Points to Remember: Early Indian inscriptions as primary sources. Depiction of Tandava in sculptures and textual references. Shiva as the primary performer of Tandava. Different forms of Tandava and their symbolic meanings. Regional variations in Tandava depictions. Introduction: The Tandava dance, a powerful and dynamic form of Indian classical dance, holds a significant place in … Read more
Points to Remember: Sangam literature’s limited utility for connected political history of South India. Sangam literature’s exceptional portrayal of social and economic conditions. Contrasting the political vagueness with the social and economic detail. Examples of social and economic aspects depicted in Sangam literature. Introduction: Sangam literature, a corpus of Tamil poetry and prose dating roughly … Read more
Points to Remember: The influence of Sufi and medieval mystic saints on Hindu and Muslim societies. Assessment of the extent of their impact on religious ideas, practices, and social structures. Consideration of both direct and indirect influences. Acknowledgment of limitations and counterarguments. Introduction: The question assesses the impact of Sufi and medieval mystic saints on … Read more
Points to Remember: Strategic location of Panipat. Control over trade routes. Fertile land and resources. Access to water sources. Relatively flat terrain suitable for large armies. Introduction: The Third Battle of Panipat, fought in 1761, marked a pivotal moment in Indian history, resulting in the decline of the Maratha Empire and the rise of the … Read more
Points to Remember: Taxila’s historical significance as a center of learning. Its geographical advantages and influence. Differences between Taxila and modern universities. Reasons for Taxila’s lack of recognition as a “university” in the modern sense. The enduring legacy of Taxila. Introduction: Taxila, located in present-day Pakistan, was a renowned center of learning from the 5th … Read more
Points to Remember: Gandhara art’s syncretic nature. Influence of Greco-Roman art on Gandhara sculpture. Specific examples of Roman and Greek influences. The role of Buddhism in shaping Gandhara art. Introduction: Gandhara art, flourishing in the ancient region of Gandhara (present-day northwestern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan) from the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE, … Read more
Points to Remember: The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) was a highly advanced urban civilization. IVC urban planning demonstrates sophisticated engineering and social organization. Many aspects of IVC urban planning are absent in modern urban planning. The cultural legacy of the IVC is less directly visible in modern urban contexts. Introduction: The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), … Read more
Points to Remember: Mesolithic period in India (roughly 10,000 to 4,000 BCE) Rock-cut architecture: Focus on its characteristics, techniques, and distribution. Cultural reflection: Examine societal structures, beliefs, and practices as depicted in the art. Aesthetic sense: Analyze the artistic merit, skill, and creativity involved. Comparison to modern painting: Explore similarities and differences in artistic expression. … Read more
Points to Remember: Continuity of Indian civilization. Comparison with Egyptian, Mesopotamian, and Greek civilizations. Factors contributing to the preservation of Indian culture and traditions. Challenges and disruptions faced by Indian civilization. A balanced perspective acknowledging both continuity and change. Introduction: The statement that ancient Indian civilization differs from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece in … Read more
Points to Remember: Krishnadeva Raya’s scholarship and literary achievements. His patronage of various scholars and literary works. The flourishing of Telugu and Sanskrit literature during his reign. The establishment of educational institutions and libraries. The impact of his patronage on the cultural landscape of Vijayanagara. Introduction: Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1529 CE), the most celebrated ruler of … Read more
