18LEM110L- Indian Art Form

SEMESTER – VI

Name of the Student : Amit Sachdeva

Register Number : RA2011030010045

DEPARTMENT OF NETWORKING AND

COMMUNICATIONS

SCHOOL OF COMPUTING

SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

(Deemed University u/s 3 of UGC Act 1956)
Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, 603 202.
 COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(Deemed University u/s 3 of UGC Act 1956)
Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, 603 202

BONAFIDE C E R T I FI CAT E

Register Number : RA2011030010045

Certified to be the bonafide record of work done by Amit Sachdeva of B.Tech.(CSE)

Degree for the course 18LEM110L(IndianArtForm) in SRM Institute of Science and

Technology, Kattankulathur during the Academic Year 2022-23.

Date :

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 CONTENT

Ex.N Weekly Assessment Page

o. No.

1. Session 1- SLO 1 1

2. Session 1- SLO 2 7

3. Session 2 10
4. Session 3 18
5. Module 3 Session 1- SLO 1 & 20
2
6. Session 2- SLO 1 & 2 21

7. Session 4- SLO 1 & 2 23

8. Session 5 30
9. Session 6- SLO 1 & 2 39

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Name: Amit Sachdeva
Registra,on Number: RA2011030010045
Sec,on: L2

Session 1- SLO 1
Ancient India: An Overview
Ancient India is the Indian subcontinent from prehistoric times to the start of Medieval India,
which is typically dated to the end of the Gupta Empire. Ancient India was composed of the
modern-day countries of Afghanistan (some portions), Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, India and
Pakistan. There are a host of resources available to enrich your knowledge about the general
history, culture, science and technology and organisations concerned with ancient India. The
following exercise consists of a set of questions to enable you check you knowledge about
various facts pertaining to the society and culture of Ancient India.
Identify the correct answer(s) for following questions from the choices given below them. There
can be more than one correct answers for a question. Discuss the answers with your class and
justify your choices. Added spaces have been provided with some questions for additional
opinions.

Q.1 Why do you think settlements happened in the Indus River Valley?
a) to be safe during the draught
b) for irrigation, transportation, trade, communication
c) to enjoy the nature’s bounty
d) Elder members of communities wished to
A. b) for irrigation, transportation, trade, communication
Q.2 identify the two major rivers of Ancient India from the following -
a) Tigris & Euphrates
b) Nile & Blue Nile
c) Indus & Ganges
d) Huang He & Yangtze
A. c) Indus & Ganges
Q.3 Why do you think Indians eagerly waited for summer monsoons?
a) They brought rain & without them there would be drought
b) The cold winds were soothing during harsh summer
c) Monsoon helped in travels across the rivers
d) Monsoons made the pastures green

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A. a) They brought rain & without them there would be drought

Q.4 After giving up the nomadic lives, what occupations did Aryans adopt for living?
a) constructing palaces
b) accumulating arms
c) farming
d) animal husbandry
A. c) farming
Q.5 The Indian literature focused on
a) war; brave warriors & their heroic deeds
b) home life
c) politics & government
d) holy writings & Hindu themes
A. a) war; brave warriors & their heroic deeds

Q.6 Identify the written language of the Ancient Indian civilization -

a) cuneiform
b) Sanskrit
c) hieroglyphics
d) Hindi
A. b) Sanskrit
Q.7 The four classes (varnas) in the Indian caste system are known as:
a) Pharaoh, priests, artisans, slaves
b) Brahman, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, Sudras
c) King, queen, princes, lords
d) Shogun, samurai, governors, artisans

A. b) Brahman, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, Sudras

Q.8 Which one of the following is a social group in which one is born and cannot change it
afterwards -
a) religion
b) family
c) tribe
d) caste
A. d) caste
Q.9 Which things were decided based on a person's caste?

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 a) Job, marriage, friends
b) Foods
c) Clothes
d) Rituals and ceremonies
A. a) Job, marriage, friends

Q.10 What were the influences behind building temples, art and sculptures?
a) Happiness and devotion
b) Religion
c) Sacred knowledge and texts
d) Caste
A. c) Sacred knowledge and texts
Q.11 Identify India's two most notable epics among the following -
a) Odyssey & Iliad
b) Mahabharata & Ramayana
c) Vedas & Upanishads
d) Enlightenment & Nirvana
A. b) Mahabharata & Ramayana

Q.12 Why do you think Indians never challenged the caste system?
a) It became associated with religious beliefs.
b) The economy depended on it.
c) They were afraid banishment.
d) They grew accustomed to the class they were born into.
A. a) It became associated with religious beliefs.
Q.13 Reincarnation is...
a) a state of spiritual communion with God
b) taking another birth for fulfilling a duty
c) the payback for previous life
d) performing the duties of the caste
A. b) taking another birth for fulfilling a duty
Q.14 Nirvana is...
a) a state of attainment of supreme knowledge
b) taking a rebirth to be united with Brahman
c) the blissful state
d) the divine law

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A. a) a state of attainment of supreme knowledge

Q.15 Karma is...

a) hard work
b) Yogic practice
c) the consequences of person’s deeds
d) the duties of people

A. c) the consequences of person’s deeds

Q.16 Dharma is…

a) wisdom
b) Salvation
c) Devotion
d) the divine law
A. d) the divine law
Q.16 The holy books of Hinduism are -
a) Torah & the Bible
b) Vedas & Upanishads
c) Book of the Living & Book of the Dead
d) Old Testament & New Testament
A. b) Vedas & Upanishads
Q.17 How do you think Hinduism primarily spread across the Indian subcontinent? Give
reasons.
a) through cattle
b) through rivers
c) trade, travel, and war
d) through deserts

A. c) trade, travel, and war

Hinduism and Buddhism exerted an enormous influence on the civiliza@ons of Southeast

Asia and contributed greatly to the development of a wriGen tradi@on in that area.
About the beginning of the Common Era, Indian merchants may have seGled there,
bringing Brahmans and Buddhist monks with them. These religious men were patronized
by rulers who converted to Hinduism or Buddhism. The earliest material evidence of
Hinduism in Southeast Asia comes from Borneo, where late 4th-century Sanskrit
inscrip@ons tes@fy to the performance of Vedic sacrifices by Brahmans at the behest of

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 local chiefs. Chinese chronicles aGest an Indianized kingdom in Vietnam two centuries
earlier. The dominant form of Hinduism exported to Southeast Asia was Shaivism,
though some Vaishnavism was also known there. Later, from the 9th century onward,
Tantrism, both Hindu and Buddhist, spread throughout the region.

Q.18 What did King Ashoka help spread by building roads, hospitals, and shrines?
Include your opinions on his philosophical beliefs.
a) Hinduism
b) Buddhism
c) Christianity
d) Islam

A. b) Buddhism
Emperor Ashoka underwent a spiritual transformation after the kalinga war and embraced
Buddhism upon which he started popularizing its underlying principles in the form of Dhamma ,
which transcended boundaries.

1. King Ashoka appointed Dhamma- mahamattaras in order to spread the principles of

Buddhism who went from place to place and started preaching people directly.

2. Also Buddhist missionaries were sent throughout India to Sri Lanka and South-East Asia and
to as far west as Cyrene, Egypt, Syria, and Macedonia.

3 He convened the third Buddhist Council where Buddhist Principles were codified and took the
literary shape of Tripitakas which helped in spreading this divine faith to the common man.

4. A number of Stupas ( around 84,000) and pillars were erected under his reign across different
countries providing necessary impetus in glorifying Buddhism.

5. Many Buddhist symbols were carved out on various edicts and schools of Art like Mauryan
School of Art flourished under his reign.

Thus owing to humane principles of Buddhism and Ashoka's vigor in spreading them via
inscriptions , Buddhism got transformed from a regional religion into a world religion embraced
by many thereafter which hold a lot of prominence even today.

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Q.19 During the Gupta dynasty, the contributions by Indian mathematicians included -
a) algebra, addition & multiplication
b) 365-day calendar, fractions, hieroglyphics
c) algebra, zero, & infinity
d) algebra, alphabet, chemistry
A. c) algebra, zero & infinity
Q.20 Which geographical feature marks India as a subcontinent of Asia?
a) Nilgiris
b) Ganges River
c) Himalayan Mountains
d) Thar Desert
A. c) Himalayan Mountains

Q.21 Which of the following is not part of the caste system? Write a brief note on India caste
system.
a) Brahmans
b) Vaisyas
c) Dalits
d) Sudras
A. Untouchable

Brief Note on Case system in India

The roots of the Hindu caste system were already in place between 1000 and 1500
B.C., when the Aryans settled in the Indus River valley. The Rig Veda, a sacred text
from the period, describes the four main castes (varnas) in traditional Hindu society:
brahmins, the class of priests and teachers; kshatriyas, the warrior class, who were the
rulers and soldiers; vaishyas, the commercial class of artisans, traders, and cultivators;
and shudras, the servant and peasant class.

Caste is a religious and social institution of the Hindu peoples, who comprise about 80
percent of India's population. The rest of India is Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, or
Jain. Caste is such a deep-rooted and pervasive concept, however, that it has
influenced Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs.

For example, there are separate churches for dalit and non-dalit Christians. Even the
tribals, who are not a part of Hindu society, have started observing "untouchability"
toward dalits—who themselves have a caste hierarchy.

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Name : Amit Sachdeva
Registra-on Number : RA2011030010045
Sec-on : L2

Session 1- SLO 2
Raja-Ravi Varma: religious stories like mythologies of Hindu gods
Raja Ravi Varma was an Indian painter and artist, considered as one of the greatest painters in
the history of Indian art. Varma is known for his amazing paintings, which revolve mainly
around the Puranas and the great Indian epics - Mahabharata and Ramayana.Ravi Varma is one
of the few painters who managed to accomplish a beautiful union of Indian traditions with the
techniques of European academic art. (Source: https://www.tallengestore.com/collections/raja-
ravi-varma). Closely observe the following paintings by Ravi Varma and appreciate them from
an art critic’s viewpoint in about 100 words.

Image 1(Source: https://www.tallengestore.com/collections/raja-ravi-varma)

1. Adopting realism, Ravi Varma focused much on the details, the play of light and
shadows, adding depth by using perspective in his paintings.

2. Suddenly the folds of a sari fluttered, the hair coiled, and the eyes expressed a
longing. With thicker strokes, the jewels that generously adorned his subjects
shimmered in a perceived angle of light. His paintings are an abundance of life –

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 trees heavy with fruits and flowers, waters resplendent with its many hues, and
the subjects almost waiting to blink their eyes and continue their motion.

3. Ravi Varma’s expeditions through the country spread across an ever-changing

topography is reflected in his large body of work. Not many travelled at that
age, though his quest also got a fillip with the railways that were being laid
down in the country at that time. princes and the dewans he portrayed – an
ambitious mix that made him one of the most sought-after artists. Besides being
one of the finest Indian artists to do portraits, Ravi Varma made his niche with
the pauranic paintings that have made him so popular.

4. Often reckoned as the father of Indian calendar art, Raja Ravi Varma very
exquisitely breathed life into the Hindu mythical characters. Up until then,
most of these characters that were painted were flat, and the deities were
recognized only by their own accessories.

5. Owing to modern realism, Raja Ravi Varma offered them a face with which to
be identified. And many a lovely episode from the intriguing Hindu epics came
to life, in full bodied form – colour and emotion that were palpable.

6. While the Europeans and other art lovers admired his technique, the laymen of
India enjoyed his work for its simplicity. More often than not, Varma’s
paintings highlighted the beauty of South Indian women which were admired
by all.

7. He achieved this by making affordable lithographs, which were accessible even

to the poor. Alternatively, this also made him a household name and Raja Ravi
Varma soon captured the hearts of all.

8. 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.

9. His paintings can be classified into three categories – portraits, portrait-based

compositions and theatrical compositions based on myths and legends. It is the
third category of paintings for which Raja Ravi Varma is most renowned.

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10. He then bagged three gold medals for his work, when they were sent to
Chicago to be displayed at the prestigious World’s Columbian Exposition held
in the year 1893.

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NAME: Amit Sachdeva
Reg Number: RA2011030010045
Sec0on: L2
Session 2- SLO 1
Mysore and Tanjore Art
Tanjore painting involves numerous stages, such as meticulous laying out, prefect sketching,
elegant ornamenting with stones, intricate embossing work and gold foiling the deities and
finally the finishing enrichment. Embossing is done with a mixture of raw lime stone powder
sieved through the muslin cloth and mixed with chalk powder, glue and copper sulphate in
certain proportion. Gold leaves, semi-precious stones and mirrors are used to give it the grand
look. In the olden days gold dust or bhasma was used instead of gold leaves. All the paintings are
done with traditionally made gold foils. Colors used for painting are fungus resistant. The
painting lasts for generations. There are few differences between Tanjore and Mysore style of
Painting. In Tanjore, the gesso work is thicker in comparison to the Mysore painting. They also
put wooden cardboard to increase the thickness of gesso layer. That gives it a three dimensional
feel. Color stones are used in Tanjore painting. In Tanjore painting, the gold foil used is thick
while in Mysore painting the foil is delicate in nature. In Tanjore paintings main subject is to
depict the life of Krishna, where as in Mysore Style, theme is Universal. (Source: http://
www.dsource.in/resource/mysore-painting/tanjore-and-mysore-painting)

Tanjore Painting Mysore Painting

Image 2 (Source: https://www.gktoday.in/gk/mysore-paintings-versus-tanjore-paintings/)

Assignment
Gather relevant facts about Mysore and Tanjore paintings and answer the following questions.
Each question contains 5 marks:

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1. Write a brief History of Mysore Paintings.

A. Mysore pain=ngs are an important form of classical South Indian pain=ng that had its origins in and
around the town of Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Under the patronage of erstwhile rulers of Mysore,
this form of pain=ng became a sign of aristocracy in the late 13th century. The dis=nct school of Mysore
pain=ng evolved from the days of the Vijayanagar Empire (1336-1565 AD).

• Mysore School of painting reached its zenith under the rule of Raja Krishna Raja
Wodeyar.
• After the Wodeyar rulers were supplanted by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the
patronage of Mysore paintings continued, even after the end of the third and
fourth Anglo-Mysore Wars. The Wodeyars once again became the chief patrons
after the defeat of Tipu Sultan.
• After the death of Raja in 1868, the artists started dispersing and the school
touched the point of complete extinction.
• In 1875 Jagan Mohan Palace and Chitrakala School were established and revival
of the Mysore Paintings.
• Late Sri Siddalingeswara Swamiji and late Shri Y. Subramanya Raju also
contributed to this beautiful art form.

2. What is the process involved in making Mysore paintings?

A. A lot of steps are involved in the process of producing a Mysore painting.
• The initial stage needs the artist to create a primary sketch of the image on the base,
which includes a cartridge paper pasted on a wooden base.
• Afterwards, they make a paste of zinc oxide and Arabic gum, identified as ‘gesso paste’.
• This paste is used to give a slightly raised effect of carving to those parts of the painting
that need embellishments and it is allowed to dry.
• Then, the gold foil is fixed onto the surface. The remaining painting is prepared with the
help of watercolours.
• After the painting is fully parched, it is covered with a thin paper and scrubbed lightly
with a smooth soft stone.

3. Write the unique feature of Tanjore paintings.

A. The Most unique feature of Tanjore Paintings is its 3-D property. Tanjore Painting is the only
painting to have EMBOSS on it. That is, the painting has areas that are ELEVATED from the
surface.

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Photo of a semi completed Durga Devi is shown on the left side for reference. A tanjore painting
has typically 10 processes.

The other feature is the Real Gold Foil used to stick on the EMBOSSED areas - 22 carat gold
foil is used. It is made of real gold and it never fades.

4. Explain the procedure of Tanjore paintings.

A. The broad process of creating a Tanjore painting involves:
1. The wooden board is first softened using glue and emery sheets.
2. The motifs are then sketched out onto the fabric pinned onto the board and these outlines
are then finalized by sticking precious and semi-precious gems on these lines.
3. The spaces around the gems are then filled with a thin layer of lime or tamarind powder
mixed with gum or resin.
4. Another thick layer of lime or tamarind powder is then used to create the relief and inlay
work.
5. The entire painting is then cleaned and refined.
6. Next, gold foil is placed onto the stones and the relief work.
7. The gold foil is then snipped and tidied to give a finished look to the painting.

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 Session 2- SLO 2
Indian artists from different fields
The history of Indian painting dates back to the era of Ajanta, Ellora and other murals. Other
famous examples are Buddhist palm leaf manuscripts, the Jain texts and the Deccan, Mughal and
Kangra schools. Indian paintings is a portrayal of tradition and depiction of ancient texts and
theories in color and anecdotal accounts. It was common during the ancient times have paintings
in households in the doorways or indoor rooms where guests resided.
Cave painting is another example we can refer to know further about Indian paintings. The
paintings of Ajanta, Bagh and Sittanvasal and temple paintings testify to a love of naturalism.
From the early civilization to the present day the paintings provide an aesthetic continuum.
Various traditions that have existed in the country have helped for the evolution of paintings in
India.
Miniature paintings are those executed on a very small scale on perishable material such as
paper, cloth, etc., though this style had been perfected by artisans under the various rules, not
many remain today. Prime examples are the Rajasthani & Mughal miniatures.
Contemporary artists have kept up to the times & excel in their modern works, giving free
expression to their imagination & artistic liberty. (Source: https://www.nriol.com/indian-
paintings/)

Classwork
Collect the images (one for each) for the following kinds of Indian traditional paintings and label
them. Paste the images in the space provided below. Adjust the size of your images accordingly.
Madhubani – Rajput – Kalamkari – Pattachitra – Warli (5x5=25 marks)

INDIAN TRADITIONAL PAINTINGS IMAGE

1. Madhubani

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2. Rajput

3. Kalamkari

4. Pattachitra

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5. Warli

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 Session 3- SLO 1 & 2
The world’s audience might have certain familiarity with Indian tribal and folk art motifs which
often get reproduced through the medium of print on various commodities. However, you might
not know the origin of those images that connote and represent an aura of India. Indian art motifs
are as diverse as Indian culture itself, but one may still be acquainted with the reappearing
symbols of deities, flora and fauna, courtly life and customs among other images which have
often been produced by folk artists. (Source: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/indian-
folk-arts-evolution-and-diversity/)

Classwork

Observe the following images carefully and write a paragraph (200 words) on how folk art plays
crucial role in the lives of common man in India. (5 marks)

Image 3 (Source: https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images)

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Folk art is an integral part of the cultural fabric of India. It is a reflection of the rich
heritage, traditions, and beliefs of the country. Folk art plays a crucial role in the
lives of the common man in India as it is an accessible and affordable means of
entertainment and expression.
Folk art forms in India are diverse and abundant. Each region has its unique art
form that reflects its culture, history, and way of life. These art forms are
performed during festivals, religious ceremonies, and cultural events. The
performers of folk art are usually from the lower socio-economic strata and
perform to earn a livelihood.
Folk art is not only a source of entertainment but also serves as a medium of
communication. It helps in preserving and passing on the cultural and historical
knowledge from one generation to another. Folk art also helps in creating
awareness about social issues and bringing about social change.
One of the most popular folk art forms in India is dance. Folk dances like Bhangra,
Garba, Dandiya, and Bihu are not only performed during festivals but also during
weddings and other social events. These dances are a way of celebrating the joy
and happiness of life and bringing people together.
Another popular folk art form is music. Folk music is deeply rooted in the
traditions and beliefs of the people. It reflects the joys and sorrows, struggles and
triumphs of everyday life. Folk songs are often accompanied by instruments like
the dholak, tabla, harmonium, and flute.
Apart from dance and music, other forms of folk art in India include puppetry,
storytelling, painting, and crafts. These art forms not only provide entertainment
but also serve as a source of employment for many people. The artisans and
craftsmen create beautiful works of art that are sold in markets and fairs.
In conclusion, folk art plays a crucial role in the lives of the common man in India.
It is an integral part of the country's culture and heritage. Folk art forms provide a
means of entertainment, communication, and expression for the people. They
also serve as a source of employment and contribute to the economy of the
country.

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 Module 3

Session 1- SLO 1 & 2 Terra Cota

Terracotta, taken from Latin terra cotta or baked earth, is the art of creating glazed or unglazed
porous earthenware, figurines, and other decorative materials from clay which is dried and fired in
temperatures of around 1000°C giving it a distinctly orange, red, brown, yellow, or grey color. It
is then covered in sand to allow it to cool down. This color depends not only on the type of clay
found in the beds of the water bodies in the area where the artist is based but also on the firing
process. For example, if the smoke from firing is allowed to get out through the vents in the kiln,
a red or orange color is obtained. On the other hand, if the vents are sealed, it gives the items a
black color. Decorative pieces are either left with their original color or painted in multiple hues
to make them more attractive. Terracotta items, when not cracked, give a ring when struck lightly
with fingers. (Source: dollsofindia.com/library/terracotta-art/)

Essay writing

Write a paragraph in about 100 words on ‘why use terracotta today?’ in the space provided
below. (5 marks)

Terracotta, with its rich cultural history and versatile properties, continues to be a popular material
in art and architecture today. In addition to its rustic and natural appearance, it is also an eco-
friendly and sustainable option that is increasingly valued in a world focused on environmental
responsibility. The material is made from clay, which is abundant and can be easily recycled and
reused. It is also biodegradable, making it an excellent choice for those seeking eco-friendly
alternatives.

Moreover, the texture and color of terracotta give it a distinct aesthetic appeal that works well with
many design styles. It can be used in both interior and exterior spaces to create a warm and
welcoming atmosphere. For instance, it is commonly used to create beautiful pots for plants, which
can add a touch of natural beauty to any room or garden. Terracotta is also used to make roofing
tiles, which provide excellent insulation and durability for homes and buildings.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, terracotta is versatile and can be molded into various shapes
and sizes. This makes it an ideal material for creating decorative items such as figurines, vases,
and tiles, as well as functional objects such as bricks and pipes. The durability of the material also
makes it a popular choice for outdoor applications, as it is resistant to weathering and decay.

In conclusion, terracotta is a versatile, sustainable, and durable material that continues to have
enduring appeal in art and architecture today. Its unique properties and aesthetic qualities make it

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 Name: Amit Sachdeva
Reg No: (RA2011030010045)
Section: L2
Module: 3

MODULE 3
Session 1- SLO 1 & 2
Terra Cota
Terracotta, taken from Latin terra cotta or baked earth, is the art of creating glazed or unglazed
porous earthenware, figurines, and other decorative materials from clay which is dried and fired
in temperatures of around 1000°C giving it a distinctly orange, red, brown, yellow, or grey color.
It is then covered in sand to allow it to cool down. This color depends not only on the type of
clay found in the beds of the water bodies in the area where the artist is based but also on the
firing process. For example, if the smoke from firing is allowed to get out through the vents in
the kiln, a red or orange color is obtained. On the other hand, if the vents are sealed, it gives the
items a black color. Decorative pieces are either left with their original color or painted in
multiple hues to make them more attractive. Terracotta items, when not cracked, give a ring
when struck lightly with fingers. (Source: dollsofindia.com/library/terracotta-art/)
Essay writing
Write a paragraph in about 100 words on ‘Why use terracotta today?’ in the space provided
below. (5 marks)

Ans. Terracotta has been a popular material for thousands of years and continues to be used today for
a variety of reasons. One of the main benefits of terracotta is its natural and warm aesthetic. Its earthy
tones create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that can't be replicated with other materials. In addition to
its beauty, terracotta is also a sustainable and eco-friendly option, as it is made from natural clay and can
be recycled. It is also durable and able to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for
outdoor use. Furthermore, terracotta has excellent thermal properties, which can help to regulate
indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. Overall, terracotta is a versatile and attractive material
that is well-suited for a wide range of decorative and functional applications.

(102 words)

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 Session 2- SLO 1 & 2
Rock cut sculpture, Sculptures in religious buildings
Indian rock cut sculpture involves a dexterous sculptural art which is derived after cutting out the
solid rocks to produce mythological scenes, fanaticism and eroticism mainly found in the states
of Bihar, Orissa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and some states of south India. The rock cut art
is more similar to sculpture than architecture as cutting out solid rocks produced structures.
Some of the finest rocks cut structures are found in Bihar and Maharashtra. 'Chaityas' and
'viharas' are rock cut structures made for Buddhist and Jain monks as their residence and
worshipping zones. (Source: https://www.indianetzone.com/10/indian_rock_cut_art.htm)

Image 10 (Source: https://www.indianetzone.com/10/indian_rock_cut_art.htm )

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Assignment

Write short notes on the following topics: (20 marks)

1. Earliest Rock-Cut Cave Sculptures.

A. The earliest rock-cut cave sculptures in India date back to the 2nd century BCE and are located in
the Barabar Hills of Bihar. These caves were created by the Mauryan Empire and were used as
retreats for ascetics and monks. The sculptures found in these caves are mainly of animals,
humans, and symbols related to Buddhism, such as the wheel of dharma.

2. Rock-Cut Sculptures of Cave Temples:

A. Cave temples are religious structures that have been created by cutting into a solid rock. The
sculptures found in these caves are usually related to Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain religions. The
most famous example of rock-cut sculptures of cave temples in India is the Ajanta Caves in
Maharashtra, which date back to the 2nd century BCE and feature exquisite paintings and
sculptures depicting Buddhist stories and teachings.

3. Rock-Cut Sculptures of Monolithic Temples

A. Monolithic temples are religious structures that have been carved out of a single rock. These
temples are mainly found in the southern part of India and are primarily related to Hinduism.
The most famous example of rock-cut sculptures of monolithic temples is the Kailash Temple in
Ellora, Maharashtra, which is considered one of the most remarkable examples of Indian
rock-cut architecture.

4. Rock-Cut Sculptures of Free Standing Temples

A. Free-standing temples are structures that are not carved out of a rock but instead are
constructed using various materials like stone, brick, or wood. However, they often have intricate
rock-cut sculptures that adorn the exterior and interior of the temple. The most famous example
of rock-cut sculptures of free-standing temples in India is the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha,
which features elaborate sculptures of various gods and goddesses.

5. Rock-Cut Sculptures of Rock-Cut Monuments

A. Rock-cut monuments are structures that have been created by carving into a rock face or
mountain. These structures can range from temples to entire cities. The most famous example of
rock-cut sculptures of rock-cut monuments in India is the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are
considered to be masterpieces of Indian rock-cut architecture and are UNESCO World Heritage
Sites.

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 Name: Amit Sachdeva
Reg No: RA2011030010045
Section: L2
Session: 4

Session 4 - SLO 1 & 2

Over time Indian art has been host to a lot of emotions, mythological significance, and cultural
representation. And while it has been representing all this, one of the most controversial yet
surreal Indian art is modern art which has been revolutionizing us and the entire world since the
nineteenth century. Some of the greatest artists have since then been representing our heritage
and our ethos through the medium of canvas painting. Illustrating even the most complex of
situations and feelings with the stroke of their brushes and under the layer or the oil paints.
Indian art paintings have moved away from being beautiful and skilled to gorgeous and
insightful. They started moving from traditional art to modern art and then to contemporary art.
The well renowned artists as well as the new genre one’s paint on several themes depicting
diverse cultures and societies in the form of contemporary art. (Source:
esamskriti.com/e/Culture/Indian-Art/Discovering-Inward-Significance-through-Indian-Modern-
Art-1.aspx)

Image 4 (Source: https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images)

Activity: Group Discussion

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Identify a suitable topic from the options given below for group discussion with your peers.
Collect relevant pictures to cite as examples during the discussions. Form a group of maximum
five members participating in the discussion. Post the discussion, submit a script of the
discussion as a group assignment. (10 marks)
1. Emotions, mythological significance, and cultural representation modern paintings
2. Complex situations and feelings in modern paintings
3. Representation of deep emotions in modern paintings

Emotions, mythological significance, and cultural representation are all significant

themes in modern paintings in contemporary India. These themes reflect the unique
history and cultural heritage of India, as well as the country's ongoing evolution in the
modern era. Here are some key points to consider:

Emotions:

● Emotions are a common theme in contemporary Indian art, reflecting the

importance of feelings and subjective experiences in the country's culture and
society.
● Artists often use bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and dynamic
compositions to convey emotional states, such as joy, sorrow, anger, and
passion.
● Many contemporary Indian artists draw inspiration from traditional Indian art
forms, such as miniature painting and Madhubani art, which also emphasize
emotional expression.

Mythological Significance:

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 ● Mythology plays a significant role in Indian art and culture, and many
contemporary Indian artists incorporate mythological themes and figures into
their work.
● Artists often use mythology to explore universal themes and emotions, such as
love, loss, and transformation.
● Mythological figures, such as Krishna, Shiva, and Kali, are often depicted in
contemporary Indian art in new and innovative ways, reflecting the ongoing
relevance and importance of these ancient stories.

Cultural Representation:

● Contemporary Indian art often reflects the diversity and complexity of India's
many cultures and traditions.
● Artists draw on a range of influences, from classical Indian art to Western
modernism, to create works that speak to the unique experiences and
perspectives of contemporary Indians.
● Cultural representation in Indian art is also a way of challenging dominant
narratives and stereotypes, and promoting a greater understanding and
appreciation of India's diverse cultural heritage.

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 Name: AMIT SACHDEVA
Reg No: (RA2011030010045)
Section: L2
Session: 5

Session 5- SLO 1
Mughal paintings
Mughal painting, Mughal also spelled Mogul, style of painting, confined mainly to book
illustration and the production of individual miniatures that evolved in India during the reigns of
the Mughal emperors (16th–18th century). Mughal painting was essentially a court art; it
developed under the patronage of the ruling Mughal emperors and began to decline when the
rulers lost interest. The subjects treated were generally secular, consisting of illustrations to
historical works and Persian and Indian literature, portraits of the emperor and his court, studies
of natural life, and genre scenes. (Source: https://www.britannica.com/art/Mughal-painting)

Image 5 (Source: https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images)

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 Individual Project
‘Mughal used different themes to make their miniatures or paintings such as legendary stories,
wildlife, royal life, hunting scenes, battlefield, Muslim mythology and more. And the best part of
these paintings is that they have now become the main medium to describe the tales of the
Mughal Empire’. Discuss how these paintings were not just paintings but an art of storytelling in
about 500 words. Paste relevant pictures along with your write up. (10 marks)

1. Mughal paintings were not just decorative pieces of art, but they served
as a medium to communicate the history, culture, and traditions of the
Mughal Empire.

2. The themes depicted in Mughal paintings ranged from epic legends,

historical battles, courtly life, and daily scenes to wildlife and nature,
Muslim mythology, and more.

3. The intricate details and vibrant colors used in Mughal paintings allowed
for the accurate representation of the subjects, providing a visual
representation of the story being told.

4. Mughal paintings often portrayed the courtly life of the Mughal emperors,
including their processions, hunting expeditions, and other activities.
These paintings served to promote the emperor's power and status.

5. Mughal paintings also depicted religious and mythological stories, such

as the tales of the Prophet Muhammad, Ali, and other Muslim heroes.
These paintings were often used to educate and inspire the people and

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 promote the Mughal Empire's Islamic identity.

6. Wildlife and nature were often depicted in Mughal paintings, reflecting the
Mughal emperor's love of hunting and their appreciation of nature. These
paintings also served to showcase the artists' skills in capturing the
details and essence of the natural world.

7. The use of miniature paintings in Mughal art was another important

aspect that made these paintings an art of storytelling. The miniature
paintings were small in size, but they packed a lot of detail and
symbolism, making them perfect for communicating complex stories and
ideas.

8. The technique of Mughal painting, in the initial phases, often involved a

team of artists, one determining the composition, a second doing the
actual coloring, and perhaps a specialist in portraiture working on
individual faces.

9. Here are a few Pictures of Mughal Miniature Paintings:-

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 Session 5- SLO 2
Astonishing contemporary paintings by Indian artists
Upon first looking at the work of a number of modern Indian artists, there seems little to
differentiate their imagery from art made in other parts of the world. Yet their cultural heritage
does affect their work, even if it is not apparent. In his ethereal abstract paintings, Natvar
Bhavsar’s (born 1934) fields of color breathe and throb (1980.227). Although he moved to New
York in the 1960s and was a contemporary of Abstract Expressionist painters, Indian culture
continued to inform his work—Hinduism guided his use of colors, for instance. Nasreen
Mohamedi (1937–1990) made minimalist ink drawings. The reverberating lines in her work
recall Indian music, and she was influenced by the clean forms of Islamic architecture and
design. The figurative work of Arpita Singh (born 1937) is made with pigment and very little oil
to form cakes of impasto paint. This patchy quality references the folk art of quilts in India. And
Krishna Reddy (born 1925) played with multiple printmaking techniques in Paris during the
1950s. He felt free in this environment in contrast to India, which had just experienced the light
of freedom after centuries of foreign rule.
(Source:https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/mind/hd_mind.htm)
Discussions
Following are the names of the artists from India who are acknowledged as ‘India's 8 Most
Expensive Contemporary Artists’. Discuss their contributions to the world of contemporary art.
Anish Kapoor, Atul Dodiya, Bharti Kher, Jitish Kallat, Raqib Shaw, Ravinder Reddy, Subodh
Gupta
Your Notes

1. Anish Kapoor: Born in Mumbai in 1954, Anish Kapoor is one of the most
influential contemporary artists from India. He is best known for his
large-scale sculptures and installations that explore the relationship
between art, architecture, and the environment. Kapoor's work often plays
with color, form, and light, and he frequently employs reflective surfaces
and pigments to create illusions of depth and infinity. Kapoor's works have
been exhibited in major galleries and museums around the world, and he
has been awarded numerous prizes and awards, including the prestigious
Turner Prize.

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2. Atul Dodiya: Atul Dodiya is a contemporary Indian painter, sculptor, and
installation artist, born in Mumbai in 1959. He is known for his mixed
media works that combine painting, drawing, and collage. Dodiya's work
often incorporates popular culture and political commentary, and he
frequently references Indian history and mythology in his pieces. His
paintings and installations have been exhibited in galleries and museums
around the world, and he has been the recipient of several awards,
including the Sotheby's Prize for Contemporary Art in 2019.

3. Bharti Kher: Bharti Kher is a contemporary Indian artist who works in a

variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installation. Born in
London in 1969, Kher grew up in India and draws inspiration from the
country's cultural and religious traditions. Her work often explores themes
of identity, gender, and fertility, and she is perhaps best known for her use
of bindis (the decorative dots worn by Indian women) in her pieces. Kher's
work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and
she has been awarded several prestigious prizes, including the Chevalier
dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.

4. Jitish Kallat: Jitish Kallat is a contemporary Indian artist who works across
a range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and
installation. Born in Mumbai in 1974, Kallat's work often deals with issues
of politics, history, and identity. He frequently incorporates text and
language into his pieces, and his work is characterized by a strong sense
of social critique. Kallat has exhibited his work in galleries and museums
around the world, and he has been the recipient of several awards,
including the prestigious Skoda Prize for Indian Contemporary Art.

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 5. Raqib Shaw: Raqib Shaw is a contemporary Indian artist who is known for
his intricate paintings and sculptures that combine Western and Eastern
art traditions. Born in Kolkata in 1974, Shaw's work often features mythical
and fantastical creatures, and his pieces are characterized by their vivid
colors and ornate details. Shaw has exhibited his work in galleries and
museums around the world, and he has been the recipient of several
awards, including the prestigious South Bank Award for Visual Arts.

6. Ravinder Reddy: Ravinder Reddy is a contemporary Indian sculptor who is

best known for his oversized female heads and figures. Born in Andhra
Pradesh in 1956, Reddy's work often draws on Indian folk art and
mythology, and his pieces are characterized by their bold colors and
stylized forms. Reddy's sculptures have been exhibited in galleries and
museums around the world, and he has been the recipient of several
prestigious awards, including the National Award for Sculpture in India.

7. Subodh Gupta: Subodh Gupta is a contemporary Indian artist who works in

a variety of mediums, including sculpture, installation, and painting. Born in
Bihar in 1964, Gupta's work often explores themes of consumerism,
globalization, and identity. He frequently incorporates everyday objects into
his pieces, such as utensils and cooking pots.

FOLLOWING IS SOME OF THE WORK OF THE ABOVE MENTIONED ARTISTS:-

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 Name: Amit Sachdeva
Reg No: (RA2011030010045)
Section: L2
Session: 6

Session 6- SLO 1 & 2

Mughal paintings
Quiz
Discuss the following questions from the web source (https://www.currentgk.com/)
1. Which statement is true about the Mughal paintings?
(A) Battle Scene (B) Animal birds and natural scene (C) Courtier depicting (D) All of
the above

Ans. (D) All of the above

2. The foundation of the Mughal painting was laid by

(A) Akbar (B) Humayun (C) Jahangir (D) Shah Jahan

Ans. (B) Humayun

3. Who did illustrate “Dastan-e-Amir Hamza”?

(A) Abdus Samad (B) Mansur (C) Mir Sayyid Ali (D) Abul Hasan

Ans. (A)Abdus Samad

4. During whose reign did the “Mughal Painting” flourish?

(A) Aurangzeb (B) Akbar (C) Jahangir (D) Shah Jahan

Ans. (C) Jahangir

5. Jahangir mainly patronized which of the following arts?

(A) Painting (B) Architecture (C) Sculpture (D) Music

Ans. (A) Painting

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6. ‘Kishan Garh’ School is famous for
(A) Temple Art (B) Painting (C) MartialArts (D) Sculpture

Ans. (B) Painting

7. Which one of the following musical instruments was mastered by Aurangzeb?

(A) Sitar (B) Pakhawaj (C) Veena (D) None of the above

Ans. (C)Veena

8. The Raga which is sung early in the morning is

(A) Todi (B) Darbari (C) Bhopali (D) Bhimpalasi

Ans. (A) Todi

9. Where is Tansen’s tomb located?

(A) Agra (B) Gwalior (C) Jhansi (D) Jaipur

Ans. (B) Gwalior

10. The original name of Tansen was

(A) Makarchand Pandey (B) Ramtanu Pandey (C) Lala Kalawant (D) Baz Bahadur

Ans. (B) Ramtanu Pandey

11. Which Mughal ruler of the following had learnt Hindu Music from Lala Kalavant?
(A) Humayun (B) Jahangir (C) Akbar (D) Shahjahan

Ans. (C) Akbar

12. Who among the following wrote historical records in the Mughal period?
(A) Gulbadan Begum (B) Nur Jahan Begum (C) JahanaraBegum (D) Zebunnisa
Begum
Ans. (A) Gulbadan Begum

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