol Cemet', Ol Ciki, Ol or the Santali alphabet.
It was created as a way to promote Santali culture.
Y
EM
The script was first publicized in 1939 at the Mayurbhanj State exhibition.
Murmu published over 150 books in Santali in the Ol Chiki script, including
D
novels, poetry, drama, grammars, dictionaries and other information
CA
about the language and script.
Santali is also written with the Latin, Odia, Bengali and Devanagari
A
alphabets.
Santhali language is spoken mainly in Jharkhand and West Bengal states in
S
northern India, and also in northwestern Bangladesh, eastern Nepal and
IA
Bhutan.
S
Key facts about Hul Diwas:

ER
The Santal rebellion or ‘Hul’ – literally, revolution – began in 1855 two years
before the uprising of 1857.
K
It was an “organised war against colonialism” led by the Santals, standing

A
against the myriad forms of economic oppression

M
It was led by two brothers Sidhu and Kanhu.

It saw the participation of as many as 32 castes and communities rallying
G
behind them.
IN
30. Keeladi
K
KEELADI
Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted a detailed

report on the findings during the first two phases of the digging at the
Contact no : 094442 27273
Sangam-era site and their significance.
Also, the Keeladi Site Museum is coming up in Sivaganga that would house
significant ones of the over 18,000 artefacts unearthed so far.
Keeladi is a tiny hamlet in the Sivaganga district in south Tamil Nadu. It is
Y
about 12 km south-east to the temple city of Madurai and is located along
EM
the Vaigai river.
The excavations here from 2015 prove that an urban civilization existed in
Tamil Nadu in the Sangam age on the banks of the Vaigai river.
D
What are the Key Findings?
CA
In the eight rounds of excavations, including the first three by the ASI, over
18,000 artefacts have been unearthed from the site and the unique
A
artefacts will be on display at the museum to be opened soon.
Unearthing of heaps of pottery suggest the existence of a pottery making
S
industry, mostly made of locally available raw materials. Over 120 potsherds
IA
containing Tamil Brahmi inscriptions have been found.
S
Over a thousand inscribed potsherds, found at Keeladi and other sites

ER
clearly suggest the long survival of the script.

Spindle whorls, copper needles, terracotta seal, hanging stones of the
K
yarn, terracotta spheres and earthen vessels to hold liquid suggest various
A
stages of a weaving industry. There also existed a dyeing industry and a glass
M
bead industry.
Gold ornaments, copper articles, semi-precious stones, shell bangles,
G
ivory bangles and ivory combs reflect the artistic, culturally rich and
IN
prosperous lifestyle of the Keeladi people.

Agate and carnelian beads suggest import through commercial networks
K
while terracotta and ivory dice, gamesmen and evidence of hopscotch have
been unearthed revealing their pastime hobbies.

Contact no : 094442 27273
31. Key Facts- Indian Awards
Key Facts about the Awards:
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award:
Y
Formerly known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, it is the highest sporting
EM
award given by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for the spectacular
and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson
over a period of four years.
D
It carries a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh, a medal and a scroll of honour.
CA
The Khel Ratna award was instituted in 1991-1992 and the first recipient
was Chess legend Viswanathan Anand.
Arjuna Award:
A
S
It was instituted in 1961 by the Government of India to recognise
IA
outstanding achievement in national sports events.
It is given for good performance over a period of previous four years and
S
showing qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and a sense of discipline.

ER
The award carries a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh, a bronze statue of Arjuna and
a scroll of honour.
K
A
Dronacharya Award:
M
It was instituted in 1985 by the Government of India to recognise

excellence in sports coaching.
G
It is given to coaches for doing outstanding and meritorious work on a

IN
consistent basis and enabling sportspersons to excel in international

events.
K
It carries a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh, a bronze statue of Dronacharya and a

scroll of honour.
Dhyan Chand Award: It was instituted in the year 2002 and comprises a
Dhyan Chand statuette, a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, a certificate and a
Contact no : 094442 27273
ceremonial dress.
It is given to honour sportspersons who have contributed to sports by
their performance and continue to contribute to promotion of sports
events after their retirement.
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy:
Y
It was instituted in the year 1956-1957. It is for university-level sports
EM
performances. It is given to a university for "top performance in the
inter-university tournaments" over the period of the last one year.
Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar:
D
It was instituted in the year 2009. It is given to corporate entities (both in
CA
private and public sector), sports control boards, NGOs including sports
bodies at the State and National level who have played a visible role in the
A
area of sports promotion and development.
S
Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards:
IA
The awards are given every year to recognize the achievements of persons
in the fields of adventure, to encourage young people to develop the
S
spirit of endurance, risk–taking, cooperative teamwork and quick, ready

ER
and effective reflexes in challenging situations and to provide incentive to the

young people for getting exposed to the adventure activities.
K
A
32. Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024

M
The Indian women’s badminton team, led by PV Sindhu and Anmol Kharb,
G
won a historic gold medal at the Badminton Asia Team Championships

IN
2024, which was held in Shah Alam, Malaysia from February 13 to 18.
K
This was India's first-ever gold medal at the Badminton Asia Team
Championships. The Indian men's team had previously won two bronze - in
2016 and 2020.

Contact no : 094442 27273
The tournament was organized by Badminton Asia along with the
Badminton Association of Malaysia as the host organiser.
Badminton Asia is the governing body of the badminton sport in Asia under
the flagship of the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
It focuses on promoting, managing and developing the sport in Asia with
Y
principles of specificity and universality.
EM
The 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships offered valuable Race to
Paris 2024 ranking points. The points are crucial for shuttlers who want to
compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
D
The 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships also served as a qualifying
CA
tournament for the 2024 Thomas & Uber Cup Finals, which will take place
in Chengdu, China.
A
Badminton Asia is currently represented by 43 Member Associations from
S
5 sub-regions all across Asia. The 5 sub-regions recognised under the
IA
Badminton Asia Strategic Plan 2013-2016 are Centra Asia, West Asia, South
Asia, East Asia and South-East Asia.
S
ER
What is Thomas Cup?

Related Field: Thomas Cup trophy signifies the world supremacy in the
K
sport of badminton.
A
It is a 16-nation team event.

M
Background & Managed By: The cup was donated in 1939 by Sir George
Thomas for a series of men’s international team competitions to be
G
managed by the International Badminton Federation (IBF), of which

IN
Thomas was then president.

First Tournament: The first tournament was held in 1948–49 and won by
K
Malaya.
Thomas and Uber Cup is the biennial international badminton
championship contested by the men and women's national teams.
India’s Win: In the tournament's seven-decade-long history, the
championship title has changed hands only among five nations - China,
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Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan and Denmark.
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is the international governing

body for the sport of badminton recognised by the International Olympic
Committee (IOC). It was founded in 1934 as the International Badminton
Federation (IBF) with nine member nations (Canada, Denmark, England,
Y
France, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales). In 1981
EM
the IBF merged with the World Badminton Federation, and on 24 September
2006, at the Extraordinary General Meeting in Madrid, the name of the
organization was changed to Badminton World Federation (BWF).
D
CA
33. Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)
A
The 6th edition of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) is currently
underway, happening from 19th January to 31st January 2024, across four
S
cities in Tamil Nadu: Chennai, Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
IA
About: KIYG is a national-level, multi-disciplinary sports competition for

S
school and college students in India.

ER
The games are held annually in January or February and are part of the
government's Khelo India initiative.
K
It aims to promote sports culture and identify sporting talent at the

A
grassroots level.
M
The previous 5 editions of the Youth Games have been held in Delhi, Pune,
Guwahati, Panchkula and Bhopal.
G
Format: It is held in two categories, namely under-17-year-old school

IN
students and under-21 college students.

It operates in a team championship format, wherein the medals earned by
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individual athletes or teams contribute to the overall medal tally of their

respective state or Union Territory (UT).

Contact no : 094442 27273
Upon the event's conclusion, the state or UT securing the highest count of gold
medals is declared the winner.
No other team barring Maharashtra and Haryana have won the KIYG title
to date.
6th edition of KIYG: A total of 933 medals (278 gold, 278 silver and 377
bronze) are up for grabs across 26 sports at KIYG, Tamil Nadu.
Y
Squash is making its KIYG debut this year, while Silambam, a form of
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indigenous martial arts, is featured as a demonstration sport.
Mascot: Veera Mangai.
Rani Velu Nachiyar, fondly called Veera Mangai, was an Indian queen who
D
waged a war against British colonial rule.
CA
Also, the logo for the games incorporates the figure of poet Thiruvalluvar.
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34. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)
S
The President of India, recently honoured 19 children with the Pradhan
IA
Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) in various categories,
acknowledging their outstanding contributions in Bravery, Science &
S
Technology, Innovation, Social Service, Sports, and Art and Culture.

ER
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)?

K
About:
A
The PMRBP is organized to celebrate the energy, determination, ability,

M
zeal and enthusiasm of children.

The awards are conferred upon the children for their excellence in seven
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categories, viz. Art & Culture, Bravery, Environment, Innovation, Science &
IN
Technology, Social Service and Sports, which deserve national recognition.

Each awardee of PMRBP is given a medal, cash prize of Rs. 1 Lakh, a
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Certificate and a Citation.

The selection of awardees was made by a Selection Committee under the
chairpersonship of the Union Minister for Women and Child Development.
The Awards are given by the President of India in the week preceding
Republic Day every year.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Background:
Y
The Government of India has been conferring awards to children for their
EM
exceptional achievements.
The awards for child welfare were also conferred, to individuals as well as
institutions.
D
These awards were given in the following categories:
CA
National Child Award for Exceptional Achievements - since 1996.
National Child Welfare Award (Individual) - since 1979.
A
National Child Welfare Award (Institution) - since 1979.
Rajiv Gandhi Manav Sewa Award - since 1994.
S
IA
Since 2017-18, these Awards were given under the following categories:
Bal Shakti Puraskar (Earlier known as National Child Award).
S
Bal Kalyan Puraskar [Individual & Institution] (Earlier known as

ER
National Child Welfare Award).

From the year 2022 onwards, Bal Kalyan Puraskar (both Individual and
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Institution) has been closed and Bal Shakti Puraskar has been subsumed
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under Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar.

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Eligibility:
A child who is an Indian Citizen and is a resident of India.
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A Child above the age of 5 years and not exceeding 18 years (as on 31st July
IN
of respective year).
The act/incident/achievement should have been within 2 years of the last
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date of receipt of application/nomination for the year of consideration.

Number of Awardees:
25, however, any relaxation to this maximum number may be permitted at the
discretion of the National Selection Committee.

Contact no : 094442 27273
35. FIDE Grand Swiss Open
What is the FIDE Grand Swiss Open?

The FIDE Grand Swiss Open is a chess tournament that is part of the
qualification for the World Championship cycle.
Y
The FIDE Grand Swiss and FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2023 was held at the
EM
Villa Marina, Douglas, Isle of Man.
The top two players in the open event will qualify for the 2024
Candidates Tournament, which will determine the challenger for the World
D
Champion.
CA
The total prize fund is USD 600,000, with USD 460,000 for the Grand Swiss
and USD 140,000 for the Women’s Grand Swiss.
A
The first Grand Swiss was held in 2019 in the Isle of Man.
S
International Chess Federation (FIDE)
IA
It is the governing body of the sport of chess, and it regulates all
international chess competitions.
S
It's constituted as a non-governmental institution. It organizes the World

ER
Chess Championship.
It was recognized by the International Olympic Committee as a Global
K
Sporting Organization in 1999.

A
FIDE currently has its headquarters in Lausanne (Switzerland), but it was

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initially founded in 1924 in Paris under the motto “Gens Una Sumus”
(Latin for “We are one Family”).
G
It was one of the very first International Sports Federations, alongside the
IN
governing bodies of the sports of Football, Cricket, Swimming, and Auto

Racing.
K
It is now one of the largest, encompassing 199 countries as affiliate

members, in the form of National Chess Federations.
36. 20th Asian Games

Contact no : 094442 27273
Recently, the 19th Asian Games (of 2022, held in 2023) came to a close at
the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium (also called Big Lotus) in
China. Hockey player PR Sreejesh was India’s flag bearer at the parade of
athletes.
Y
The 20th Asian Games will be held in Japan in 2027.
EM
What are the Key Highlights of Asian Games 2023?
India’s Milestones: India’s Medals Tally:
D
With an unprecedented haul of 107 medals (28 gold, 38 silvers and 41
CA
bronze), India set a new benchmark for themselves at the Asian Games
2023 in Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China.
A
At the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, India performed well and returned
with 70 medals, including a haul of 16 gold medals.
S
IA
It was the first time in Asian Games history that India’s medals tally
crossed the three-figure mark. By doing so, they became the only fourth
S
country after China (383), Japan (188) and the Republic of Korea (190)
ER
to win 100 or more medals in a single edition of the Asian Games.

Athletes Performance:
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Athletics turned out to be the most productive sport with a total of 29

A
medals - six gold, 14 silver and nine bronze.

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Hockey:
The India men's hockey team won an Asian Games gold and booked a Paris
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Olympics berth with a 5-1 thrashing of Japan.

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Introduction of New Sports:

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2023 Games saw two medal sports make their debut: e-Sports and
Breakdancing.
Apart from them, Cricket, and board games - Go, Xiangqi, and Chess
returned to Asian Games in this edition after not featuring in the 2018
Contact no : 094442 27273
Asiad.
What are the Asian Games ?

About:
The Asian Games is the biggest sports competition in Asia, held once
every four years. The symbol for the Asian Games is the rising sun with
Y
interlocking rings.
EM
It is recognised by the International Olympic Committee.
Background and Inauguration:
After the Second World War, many Asian countries gained independence
D
and the Indian International Olympic Committee proposed the idea of
CA
Asian Games as a sporting event, where all Asian nations can be
represented.
A
The first-ever Asian Games were held in New Delhi in 1951.
Regulation:
S
Asian Games were regulated by the Asian Games Federation from 1951 to
IA
1978. Since 1982, the Olympic Council of Asia has regulated the Asian
Games.
S
India as a Host:
ER
India is a founder member of Asian Games and also the host of the first
Asian Games.
K
The 9th edition of the Asian Games was also held in New Delhi in
A
November and December 1982.

M
Appu, the Indian elephant, was the first mascot to be used for the Asian
Games.
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IN
37. World University Game

K
Recently, the 31st World University Game was held in Chengdu, China,
where India has won a total of 26 medals across 4 disciplines with highest
medal count at the World University Games.
Many of the athletes who won the Medals come from Khelo India Scheme and
Contact no : 094442 27273
Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
It had to be held in 2021, the World University Games had to be rescheduled
twice due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
What is the World University Game?

About:
Y
World University Games," also known as "Universiade," is an international
EM
multi-sport event specifically for university athletes.
It is organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU).
FISU is the governing body that oversees and organizes the Universiade
D
events. FISU is responsible for coordinating the host cities and ensuring that
CA
the games are conducted in accordance with the organization's principles and
regulations.
A
The Universiade is held every two years and features a wide range of
S
sports similar to the Olympic Games.
IA
It was founded in 1949 as the world governing body of national university
sports organizations and currently has 165 member associations (National
S
University Sport Federations) from five continents.

ER
Between 1949 and 2011, it was based in Brussels (Belgium); it was

relocated to Lausanne (Switzerland) in 2011.
K
It includes both summer and winter editions,

A
With the summer Universiade typically featuring sports like athletics,

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swimming, basketball, soccer, and more,

While the winter Universiade includes sports like skiing, ice hockey, figure
G
skating, and others.

IN
Previous Edition:
The previous edition, held in Naples in 2019, saw Japan emerge as the
K
dominant nation, securing the highest position on the medal table.

Future Events:
Next Winter World University Games will be held in 2025 in Rhine-Ruhr,
Germany.

Contact no : 094442 27273
38. South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship 2023
Recently, India marked a remarkable victory in the South Asian Football

Federation (SAFF) Championship 2023 held in Bengaluru, Karnataka,
securing their ninth title by defeating Kuwait in a thrilling football match.
Y
EM
What is the SAFF Championship?
About:
The SAFF Championship is an internationally recognized football
D
tournament that brings together teams from the South Asian
CA
subcontinent. Organized by the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), one
of the five sub-confederations under the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
A
SAFF was formed in 1997 by founding Member Associations from
Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and SriLanka.
S
The SAFF Secretariat currently operates from Dhaka, Bangladesh.
IA
Origin and Evolution:
Founding members:
S
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Maldives.

ER
Expansion:
Bhutan joined in 2000, while Afghanistan became a member in 2005
K
before moving to the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) in 2015.

A
Evolution:
M
The South Asian football tournament started as the South Asian Association
for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Gold Cup in 1993.
G
It was later renamed the South Asian Gold Cup in 1995 and became the SAFF
IN
Gold Cup from 1997 to 2005.

Since 2008, it has been known as the SAFF Championship.
K
India's Performance:

Contact no : 094442 27273
Men's SAFF Championship:
India has been a powerhouse in the tournament, reaching the finals in all
editions except 2003.
India has won nine men’s SAFF Championship titles out of the 14
editions.
Y
EM
39. 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards
Recently, the winners of the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards were
D
announced. The Awards were held in person in Paris for the first time since
CA
2020.
A
What are the Key Points?
About:
S
The awards are conferred annually to honour the greatest and most
IA
inspirational sporting triumphs of the year and showcases the work of
Laureus Sport for Good.
S
The first Laureus World Sports Award ceremony took place on May 25, 2000.
ER
American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.
It is often referred to as the sporting equivalent of the Oscars.
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A
Award Categories:
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Laureus World Sportsman of the Year

Winner of 2023: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
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Lionel Messi became the first footballer to be awarded the Sportsman of the
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Year (in 2020)

Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year- Winner of 2023: Shelly-Ann
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Fraser-Pryce (Jamaica)
Laureus World Team of the Year- Winner of 2023: Argentina Men's Football
Team
Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year- Winner of 2023: Carlos Alcaraz
(Spain) (Tennis Player)
Contact no : 094442 27273
Laureus World Comeback of the Year-Winner of 2023: Christian Eriksen
(Denmark) (football)
Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year- Winner of 2023: Eileen Gu
(China)- (Freestyle Skier)
Laureus Sport for Good- Winner of 2023: TEAMUP (Global)
TeamUp is a psycho-social support intervention developed by War Child,
Y
Save the Children and UNICEF Netherlands, which helps children in
EM
difficult situations to relieve stress and tension. Originally designed for
Africa, Sri Lanka and occupied territories, agencies involved are now
increasingly using sport, play and movement to enhance the lives of
D
under-pressure young people. Inspired by the Peace and Humanitarian
CA
Action Fund, instigated as a result of support from Laureus Ambassador
Andriy Shevchenko, Laureus partnered with War Child early in the conflict in
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Ukraine, supporting a programme in Poland helping young people fleeing the
war. The project and Laureus’ partnership now also includes Moldova.
S
Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year With a Disability Winner of 2023:
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Catherine Debrunner (Switzerland) (Athele)
The shortlist for World Athlete of the Year with a Disability is provided by the
S
International Paralympic Committee.

ER
Important Awardees: Roger Federer holds the record for winning the most
awards. The Swiss tennis player has won six awards, five for Sportsman of the
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Year and one for Comeback of the Year.

A
Serena Williams holds the record for winning the most awards by a
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female.
Lionel Messi – who led Argentina to the World Cup in 2022 – became the
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first athlete to win the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and also
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pick up the Laureus World Team of the Year Award in the same year i.e,
2023.
K

Contact no : 094442 27273
40. Mihir Bhoja
The controversy around the lineage of Mihir Bhoj has surfaced recently in
Haryana.
The current controversy in Haryana
Y
The Gurjar community in Haryana’s Kaithal had planned to unveil a statue of
EM
Mihir Bhoj, calling him a GurjarPratihar Samrat (king).
The Rajput community members objected to this.
D
About Mihir Bhoja:
CA
A prominent 9th century ruler from Gurjar – Pratihara dynasty.
He succeeded his father Rambhadra in 836 CE.
A
He adopted the title of Adivaraha (devotee of Lord Vishnu). Also, some of
the coins from his era feature the term Adivaraha.
S
Arab merchant Sulaiman described him as the greatest Gurjara –
IA
Pratihara emperors.
He was also a great patron of art and literature. Poet Rajsekhara adorned his
S
court.
ER
Rajashekhara wrote the Kāvyamīmāṃsā between 880 and 920 CE. The work
is essentially a practical guide for poets that explains the elements and
K
composition of a good poem. He is most noted for the Kārpūramañjarī, a

A
play written in Maharashtri Prakrit. Rajashekhara wrote the play to please

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his wife, Avantisundarī, a woman of taste and accomplishment. Rajashekhara

is perhaps the only ancient Indian poet to acknowledge a woman for her
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contributions to his literary career.

IN
Political consolidation by Mihir Bhoja:

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He reorganized and consolidated the Pratihara empire through conquests

and diplomacy.
Various inscriptions at Varaha, Daulatpur, Kahala, Pahewa, etc., indicate his
control over Malwa, Rajputana, Madhyadesh.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Kalhana’s Rajatrangini mentions the expanse of his empire to Kashmir in
the north.
Tripartite struggle: He was also involved in the tripartite struggle for

Kannauj with Palas in the East and Rashtrakutas in the Deccan.
He fought wars with Pala king Devapala.
Y
Later, according to Gwalior prashasti, Bhoja defeated the son of Devapala.
EM
During his reign, Amoghavarsa and Krishna II were Rashtrakuta kings
ruling over Kannauj. Bhoja captured Kannauj from Rashtrakutas and
extended his empire up to the river Narmada.
D
CA
The early history of Gurjara Pratiharas is shrouded in mystery. Some
historians believe that they came to India from the Central Asian region after
the Gupta period and settled in Rajasthan.
A
S
● Traditions: The bardic tradition of Rajasthan claims that the Gurjara
IA
Pratiharas were born out of a yajna done at Mount Abu. Others born
out of this yajna were Chalukyas, Parmaras and Chahmanas.
S
● For this reason, these four dynasties are also known as agnikulas
ER
(fire clans).
K
● Own claim: The Pratiharas claim that they were called Pratihara
A
(literary means doorkeeper) because their ancestor Lakshmana

M
served as a doorkeeper to his brother Rama.

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● Geographical name: The geographical name of Gujarat is derived from

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Gurjara.
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Political History of Gurjara-Pratiharas:

Gurjara-Pratiharas
Period: 730 - Capital: Kannauj
1036 CE

Contact no : 094442 27273
King Significance
Nagabhata I ● He was the real founder of the dynasty.
730-756 AD
● He defeated the Muslim forces from the Arab region.
Y
Vatsaraja ● Expansion of the empire: He followed an aggressive
EM
775-800 AD imperial policy which brought him into conflicts with
the Pala kings of Bengal.
D
○ He defeated Pala king Dharmapala
CA
Nagabhatta II ● Expansion of the empire: He allied with several other
A
(800-833 AD) states, particularly with Andhra, Vidharbha and
Kalinga.
S
IA
○ He defeated Chakrayudha and captured Kanauj.
S
○ He defeated Dharmapala and fought

ER
Rashtrakuta king, Govinda III.

K
A
Bhoja I
(836-885 AD)
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○ He is also known by other names as 'Mihir'

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and 'Prabhasa'
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Contribution to Architecture
K

Contact no : 094442 27273
Teli-ka-Mandi ● Also known as Telika Temple, is a
r, Gwalior Hindu temple located within the
Gwalior Fort in Madhya Pradesh.
● Faith: The temple is dedicated to

Shiva, Vishnu and Matrikas
Y
EM
● Architecture: It has a rectangular
sanctum instead of the typical square
one.
D
○ It integrates the architectural
CA
elements of the Nagara style
and the Valabhi Prasada.
A
○ The temple is based on
S
Gurjara Pratihara-Gopagiri
IA
style North Indian
architecture.
S
ER
○ The temple is a classic example

of a design based on "musical
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harmonics" in architecture.
A
Mahendrapala I ● Expansion of the empire: He kept the vast empire

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(885-910 AD) intact and extended his boundaries.

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● Title: He was also known as 'Mahendrayudha' and

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'Nirbhayanarendra'.
K
● Literature: He was a liberal patron of learned men.
○ His guru Rajashekhara, occupies a

distinguished place in Indian literature.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Contribution of Gurjara-Pratiharas to Art and Architecture (Mahu-Gujjara
style)
Mahavira Jain ● The Mahavira Jain temple is built in Osian of
Temple, Osican, Jodhpur District, Rajasthan.
Rajasthan
● The temple is an important pilgrimage of the
Y
Oswal Jain community.
EM
● This temple is the oldest surviving Jain temple in
Western India.
D
CA
Bateswar Hindu ● A group of nearly 200 sandstone Hindu temples
Temples, Madhya and their ruins in north Madhya Pradesh.
Pradesh
A
● Style: They were built in the early
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Gurjara-Pratihara style of North Indian temple
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architecture.
● Faith: They are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and

S
Shakti - representing the three major traditions

ER
within Hinduism.
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Baroli Temples, ● Located in Baroli village in Rawatbhata City in the

A
Rajasthan Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan.

M
● Style: The complex of eight temples is situated

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within a walled enclosure.

IN
○ They are built in the Gurjara Pratihara style

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of temple architecture dated to the tenth

century CE.
● It Was destroyed by Mughal emperor

Aurangzeb during his Rajasthan quest.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Coins ● Mihira Bhoja issued several coins in which the
images became famous.
● Boar, an incarnation of Vishnu, and the solar

symbol are depicted in the coins of Bhoja.
Y
Contribution of Gurjara-Pratiharas to Literature
EM
Rajashekha ● His works includes Karpuramanjari, Bala-Ramayana,
ra Bala Bharata, Kavyamimansa, Bhuvana Kosha and
D
Haravilasa.
CA
Sulaiman ● He mentioned in his writings that Bhoja maintained
numerous forces, and no other Indian king had such fine
cavalry.
A
S
IA
● Additional contents of the book about Bhoja were:
○ He has got riches, and his camels and horses are

S
numerous.
ER
○ Exchanges are carried on in his states with silver

K
and gold.
A
○ There is no other country in India more safe from

M
robbers.
G
IN
K

Contact no : 094442 27273
41. Saint Meera Bai
SAINT MEERA BAI:
The 525th birth anniversary of Sant Meerabai was recently celebrated in
Y
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.
EM
The Bhakti movement originated in South India between the 7th and the
12th centuries A.D.
D
Saint believed in the equality of all humans, disregarding caste
CA
distinctions.
Bhakti movement in different regions: South India:Initially led by the Alvars
A
(Devotees of Lord Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Lord Siva).
They connected with masses through use of local language.
S
Nayanars: Devotees of Lord Siva, were sixty-three in number. Famous saints
IA
were Appar, Sundarar, Thirugnana Sambandar and Manickavachakar.
Alwars: Devotees of Lord Vishnu who were twelve in number. Famous saints
S
were Nammalwar, Tirumangai Alwar, Andal and Perialwar.

ER
The devotional songs of Andal are called Thiruppavai.

Alvars songs were compiled in the Divya Prabandham.
K
Bhakti traditions into two broad categories:

A
Saguna: Worship of God with attributes or form. Example: Tuslidas, Meera

M
Bai, etc.
Nirguna: Worship of the Formless form of God. Examples: Kabir Das, Guru
G
Nanak Dev, etc.

IN
Maharashtra: From the thirteenth to the seventeenth centuries Maharashtra

saw a great number of saint-poets who composed poems in Marathi
K
language.
Region focused on the Vitthala (a form of Vishnu) temple in Pandharpur
and followed Warkari tradition.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Famous saints-Janeshwar, Namdev, Eknath and Tukaram as well as
women like Sakkubai and the family of Chokhamela, who belonged to the
“untouchable” Mahar caste.
These saint-poets rejected all forms of ritualism, outward display of piety
and social differences based on birth.
East and North East: Neo-Vaishnavite Movement was propagated by
Y
Śaṅkaradeva in Assam region.
EM
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a great devotee of Lord Krishna, was a saint from
Bengal. He popularised ‘Sankirtan or public singing of God’s name.
D
CA
A
S
IA
S
ER
K
A
M
G
IN
K
Meerabai was a great Bhakti saint, Hindu mystic poet and a devotee of Lord
Krishna.
Early life: She was born as Princess of Mewar and her childhood name was
Yashodha.

Contact no : 094442 27273
In 1516, Meera Bai married Rana Bhoj Raj the crown prince of Mewar
who was the son of the Rana Sanga.
Rana Sanga is famous for his leadership in the Battle of Khanwa (1527),
where he led the Rajput alliance against Mughal Emperor Babur.
Life as a saint: She followed Saguna bhakti and considered Lord Krishna as
Y
her husband since her childhood.
EM
She addresses Lord Krishna as Giridhar Gopal.
Meerabai's poems in Braj language, sung during prayer, make up her poetry
collection.
D
These include Raag Govind, Narsi Ji Ka Mayara, Geet Govind ki Tika, Meera
CA
Bai ki Malhar, Raag Vihaag and Garba Geet.
Some of her bhajans translated into English by Robert Bly and Jane
A
Hirshfield as ‘Meerabai: Ecstatic Poems’.
Bhaktmal, describes the biography of Meera Bai, written by Guru Nabha Dass
S
ji in 1585 in Braj language.
IA
Social Reforms: She became a disciple of Sant Ravidas (also known as
Raidas) who belonged to a caste considered “untouchable”.
S
Her songs also openly challenged the norms of the upper castes.
ER
42. Rani Durgavati

K
A
RANI DURGAVATI
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The Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led BJP government in Madhya Pradesh launched

G
the six-day Rani Durgavati Gaurav Yatra on Thursday (June 22) and marked
IN
June 24 – when the queen is believed to have died while fighting the Mughals
in the mid-16th century – as a day of sacrifice.
K
Recently, the 500th birth anniversary of Veerangana Rani Durgavati was

celebrated.
About Rani Durgavati: She was born in Chandela Dynasty of Mahoba in
Banda, UP

Contact no : 094442 27273
While the Chandela Dynasty had declined by the late 12th century AD, it
was later revived by Chandela ruler Keerat Pal Singh (father of Rani
Durgavati)
She was married to Dalpatshah of Gond Dynasty of Garha-Katanga in
1542.
Y
Gonds are one of the largest tribal groups and located in central India.
EM
Assuming leadership: She took reins of the Gond Dynasty in 1550 after
Dalpatshah’s death.
Conflict with Akbar: The Mughal general Asaf Khan I launched the attack
D
with the permission of Akbar.
CA
Contributions: Infrastructure Development: constructed reservoirs such as
Ranital, Cherital and Adhartal and moved the Capital to Chauragarh
A
(from Singaurgarh) on the strategic Satpura Hill Range
Patronage of Religious Figures: She allowed Acharya Bitthalnath to establish
S
a seat of the Pushtimarg Cult at Garha. She welcomed the Vitthalnath of
IA
Vallabh community and took Diksha from him.
Victory over Baz Bahadur of Malwa: Tarikh-i Firishta mentions Durgavati
S
defeated Baz Bahadur, the ruler of Malwa ( by Muhammad Qasim Hindu Shah,
ER
better known as Firishtah.).

Historical documentation: Story of Durgavati was chronicled by Abul Fazl
K
(Akbar’s chronicler) and British Colonel, Sleeman.

A
Contributed to the rich heritage of Bundelkhand and constructed multiple

M
temples inside of Kalinjar Fort.

G
IN
K

Contact no : 094442 27273
Y
EM
D
CA
The CM described the queen as a “symbol of India’s self-determination”,
saying she fought Mughal emperor Akbar and his commander Asaf Khan and
gave the ultimate sacrifice.
A
Historian Satish Chandra, in his book Medieval India, describes her as a
S
good marksman, skilled at using guns, bows, and arrows. It was noted at
IA
the time that she was so intent on hunting tigers that “whenever she
heard that a tiger had appeared she did not drink water until she shot it.”
S
The Mughal attack on Garha-Katanga:

ER
Chandra also terms the period of the mid-16th century as one of early Mughal
expansion in India (between 1556-76) under Akbar. During her reign,
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Durgavati fought with Baz Bahadur, the sultan of the neighbouring Malwa who
was eventually defeated by Akbar. But the frequent battles between the two
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adjoining states continued even after the takeover.

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According to government documentation of the region’s history, the

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queen and her generals managed the affairs of the kingdom for 16 years.
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There was evidence of trade with other kingdoms in the form of their
currencies being found there and of public works being carried out, such as
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the construction of a large public reservoir near Jabalpur that is now called
Ranital (the queen’s tank).
Abul Fazl, the court historian of Akbar who chronicled these years in
Akbarnama, described Durgavati as a combination of “beauty, grace and

Contact no : 094442 27273
manlike courage and bravery”. He adds that the prosperity of the kingdom
was such that people paid their taxes in gold coins and elephants.
43. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
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SIR SYED AHMED KHAN
EM
The passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill coincided with the 125th
birth (October 17) anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, known for
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propagating social reforms among the Muslim community.
CA
1. Educational and Political engagement
A
Syed Ahmad Khan, a prominent figure of the 19th century, received
education in both religious Scripture, the Quran, and Western sciences.
S
His booklet, “Asbab-e-Baghawat-e-Hind” (Reasons for the Indian Revolt of
IA
1857), highlighted British ignorance, their aggressive expansionary policies,
and the exclusion of Indians from the Legislative Council of India as major
S
causes for growing antagonism.

ER
Interestingly, non-official Indian members were included in the Viceroy’s

Council from 1861, and Syed Ahmad Khan was nominated to the Viceroy’s
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Legislative Council in 1878.

A
He supported the efforts of Dadabhai Naoroji and Surendra Nath Banerjee in

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securing Indian representation in the government and civil services.

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2. Educational and Socio-religious reforms

IN
Syed Ahmad Khan emphasized interfaith understanding, exemplified by his

work, “Commentary on the Holy Bible.”
K
He advocated modern scientific education for Muslims, criticizing the

prevailing superstitions and regressive customs of society.
He founded the Scientific Society of Aligarh in 1863, modelling it after the
Royal Society of England. This society organized annual conferences and
disseminated scientific material in English and Urdu.
Contact no : 094442 27273
He established various educational institutes to promote education, most
notably the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (MAOC) in 1875, later
evolving into Aligarh Muslim University.
The MAOC played a pivotal role in the Aligarh Movement of the 19th century,
Y
fostering a renaissance among Indian Muslims. While founded primarily
EM
for Muslims, MAOC’s doors were open to all, emphasizing inclusivity.
Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental (MAO) College, aimed to provide modern
education while preserving cultural heritage.
D
CA
The Aligarh Institute Gazette, initiated by him, campaigned against practices
such as female infanticide, polygamy, child marriage, sati, segregation of
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widows, and poverty-induced marriages of young girls to older men.
His progressive social ideas were disseminated through his magazine,
S
“Tahdhib-ul-Akhlaq” (Improvement of Manners and Morals).
IA
Views of Syed Ahmad Khan on Women Education:

S
Despite showing inclination for liberal values and rationality, his views on
ER
education to be imparted to women had been controversial.

Syed Ahmad Khan, believed the ultimate goal for women is marriage and
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therefore, training for them should focus on familial duties. For women’s
A
education he believed in a “Disorganised home-based tutor education”.

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However, later he was convinced that the “rejection of women’s education

by Muslims played a big role in the decline of the community” in
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comparison to others.
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Muhammadan Educational Conference:

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To propagate the ideas of Anglo-oriental College across India, Syed Khan

established the All-India Muhammadan Educational Congress in Aligarh,
U.P.
The first session of the congress was held in 1886 in Aligarh and was
presided by Maulvi Samiullah Khan.
Contact no : 094442 27273
The organisation aimed to promote educational development among Muslims
through conferences and also to gain University status for the Anglo-Oriental
College.
4. Evolution of Syed Ahmad Khan’s political thought
(a) First Phase (Up to 1887)
Y
EM
Syed Ahmad Khan advocated for Hindu-Muslim unity, emphasizing their
shared history and common interests.
He advocated for the separation of religious and political matters,
D
believing that religious and spiritual issues should not impede
CA
nationalist objectives.
In his role on the Viceroy’s Legislative Council, he actively worked for the
A
welfare of both Hindus and Muslims.
Cooperation between the two communities was evident in the scientific
S
society and the Aligarh British India Association.
IA
Syed Ahmad Khan even supported the ban on cow slaughter within the
MAOC.
S
ER
(b) Second Phase (After 1887)

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His perspective on the applicability of Western democracy and nationalism in

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India underwent a significant shift.

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He argued that the complex, diverse nature of Indian society, with its
diverse castes, religions, and races, made representative government
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impractical and could lead to Hindu dominance over Muslims.

IN
This argument laid the foundation for the two-nation theory, which
claimed that Hindus and Muslims were separate nations with distinct
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interests.
He aimed to establish an Anglo-Muslim alliance to counter the influence of the
Congress, influenced by British officials and the need for their support for his
college.

Contact no : 094442 27273
44. Dayanand Saraswati
Dayanand Saraswati:
The government has formed a high-level committee to oversee 200th year

long celebrations commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Dayanand
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Saraswati.
EM
Who was Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati?
Birth:
D
Swami Dayanand Saraswati was born on 12th February 1824 in Tankara,
CA
Gujarat in a Brahmin family. His parents, Lalji Tiwari and Yashodhabai were
orthodox Brahmin.
A
He was earlier named Mool Shankar Tiwari as he was born during Mool
Nakshatra.
S
He wandered as an ascetic for fifteen years (1845-60) in search of truth.
IA
Dayananda’s views were published in his famous work, Satyarth Prakash
(The True Exposition).
S
Contribution to the Society:

ER
He was an Indian philosopher, social leader and founder of the Arya

Samaj.
K
Arya Samaj is a reform movement of Vedic dharma and he was the first to
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give the call for Swaraj as "India for Indian" in 1876.

M
He was a self-taught man and a great leader of India leaving a significant

impact on Indian society. During his life, he made a prominent name for
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himself and was known among a wide array of Prices and the public.
IN
The first Arya Samaj unit was formally set up by him at Mumbai (then
Bombay) in 1875 and later the headquarters of the Samaj were
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established at Lahore.
His vision of India included a classless and casteless society, a united India
(religiously, socially and nationally), and an India free from foreign rule, with
Aryan religion being the common religion of all.
He took inspiration from the Vedas and considered them to be ‘India’s Rock
Contact no : 094442 27273
of Ages’, the infallible and the true original seed of Hinduism. He gave the
slogan “Back to the Vedas”.
He subscribed to the Vedic notion of chaturvarna system in which a
person was not born in any caste but was identified as a brahmin,
kshatriya, vaishya or shudra according to the occupation the person
followed.
Y
EM
Contribution to the Education System:
He introduced a complete overhaul of the education system and is often
considered as one of the visionaries of modern India.
D
The DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) schools came into existence in 1886 to
CA
realize the vision of Swami Dayanand Saraswati.
The first DAV School was established at Lahore with Mahatma Hansarj as
A
the headmaster. S
During the 1920s and early 1930s tension grew around a number of issues.
IA
Muslims were angered by “music-before-mosque”, by the cow protection
movement, and by the efforts of the Arya Samaj to bring back to the Hindu
S
fold (shuddhi) those who had recently converted to Islam.

ER
The Arya Samaj has always had its largest following in western and northern
India.
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A
The Samaj opposes worship of murtis (images), animal sacrifice,

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shraddha (rituals on behalf of ancestors), basing caste upon birth rather

than upon merit, untouchability, child marriage, pilgrimages, priestly
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craft, and temple offerings.

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It upholds the infallibility of the Vedas, the doctrines of karma (the

accumulated effect of past deeds) and samsara (the process of death and
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rebirth), the sanctity of the cow, the importance of the samskaras

(individual sacraments), the efficacy of Vedic oblations to the fire, and
programs of social reform.
It has worked to further female education and intercaste marriage, has built
Contact no : 094442 27273
missions, orphanages, and homes for widows, has established a network of
schools and colleges, and has undertaken famine relief and medical work.
Arya Samaj and Vedic Schools:

The main aim of Arya Samaj is to make the universe the best place by all
means for human beings to live in i.e. Krinvanto Vishwamaryam.
Y
It was the first Hindu organization to introduce proselytization in
EM
Hinduism.
Some principles of Arya Samaj which is based on the idea of universalism
The source of pure knowledge is God.
D
Ethical justifications of actions are a must.
CA
Rays of knowledge must dispel the darkness of ignorance.
The Arya Samaj opened a vast number of educational institutions and
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orphanages (First Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) school in Lahore in
1886).
S
In 1892, there was a split in Arya Samaj into Gurukul (conservative) and
IA
college group(radical).
The leader of the conservative wing was Swami Shraddhanand and the
S
radical group was Lala Hansraj.

ER
The split was due to the kind of language that was to be promoted and
the kind of food to be followed.
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A
45. Sri Aurobindo Ghosh

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Recently, the year-long celebration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sri

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Aurobindo concluded at Auroville, Puducherry.

IN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in a programme

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commemorating Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birth anniversary on December 13,

2022. During the Programme PM will release a commemorative coin and
postal stamp in honour of Sri Aurobindo.
Early Life & Career:

Contact no : 094442 27273
Born to surgeon Krishna Dhan Ghose and Swarnalata Devi in Calcutta on
August 15, 1872.
He passed the Indian Civil Service Examination in 1890 but failed in the
horsemanship test due to which he could not enter the service.
In 1893, he accepted an appointment in the Baroda state service.
He worked for 13 years and rose to the post of principal of the Baroda State
Y
College.
EM
Later, he left his job at Baroda to join the Bengal National College.
Revolutionary Streak:
D
He became a leading figure in the freedom movement and used to write
CA
fearless articles for the English newspaper Bande Mataram.
He also contributed articles to the Bengali weekly Yugantar.
A
Later, he started the weekly English journal titled Dharma, in which he
tried to convey the message of Swaraj or freedom from British rule.
S
He was one of the founders of the youth club Anushilan Samiti which
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protested against the atrocities of the British government.
He was one of the leading protesters against the 1905 Partition of Bengal
S
and called on the citizens to boycott British institutions and goods.

ER
He took part in the 1906 session of the Indian National Congress and was
a member of the team which set four objectives-Swadeshi, Swaraj,
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education and boycott.

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Alipore Bomb Case:

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Aurobindo, a revolutionary and a militant nationalist, was charged in the

Alipore Bomb Case (1906-1910) and was sentenced to jail.
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IN
He spent one year in solitary confinement at the Alipore Central Jail in

Calcutta.
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Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das fought his case and Ghosh was released.
Spiritualism at Puducherry:
He decided to give up active politics after his stint in jail and devoted himself
to spiritualism.

Contact no : 094442 27273
In 1910, he left British India and found refuge in the French colony of
Pondichéry (now called 'Puducherry') in southeastern India.
He founded a community of spiritual seekers, which took shape as the Sri
Aurobindo Ashram in 1926.
He devoted himself for the rest of his life to the development of his “integral”
Y
yoga.
EM
The main objective of his teachings was to increase the level of
consciousness of people and to aware people of their true selves.
Work:
D
Aurobindo’s voluminous literary work comprises philosophical speculation,
CA
many treatises on yoga and integral yoga, poetry, plays, and other writings.
A
His major works include: S
Essays on the Gita (1922),
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The Life Divine (1939)
Collected Poems and Plays (1942),
S
The Synthesis of Yoga (1948),

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The Human Cycle (1949),

The Ideal of Human Unity (1949),
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Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol (1950),

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On the Veda (1956).

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Pioneer of the Indian extremist movement and helped in establishing

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Anushilan Samiti in 1902.

IN
During the Surat session of INC in 1907, known for the Surat Split, he joined
the extremist group led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak against the moderates.
K
Advocated passive resistance and not violence.

Literary Contribution: 'New Lamps for Old', articles written by him in
InduPrakash criticizing moderate politics of Congress.
Started two weeklies, namely Karmayogin in English and Dharma in

Contact no : 094442 27273
Bengali.
In 1914, he started publishing a philosophical magazine, Arya.
Spiritual Journey: Played an active role in the Indian Freedom Movement till
1910, after which he became a spiritual reformer. He developed a kind of
Yoga called Integral Yoga.
He founded a community of spiritual seekers, which took shape as the Sri
Y
Aurobindo Ashram in 1926 with Mirra Alfassa.
EM
Mirra Alfassa founded the Auroville, i.e., the city of dawn, a universal
town for a peaceful, progressive, and harmonious existence.
Aurobindo’s life philosophy:
D
It is a synthesis of idealism, realism, naturalism, and pragmatism.
CA
According to him, Jnana (knowledge), Bhakti (devotion), and Karma
(work ethics) can lead man to the divine path.
A
But the synthesis of spirituality, creativity, and intellectuality is essential
for a sound personality.
S
Sri Aurobindo did not believe in any man-made divisions and used to
IA
consider social inequalities as a major obstacle to raise national
consciousness.
S
Influenced by the teaching of Sri Ramanujacharya, who argued for the

ER
inclusion of outcastes into the fold of Hinduism.

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46. SRI ALLURI SITARAMA RAJU

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M
Recently, the year-long celebration of the 125th Birth Anniversary of Shri

Alluri Sitarama Raju and 100 years of the Rampa Rebellion concluded in
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Hyderabad.
IN
About:
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Alluri Sitarama Raju was an Indian revolutionary who fought against the
British colonial rule in India.
He led a guerrilla campaign in the Eastern Ghats region of present-day
Andhra Pradesh, mobilizing the tribal people against the oppressive forest
laws and policies of the British government.
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He is widely regarded as a hero of the jungle or Manyam Veerudu by the
local people for his bravery and sacrifice.
Early Life and Background:

He was born on 4 July 1897 or 1898 in Pandrangi village, Visakhapatnam
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district, Andhra Pradesh.
EM
He belonged to a Telugu-speaking Kshatriya family.
Rampa Rebellion (or Manyam Rebellion) of 1922-1924:
Alluri Sitarama Raju joined the Non-cooperation movement led by
D
Mahatma Gandhi and witnessed the exploitation of tribal people in the
CA
Eastern Ghats region by British authorities.
The tribal people practiced podu or shifting cultivation, which involved
A
clearing patches of forest land for agriculture and moving to another area after
a few years. This was their traditional and sustainable way of life, which also
S
ensured their food security and cultural identity.
IA
The Madras Forest Act of 1882 imposed restrictions on the tribal
people's movement and prohibited their collection of minor forest produce,
S
forcing them into low-wage labor for the forest department or contractors.
ER
He aimed to liberate the tribal people and drive the British out of the
Eastern Ghats.
K
A
Death and Legacy:

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Alluri Sitarama Raju was captured and killed by British forces in Koyyuru
village on 7 May 1924, marking the end of the Rampa Rebellion.
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Alluri Sitarama Raju's life exemplified the unity of society without

IN
discrimination based on caste and class.

A postal stamp issued by the Government of India in 1986 featuring Alluri
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Sitarama Raju.
A biographical film titled Alluri Seetharama Raju was released in 1974.
Contribution in India’s Independence
Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM):
o He inspired the tribals to seek justice in the local panchayat courts and
Contact no : 094442 27273
boycott the colonial courts. He persuaded people to wear khadi and give up
drinking.
Rampa Rebellion (1922-1924): It is also known as the Manyam (which
means forest area) Rebellion.
He is also referred as “Manyam Veerudu” (Hero of the Jungles) by the local
people.
Y
He was also a member of a Calcutta Secret Society where he learnt to make
EM
bombs
Factors behind Rampa Rebellion • Alienation of tribal population from
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Rampa and Gudem Hills: By passing the Madras Forest Act, of 1882, Agency
CA
restricted the free movement and collection of Minor Forest Produce by the
tribal communities. • Banning traditional Podu agricultural system
A
(slash-and-burn shifting cultivation).
Exploitation of Tribals:
S
Vetti worker (free customary or unpaid Labours)
IA
Gothi Labour (A form of debt bondage)
System of Coolie Labour
S
Muttadars (Village Headman) power curtailed: Muttadars in the traditional

ER
socio-economic framework of the Rampa region had been actual rulers in

their capacity.
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British rule altered this power structure of the tribal community which
A
antagonised the muttadars.

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47. SHRI RAMALINGA SWAMIGAL

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IN
India celebrated the 200th birth anniversary of Shri Ramalinga Swamy,

also known as Vallalar, on 5th October, 2023.
K
About:
Shri Ramalinga Swamy was a prominent Tamil poet in the 19th century and a
member of the "gnana siddhars" lineage.
He was born in the village of Marudhur in Tamil Nadu.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Vision of Social Reforms:
Vallalar's vision transcends religious, caste, and creed barriers,
recognizing divinity in every atom of the universe.
Vallalar was strongly against the caste system and initiated the 'Samarasa
Vedha Sanmarga Sangam' in 1865, later renamed 'Samarasa Suddha
Sanmarga Sathya Sangam.'
Y
He established 'The Sathya Dharma Salai,' a free food facility in Vadalur,
EM
Tamil Nadu in 1867, serving all people without caste distinctions.
In January, 1872, Vallalar opened the 'Sathya Gnana Sabha' (Hall of True
D
Knowledge) in Vadalur.
CA
Philosophical Beliefs and Teachings:
A
One of Vallalar's primary teachings was "Service to Living Beings is the path
of Liberation/Moksha."
S
According to Suddha Sanmarga, the prime aspects of human life should be
IA
love, connected with charity and divine practice, leading to pure
knowledge.
S
Vallalar believed that the intelligence possessed by humans is illusory (Maya)

ER
intelligence and not accurate or final.

He emphasized "Jeeva Karunyam" (Compassion for living beings) as the
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path of final intelligence.

A
He forbade killing animals for the sake of food and advocated feeding the poor
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as the highest form of worship.

He also believed that God in the form of Grace is the personification of
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Mercy and Knowledge.

IN
And, Mercy is a path to God.

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Contact no : 094442 27273
48. NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE FOR 2023
It was awarded to the Norwegian author and dramatist Jon Fosse, “for his
innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable.”
Y
About Nobel Prize in Literature:The Academy honoured Fosse’s body of
EM
work written in Norwegian Nynorsk which includes several plays, novels,
poetry collections, essays, children’s books and translations.
Nynorsk is one of two official languages of Norway.
D
Nobel prize for Literature is worth 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million)
CA
and is regarded widely as the world’s most prestigious literary award.
The Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded 116 times to 120 Nobel
A
laureates between 1901 and 2023.
In the recent years, the prizes have gone to French author Annie Ernaux
S
(2022), Tanzanian novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah (2021).
IA
Who are the Other Recent Nobel Laureates in the Field of Literature?
S
2022:
ER
Annie Ernaux “for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers
the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory”.
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2021:
A
Abdulrazak Gqurnah “for his uncompromising and compassionate

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penetration of the effects of colonialism and the fate of the refugee in the
gulf between cultures and continents”.
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2020:
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Louise Glück “for her unmistakable poetic voice that with austere beauty
makes individual existence universal”.
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Contact no : 094442 27273
Y
EM
D
CA
A
S
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S
ER
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A
49. Sahitya Akademi Award

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G
The Ministry of Culture intends to change the nomination process for

IN
Sahitya Akademi Award.

K
About Sahitya Akademi Award:

It is a literary honour, conferred annually on writers of most outstanding
books of literary merit published in any of the major Indian languages.
Besides 22 languages enumerated in the Constitution, English and

Contact no : 094442 27273
Rajasthani language are also recognised.
Award includes a casket containing an engraved copper-plaque, a shawl and
an amount of Rs. 1,00,000/-.
Sahitya Akademi functions as an autonomous organisation. It is registered
as a society under Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Y
The Sahitya Akademi was formally inaugurated by the Government of
EM
India on 12 March 1954. The Government of India Resolution, which set
forth the constitution of the Akademi, described it as a national organisation
to work actively for the development of Indian letters and to set high literary
D
standards, to foster and co-ordinate literary activities in all the Indian
CA
languages and to promote through them all the cultural unity of the country.
A
Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters, is the central
institution for literary dialogue, publication and promotion in the country and
S
the only institution that undertakes literary activities in 24 Indian
IA
languages, including English. Over the 64 years of its dynamic existence, it
has ceaselessly endeavored to promote good taste and healthy reading habits,
S
to keep alive the intimate dialogue among the various linguistic and literary
ER
zones and groups through seminars, lectures, symposia, discussions, readings

and performances, to increase the pace of mutual translations through
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workshops and individual assignments and to develop a serious literary

A
culture through the publications of journals, monographs, individual creative

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works of every genre, anthologies, encyclopedias, dictionaries, bibliographies,

who's who of writers and histories of literature.
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Akademi gives 24 awards annually to literary works in the languages it

IN
has recognized and an equal number of awards to literary translations

from and into the languages of India, both after a year long process of
K
scrutiny, discussion and selection.
It also gives special awards called Bhasha Samman to significant

contribution to the languages not formally recognized by the Akademi as
also for contribution to classical and medieval literature.
Contact no : 094442 27273
It also has a system of electing eminent writers as Fellows and Honorary
Fellows and has also established fellowship in the names of Dr. Anand
Coomaraswamy and Premchand. The Akademi has launched Centres for
Translation in Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Delhi, and an Archive of
Indian Literature in Delhi. A project office for the promotion of Tribal and Oral
Y
literature has also been set up in the North Eastern Hill University Campus,
EM
Shillong. Many more imaginative projects are on the anvil. Sahitya Akademi is
aware of cultural and linguistic differences and does not believe in forced
standardization of culture through a bulldozing of levels and attitudes. At the
D
same time, it is also conscious of the deep inner culture, spiritual, historical
CA
and experimental links that unify India's diverse manifestations of literature.
This unity seeks an international species-dimension through the Akademi's
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Culture Exchange Programmes with other countries on the globe.
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50. Ramon Magsaysay Award
IA
Recently, Surgical oncologist Padma Shri Dr R. Ravi Kannan, Director of

S
the Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam,

ER
received the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for 2023.

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He won the award for revolutionising the treatment of cancer in Assam

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through his people-centered and pro-poor programmes (offering free

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treatment, food, lodging, and employment for caregivers).

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What are the Key Facts About the Ramon Magsaysay Award?
IN
About:
Established in 1957 as Asia's highest honour and premier prize.
K
It celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional spirit in serving

the people of Asia, regardless of their background.
The award is presented annually on August 31st, which coincides with the
birthday of Ramon Magsaysay, the third president of the Republic of the
Philippines, who inspired its creation.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Awardees are presented with a certificate, a medallion with an embossed
image of Ramon Magsaysay and a cash prize.
The award is internationally recognised as the Nobel Prize counterpart of
Asia.
Categories of Recognition:
Y
The award initially featured six categories, including “Government
EM
Service”, “Public Service”, “Community Leadership”, “Journalism,
Literature, and Creative Communication Arts”, “Peace and International
Understanding”, and “Emergent Leadership”. Uncategorized (2009–)
D
However, post-2009, the Ramon Magsaysay Award is no longer being
CA
given in fixed Award categories, except for Emergent Leadership.
A
What is Ramon Magsaysay Award?
Established in 1957, the Ramon Magsaysay Award was founded to preserve
S
former Phillippine President Ramon Magsaysay's example of integrity in
IA
governance and idealism in a democratic society.
It was funded by the Rockefeller Brothers trustees with the Philippine
S
government's agreement.
ER
Ramon Magsaysay Award: Selection and presentation

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The Award recognises and honours individuals and organisations in Asia,

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regardless of race, creed, gender, or nationality, who have achieved distinction

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and have helped others generously without aiming for public recognition.
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The award has been given to over three hundred personalities and
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organisations in the past five decades. The trustees of the foundation

annually select the awardees who are then presented with a certificate and a
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medal with an image of Ramon Magsaysay.
The award is presented in a formal ceremony in Manila, the capital of the

Philippines on August 31 each year.

Contact no : 094442 27273
The first Ramon Magsaysay Awards were given to five individuals
working in India, Indonesia, the Philippines, China (Taiwan) and Sri
Lanka, and a Philippine-based organisation.
51. Shantiniketan
Y
Recently, Santiniketan, which is a town located in Birbhum district of
EM
West Bengal, was included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The efforts to have Santiniketan recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
D
have been ongoing since 2010. Santiniketan has been recognized by UNESCO
CA
as India's 41st World Heritage Site.
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Historical Significance: In 1862, Rabindranath Tagore's father,
Debendranath Tagore, spotted this scenic landscape and decided to
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establish an ashram, building a house called Santiniketan, meaning
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"abode of peace".
Name Change: The area, originally called Bhubadanga, was renamed
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Santiniketan by Debendranath Tagore due to its conducive environment for

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meditation.
Educational Legacy: In 1901, Rabindranath Tagore chose a significant portion
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of land and established a school based on the Brahmachary Ashram model.

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This school later evolved into Visva Bharati University.

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UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Ministry of Culture proposed Santiniketan

for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List, emphasising its
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importance in human values, architecture, arts, town planning, and

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landscape design.
Archaeological Preservation: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has
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been involved in the restoration of several structures in Santiniketan,

preserving its historical and cultural heritage.
Who was Rabindranath Tagore?
Early Life:

Contact no : 094442 27273
Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta, India, into a
prominent Bengali family. He was the youngest of thirteen children.
Tagore was a polymath and excelled in various fields. He was not only a
poet but also a philosopher, musician, playwright, painter, educator, and
social reformer.
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Nobel Laureate:
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In 1913, Rabindranath Tagore became the first Asian to be awarded the
Nobel Prize in Literature for his collection of poems titled "Gitanjali"
(Song Offerings).
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Knighthood:
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Rabindranath Tagore was awarded with Knighthood for Services to
Literature by King George V in 1915.
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Tagore renounced his title of Knighthood after the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh
Massacre.
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Composer of National Anthems:
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He wrote the national anthems of two countries, "Jana Gana Mana" (the
Indian national anthem) and "Amar Shonar Bangla" (the Bangladesh
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national anthem).
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Literary Works:
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His literary works include poems, short stories, novels, essays, and plays.
A
Some of his notable works include "The Home and the World," "Gora,"
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Gitanjali, Ghare-Baire, Gora, Manasi, Balaka, Sonar Tori, and

"Kabuliwala."
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He is also remembered for his song ‘Ekla Chalo Re’.

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Social Reformer:
He was an advocate for social reform, promoting ideas of unity, harmony, and
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tolerance. He criticised British colonial rule and worked for Indian

independence.
Tagore's Philosophy:
His philosophy emphasised the importance of humanism, spirituality, and
the connection between nature and humanity.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Literary Style:
Tagore's writing style was marked by its lyrical and philosophical qualities,
often exploring themes of love, nature, and spirituality.
Death:
He passed away on August 7, 1941, leaving behind a rich legacy of literature
and a lasting impact on Indian and world culture.
Y
EM
What are UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites?
A World Heritage Site is a place that is listed by UNESCO for its special
cultural or physical significance.
D
The list of World Heritage Sites is maintained by the international 'World
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Heritage Programme', administered by the UNESCO World Heritage
Committee.
A
This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning
the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO
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in 1972.
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K
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Contact no : 094442 27273
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Contact no : 094442 27273
52. Hoysala Temples
Hoysala Temples on UNESCO Heritage List
Three Hoysala-era temples in Karnataka [Chennakeshava (Belur),
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Hoysaleswara (Halebidu) and Keshava Temple (Somanathapura,
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Mysuru)] recently made it to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, under the
collective entry of ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas’.
The announcement was made by UNESCO, during the World Heritage
D
Committee’s 45th session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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The Hoysalas, which began as provincial governors under the Western
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Chalukyas, held power in Karnataka from the 10th century to the 14th
century.
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The dynasty came to power when the two dominant empires of the South, the
IA
Western Chalukyas and the Cholas crumbled.
The capital of the Hoysalas was initially located at Belur, but was later
S
moved to Halebidu(or Dwarasamudra).

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It was an important period in the development of South Indian art,

architecture, and religion.
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The empire is remembered today primarily for Hoysala architecture - ~100

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surviving temples are scattered across Karnataka.

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No known monuments other than temples, like palaces or forts, survive from
the Hoysala period.
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This is one of the paradoxes of the early medieval and medieval non-Islamic
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world, because the non-temple buildings were all built in either mud or brick
or wood.
K
About the Hoysala Temples:
Hoysala temples are known for the rare beauty and finesse of their wall
sculptures, and have been described as art which applies to stone the
Contact no : 094442 27273
technique of the ivory worker or the goldsmith.
One notable feature of Hoysala architecture is the use of soapstone, a
malleable stone that is easy to carve.
This is one of the reasons behind the abundance of intricate sculptures
(animals, scenes of daily life, depictions from the epics and the
Puranas)one can see on the temple walls.
Y
EM
The temples are generally built on stellate (star-shaped) platforms, and
have several structures inside the complex.
Another special feature of Hoysala architecture is the unique confluence of
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styles - Hoysala architecture is an amalgamation of 3 distinctive styles
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(Dravidian, Vesara and the North Indian Nagara style).
An interesting feature of Hoysala temples is that they are ‘signed’ - the
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sculptors, masons leave behind their names, and sometimes a few more
details.
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These Vaishnava and Shaiva shrines were built at the time Jainism was
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prominent in the region, and thus mark a turn towards Hinduism.
S
About the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas:

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Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the 3 temples selected for the UNESCO
K
list are important not just because they demonstrate their builders’ superior
A
skill, but also because they narrate the tale of the politics that shaped
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them.
The Chennakeshava temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu) was consecrated
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around 1117 AD by the mighty Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, to mark his

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victories against the Cholas.

It is thus also called the Vijaya Narayana temple.
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The Kesava temple (also a Vaishnava shrine) was built in Somanathapura

in 1268 by Somanatha, a general of Hoysala King Narasimha III.
It is built in the shape of a 16-point star and has 3 shrines dedicated to
Keshava (the statue is missing now), Janardhana and Venugopala.
Contact no : 094442 27273
The Hoysaleswara temple is believed to be the largest Shiva temple built
by the Hoysalas, and is dated to the 12th century.
53. UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
Y
Recently, Kozhikode in Kerala and Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh have been
EM
added to the prestigious creative cities list of UNESCO for contributions
in the fields of literature and music, respectively.
D
UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN):
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It was created in 2004.
It aims to “promote cooperation among cities which recognize creativity
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as a strategic factor in their urban development”.
Sustainable Development Goal 11 aims for Sustainable Cities and
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Communities.
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The network covers seven creative fields: crafts and folk arts, media arts,
film, design, gastronomy, literature and music.
S
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About UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network:

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The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) was created in 2004.

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To promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity
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as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development.

Almost 300 cities around the world currently make up this network.
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Objective: Placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their

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development plans at the local level and cooperating actively at the

international level.
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Every year, UNESCO seeks applications from various cities across the globe
to put them under its UCCN project.
The applications in India are routed through the Ministry of Culture.
Kozhikode is a permanent venue for the annual Kerala Literature
Contact no : 094442 27273
Festival and hosts several other book festivals.
Gwalior has a rich and diverse musical heritage encompassing classical
Hindustani music, folk music, and devotional music. The city also has
some prestigious music institutes and hosts popular festivals.
Other Indian cities which are added to this network
Srinagar and Jaipur: in the field of crafts and folk arts
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Mumbai: Film category
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Chennai and Varanasi: Music category
Hyderabad: Gastronomy category.
Other Indian cities in the UCCN include Jaipur: Crafts and Folk Arts (2015),
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Varanasi: Creative City of Music (2015), Chennai: Creative City of Music
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(2017), Mumbai: Film (2019), Hyderabad: Gastronomy (2019), and Srinagar:
Crafts and Folk Art (2021).
54.
A
UNESCO’s Prix Versailles
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IA
Recently, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) Bengaluru has
earned prestigious accolades at UNESCO's 2023 Prix Versailles.
S
ER
About UNESCO’s Prix Versailles:

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It is announced each year at UNESCO since 2015.

A
The Prix Versailles awards celebrate outstanding achievements in

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architecture and design on a global scale.

It focuses on intelligent sustainability as a cultural driver, acknowledging
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innovation, and creativity, reflection of local heritage, ecological

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efficiency, and values of social interaction.

The Terminal 2 (T2) secured recognition as one of the 'World's most
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beautiful airports' and was awarded the coveted 'World special prize for
an interior 2023.'
Key facts about T2 of KIA

Contact no : 094442 27273
It is also known as the Terminal in a Garden.
It is built upon four foundational pillars — technological leadership,
terminal in a garden, environmental and ecological stewardship, and a
celebration of Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture.
It had previously earned the prestigious IGBC platinum certification from the
Indian Green Building Council under the IGBC Green New Building Rating
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system.
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Also for sustainable design it has been recognized as the world's largest
terminal pre-certified with a platinum LEED rating by the US Green Building
Council.
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CA
55. Garba dance
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Recently, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO), during its 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee
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in Botswana, officially added Gujarat's iconic Garba dance to its
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esteemed Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage(ICH) of
Humanity.
S
ER
The Garba dance form is the 15th cultural item from India to make it to the
UNESCO list. Kolkata’s Durga Puja was the last one added in 2021.
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What is the Garba Dance?

A
Garba is a form of Gujarati folk dance that is performed during the

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nine-day Hindu festival of Navratri, which celebrates the victory of good

over evil.
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The name Garba comes from the Sanskrit word for womb, implying life
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and creation.
Garba dances celebrate fertility, honor womanhood, and pay respect to any
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of an array of mother goddesses.

The dance also customarily marks a girl’s first menstrual cycle and, later,
her imminent marriage.
The dance is performed around a centrally lit lamp or a picture or statue
of the Goddess Shakti, who represents the feminine energy of the universe.
Contact no : 094442 27273
Garba is accompanied by rhythmic music, singing, and clapping.
The dance can be performed by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or
social status.
Modern Garba is heavily influenced by Dandiya Raas, a dance traditionally
performed by men. The merger of these two dances has formed the
high-energy Garba dance that is seen today.
Y
Garba fosters social equality by diluting socio-economic, gender, and rigid sect
EM
structures.
It continues to be inclusive and participative by diverse and marginalized
communities, strengthening community bonds.
D
CA
What is UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?
About:
A
UNESCO ICH is a term that refers to the practices, representations,
expressions, knowledge, skills, and cultural spaces that are recognized as
S
part of the cultural heritage of a community, group, or individual.
IA
UNESCO defines ICH as “the mainspring of humanity’s cultural diversity
and its maintenance a guarantee for continuing creativity.”
S
In 2003, UNESCO adopted the Convention for the Safeguarding of the

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Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), signifying a commitment to protect,

promote, and transmit the diverse expressions of human culture.
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The convention establishes two crucial lists for ICH.

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Representative List: Showcasing the global diversity of ICH, this list raises
M
awareness of its significance and importance.

Urgent Safeguarding List: Identifying threatened ICH, this list calls for
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immediate measures to ensure its survival.

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Examples of ICH:
Languages, oral traditions, literature, and poetry.
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Performing arts, such as music, dance, and theatre.

Social practices, rituals, and festive events.
Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe.
Traditional craftsmanship, such as pottery, weaving, and metalwork.

Contact no : 094442 27273
Existing UNESCO's ICH list of India:
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56.
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UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage award
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IA
Byculla railway station gets UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage
award
S
ER
The 169-year-old Byculla railway station in Mumbai, which has been

restored to its original glory, received the prestigious UNESCO Asia Pacific
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Cultural Heritage award.

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The Byculla railway station is one of the oldest railway stations in India still
G
in use. Additionally, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

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(CSMVS), Stepwells of Golconda (Hyderabad) and Domakonda Fort

(Telangana) also won the highest award of excellence in the UNESCO Asia
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Pacific awards in 2022 in different categories.
The first train was run by the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (now
Central Railway) between Bori Bunder (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Terminus) and Thane, a distance of 34 km (21 mi), on 16 April 1853.
Contact no : 094442 27273
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2022 has been
announced which included four winners from India.
Award-Winning Countries: What’s the Scenario?
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Global Performance:
EM
Thirteen projects from six countries that have been acknowledged for
awards were:
Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Nepal and Thailand.
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India’s Performance:
CA
Award of Excellence: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya,
Mumbai
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Award of Distinction: Stepwells of Golconda, Hyderabad
Award of Merit: Domakonda Fort, Telangana, and Byculla Station, Mumbai
S
Significance of Heritage Sites:
IA
There is a nature and culture linkage that heritage sites demonstrate. They
can address climate change with net-zero water requirements.
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The restoration of wells shows how conservation of heritage sites can have
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multiple objectives.
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What is UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation?

A
Since 2000, the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage

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Conservation programme has recognised the efforts of private individuals

and organisations in restoring, conserving and transforming structures
G
and buildings of heritage value in the region.

IN
It encourages other property owners to undertake conservation projects

within their communities, either independently or by public-private
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partnerships.
The awards give people a sense of pride and sense of ownership of their own
heritage.
Note
Contact no : 094442 27273
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai:
The museum is a part of the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of
Mumbai's world heritage property.
It was established as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India in
1922.
Byculla Station, Mumbai:
Y
The station was built in 1853. The first train of the country passed through
EM
Byculla station almost one-and-a-half centuries ago. It has been restored to
its original Gothic, heritage, architectural glory.
Domakonda Fort, Telangana:
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The Domakonda Fort is private property and was built in the 18th century
CA
with an amalgam of styles including stucco work, arched pillars, flat
ceiling, and a courtyard with a water garden pond.
57.
A
United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
S
IA
Recently, the Prime Minister of India hailed the Dhordo village in Kutch
district of Gujarat for being awarded as the Best Tourism Village by the
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United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

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About the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO):

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A
It is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible,

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sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.

Functions: It serves as a global forum for tourism policy issues and
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encourages the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

IN
It was established in 1975.

Members: Membership of the UNWTO includes 159 countries.
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Official languages: The official languages of UNWTO are Arabic, Chinese,

English, French, Russian and Spanish.
Organisation structure:
General Assembly: It is the principal gathering of the World Tourism
Organization. It is composed of full members and associate members. It meets
Contact no : 094442 27273
every two years.
Executive Council: It is UNWTO's governing board. It is composed of 35
members elected by the General Assembly in a ratio of one for every five full
members. It meets at least twice a year.
Headquarter: Madrid, Spain
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Key facts about Best Tourism Villages initiative
EM
It was launched in 2021 by UNWTO.
It is part of the UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme.
D
The programme works to foster development and inclusion in rural areas,
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combat depopulation, advance innovation and value chain integration through
tourism and encourage sustainable practises.
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S
58. Utsav Portal
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About: Utsav Portal website

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ER
The Utsav Portal website, a digital initiative launched by the Ministry of

Tourism, aims to showcase all the events, festivals and live darshans
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across India to promote different regions of the country as popular

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tourist destinations worldwide.

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The objective is to showcase various elements, dates and details of the

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events and festivals of India on a global platform and increase tourism

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awareness, attractions, and opportunities by providing tourists with

contextual digital experiences in the form of visually appealing photographs
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and stills from the events.

Additionally, the objective is also to let the devotees and travelers experience
and view the sights of some of the well-known religious divine shrines in India
in the form of Live Darshan.

Contact no : 094442 27273
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Art & Culture - Cad 2024

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CURRENT AFFAIRS DECRYPTION

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

❖ Chausath Yogini Temple

❖ Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Spirit

❖ Allah Baksh and Mewari Style Painting

❖ Shri Ramalinga Swamigal

❖ Nobel Prize in Literature for 2023

❖ Ramon Magsaysay Award

❖ UNESCO Prix Versailles

❖ United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

G20 SUMMIT CULTURAL SHOWCASE

Cultural Diplomacy can be described as a course of action, based on the

Cultural Events and Exhibitions:

Zardosi, showcasing ‘Culture Corridor-G20 Digital Museum’ to foreign

The G20 leader’s retreat, featuring the performance of AR Rahman .

India’s Cultural Showcase:

Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja (Chola style).

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Meenakari, also known as enamelling, is the art of decorating a metal

The Meenakari of Varanasi is part of its rich cultural heritage. It was

given a GI Tag in the year 2015.

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

ornamentation on the attire of gods.

However, today, craftsmen make use of a combination of copper wire, with a

golden or silver polish, and a silk thread.

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Narendra Modi inaugurated this impressive complex on July 26 of this year. It

features cutting-edge amenities such as a convention centre, exhibition

The IECC complex is India’s largest MICE (meetings, incentives,

conferences, and exhibitions)

heritage and modern achievements.

The term ‘Bharat Mandapam’ is derived from Lord Basaveshwara’s concept

He is also known as Bhakti Bhandari (literally, the treasurer of devotion), or

Basaveswara (Lord Basava).

Basavanna spread social awareness through his poetry known as

Several important Lingayat works are credited to Basavanna, including

Vachana such as the Shat-sthala-vachana, Kala-jnana-vachana,

Mantra-gopya, Ghatna Chakra-vachana and Raja-yoga-vachana.

Basavanna, like Gautama Buddha, taught people how to live happily in a

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja

This remarkable Nataraja statue, crafted from an ashtadhatu (eight-metal

alloy) by artisans from Tamil Nadu, weighs 18 tonnes.

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Evolution of Nataraja Iconography:

Nataraja's symbolism grew more complex under the Cholas.

Lord Shiva is a complex deity in the Puranic pantheon, embodying both

destructive and ascetic qualities.

destruction, embodying the dualities of life.

the world as the stage.

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Despite the formidable symbolism associated with Nataraja, he also serves as

reassures devotees, offering protection from fear and doubt.

feet, inviting devotees to seek refuge in him.

One of the distinctive features of Nataraja's iconography is his almost always

present broad smile.

as representing both "death and life, both joy and pain."

Our Centers: Chennai I Trichy I Madurai I Coimbatore I New Delhi

Konark Chakra of Odisha’s Sun Temple

About Konark Sun Temple

● Sun temples highlight the celestial movement of the Sun.

Rabindranath Tagore describe it as the place where the language of