"MOST EXPECTED"

ART & CULTURE

UPSC-PRE 2024
 Arunachaleswarar Temple

1. is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Lord

Shiva.
2. It is located at the base of Arunachala
hill in the town of Tiruvannamalai in Tamil
Nadu, India.
3. It is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams
(temples dedicated to the five elements).
4. It is dedicated to the element of fire
(Agni).
5. renowned for its impressive Dravidian
architecture. 9th CE Chola Temple

Discovery of Badami Chalukya Temples in

Mudimanikyam Villages:

1. Two Badami Chalukya temples, aged

1,300-1,500 years, and a 1,200-year-old label
inscription were discovered in
Mudimanikyam village, Telangana near the The most prominent feature of
Krishna River. Kadamba architecture was
Shikara called Kadamba Shikara.
2. The Chalukyas ruled the Deccan from
the 6th to 12th centuries, comprising the The tower rises in steps without
Badami Chalukyas and the sibling dynasties any decoration (pyramid shaped
of the Western and Eastern Chalukyas. shikara)with pinnacle (Stupika or
3. Pulakesi I founded the dynasty in 550, Kalasha) on top. The Kadamba
making Badami the capital. Pulakesi II temples vimana usually square in
expanded the empire, defeating Harsha and plan, the tower is pyramidal
Vishnukundins, but later lost Vatapi to
Pallava Narasimhavarman Kadamba Nagara Style shape and constitutes a series of
horizontal step stages decorated
BAPS Temple, UAE: with uniform series of
quadrangular vertical projections
1. The BAPS temple is the first Hindu and covering vestibules attached
temple in the UAE.
2. It is built at an estimated cost of Rs 700 to vimana, The stages are more
crore. numerous and less elevated,
3. It is located in the Abu Mureikha area, devoid of pavilion ornamentation
about 50 km from the Sheikh Zayed Grand
Mosque.
4. BAPS stands for Bochasanwasi Akshar
Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (A
Vaishnav sect of Hinduism), a Hindu
denomination within the Swaminarayan
Sampradaya.
5. The organisation was founded in 1907 by
Shastriji Maharaj.
6. BAPS is a socio-spiritual Hindu faith with
roots in the Vedas

Batadrava Than:

1. The Batadrawa Than, also known as

Bordowa Than, the birthplace of
Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva (1449-
1568) the great Vaisnavite saint of Assam,
founded by him in 1494 A.D

2. The Than holds immense importance for

Vaishnav followers of Assam.

3. Mahapurush Sankardeva founded the

first ever Kirtan Ghar at Bordowa to
practice and preach neo Vaishnavite faith
during fifteenth century in Assam and
propagated the EK SARAN NAAM DHARMA.

4. A unique feature with novel design of

Namghar and Monikut, a mass-praying
place in the villages of Assam is also the
creation of Sankardeva

* PYQ
Chausath Yogini Temple

1. It is situated in Mitaoli village, in Morena

district of Madhya Pradesh.

2. 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.

3. It is also known as Ekattarso Mahadeva

Temple because of the presence of a
multitude of shiva lingas inside its cells.

4. It is circular, with 64 chambers

dedicated to the 64 yoginis, and a central
shrine dedicated to Shiva Inspired structure of old Parliament

Shree Mandira Parikrama Project:

1. The Chief Minister of Odisha has

launched a project called Shree Mandir
Parikrama Prakalpa, which focuses on
enhancing the areas surrounding Puri’s
historic Shree Jagannath Temple

2. This project is intended to bring about

infrastructure development for devotees
who visit the temple, which forms a part of
efforts towards making Puri into an
international centre of heritage.

3. So far, the government has earmarked Rs

420 crore for developing Kaza City which
focuses mainly on improving the pilgrim’s
experience.

Jagannath Temple:

1. Jagannath Temple is one of the major

temples that are found in Puri, Odisha.

2. It holds an immense significance for all

Hindus especially Vaishnavas.

3. This temple is one of the 108 Abhimana

Kshethrams of Vaishnavite tradition
making it a holy place for worship.

4. Since the beginning of time several

Vaishnava saints including Ramanujacharya
and Vallabhacharya have had intimate
relations with this temple.

5. Apart from them, the Gaudiya

Vaishnavism followers also esteem this
temple

Kalaram Temple:

1. on the banks of Godavari river in the

Panchavati area

2. The temple is the site of agitation led

by B.R Ambedkar, who demanded temple
entry rights for Dalits in 1930.

3. Kalaram Temple is a Hindu temple in

Nashik city’s Panchavati area in
Maharashtra.

4. The temple derives its name from a

black statue of Lord Kala Ram translates
literally to “Black Ram”

5. The original temple dedicated to an

unknown deity was ancient, estimated to
be of the Rashtrakuta Period from the 7th –
11th centuries.

Konark Temple Wheel and Bharat

Mandapam:

1. The Konark Wheel took form under King

Narasimhadeva-I’s reign in the 13th
century. A wheel with 24 spokes, the wheel
symbolises India’s ancient wisdom,
architectural excellence and advanced
civilisation

2. It has also been incorporated into the

Indian tricolour.

3. The 12 pairs of spokes signify the 12

months in a year. Lord Sun is considered
the lord of time and of what is beyond time.

4. The Konark Wheel also reflects the

richness of the Kalinga architectural style
and the prosperity of ancient Odisha

The Konark Chakra represents the wheel of

the Sun God’s chariot. The Sun Temple
itself is designed in the shape of a colossal
chariot with 24 wheels, each about 10 feet
in diameter, and is pulled by a set of seven
horses. These wheels symbolize the 24
hours in a day.

Architecture Nagara Style of Architecture:

Ram Temple, Ayodhaya is based on Nagara

Art&Culture: Part 1
Style

1. Chandrakant Sompura, 81, and his son

Ashish, 51, have designed the complex

2. The Nagara Style of temple architecture

emerged sometime in the 5th century AD,
during the late Gupta period, in northern
India.

3. It is seen as a contemporary to the

Dravida Style of architecture in southern
India which too emerged in the same period.

4. Temples classified as Nagara Style are

found in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh,
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Odisha, Jharkhand,
Bihar, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh (areas
bordering Odisha) and West Bengal
(southwest and Sundarbans areas).

5. The sub-styles or schools are Orissa

school, Chandel school and Solanki school.

Ancient Monuments and Archaeological

Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act), 1958
and Adopt a Heritage 2.0 program

1. The AMASR Act was passed by the

Parliament in 1958.

2. Aim of AMASR – It aims protection and

preservation of archaeological and
historical monuments and sites.

3. Amendments to AMASR – It includes,

allowing the construction of public works
in prohibited areas, and the approval and
impact assessment of such public works

4. 'Adopt a Heritage 2.0' programme seeks

to foster collaboration with corporate
stakeholders through which they can
contribute to preservation of these
monuments for the next generations.

5. Under this programme, ASI invites

corporate stakeholders to enhance the
amenities at the monuments by utilizing
their CSR funds. The programme is a
revamped version of the earlier scheme
launched in 2017 and clearly defines the
amenities sought for different monuments
as per AMASR Act 1958

Al-Hakim Mosque, Egypt:

1. Indian Prime Minister visited the 11th

Century Al-Hakim mosque, restored with
the help of the Dawoodi Bohra community,
during his first visit to Egypt

2. Location: It is a historical mosque

located in Cairo, Egypt.

3. It is named after Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah

(985–1021 AD), the sixth Fatimid caliph.

4. The mosque was originally built by the

Fatimid vizier Gawhar Al-Siqilli, but was
incorporated into the extended
fortifications built by Badr al-Jamali at the
end of the 11th century AD.

5. The mosque was inscribed as a UNESCO

World Heritage Site in 1979.

6. Dawoodi Bohra community is a sect

within Shia Islam known for trading and
business acumen.

7. India is known to have around 500,000

Bohras, including the diasporas spread
across the world

Thirunelli Temple:

1. the Indian National Trust for Art and

Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has urged the
government to conserve the 600-year-old
‘Vilakkumadom’, at the Sree Mahavishnu
Temple at Thirunelli, Kerala

2. The 600-year-old Vilakkumadom

structure, made of exquisite granite, is
located at the Sree Mahavishnu Temple in
Thirunelly, Wayanad district

3. The temple gets its name from an idol of

Lord Vishnu resting on an amla tree in a
valley, which was discovered by Lord
Brahma while circling the globe. It is a
Vishnu Temple

4. The Thirunelli temple's architecture

follows the traditional Kerala style. The
temple has an inner sanctorum, surrounded
by a tile roof structure, and an open
courtyard around it.

5. The east entrance of the temple is

decorated with a granite lamp post

Dogra Architecture:

Context: The Maharaj Gunj market in

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, which had
lost its historical glory due to
encroachments and deviations, is
undergoing a revival project

1. Dogra architecture is a term used to

describe the buildings and structures
constructed by the Dogra Hindu kings who
ruled over Jammu. The Dogra kings ruled
from 1846 to 1947.

2. The Dogras are believed to be of Indo-

Aryan descent and migrated to the Jammu
region from the Punjab region during
ancient time

Examples: The Mubarak mandi, which was a

hub of Dogra culture until 1947,
The jharokha style of balcony, The Amar
Mahal Palace

Mehrauli Archaelogical Park:

The Mehrauli Archaeological Park is an

archaeological area in Mehrauli, one of the
seven mediaeval cities that constitute
present-day Delhi. It is situated adjacent
to the Qutub Minar World Heritage Site
and the Qutb complex. It houses over 100
historically important monuments. It is the
only area in Delhi that has had over 1,000
years of continuous occupation. A G20
meeting is set to take place in the park in
this year.

Martanda Sun Temple, Anantnag

Lingraj Temple, Bhubaneshwar (Read)

Jagannath Temple, Puri

Ramappa Temple, Telangana (Read)

 Padma Awards and Bharat Ratna: Introduced in 1954, the Civilian Awards recognise individuals for their exceptional
service and contributions in various fields such as arts, literature, sports, medicine, social service, science, and
public affairs. Conferred to people with outstanding achievements in their field of work.

Bharat Ratna: also known as the ‘Jewel of India’ or ‘Gem of India’, is India’s highest civilian honour, bestowed upon
individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation’s progress and prosperity. Established in 1954
by then-President Rajendra Prasad, it is made of bronze and designed in the shape of a peepal leaf, embossed with
the sun. The reverse side bears India’s emblem, the ‘Ashok Chakra’, and the motto, ‘Satyameva Jayate’. The number
of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year (can be overridden)

Padma Awards: Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, is announced every year on the occasion of
Republic Day except for brief interruption(s) during the years 1978 and 1979 and 1993 to 1997.

The award is given in three categories, namely,

1. Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service;

2. Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order; and

3. Padma Shri for distinguished service

All nominations received for Padma Awards are placed before the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted
by the Prime Minister every year. The Padma Awards Committee is headed by the Cabinet Secretary and includes
Home Secretary, Secretary to the President and four to six eminent persons as members. The recommendations of
the committee are submitted to the Prime Minister and the President of India for approval.

Jeevan Raksha Padak: Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards are given
to a person for meritorious act of human nature in saving the life of
a person. The award is given in three categories, namely, Sarvottam
Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak and Jeevan Raksha
Padak. Persons of all walks of life are eligible for these awards. The
award can also be conferred posthumously.

Pritzker Prize:

It is the highest international award in the field, which is

sometimes referred to as the “Architecture Nobel” and “the
profession’s highest honor.”

The prize has been awarded every year since its founding in 1979.

It is awarded to a living architect/s for significant achievement

Abel Prize:

The Abel Prize is a prize awarded annually by the King of

Norway to one or more outstanding mathematicians.

It is named after Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik

Abel (1802–1829) and directly modeled after the Nobel
Prizes

Awards

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar:

Art&Culture: Part 2 1. The National Award recognizes outstanding and inspiring scientific, technological and
innovation contributions of researchers, technologists and innovators.

2. The awards shall be given in following four categories:

a. Vigyan Ratna (VR): Maximum of three awards to be bestowed to recognize lifetime

achievements & contributions made in a given field of Science and Technology.

b. Vigyan Shri (VS): Maximum of 25 awards to be given to recognize the distinguished

contributions in the given field of Science and Technology.

c. Vigyan Yuva: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) award: Maximum of 25 awards to be

given to recognize and encourage young scientists who made an exceptional contribution in
the given field of Science and Technology.

d. Vigyan Team (VT) award: Maximum of three awards may be awarded to a team
comprising three or more scientists/researchers/innovators who have made an exceptional
contribution working in a team in a given field of Science and Technology.

Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2023: Ali Abu Awwad, a peace

activist, and Daniel Barenboim, a classical pianist.

Nobel Prize for Literature 2023: Norwegian author Jon Fosse,

“for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the
unsayable"
 Seethakali:

1. It is a unique centuries-old folk art form that is believed to have originated

at Perinad in Kollam district of Kerala.

2. This art form was first performed some 150 years back by the people of
Vedar and Pulayar communities

3. It is based on certain episodes taken from the Indian epic Ramayana.

4. In the early times, Seethakali was performed as part of the harvest festival
Onam

5. The props and instruments used during performances are all made of
natural materials like bamboo and palm leaves

Channapatna Toys:

1. Channapatna toys are a particular form of wooden toys and dolls that are
manufactured in the town of Channapatna in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka.

2. Channapatna is also known as Gombegala Ooru (toy-town).

3. The historic ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan, is the one attributed to introducing
these wooden toys to the current town of Channapatna.

4. He invited artists from Persia to train the local artists in wooden toy making, which
then helped this industry thrive locally.

Cultural Property Agreement:

1. The Punjab regiment incorporated Ghtaka
The Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) between India and the United States aims to
safeguard cultural heritage and combat the illicit trafficking of art objects. in the training regime.
2. The Gorkha Regiment has incorporated the
1. The CPA imposes import restrictions to prevent looted and stolen cultural property Khukri dance.
from entering the US. This helps to protect India's cultural heritage from illegal trade
and ensures that these objects remain in the country to which they belong 3. The Madras regiment has incorporated the
Kalari Payattu.
2. the US will automatically repatriate any cultural objects identified as belonging to 4. The Udhampur-base has incorporated the
India, eliminating the need for India to provide additional proof of ownership
Israeli-origin martial art, Krav Maga.
Indian Army has added martial arts to their
Martial Art Forms in India training

Phanigiri Artefacts:

1. The Phanigiri Buddhist site is considered one of the most

important finds in Buddhist iconography in this millennium.

2. Phanigiri (meaning hillock of snake hood) is a small village in

the state of Telangana

Rudragiri Hillock:

a. It is located in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.

b. It is nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats, features five naturally formed rock shelters at
its foothills, facing westward.

c. These shelters served as living quarters for people during the Mesolithic age around
5000 B.C and they bear witness to the luminous rock paintings of that era.

d. Two natural caves at the southern end of the hillock also exhibit exceptional murals
from the renowned Kakatiya
kingdom

1. The first cave presents a narrative mural portraying the intense battle between the
Vanara brothers, Vali and Sugriva. Both figures stand on the battlefield wielding maces,
their faces displaying fierce determination. Rama, positioned behind Sugriva, shoots
arrows at Vali

2. In the middle cave, a grand sketch of Hanuman, accompanied by sacred symbols of the
conch (Sankha) and the fire altar (Yagna Vedi)

3. The third cave houses the prehistoric rock paintings from the Mesolithic era

Antiquities and Art Treasures Act

(AATA), 1972:

1. It empowers the Central Government to compulsorily acquire any antiquity or

art treasure and is based on UNESCO 1970 convention.

2. Article 51 A (f) - It states that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India to
value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.

3. Article 49- Protection of monuments and places and objects of national

importance

4. 7th Schedule- The cultural heritage is protected under Union List, State List
and Concurrent List

5. UNESCO 1970 convention- It is on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the

Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property

Indo-US CPA signed in this context

Ottanthullal:

1. Ottanthullal (or Thullal, in short) is recite-and-dance art-form of Kerala

2. It is famous for its humour and social satire, and marked by its
simplicity as opposed to more complex dance-forms like Kathakali and
Koodiyattam.

3. Strictly follows principles of Natya Shastra written by Bharatmuni.

4. It is performed solo and is conducted during temple festivals from

temple premises

5. The performer is called Thullalkaran

6. A great Malayalam poet called Kunchan Nambiyar introduced Thullal in

the 18th century.

Karakattam

Dances in News:
1. Karakattam: An ancient folk dance of Tamil Nadu in which performers in colourful saris dance with a pot (karakam)
on their head to invoke Mariamman, the goddess of rain. The posture is derived from Bharat

2. Perini Natyam/Thandavam: Perini Natyam is an ancient dance form that originated and thrived in the southern
state of Telangana during the Kakatiya dynasty. It is a tribute to Lord Siva, the Hindu god of destruction

3. Thirra/Theyyam Thirra:
a. Thirra or Theyyam thira is a ritual dance performed in “Kaavu”(grove)& temples of the Malabar region in Kerala
State, South India.

b. This art form is performed by the artists of malaya (the artist who recognised for performing the art form called
as a “perumalayan”) community.

c.This art is performed during Utsavam (annual temple festival). Clan deities such as Bhagavathi, Shiva are
worshipped in these forms.

d. Theyyam thira is main sub division of Theyyam. It is similar to the Theyyam dance performed in the same region,
except that in Theyyam the performer is considered as the god he is representing, while in Thira the performer is
considered as to be possessed by god.

4. Cham Lama:

a. The Yogachara School of Buddhism was founded in Kashmir in the 4th century by Asanga and Vasubandhu. This
developed into the sophisticated Vajrayana form of Buddhism, which incorporated the Cham dance.

b. the Cham is the deepest form of meditation of the Lamas.

The purpose of this meditation is for the Lama (priest) to be able to free himself entirely from his own ephemeral
personality

5. Yakshagana: Yakshagana is a form of traditional folk dance. It is popular in the Coastal districts of Karnataka and
parts of Kerala. The Yakshagana dance originated from the Vaishnavite bhakti movement. It is a wonderful mix of
dance, music, song, scholarly dialogues, and vibrant costumes

Tamilisai Moovar of Sirkazhi

(Carnatic Music):

1. Music and the Tamil landscape have been inseparable, right from the Sangam Era. Several legendary
figures have contributed to the evolution of music down the ages and played a crucial role in intertwining
art and culture with the social milieu

2. Three such personalities were the Tamilisai Moovar (Tamil Trinity) — Muthuthandavar, Marimutha Pillai,
and Arunachala Kavirayar — who composed conventional kritis in Tamil and made invaluable contributions
to the evolution of Carnatic music. All three lived in Sirkazhi in present-day Mayiladuthurai district and
composed numerous kritis much before saint Tyagaraja and others

Music and its Types
3. Though there is no authentic information on the exact period during which Muthuthandavar lived, the
Tamil Virtual Academy of the State government, which offers various academic courses online and is
involved in digital documentation of rare printed books, periodicals, manuscripts, photographs, and audio-
visual materials of Tamil literature and culture, indicates his period could roughly date back to the 16th
Century

Gond Painting: the famous Gond painting of Madhya Pradesh has received the prestigious
Geographical Indication (GI) tag
Art & Art Forms
1. It is a famous folk art of the Gond tribal community of central India.

2. It is done to preserve and communicate the culture of the Gond tribal community.
Art&Culture: Part 3 3. Themes: Gond tribes are highly interlinked with nature and this appears in their paintings too
they include animals, mahua tree, mythological stories, Hindu gods, Local deities and folktales etc

Etikoppaka Toy Craft: An Etikoppaka toy craftsman is one among the seven persons
from Andhra Pradesh who have been selected for this year's Padma Awards.

1. These are traditional toys made by artisans of Etikoppaka village located on the
banks of Varaha River in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh.

2. These toys are made out of wood and are coloured with natural dyes derived from
seeds, lacquer, bark, roots and leaves.

3. The artisans mainly use the wood from trees known as 'ankudu' (Wrightia
Tinctoria) that is soft in nature.

4. These toys have no sharp edges. They are rounded on all sides.

5. Etikoppaka toys received Geographical Indication (GI) tag IN 2017.

6. the toys are also called lacquer toys because of the application of lacquer coating.

Bidriware:

1. Bidri ware is a traditional form of handicraft that originated in Bidar, Karnataka.

2. It involves the crafting of metal wares using a unique technique that incorporates
zinc and copper

3. Bidri ware has a long history that can be traced back to the 14th century.

4. It was introduced to Bidar by Persian artisans during the reign of the Bahmani
Sultans

“VIRAASAT” The Sari Festival by Min of textiles:

The Ministry of Textiles is organizes the festival

1. The second phase, having 90 participants from different parts of the country, brings enhanced attraction by
participation of famous Handcrafted varieties of Saris like Tie and Dye, Chikan embroidered Saris, Hand Block
Saris, Kalamkari printed Saris, Ajrakh, Kantha and Phulkari. These will be in addition to the exclusive handloom
Saris of Jamdani, Ikat, Pochampally, Banaras Brocade, Tussar Silk (Champa), Baluchari, Bhagalpuri Sik, Tangail,
Chanderi, Lalitpuri, Patola, Paithani etc. Also available will be Handloom Saris like Tanchoi, Jangla, Kota Doria,
Cutwork, Maheshwari, Bhujodi, Santipuri, Bomkai and several other varieties like Garad Korial, Khandua and Arni
Silk Saris

Namda Art:

Skill India project successfully revives the dying Namda Art of Jammu and Kashmir

1. Namda craft is a rug made of sheep wool through felting technique instead of normal weaving
process. Due to low availability of raw material, lack of skilled manpower and marketing techniques, the
export of this craft has declined almost 100 percent between 1998 and 2008. Therefore, through this
special project under PMKVY, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has
designed short-term training curriculum to preserve this endangered craft

2. The Namda project is an industry-based training program with beneficiaries involved in Namda Crafts
Production who will contribute towards preserving and reviving the rich heritage associated with Namda
craft in Kashmir

Shumang Leela:

1. It is a traditional form of theatre in Manipur.

2. In this the roles of female artists are all played by male actors and male characters are played
by female artists in case of female theatre groups.

3. It was started as a comic genre for royalty and has evolved into a powerful medium for mass
education, entertainment, and relaxation.

4. In this, the roles of women are all played by men, called Nupi Shabis.
The female roles are taken up by transgender actors.

Purpose: The plays provide a vehicle for educating the public about social, political, and
economic issues.

Types - Shumang Leela is of two types

Nupa Shumang Leela – It is Performed only by men
Nupi Shumang Leela – It is Performed only by women

Longpi Pottery:

Longpi Pottery, also known as black stone pottery, is a traditional art form that hails
from the Tangkhul Naga tribes of the Longpi village in Manipur, India. It is characterized
by its trademark gray-black cooking pots, kettles, bowls, mugs, and nut trays

Features:
1. 100% Biodegradable
2. Microwave-Safe
3. Suitable for Gas Stove and Firewood
4. Handcrafted without Machines or Electricity

Sustainable and Responsible tourism

Dharamshala Declaration
Tourism Sector: $1 Trillion by 2047

Sitta Navasal Mural

Pudukottai District, Tamil Nadu

Related to Jainism

Uses Fresco-Secco technique

Rock Painting at Kasipta, Telangana

Ratnagiri Rock Art, Maharashtra

Mandala Art

G20 Motto: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

(Maha Upanishad)

Laxmi Series of Coins

Kantara

Bhoota Kola annual ritual

Tiger Dance
Pulikalli Dance
Kerala

Bali Yatra
 Lambani Community:

The third G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) meeting in Hampi, Karnataka witnessed a historic moment as a Guinness World Record
was established for the 'largest display of Lambani items’ in the event, titled 'Threads of Unity”

1. Lambani art is a form of textile embellishment practised by the Lambani or Banjara community, a nomadic group inhabiting several
states of India, especially Karnataka.

2. It is characterised by colourful threads, mirror work, and a rich array of stitch patterns on loosely woven fabric.

3. It involves skilfully stitching together small pieces of discarded fabric to create a beautiful patchwork.

4. It is recognised as a sustainable practice that works on the principle of recycle and reuse.

5. Sandur Lambani embroidery, a specific type of Lambani art from the Sandur region of Karnataka, received a Geographical
Indication tag in 2010. Focus of G20 CWG

Megalithic Dolmen site:

1. The discovery of unique terracotta figurines in the megalithic dolmen site near Moodbidri,
Dakshina Kannada, is a significant archaeological find

2. According to historian T. Murugeshi, who was involved in the explorations, these figurines date
back to 800-700 B.C

3. Eight figurines were found during the exploration.

4. These include two cow bovines, one mother goddess, two peacocks, a horse, a hand of a mother
goddess, and an unknown object.

5. The site at Mudu Konaje was first discovered and reported by historian and researcher Pundikai
Ganapayya Bhat in the 1980s

Bengali as Classical Language

Gwalior Gharana (Music):

UNESCO declared Gwalior the ‘city of music’

1. Gwalior, the first significant gharana of Hindustani classical music, played a pivotal role
in the evolution of the musical genre.

2. Under Mughal rule, early ustads like Naththan Khan and Naththan Pir Baksh, along with
his grandsons, contributed to the gharana’s development.
Gwalior added to UNESCO's Creative Cities
3. The gharana was instrumental in transforming dhrupad into khayal singing, incorporating Network (strong commitment towards
elements of qawwali culture)

Sarna Religion:

1. The term ‘Sarna’ is derived from the Mundari language, specifically the word ‘Sar‘
which means a grove of Sal trees.

2. Sarna, also known as “Sarnaism” or “Adi Dharam”, is a tribal-religious practice

largely followed by the indigenous (Adivasi) communities of India such as the Munda,
Oraon, Kharia, and Santhal tribes.

3. The worship of a deity known as ‘Dharti Aayo’ or ‘Mother Earth’, is common among
followers of Sarna

4. The core tenet of the ‘Sarna’ faith revolves around “Jal (water), Jungle (forest),
Zameen (land),” with followers venerating trees and hills while emphasizing forest
preservation.

National Mission for Manuscripts:

The National Mission of Manuscripts (NMM) is a Government of India initiative

to unearth, collect and preserve the vast trove of manuscripts possessed by
India. The Union Ministry of Tourism and Culture launched this mission. The
Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts is the nodal body for the national mission
for manuscripts.

A Manuscript is a handwritten composition on a piece of bark, palm leaves,

paper, cloth, or any other material which is at least 75 years old, and this
material should have scientific and historical value. However, one should
remember that printed volumes and lithographs do not classify as a manuscript. 20 years (2003)

Bojjannakonda and Lingalakonda Caves:

Bojjannakonda (Buddina Konda) and Lingalakonda are Buddhist rock-cut

caves on adjacent hillocks near Sankaram, Anakapalle of ancient
Kalinga in Andhra Pradesh (in addition to 12 other sites

1. The sites are believed to date between the 4th and 9th Century A.D.,
when Buddhism was the majority religion of Sankaram (Sangharam).

2. The majestic figures of Buddha in a meditative pose draw visitors to

Bojjannakonda.

3. This site showcases all three phases of Buddhism, namely Hinayana,

Mahayana, and Vajrayana.

4. The site is also home to a figure of ‘Kalabhairava’, featuring the head

of Lord Ganesha adorned with conch shells and a statue of a Buddhist
monk, ‘Harati’ Buddhist rock-cut caves

Shantiniketan:

Recently, Santiniketan, which is a town located in Birbhum district of

West Bengal, was included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List

1. Historical Significance: In 1862, Rabindranath Tagore's father,

Debendranath Tagore, spotted this scenic landscape and decided to
establish an ashram, building a house called Santiniketan, meaning
"abode of peace".

2. Name Change: The area, originally called Bhubadanga, was renamed

Santiniketan by Debendranath Tagore due to its conducive environment
for meditation.

3. Educational Legacy: In 1901, Rabindranath Tagore chose a significant

portion of land and established a school based on the Brahmachary
Ashram model. This school later evolved into Visva Bharati University

Keeladi Excavation:

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 Sangam-era site and their significance

1. Also, the Keeladi Site Museum is coming up in Sivaganga that would

house significant ones of the over 18,000 artefacts unearthed so far

2. Keeladi is a tiny hamlet in the Sivaganga district in south Tamil Nadu.

It is about 12 km south-east to the temple city of Madurai and is
located along the Vaigai river.

3. 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

Uttaramerur Inscription: Belongs to Chola Dynasty

1. The famous inscription from Parantaka I’s reign is found on the walls of the
Vaikunda Perumal Temple.

2. The inscription gives details of the functioning of the local Sabha, i.e., the village
assembly.

3. A Sabha was an assembly exclusively of brahmansand had specialised committees

tasked with different things.

4. This gave details about how members were selected, the required qualifications,
Culture and Excavations their roles and responsibilities, and even the circumstances in which they could be
removed.

Art&Culture: Part 4
5. Required qualifications:
a. It includes ownership of a certain amount of land, having a house, being between
the age of 35 and 70 and “knowing mantras and Brahmanas” (from the Vedic corpus).
b. An exception can be made on land ownership if the person has learnt at least “one
Veda and four Bhashyas”. One must also be “well-versed in business” and “virtuous”

Homo Naledi:

Recently, a study has been published, which suggests that Homo Naledi, an ancient human species, may have
buried their dead and created meaningful symbols in a cave

1. Homo Naledi is a species of human discovered in the Rising Star cave system, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site in South Africa in 2013.

2. The remains of at least 15 individuals, including adults, juveniles, and infants, were found, making it the
largest collection of a single hominin species in Africa.

3. These short-statured, small-brained ancient cousins are thought to have lived in Southern Africa between
335,000 and 241,000 years ago (possibly up to 2 million years ago).

Menhir and Megalithic Sites:

Recently, the Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology has declared five

‘menhir’ (single stone) and megalithic burial sites at Kodumanal in Erode
district as protected monuments.

1. Kodumanal is located on the northern banks of the Noyyal River and made
it to the archaeology map in 1961 when the Archaeological Survey of India
(ASI) started the first dig after noticing antique materials scattered across
the barren land of the village.

2. Potsherds containing names inscribed in Tamil-Brahmi script were found

in a large number, apart from Roman silver coins, precious stones and quartz

3. Semi-precious stone beads, bangles, copper, silver, iron, and terracotta

are among the items unearthed during the excavations

Alupa Inscription/Dynasty:

1. An eminent archaeologist made a remarkable discovery during an archaeological expedition

near Mangaluru.

2. They uncovered a rare inscription linked to the Alupa dynasty, shedding new light on the
region’s historical tapestry

3. Alupa Dynasty: The inscription marks the first recorded mention of the Alupa dynasty, a
historically significant ruling lineage of the region of Tulu Nadu

4. Regal Demise: Notably, the inscription commemorates the death of an Alupa king, providing a
unique glimpse into this ancient dynasty’s history

5. Keerthi Sthamba: The inscription highlights the role of Kesava in erecting a monument
dedicated to Kulashekara Alupendra. A Keerthi sthamba, a pillar, found within the inscription
mirrors an original pillar located in Kulashekara, a suburb of Mangaluru

UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Adichillanur

Megalithic Site

Archaeological Survey of India has

excavated largest well preserved urn burial
site in Thoothukkudi, Tamil Nadu

Ministry of Cuture declared this as Monument of

Anangtal Lake national Importance

Lothal: Important

Dockyard, Indus Valley Civilization

Construction of National Maritime

Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat

Archaeologist SR Rao

Sabarmati River

Necropolis: A large elaborated cemetery

Juna Khatiya village, Kutch, Gujarat

Kanaganahalli Buddhist Site

Term: Theris (Elder nuns in Buddhism)

Gandhara, Mathura and Amravati Schools

Reclining Buddha, Bodh Gaya

Theme: Buddhism
 Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati:

Recently, the Prime Minister of India addressed a programme on the

200th birth anniversary of Swami Dayananda Saraswati.

1. Swami Dayanand Saraswati was born as Mool Shankar Tiwari on 12th

February 1824 in Tankara, Gujarat.

2. He wandered as an ascetic for fifteen years (1845-60) in search of

truth.

3. The DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) schools came into existence in 1886
to realise the vision of Swami Dayanand Saraswati

4. He took inspiration from the Vedas and considered them to be

‘India’s Rock of Ages’, the infallible and the true original seed of
Hinduism.
He gave the slogan “Back to the Vedas”

Thiruvalluvar:

1. Thiruvalluvar, also called Valluvar, was a Tamil poet-saint.

2. The period when he lived is debated, as is his religious identity.

3. He is believed to have lived between the 3rd-4th century or 8th-9th

century.

4. He is thought to be linked to Jainism. However, Hindus have also

claimed that Thiruvalluvar belonged to Hinduism

5. Dravidian groups also count him as a saint, as he dismissed the caste

system.

6. He had contributed the Tirukkural or ‘Kural’ to the Sangam literature

7. Tirukkural is comprised of 133 sections of 10 couplets each is divided

into three books:
Aram (virtue),
Porul (government and society), and
Kamam (love)

Poetess Shilabhattarika: Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute has

decoded her copper plates

1. Shilabhattarika was a 9th-century Sanskrit poet from India.

2. She lived near the Narmada River and the Vindhya mountains.

3. Her poetic skills were praised by medieval Sanskrit literary critics.

4. It is speculated that she may be the same as Shilamahadevi, the

queen of 8th-century Rashtrakuta ruler Dhruv.

5. According to recent research, she was the daughter of Chalukya

ruler Pulakeshin II

6. Shilabhattarika is considered a leading figure of the Panchali

literary style, which maintains “a balance between words and
meaning”

Rani Durgavati:

1. Rani Durgavati, born in 1524 in Mahoba's Chandela dynasty (present-day Uttar Pradesh,
near the border with Madhya Pradesh), was a symbol of India's self-determination.

2. Chandelas were known for building the famous Khajuraho temples in the 11th century.

3. She married Dalpat Shah, the son of Gond King Sangram Shah, and ruled the kingdom of
Garha-Katanga after the death of her husband in 1550 with great vigor and courage.

4. The Kingdom of Garha-Katanga included the regions of Narmada Valley and parts of
Northern Madhya Pradesh.
Gond tribe is a prominent tribe in central India known for their rich cultural heritage and
resilience.

5. As per the government’s documentation, the queen and her generals managed the affairs
of the kingdom for 16 years.

6. Rani Durgavati, the brave queen of Garha-Katanga, opposed the Mughal Empire's expansion
in the mid-16th century.

7. Rani Durgavati displayed strong leadership while fighting against Akbar's commander Asaf
Khan and the neighboring Malwa Sultan Baz Bahadur

Raja Ravi Varma:

Context: An unfinished painting by Raja Ravi Varma, who redefined Indian art
traditions during the colonial times, will soon be in the public domain. The
painting ‘Parsi Lady’, now owned by the Kilimanoor Palace Trust, was the last
painting (unfinished) by the legendary artist (being done on his 175th birth
anniversary)

1. He was an Indian painter and artist, considered as one of the greatest

painters in the history of Indian art.

2. Raja Ravi Varma is known for his amazing paintings, which revolve mainly
around the Puranas (ancient mythological stories) and the great Indian epics
- Mahabharata and Ramayana

3. Ravi Varma is one of the few painters who managed to accomplish a

beautiful union of Indian tradition with the techniques of European academic
art

Basavanna:

1. Basavanna, also known as Basaveshwara, was a saint-poet, social reformer,

and philosopher who lived in the 12th century. He spoke out against caste,
class, and gender inequality.

2. During the rule of the Kalyani Chalukya/Kalachuri dynasty, Basavanna was a

Hindu Shaivite social reformer who was a Lingayat saint in the Shiva-centered
Bhakti movement
Personalities in News
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:

1. Chhatrapati Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire, was born on 19th
Art&Culture: Part 5 February 1630 at the Shivneri Fort in the Junnar district of present day
Maharashtra.

2. He was born to Shahaji Bhosale and Jijabai.

3. He introduced the collection of two taxes called the Chauth and

Sardeshmukhi. He also divided his kingdom into four provinces, each headed by
a Mamlatdar.

4. He abolished the Jagirdari System and replaced it with the Ryotwari System.

5. He took on the titles of Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas and

Haindava Dharmodhhaarak

Alluri Sitarama Raju:

The 125th ceremony of Alluri Sitha Rama Raju was a year-long celebration of
the birth anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter. The ceremony was
launched by the Prime Minister on July 4, 2022

1. Alluri Sitarama Raju was an Indian revolutionary who fought against the
British colonial rule in India.

2. 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.

3. He is widely regarded as a hero of the jungle or Manyam Veerudu by the local

people for his bravery and sacrifice

Read: Rampa/Manyam Rebellion

Shri Ramalinga Swamy:

India celebrated the 200th birth anniversary of Shri Ramalinga Swamy, also
known as Vallalar, on 5th October, 2023

1. Shri Ramalinga Swamy was a prominent Tamil poet in the 19th century and
a member of the "gnana siddhars" lineage.

2. He was born in the village of Marudhur in Tamil Nadu

3. Vallalar's vision transcends religious, caste, and creed barriers, recognizing

divinity in every atom of the universe.

4. Vallalar was strongly against the caste system and initiated the 'Samarasa
Vedha Sanmarga Sangam' in 1865, later renamed 'Samarasa Suddha Sanmarga
Sathya Sangam.'

5. He established 'The Sathya Dharma Salai,' a free food facility in Vadalur,

Tamil Nadu in 1867, serving all people without caste distinctions.

Matangini Hazara and Kanaklata Barua: President Droupadi Murmu, during her address
on the eve of Independence Day, paid tribute to women freedom fighters

Matangini Hazra: Born in 1869 in a village near Tamluk, West Bengal, she was married
at a young age and became widowed by 18. After her husband’s death, she dedicated
herself to social causes and became deeply involved in the Nationalist movement,
supporting Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals. Hazra participated in various protests,
including the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt March.

During the Quit India Movement in 1942, at the age of 73, she led a large procession
of around 6,000 protesters, advocating for the takeover of the Tamluk police station.
In the ensuing clash with British authorities, she was shot and killed, becoming a
martyr for the cause of Indian independence

Kanaklata Barua: Kanaklata Barua was a young martyr of the Quit India Movement
and a symbol of courage and determination. At just 17 years old, she led the Mrityu
Bahini, a group of freedom fighters, in an attempt to hoist the Tricolour at the
Gohpur police station in Assam on September 20, 1942. Despite her age, she was
determined to lead the procession, and her brave efforts left a lasting impact

Savitribai Phule:

Savitri Bai Phule was a Maharashtra-based social reformer and educator.

She and her husband, Jyotirao Phule, contributed a significant part in
promoting women’s rights in India. In 1848, they established one of the
earliest modern girls’ schools in Pune. She wanted to reduce caste and
gender prejudice and unfair treatment of people

1. Savitribai Phule was born in the Satara District of Maharashtra on

January 3, 1831.
2. She belonged to the Mali Community and was the youngest daughter
of Lakshmi and Khandoji Nevase Patil.
3. At the age of nine, she married Jyotirao Phule, who was 13

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Beypore Uru

Kozikode, Kerala has applied for GI Tag

GI Tag It is a wooden crafted ship

Art&Culture: Part 6

Chennakeshava Temple (Belur), Hoysaleswara

Temple (Halebidu), Keshava Temple
(Somanathapura)