GS-I: Indian Culture
How have geographical features like the Himalayas and major rivers influenced the themes and styles of Indian visual arts? Provide specific examples to illustrate your answer.
The geographical features of India, particularly the Himalayas and its major rivers, have significantly influenced Indian visual arts by inspiring themes, motifs, and styles rooted in spirituality, culture, and nature. The Himalayas are revered as the abode of gods, especially ..
“Temple architecture in South India is not merely a reflection of the region’s artistic and architectural prowess but also a symbol of the socio-religious fabric that influenced various aspects of life, including literature”. Discuss in the light of literary works of the Bhakti poets.
The grand temples of South India, such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, the Meenakshi Temple at Madurai, and the Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, are epitomes of Dravidian architecture. These structures are characterized by towering gopurams (temple towers), intricate carvings, ..
Critically evaluate the impact of the Bhakti and Sufi movements on Indian literature. How these movements were reflected in the visual and performing arts of the time?
The Bhakti and Sufi movements profoundly influenced Indian literature, visual arts, and performing arts, fostering a rich cultural synthesis and promoting a more inclusive societal ethos. These movements, emerging around the medieval period, emphasized personal devotion over ritualistic practices and ..
The idea of preserving linguistic diversity through new education policy is not new to India, rather there is an existing centuries old tradition behind it. Elucidate.
The Languages in India since time immemorial has been centre of every culture and tradition. In ancient India, during many symposiums (Shashtarthas), use of Sanskrit language to win an argument was a popular practice. Many ancient text of India like ..
Discuss the importance of Paryushan and Das Lakshana in Jainism.
Paryushan is most important Jain festival celebrated in the months of August-September. Paryushanaa” is staying of the monks in one place during ‘chaturmaasa’ or rainy season. It is also known as festival of forgiveness, which aims to promote brotherhood and ..
With suitable examples, critically examine that Indo-Saracenic architecture was a tool of cultural appropriation.
Indo-Saracenic architecture, despite its aesthetic appeal and historical significance, has faced criticism for being a tool of cultural appropriation during the colonial era. This criticism stems from the selective borrowing and manipulation of Indian and Islamic architectural elements by British ..
Critically examine the role of Indian folk literature in preserving and promoting regional art forms. Provide examples of how folk tales and songs have influenced local artistic traditions.
Indian folk literature, encompassing a diverse range of oral traditions such as folk tales, songs, and ballads, plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting regional art forms. These narratives, often passed down through generations, encapsulate the cultural and social ..
Critically discuss the efficiency of the current policies implemented by the Indian Government for the maintenance and preservation of historical sites and suggest improvements.
The Indian government, via the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has endeavoured to preserve and maintain historical sites, manifesting appreciable inputs. However, the enormity of India’s cultural heritage, coupled with resource and human constraints, often limits the effectiveness of these ..