Cultural Heritage of India and the North East
Answer:- up to Meerut.
2. When did civil culture develop in the Indus civilization?
Answer:- Civil culture developed in the Indus civilization in the fourth millennium BC.
3. What is the approximate date of composition of the Rig Veda?
Answer:- The Rig Veda was written between 1500 BC and 1000 BC.
4. The The phrase 'Satyamev Jayate' in the National Anthem of India is originally taken from which book?
Answer:- Taken from the Mundaka Upanishad.
5. What is the name of the famous book on political science written in ancient India?
Answer:- Kautilya's Arthashastra.
6. Which book established the phrase 'Unity in Diversity'?
Answer:- Through Jawaharlal Nehru's "Discovery of India"
7. Which style of Indian sculpture used Greco-Roman techniques?
Answer:- In the art of Gandha.
8. When was the Natyashastra of Bharata Muni written?
Answer:- The Natyashastra of Bharata Muni was written from 200 BC to the second century BC.
9. How many verses are there in the Bharata Natyashastra?
Answer:- There are about 6000 verses.
10. What is the Heraka movement?
Answer:- Freedom fighter Queen Gaidalu launched the "Heraka" movement to preserve and reintroduce the traditional religion and culture of Nagaland.
11. What is the name of the "Hornbill" festival in Nagaland?
Answer:- Dhanesh Pakhi.
12. "Chapchar Kut" is a traditional festival of which state?
Answer:- Traditional festivals of Mizoram.
13. What does the word "Mizo" mean?
Answer:- The word "Mizo" means "inhabitant of the mountains"
14. Which state in the North East has a matriarchal society?
Answer:- Meghalaya
15. What is the main theme of Manipuri dance?
Answer:- Focusing on the childhood of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Krishna Leela, etc.
16. What was the ancient name of Assam?
Answer:- The ancient names of Assam were Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup.
17. From what Boro-rooted word is the name Assam supposed to have originated?
Answer:- From the word 'ha-chom'
18. What does Charyapada mean?
Answer:- Charyapadas are some of the Sahajayana sect songs.
19. When was the Charyapada composed?
Answer:- Between the 10th and 14th centuries AD.
20. Who sponsored Madhava Kandali to translate the Saptakaṇḍa Ramayana?
Answer:- The king of Barahi was Mahamanikya.
21. Who pioneered prose literature in Assam?
Answer:- Sankardev.
22. Who composed the zikr and zari?
Answer:- The tea mill known as Azanpir.
23. Who is the Azaanpir?
Answer:- A Sufi practitioner. He was the composer of Islamic songs like zikr and zari.
24. When did Azaanpir come to Assam?
Answer:- In the days of His Majesty Gadadhar Singh (in the thirteenth century).
25. When was the stone arch of the Southern Mountains built?
Answer:- In the sixth century AD.
26. What was Changrung Fukan responsible for?
Answer:- During the Ahom rule, an officer named Changrung Fukan was given the responsibility of supervising the construction and measurement of temples, roads, bridges, houses, etc.
27. Which artist from Assam was awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to folk music?
Answer:- Pratima Pandey Baroua.
28. What is the name of the first newspaper in Assam?
Answer:- Arunodoi.
29. What is the tribe belonging to the Austrian ethnic group in the Northeast?
Answer:- Khasia.
30. Write the names of the authors.
(a) Arthasastra 一 Kautilya.
(b) Elephant Science 一 Sukumar Barkaith.
(c) Kirtan 一 Sankaradeva.
(d) Namghosha 一 Madhavade.
(e) Removing the thief's pimp 一 Madhavade.
(f) Kaliya Daman 一 Sankaradeva.
(g) Ramvijay 一 Sankaradeva.
(h) Katha Gita 一 Bhattadeva.
(i) Rajatarangini 一 noise.
(j) Bharat Samved 一 Jawaharlal Nehru.
Short answer questions:
1. Name two foreign nations that came to India after the sixth century AD?
Answer:- Greeks and Mughals.
2. Name two idols used for religious purposes discovered in the Indus Valley?
Answer:- There are animal-like idols and idols of the mother goddess.
3. Mention two contributions made by the Austrians to Indian culture.
Answer:- Rice cultivation, techniques for making jaggery from maize.
8. How has geography played a role in creating diversity in Indian culture?
Answer:- The country's various geographical conditions have also played a role in the origin and preservation of the rich Indian culture. An area may be more economically prosperous and have frequent contact with other cultures due to its fertile agricultural land, ease of transportation and natural resources. Other areas may be isolated and living a difficult life due to lack of these facilities.
5. Name the four Samhitas of the Vedas.
Answer:- Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samveda and Atharvaveda.
6. What does the twelfth major inscription of Ashoka say about religious generosity?
Answer:- This scripture says that no one should praise his own religion and belittle the religion of others. Instead, we should accept the essence of all religions and pave the way for harmony.
7. What does cultural pluralism mean?
Answer:- Cultural pluralism refers to the cultural diversity of a society and the attitude of respect towards it.
8. Name two scientists of ancient India.
Answer:- Aryabhata and Brahmagupta.
9. Name two medical texts of ancient India.
Answer:- Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
10. What are the categories of Indian painting?
Answer:- They can be divided into two categories. Those sections are large-scale wall paintings and miniature paintings.
11. Name two Mughal emperors who patronized painting.
Answer:- of Shah Jahan and Jahangir.
12. Name two inscriptions of Assam with miniature illustrations.
Answer:- The Battle of Lava-Kusha and the Gita Govinda.
13. Name two illustrators of the book Hastividyarnava.
Answer:- Dilbar and Dochai.
14. What does Jhum cultivation mean?
Answer:- Jhum cultivation is the cultivation of land in mountainous areas by cutting down forests, burning them and clearing the land with traditional tools.
15. What does Zeng Bihu mean?
Answer:- There are many different types of Bihu dances and songs performed by women in South Assam during Bohag Bihu in a secluded place in the presence of men.
16. Name the two parts of Ojapali.
Answer:- Vyasa Oja and Sukananni Oja.
17. Name two philosophers of ancient India.
Answer:- Kapil and Patanjali.
18. Name two histories written during the Ahom dynasty.
Answer:- The Deodhai Buranji and the Tunkhungia Buranji.
19. Name two local festivals celebrated in South Assam as companions of Bihu.
Answer:- Deul celebrated in Darang district and Bamboo Puja celebrated in Goalpara district.
20. Name two types of folk dances of Darang.
Answer:- (a) Dhepa Dhulia dance and
(b) Very drum dance.
21. What are the main ethnic groups in India?
Answer:- (a) Ashtrikslak.
(b) Negro community.
(c) The Mongolian group.
(d) Aryan speaking Nordics.
(e) Dravidians. And
(f) Western brachycephalic.
22. 22. Name three factors that create unity amidst differences in Indian culture.
Answer:- In Indian culture, the three factors that create unity amidst differences are 一
(a) Cultural pluralism.
(b) Political unity created by empires of different eras.
(c) Religious and cultural unity maintained by different rulers.
23. What are the main categories of architectural monuments of ancient India?
Answer:- The architectural monuments of ancient India are mainly divided into the North Indian Nagar, South Indian Dravidian and Wech styles found between the Vindhya and Krishna rivers.
24. Write down what is meant by 'grid of cultural unity' in terms of cultural heritage of India and the North East.
Answer:- India is meant to be a 'grid of cultural unity' The North East is Mongolian as the heritage of India is shaped by the influence of different ethnic groups of Indus civilization, Vedic civilization and Aryan civilization such as Dravidians, Aryan-speaking Nordics, Proto-Australoids, Negroes, Mongolians, Western Brachycephalic etc and a characteristic heritage has been formed under the influence of many ethnic groups that have emerged over time from the Austrian ethnic group. The people of both India and the North East have different religious beliefs, festivals, dances, music and customs. Despite this great and unique cultural heritage, there is a cultural unity in India as a whole and in the North East in particular, which originated through trade, exchange, marriage, wartime mutual assistance, etc.
The whole of India is bound together by diversity in various fields. The assimilation of social traditions, beliefs, customs, religious practices, etc. has led to the emergence of different cultural groups. Therefore, cultural exchange between people has formed a network of cultural unity which has also played a role in establishing unity among the diversity of the country.
25. Name three architectures of India listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
Answer:- Three architectures of India listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO are:
(a) Taj Mahal.
(b) The caves of Ajanta and
(c) The pile of temples.
26. What sculptures were made in Indian sculpture?
Answer:- India has a reputation for sculpture since ancient times. Gautama Buddha, Mahavira various Hindu gods – goddesses , yakshas – yakshinis , goddesses , various animals – animals associated with Buddhism etc.
27 ।। What are the three main styles of sculpture in India?
Answer:- There are three main styles of sculpture in India:
(a) The art of Gandha
(b) Mathura Crafts. and
(c) Amravati Crafts.
28. Name three places in India where there are examples of wall paintings.
Answer:- There are three places in India where there are examples of murals:
(a) Wall paintings of Ajanta (Maharashtra)
(b) Tiger wall paintings (Madhya Pradesh). and
(c) Temple paintings of Chittanavachal (Tamil Nadu).
29. What do you understand by the hexagram of painting?
Answer:- In the first century BC, the rules of (1) shape, (2) measurement, (3) expressive techniques, (4) artistic representation, (5) sense of similarity, and (6) the use of paintbrushes were discussed. which is also known as the hexagon of painting.
30. Briefly write about yoga in India.
Answer:- Yoga is a glorious cultural heritage of India and a unique contribution to the entire human society. It is believed that the Indians possessed compound knowledge during the Indus civilization. This science was widely practiced in the Vedic period. In the second century AD, Maharishi Patanjali compiled a book called Yogasutra, which gave a harmonious form to this science. He developed this science as a conscious and active method of achieving physical, mental and spiritual development and as a philosophy as a whole way of life.
31. Name three characteristics of architecture in India.
Answer:- (a) Nagar style:- This type of temple construction style is found in North India. North Indian temples built in this style have a semicircular top (shikhar).
(b) Dravidian style:- Temples with this type of construction are found in South India. The upper part (vimana) of temples in South India gradually narrows upwards from rectangular.
(c) Wash style: Temples with this type of construction are found in the area between the rivers Vindhya and Krishna. The Wes style temples are a mixture of Nagar and Dravidian styles.
32. What are the seven days of Rangali Bihu known by?
Answer:- The seven days of Rangali Bihu are Garu Bihu, Manush Bihu, Gosai Bihu, Kutum Bihu, Chenehi Bihu, Mela Bihu and Chera Bihu respectively.
33. What is the main theme of Kamrupi folk songs and Goalparia folk songs?
Answer:- The main themes of Kamrupi folk songs and Goalparia folk songs are the happiness and sorrow of life, the fragility of the body, the importance of thinking of God in life and the praise of gods and goddesses.
34. Name three books that mention the ancient names of Assam, Kamarupa and Pragajyotish.
Answer:- The Ramayana, Mahabharata and Vishnu Purana.
Long answer questions:
1. Briefly write about the origin and development of cultural pluralism in India.
Answer:- Cultural pluralism refers to the cultural diversity of a society and the attitude of respect towards it. In different parts of India, different ethnic groups seek to preserve and enhance their distinct cultures while maintaining a spirit of coexistence and respect for the cultures of others. Despite India's linguistic, religious, geographical and economic diversity, Indians are bound together by a sense of unity. Various factors have played a role in creating this relationship. Hinduism's own pluralism and generosity, the history of political unity created by the empires at different times, and the religious and cultural generosity of the rulers of different eras have contributed to this. The sense of a cultural family created by the Ramayana and Mahabharata with the main cultural streams of different parts of India has played a special role in this regard. In addition to these, every group in the country is bound together by a special cultural contact. If two groups are regionally isolated they may be linguistically or religiously united.
2. "It is probably no exaggeration to say that the soul of Indian civilization and culture lies in the Sanskrit literature written in ancient India"—discuss the meaning of the phrase.
Answer:- It is probably no exaggeration to say that the Sanskrit literature written in ancient India contains the soul of Indian civilization and culture. the Vedic Samhitas, Upanishads like Brahmanas, Aranyakas, epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata, Gita, Puranas, Vedangas (astrology, grammar, rhyme, Nirukta, Kalpa and education); books on politics; Kautilya's Arthashastra; the medical Charaka Samhita, the Sushruta Samhita; The pure literature of writers like Kalidasa, Shudraka, Banabhatta etc. are the brightest examples of Indian literature ǀ the philosophical works of philosophers like Kapil, Patanjali, Gautama, Vadrayana, Kanada, Jaimini, Ramanuja, Madhavacharya etc.; The historical work Kalhan's Rajatarangini; The works of scientists such as Aryabhata, Brahmihira, Brahmagupta, Bhaskaracharya I and II and Maharishi Bharadvaja, and the Sangam Sahitya of South India show the literary taste and thirst for knowledge of the Indian people
The above works also reflect the level of knowledge acquired by the Indians in ancient times in a wide range of fields such as attitudes towards life and the world, religious beliefs, scientific mentality, technical knowledge, politics, medicine, etc. These books had a profound impact on the society, psychology, literary consciousness and pan-Indian cultural unity of the Indians.
Raji promoted the teachings of the four caste system of Hinduism, father, mother, guru, guest knowledge and respect in Indian culture for scholars. These books also popularized the concepts of reincarnation, incarnation, salvation, heaven, hell, sin and virtue, etc. The infallible sayings mentioned in the texts like 'Satyameva Jayate' (Mundaka Upanishad), 'Ahimsa Param Dharma' (Mahabharata), 'Janani Janmabhoomi Cha Swargadapi Gariyasi' (Ramayana), 'Vasudevam Katumbakam' (Mahopanishad) laid the foundation of Indian values. The prayer to take truth against falsehood, knowledge against ignorance against darkness, consciousness against inertia- 'Asto ma sadgamaya, tamasoma jyotigamaya, mriturma amritgamaya' etc. have inspired Indian psychology.
Texts written in Sanskrit were later translated into various marginal languages of India. Many of these are passed down in families, orally, in the form of collective nam kirtan or as social customs.
3. Write about the religious heritage of India.
Answer:- India's religious tradition is very ancient ǀ it has adopted a liberal policy of coexistence, addition and blending of new beliefs, customs and practices ǀ it also respected reforms, amendments, new interpretations and contradictions of its own policies ǀ this approach has led to several theoretically conflicting philosophies Vedic Hinduism had no conflict with Buddhism and Jainism, which emerged in the sixth century BC, despite opposing some of the basic tenets of the Vedas – the same reason why many sects emerged within Hinduism – the policy of religious liberality later adopted by various dynasties Following and sponsorship ǀin this regard a note can be mentioned in the 12th Brihatshilalekh of Emperor Ashoka at Girnar in the 3rd century BC ǀ this inscription says that no one should praise one's own religion alone and inferior to others The Declaration bears the oldest testimony to the religious liberality of the Indian rulers ǀ later religions like Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Judaism etc. also arrived in India ǀ besides scriptural religions, tribal religions based on different beliefs and customs They are seen coexisting peacefully ǀ
4. The How has a common distinct identity of the North East been created?
Answer:- The term North East was coined by the British rulers ǀ the regions covered by this term are Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Meghalaya (later included Sikkim). Each has its own culture and political history. The region has gained a distinct identity due to several common characteristics of the entire region.
The geographical location of the region has contributed to the creation of a common identity in the North East. All the states of the North East are mountainous ǀ Assam is surrounded by other states to the north, east and south with the plains formed by the valleys of the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers in the middle. Similarly, the North Eastern states are surrounded by foreign countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan and Myanmar.
Most of the people in the entire region, including Assam, are tribal people belonging to various branches of the Greater Mongolian ethnic group. Some of the Nagas have Negro ethnic elements. The Khasis of Meghalaya are Austrian.
Each of the North Eastern states is home to a large number of ethnic people with many ethnic clans and branches. ǀThere is a colorful culture of traditional dress, dance, songs, instruments, festivals, dawans, folk beliefs, customs etc. Traditionally prepared liquor, non-vegetarian food, traditional rural administration, bamboo or traditional houses made of bamboo etc. can be seen ǀ
For the above reasons, the North East has a common identity
5. Briefly write about the religious environment in the states of the North East
Answer:- During the British rule, the missionaries spread Christianity among the inhabitants of all the states of the North East. Assam is one of the most ancient states in the North East where the Aryan language and Hinduism spread. Similarly, Hinduism spread in Manipur and Tripura in ancient times. However, nature animist beliefs and customs are still practiced in parallel among the hill tribes of the region. For example, the majority of the people of Arunachal are Hindus, Christians and Buddhists and at the same time they have various local gods and goddesses as well as Donipol, the Moon and Sun. The Nagas consider the dragonfly as a sacred creature and the government celebrates the Hornbill Festival in the name of this bird during the first ten days of December They were built. The majority of the Meitei community in Manipur are Chaitanya Vaishnavas. They have songs, instruments and dances influenced by Vaishnavism. Manipuri dance is a classical dance recognized by the Sangeet Natak Academy of India. There is still a nature-oriented religion among some Manipuris. Most of the people of Tripura are Hindu and influenced by Bengali culture. Tripura has a mixed culture with various ethnic elements. The former nature worshipers of Meghalaya, such as the Khasis, Garos and Jaintias, began to convert to Christianity from the 1830s and now more than 70 per cent of the population of the state is converted to this religion
Mizoram's population is also composed of various ethnic groups. All are said to be together. The word 'Mizo' means inhabitants of the mountains. They are predominantly Christian and have a small number of Hindus. After converting to Christianity, their traditional festivals and songs began to decline. Since 1973, the Mizos have been re-celebrating their traditional 'Chapchar Kut' festival and are also trying to revive other traditional dances, music etc.
6. A mixed culture emerged in Assam with the combined contribution of all Aryans and non-Aryans – briefly discuss the context ǀ
Answer:- The Brahmaputra Valley is a fertile agricultural land and rich in natural resources ǀ a branch of the Great Silk Road from China to the Roman Empire passed through Assam ǀ moreover, due to its natural beauty and solitude, people of different ethnic groups traded as natural migrants They came to Assam for trade and for various purposes like pilgrimage, spiritual practice etc. and settled in Assam ǀ As a result, Assam has more cultural diversity ,mixture and evolution than other states in the North East ǀ The process of ethnic and cultural mixing that took place in India as a whole took place in Assam as well ǀ resulting in a mixed culture with the combined contribution of all Aryans and non-Aryans ǀ
7. Briefly write about the history of painting in Assam ǀ
Answer:- The tradition of painting in Assam began in the seventeenth century with royal and satra creations modeled on the miniature book paintings of northern India ǀ some of the illustrated books of that period were Anandalahari, Hastividyavarna, Chitra Bhagavat, Geet Govinda, Kumara Haran, ǀ
These books were painted with multicolored paintings in natural colors from locally sourced materials ǀ first a certain color was applied to the background of the paintings ǀthe paintings were painted on top of it ǀ
The paintings depicted kings, courts, goddesses, war figures, elephants, animals, etc. in conjunction with the themes of the books. Flowers, plants, etc. were painted in the spaces
The paintings are usually in red, green, yellow and black ǀ with both front and side paintings
The paintings of people and animals do not use subtle techniques to express facial features, body proportions, and emotions ǀ in short, the paintings were simple and visually appealing ǀ
The book on elephants by Sukumar Barkaith contains pictures of car and color of elephants ǀ painted by two painters named Dilbar and Dochai ǀ
8. Write about religious diversity and unity in Assam ǀ
Answer:- People of all religions have lived in harmony in Assam since ancient times. The majority of the people of Assam are Hindus. This is followed by Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism and tribal religions.
Hinduism includes Shakta, Shaiva, Vaishnava, Solar followers ǀ There are Shaktipeeths in various parts of Assam, among which the Kamakhya Temple is world famous. The Nava Vaishnava movement converted a large number of people in Assam to the Vaishnava devotional path
Islam arrived in Assam in the early 13th century AD. ǀ Mecca at Hajo is the holy place of the Muslims of Assam Religious music ǀ
Some of the members of a Sikh army who came to Assam on the orders of Ranjit Singh of Punjab to assist King Chandrakant Singh during the Manch invasion remained permanently in Assam ǀ their descendants have now adopted the Assamese language and culture despite maintaining Sikhism
The Taiphake, Turung, Aitan, Khamti, Khamyang and Shyams living in the eastern part of Assam are Buddhists. In the Middle Ages, the Ahom kings adopted a liberal religious policy and built places of worship and gave alms to people of various religions
9. Why is there more cultural diversity, blending and evolution in Assam than in other states in the East?
Answer:- The Brahmaputra Valley is a fertile agricultural land and rich in natural resources ǀ a branch of the Great Silk Road from China to the Roman Empire passed through Assam ǀ moreover, due to its natural beauty and solitude, people of different ethnic groups traveled as natural migrants and came to Assam for various purposes like pilgrimage, spiritual practice etc. and settled in Assam ǀ As a result, Assam has more cultural diversity, blending and evolution than other states in the North East.
10. “The whole society is actually like a book for the study of folk culture” – your comments on this context ǀ
Answer:- The natural appearance of a nation or society is reflected in folk culture ǀ members of a society traditionally acquire the folk culture of the society without any training but only if an unfamiliar person observes everything about folk culture closely Folk culture is expressed in many aspects such as spoken language, folk literature, songs, dances, instruments, dress, ornaments, food, house building, agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, festivals, use of bamboo and cane, family and social relations, customs Therefore, folk culture is reflected in the actions and behaviors of ordinary people at every moment in their daily lives
Write a brief:
1. Sculpture of Ancient India
Answer:- Indian sculpture developed in ancient times ǀ dates back to the Indus civilization ǀ later sculptures made of burnt clay, stone, bronze, copper, silver, gold etc. incorporated local techniques developed by the Indians themselves as well as foreign features at various times ǀ These idols range from very simple, straight, asymmetrical idols to bifurcated, tripartite and quadripartite patterns, proportional, perfectly decorated with costumes ǀ facial features and limbs to express feelings of peace of mind, happiness, anger etc Numerous sculptures made with the application of fine arts and techniques can be seen in different parts of India ǀ
These sculptures depict Gautama Buddha, Mahavira, Hindu gods and goddesses, Yakshas and Yakshinis, goddesses, various animals associated with Hinduism and Buddhism The animals are of special importance ǀ many dynasties, both native and foreign, patronized this art of construction
Overall, Indian sculpture can be divided into three categories ǀ namely Gandha art, Mathura art and Amravati art ǀ Gandhi art was in use from the first century BC to the seventh century AD and many Buddha statues were made using Greco-Roman sculpture ǀ Mathura art developed earlier on its own but was later influenced by Gandhian art. ǀ Amravati art was in use for about six hundred years from the 3rd century BC. It was especially welcomed by the kings of the Satavahana Empire
2. Indian Painting
Answer:- The paintings of ancient India can be divided into two categories ǀ large-scale wall paintings and miniature paintings ǀ large-scale paintings were painted on the rocks of the mountains. Miniatures, on the other hand, were painted to decorate texts and to give illustrative descriptions ǀ both styles were painted on the walls of caves in Ajanta in Maharashtra, Bagh in Madhya Pradesh, Chittanavachal and Armamalai in Tamil Nadu ǀ based on Buddhist, Jain and Hindu themes Inside, the wall paintings of Ajanta are world famous ǀ
From the 10th century onwards, miniatures were painted on palm leaves, sanchi leaves, patkapor, etc. in Assam, Rajasthan, Orissa, Mysore, Tanjore, etc., mainly to illustrate the texts concerned. In the first century BC, the rules of 1) shape, 2) measurement, 3) emotional techniques, 4) artistic presentation, 5) sense of similarity, 6) brush use were discussed which are also known as painting conspiracies ǀ Paint was made from natural materials like cardamom, garlic, sandalwood, turmeric juice, spider juice etc. and colorful paintings were made. Miniature painting was widely practiced under the patronage of Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Padshahnama, Tutunama, Jahangirnama, Dastan-e-Amir, Khamsa etc. were illustrated. The paintings of the Mughal period depicted images of emperors, courts, victories, hunting, gardens, flowers, trees, plants, animals, etc. and showed maturity in the paintings. Hindu texts such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata were painted in the Persian style.
3. The musical and dance heritage of India
Answer:- India has a rich heritage in music ǀ the Samveda hymns were recited in the form of songs by priests called Udgatas to appease the gods in sacrifices ǀ the melody and rhythm of the Udgatas later changed and split into various branches ǀ
The tradition of classical music in India has survived strongly through the succession of gurus and disciples ǀ it flourished during the Mughal period ǀ music along with various types of flutes, pepa, chehnai, drums, tabla various types of rhythms, nagara, mridang, khol, Instruments such as nupur, chetar, charinda, dotara, various types of harps were invented to accompany classical music and folk music and are still widely used today.
Like music, India has a rich tradition of dance ǀ there are eight officially recognized classical ones in addition to the myriad folk dances across the country. The eight dances are Kathakali (Malayalam,Kerala), Mohini Attam (Kerala), Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kuchipuri (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Orissa), Kathak (North India), Satriya (Assam) and Manipuri (Manipur).
4. The Sculptures of Assam.
Answer:- Two-dimensional or full-length three-dimensional idols carved on temple walls have been discovered in various parts of Assam. Apart from stone, idols were also made of ivory, gold, silver, copper, wood etc. ǀ These idols include idols of goddesses, Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, Surya, crocodile, horse, elephant, lion etc There are many places like Pahar, Madan Kamdev, Ambari, Dabka, Paglatek in Goalpara, Surya Pahar, Barganga, Numaligarh, Deopani, Hojai, Dibrugarh, Shukreswar, Mangaldai etc. In terms of craftsmanship, the two idols of Ganga and Jamuna at the bottom of the deep-mountain stone archway are small in size but proportional to the body, rhythmically constructed in a bifurcated pose. There are other idols carved in the arch ǀ this sculpture is believed to have been made under the influence of the Gupta period in the 6th century AD ǀ some scholars believe that the sexual idols seen in the Madan Kamadeva temple were made for tantric purposes Women, various animals and idols of Bhairava, Surya and Vishnu can be seen here ǀ
5. Architecture of Assam
Answer:- Almost all the examples of architecture that can be seen today in Assam date back to the Middle Ages and were built under the patronage of the Ahom dynasty or the Konch kings. There are three royal buildings of the Ahom period in Shivsagar district namely Rangghar of Rapur, Karengghar and Talatal Ghar of Garhgaon respectively and several temples still exist. The ancient temples built during this period are Kamakhya Temple, Ugratara Temple, Uma Nanda Temple, Navagraha Temple, Shivdal, Jaidal, Devidal, Fakuadal, Shivdal at Negheriting, Hoygrib Madhav Temple in Hajo, Shukleshwar Temple Temple, Dergaon and the Shiva temple in Bishwanath. The temples are usually characterized by the Nagar style or the Vedic style. Temples usually have two parts, the sanctuary and the mandap. The peaks of the temple are some semicircular and some oblong. Such peaks can be seen in Shivadal and Vishnudal in Shivsagar. The architecture at this time was made of brick or stone.
The construction of the Talat Ghar was started by Swargadeo Rudra Singh ǀ the several-storeyed prasad was completed by Swargadeo Rajeshwar Singh Aku and his successors. The big house was built on two floors, in the front yard to watch the Bihu festival. The skin of the bungalow was made in the shape of a toy boat. Many stone bridges were built during the Ahom dynasty. Among these, the stone bridges of Namdang, Darika and Dinjay are still in use. The Ahom rule employed an officer named Changrung Fukan to take care of the construction of temples, roads, palaces, houses, etc. Recording the activities of Changrung Fukan. The Bubanjis are called the Bubanjis of Changrung Fukan.
6. Vaishnava literature of Assam.
Answer:- The Nava Vaishnava movement, which began in the fifteenth century under the leadership of Sankaradeva and Madhavadevas, profoundly influenced all spheres of Assamese society. The religious movement also led to a wave of Assamese literature and a number of poems, plays, songs, character books and prose were written. The main themes of the literature were the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, Hindu mythology, etc. Sankaradeva and Madhavadevas themselves wrote a large number of literature. These include the kirtans of Sankaradeva and the Namghosas of Madhavadevas and the Bargits of Guru Dujana. There are many different types of plays written by Sankaradeva, such as Patniprasad, Kaliyadaman, Keli Gopal, Rukminiharan, Parijat Haran, Ramvijay, Madhavdev's Jhumura Chordhara and Pimpara Guswa. Shakespeare's first play, Chihnajatra, was also an earlier play. The Vrindavani textiles used in this play were the masterpieces of the weavers of Assam. These pieces of cloth are now preserved in the British Museum and several other famous museums. After Sankabadeva Madhavadevas, Bhattadevas, Anant Kandali, Rama-Saraswati and other writers continued this literary practice. Among these, Bhattadeva wrote the Katha Gita, Bhagavat Katha and Ratnavali Katha and pioneered prose literature in Assamese literature. There are many poets who have written songs based on the stories of Devi, Manasa, Padma, Sati Beula, etc., outside the influence of Shankari literature. The Gita, a verse by Govinda Mishra, was born in the 16th century and is still a widely used popular religious text.
7. Folk music of Assam
Answer:- Assam has different types of folk music sung in different environments and for different needs. Some folk music is nearly on the verge of extinction, while others are still strongly in flux. Some of the folk songs prevalent in Assam are the lullabies, Bianam, Ainaam, Dhainaam, Kamrupi folk songs, Goalparia folk songs, Tokari songs, Chia songs of Darang, Garkhia songs called Nangeli and Chera Dhek. These include wedding songs, Kamrupi folk songs, and Goalparia folk songs. They are sung to welcome the bride and groom, to make fun of each other and to bid farewell to the bride and groom. There are many different types of songs, including Kamrupi folk songs, Goalparia folk songs and Nokari songs, which express the happiness and sorrow of life, the fragility of the body, the importance of thinking of God in life, praise of gods and goddesses. In addition to these, Goalpara folk songs are based on local legends and elephant hunting and breeding. There are many different types of musical instruments available in the market. These include the late Khagen Mahast, Rameshwar Pathak and Pratima Pandey Barua. Among them, Pratima Pandey Barua was awarded the Padma Shri.
8. Religious Unity of Assam
Answer:- Assam has been home to people of all religions living in harmony since ancient times. The majority of the people of Assam are Hindus. This is followed by Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism and tribal religions
Hinduism includes Shakta, Shaiva, Vaishnava and Solar followers ǀ there are Shaktipeeths in various parts of Assam, among which the Kamakhya Temple is world famous ǀ the Nava Vaishnava movement converted a large number of people in Assam to the Vaishnava devotional path ǀ
Islam arrived in Assam in the early 13th century AD. ǀ Mecca at Hajo is the holy place of the Muslims of Assam Religious music ǀ
Some members of a Sikh army that had come to Assam on the orders of Ranjit Singh of Punjab to assist King Chandrakant Singh during the Manch invasion remained permanently in Assam. Their descendants have now adopted the Assamese language and culture while maintaining the Sikh religion and have become part of national life.
The Taiphake, Turung, Aitan, Khamti, Khamyang and Shyams living in the eastern part of Assam are Buddhists. In the Middle Ages, the Ahom kings adopted a liberal religious policy and built places of worship and gave alms to people of different religions
9. Historical Literature of Assam
Answer:- These works containing royal events were initially written in the Ahom language themselves ǀ many such histories were written in Assamese from the 16th century onwards ǀ many such histories during the British rule Some of these histories are the Deodhai Buranji, Tunkhungia Buranji, Kachari Buranji, Jaintia Buranji, Tripura Buranji, Padya Buranji and Padshah Buranji.
10. The Bihu festival of Assam
Answer:- Bihu is a very popular festival in Assam. Bihu festivals are celebrated at three times of the year namely Rangali Bihu, Kangal Bihu and Bhogali Bihu in the months of Bahag, Kati and Magh respectively.
Rangali Bihu is celebrated from the last day of Chat to the first six days of Bahag ǀ the last day of Chat is called Sankranti or Domahi. That day is celebrated as Garu Bihu. Cows are used for various purposes including plowing in the agricultural Assamese society. There are many ways to express love, respect and gratitude to the cows of the household. For example, on that morning, the cows are taken to the canals, rivers, etc., bathed with oil and garlic, and given new pagha; The barn is cleaned and incense, jags, etc. are given. The first day of Bahar is called Manu Bihu; Everyone wears new clothes on that day. The younger ones pay their respects to the parents and the elders of the family ǀ games and songs are organized in public places. During these days, the Huchori groups of the elderly go from house to house and perform Huchori dances and songs to bless the hosts. Women in South Assam celebrate Jeng Bihu in secluded places without men seeing them. Under the trees in the middle of the fields, young men and women participate in the open Bihu with songs and dances expressing feelings of love and youth. The tribal people celebrate Bihu under different names with their own customs, songs and costumes. The festival is celebrated by the people of Boro, Rabha, Karbi, Miching, Deuri, Tiwa etc. with their own songs, costumes and traditions. There are many ways in which you can improve your self-confidence. There are many ways in which you can improve your self-confidence. The seven days of Rangali Bihu are called Garu Bihu, Manu Bihu, Gosai Bihu, Kutum Bihu, Chenehi Bihu, Mela Bihu and Chera Bihu respectively. These names vary from place to place. These include Deul in Darang district, Bhatheli, Sori or Sueri in old Kamrup, Dahar Furwa, Bar Gopal Uliowa and Bamboo Puja in old Goalpara district.
Kati Bihu is celebrated on the last day of the month of Ahin. This Bihu is celebrated with spiritual purity and various customs. The day is spent in fasting and in the evening candles are lit under the basil tree and in the fields. The Boros sacredly light candles under the Siju tree ǀ some light sky lanterns for months ǀ these customs are associated with certain religious beliefs.
Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu is celebrated on the last day of the month of Puh. The day before is called Uruka. In rural areas, the deka'rahte or people form groups and build a velaghra of straw, straw etc. in the fields under majan trees and build a high meji of kechabah, wood, straw, straw etc. next to the velaghra ǀ those who do not participate in public feasts. On that day, bati chungapitha, tilpitha, laru etc. are made. On the morning of Bihu, people bathe and light a fire on the table and take the heat of the fire. The fire of the Meji is paid tribute to the god of fire by offering pitha laru etc. ǀ the guests are treated with yogurt, sandah, chira, pitha, jalpan etc. During this period, food is plentiful and Magh Bihu is called 'Bhogali Bihu' as food is the dominant food. There are many different types of festivals celebrated in different parts of India under different names like Bahag Bih, Kati Bih and Magh Bihu in Assam
Additional and Question Bank Answers
1. To write this essay about Assamese painting. [HSLC '22]
Answer:-The paintings of Assam have a rich heritage. It has created a variety of styles and types of images. Among the Assamese paintings, the paintings 'Makura', 'Pathari', and 'Mithun' are very popular. These paintings usually reflect the local environment, culture and everyday life. A notable aspect of Assamese painting is its story and spirituality, which carries spiritual and socio-cultural meanings. This painting is especially exhibited during various festivals and ceremonies in Assam.
2. How many languages were recognized as state languages in India? [HSLC '10] |
Answer: Twenty-two languages are recognized as state languages in India.
3. What is the popular name of Baikunthanath Bhagavat Bhattacharya? [HSLC '14] |
Answer: The popular name of Baikunthanath Bhagavat Bhattacharya is "Bhagavatdev"
4. What was the real name of Azan Fakir? [HSLC '15]
Answer: Azan Fakir's real name was "Azanuddin"
5. Who wrote the 'Economics'? [HSLC '23]
Answer: 'Arthasastra' was composed by Kautilya, also known as Chanakya.
6. What is folk culture? Give two examples of folk culture of Assam.
Answer:Folk culture is the collection of daily lives, habits, customs, culture and traditions of the people. This culture is often passed down from generation to generation through oral and enduring traditions.
Two examples of folk culture in Assam:
Bihu: Bihu is the most popular folk dance and festival in Assam. The festival honors aspects of agriculture, labor and social life and is accompanied by song, dance and food.
good day: This festival is a folk cultural event held in Assam. It prays for peace and prosperity through various rituals, songs and dances.
7. Write a brief note on medieval Assamese literature. [HSLC '11]
Answer: Medieval Assamese literature is a literary expression between the 12th and 17th centuries. This was a time of religious and cultural development. There was a reflection of poetry, drama, song and philosophy in the Assamese language. In particular, writers like Baikunthanath Bhagavat Bhattacharya and Madhava Deva worked on religious and social themes.
Medieval Assamese literature was dominated by literary styles such as chara, rasarup and bhakti geeti, which conveyed both folk culture and religious beliefs.
8. Briefly discuss the contribution of Bihu to the Assamese society. [HSLC '13]
Answer: The contribution of Bihu to the Assamese society is very important. This festival promotes a sense of unity and harmony, which helps to bring people from all walks of life together. During Bihu, the values and traditions of the society from Assamese culture are popularized through folk music, dance and various cultural activities. This festival helps to encourage agricultural life and create enterprise to improve the lives of farmers. Overall, Bihu is an integrated platform of Assamese society, which makes an invaluable contribution to cultural unity and social relations.
9. How did the Muslims start settling in Assam? [HSLC '14]
Answer: The settlement of Muslims in Assam began in the 13th century. During this period, various Muslim rulers and trade groups arrived in Assam. In particular, the Muslim population increased during the reign of Bakri in the 15th and 16th centuries. As a result, Muslims played an important role in the society and culture of Assam, which later established relations with the local people.
Thus, the arrival and settlement of Muslims created a new cultural and social environment in Assam.
10. Any of the three major tribes of Assam celebrate 'Bihu' Write down what festivals are called. [HSLC '15]
Answer: The three major tribes of Assam refer to the festival 'Bihu' by different names:
Ahom: The Ahom people know Bihu as 'Rangali Bihu' or 'Bahag Bihu', which symbolizes the harvest of new crops from the season and the beginning of the new year.
Mia: The Mia people also know Bihu as 'Bihu', which is celebrated as part of their heritage and culture.
Kachari: The Bihu festival is especially important for the Kachari people, and they celebrate it as 'Bahag Bihu', which is seen as a retirement of taste and joy.
