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GS Paper: GS1-01.Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

  • Srinagar vies for World Craft City Tag 

    Why in the news?

    • The World Crafts Council International (WCCI) has identified Srinagar as a potential candidate for the prestigious World Craft City (WCC) designation from India.
    • Artisans in Srinagar have uniquely preserved their traditional crafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier mâché.

    Craft Sector Statistics in Kashmir

    • The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage-Kashmir (INTACH-K) is working with the J&K Handicrafts department to map Srinagar’s craft sector in preparation for the final nomination.
    • Srinagar boasts a rich artisanal heritage, with over 20,000 registered craftsmen engaged in various disciplines such as papier mâché, walnut wood carving, hand-knotted carpets, and more.
    • Handicrafts contribute significantly to the local economy, with approximately 2.64% of J&K’s overall economic output attributed to the sector by 2016-17.

     

    About World Craft Council (WCC International)

    Details
    What is it? Non-profit, Non-governmental organization
    Working
    • Establishment in 1964;
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL).
    • Affiliated to the UNESCO
    Founders Kamaladevi Chattopadhay and Aileen Osborn Webb
    Purpose To promote fellowship among craftspersons worldwide, foster economic development through craft-related activities, organize exchange programs, workshops, conferences, seminars, and exhibitions, and offer encouragement and advice to artisans.
    Legal Status
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL)
    • WCC is organized into five regions: Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
    Meetings
    • European branch meets annually;
    • General Assembly occurs every four years (took place in Chennai in 2012).

    What is World Craft City (WCC) Designation?

    • The WCC initiative was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International).
    • It recognizes the pivotal role local authorities, craftspeople, and communities play in cultural, economic, and social development worldwide.
    • India has only 3 cities designated as World Craft City:
    1. Jaipur (Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery, Lac based craft, Gotta Patti Work etc. )
    2. Mysuru (Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood Inlay etc. )
    3. Mamallapuram (Stone Carving continuing since Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE))

    With inputs from: https://www.wccinternational.org/craft-cities/craft-cities-asia-pacific

    PYQ:

    Consider the following pairs:

    1. Puthukkuli Shawls — Tamil Nadu
    2. Sujni Embroidery — Maharashtra
    3. Uppada Jamdani Saris — Karnataka

    Craft Heritage of which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3

  • Iron Age Megalithic Sites discovered in Telangana

    Why in the news?

    • Archaeologists in Telangana have found Iron Age megalithic sites, including various structures such as large stone monuments and places with rock paintings.
    • These discoveries provide important information about the ancient civilizations that once lived in the area.

    Iron Age in India

    • India’s Iron Age ranged from approximately 1200 BCE to 200 BCE.
    • It was marked by the emergence of new archaeological cultures, including the megalithic cultures, Painted Grey Ware culture (1300–300 BCE), and the Northern Black Polished Ware (700–200 BCE).
    • This period corresponds to the transition from the Janapadas (principalities) of the Vedic period to the 16 Mahajanapadas (region-states) of the early historic period.
    • This transition culminated in the emergence of the Maurya Empire toward the end of the Iron Age.
    • Ironworking was prevalent in the Central Ganga Plain and the Eastern Vindhyas from the early second millennium BCE.
    • Sites:
    1. North India: Malhar, Dadupur, Raja Nala Ka Tila, Lahuradewa, Kosambi and Jhusi, Allahabad in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
    2. South India: Earliest Iron Age sites include Hallur in Karnataka and Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu, dating to around 1000 BCE. Mahurjhari near Nagpur was a significant site for bead manufacturing.
    • The Indian Iron Age ended coinciding with other significant events such as the decline of the Mauryan Empire and the spread of Buddhism.

     

    About the Ooragutta Megalithic Site

    • The site boasts over 200 megalithic monuments, although the exact count remains uncertain due to the dense forest and hilly terrain.
    • They are characterized by squarish or rectangular shapes, the structures at Ooragutta exhibit unique features.

    Dolmenoid Cists

    • The newly discovered monuments, termed “Dolmenoid Cists,” feature side slabs arranged to mirror the shape of the cap-stone, resulting in each cist having a distinct shape dictated by the cap-stone.
    • These monuments are estimated to date back to around 1,000 BCE.

    Rock Art Sites at Damaratogu

    • Two new rock art sites have been discovered at Damaratogu in Gundala mandal of Bhadradri Kothagudem district.
    • One of these sites, known as ‘Devarlabanda Mula‘, exclusively depicts animals and NO humans, in a rock painting.
    • It suggests a cultural significance possibly related to hunting or animal worship.
    • The absence of weapons or domestic animals in the paintings indicates that these artworks may belong to the Mesolithic age, dating anywhere between 8000 – 3000 BCE.

    Significance of Discoveries

    • These monuments resemble to “Passage Chambers” found in Europe.
    • This discovery sheds light on previously unknown architectural styles in the region and offers insights into the evolution of megalithic practices.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following pairs: ​

    (Historical place) (Well-known for)​

    1. Burzahom : Rock-cut shrines​
    2. Chandraketugarh : Terracotta art​
    3. Ganeshwar : Copper artefacts​

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?​

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3 only

  • Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex Dispute

    Why in the news?

    The Supreme Court has issued a cautionary note to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) barring any physical excavation that could alter the character of the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex.

    About Bhojshala Complex

    Details
    Location Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh.
    Historical Background Established by Raja Bhoj, the greatest ruler of the Parmar dynasty, as an educational institute.
    Date of Establishment 11th century.
    Transformation Originally a Goddess Wagdevi (Saraswati temple), later converted into Kamal Maulana Mosque by Muslim rulers.
    Architectural Features
    • Large open courtyard (Mahaāyata);
    • Verandah with decorated pillars (Sthāpanā);
    • Prayer hall with intricately carved ceilings (Shikharākāra).
    Inscriptions
    • Two hymns depicting the Karmavatar of Vishnu (Avatār);
    • Sarpabandha pillar inscriptions with Sanskrit alphabet and grammatical rules (Vyākaraṇa).
    Archaeological Significance Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as an 11th-century monument under Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958

    Controversy over Bhojshala Complex

    • Religious Claims: Hindus regard the site as the temple of Goddess Wagdevi (Saraswati), while Muslims believe it to be the Kamal Maula mosque.
    • Usage Agreement: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) allows Hindus to pray on Tuesdays and Vasant Panchami, and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays,

    Recent Developments

    • Vasant Panchami Dispute: A recent order allowing Hindus to worship during Basant Panchami hours led to discontent among some Right-wing activists.
    • Demand for Extended Access: Hindu groups demand all-day access to the shrine on such occasions, leading to protests and petitions filed in the High Court.

     

    Who was Raja Bhoj?

    Details
    Original name Raja Bhoja (Mihir Bhoja)
    Dynasty Gurjara-Pratihara
    Reign 836 – 885 AD
    Rise to Prominence Emerged as the paramount power in northern India, defeating rivals like the Palas and Rashtrakutas
    Capital Kannauj (Mahodaya)
    Military Strength Possessed India’s strongest cavalry, as noted by Arab traveller Sulaiman
    Title Assumed the title of “Adivaraha”; referred to as “King Baura” by Arab travellers
    Religious Affiliation Great follower of Vaishnavism
    Acknowledgment of Supremacy Acknowledged as supreme by various factions, including Arabs of Sindh, Chandalas, and Kalachuris
    Notable Feats Triumph over Pala king Devapala and Rashtrakuta king Amoghavarsha
    Legacy Renowned for his wisdom, military prowess, and patronage of Vaishnavism
    Historical Significance Marked the zenith of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, leaving a lasting impact on Indian history

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements:​

    1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.​
    2. It is the only circular temple built in India.​
    3. I was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.​
    4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building. ​

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 4 only

    (d) 2, 3 and 4 only

  • Lachit Borphukan and his Legend

    Why in the news?

    • The Statue of Valour, depicting Ahom general Lachit Borphukan, has become a significant landmark in Meleng-Hollongapar, Jorhat in Assam.
    • The 125-foot statue commemorates Lachit Borphukan’s leadership in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.

    Ahom Kingdom (1228–1826)

    • Establishment: Founded in 1228 in the Brahmaputra valley of Assam by Chaolung Sukapha.
    • Duration: Retained sovereignty for 600 years until annexed by British India in 1826 (Treaty of Yandaboo).
    • Resistance: Despite facing the Mughal Empire’s power, the Ahom Kingdom remained unconquered.
    • Political Structure: Established a new state by supressing the older system of bhuiyans (landlords).
    • Labor System: Relied on forced labor known as paiks for state functions.
    • Social Organization: Society divided into clans or khels, embracing Hinduism and Assamese language alongside tribal beliefs.
    • Cultural Patronage: Supported poets, scholars, and theater; translated Sanskrit texts into local language; composed historical chronicles called buranjis.
    • Military Strategy: King served as supreme commander; core army comprised of paiks; mastered guerrilla warfare and surprise attacks.
    • Key Forts: Included Chamdhara, Saraighat, and Simlagarh, strategically crucial for defense.
    • River Expertise: Mastered construction of boat bridges on the Brahmaputra River.
    • Legacy: Ahom Kingdom’s military prowess, cultural patronage, and political organization left a lasting impact on Assam’s history.

    Who was Lachit Borphukan?

    • Lachit Borphukan was a legendary military commander from the northeastern region of India, specifically from the state of Assam. Here are some facts related to him:
    Description
    Timeline 1622-1672
    Dynasty Ahom Dynasty
    Mughal Threat Faced the Mughal Empire’s expansion into Assam
    Battle of Saraighat
    • Led Ahom forces to victory against the Mughals in 1671;
    • Defended Assam against the Aurangzeb’s forces led by Ram Singh.
    Leadership Known for strategic brilliance and guerrilla tactics
    Legacy Revered as a symbol of Assamese pride and resistance
    Recognition
    • INS Lachit:  Indian Navy’s guided-missile destroyer named in honor;
    • Lachit Divas:  Celebrated annually on November 24th in Assam;
    • Lachit Borphukan Medal: Awarded to the best cadet from the National Defence. Academy (NDA, Pune).

     

    PYQ:

    [2015]  Who among the following founded a new city on the south bank of a tributary to river Krishna and undertook to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom all the land south of the river Krishna was supposed to belong?

    (a) Amoghavarsha I

    (b) Ballala II

    (c) Harihara I

    (d) Prataparudra II

  • Sangeet Natak Akademi organizes ‘Shakti – Festival of Music and Dance’

    Why in the news?

    Sangeet Natak Akademi is set to host ‘Shakti, a festival of music and dance’ as part of its Kala Pravah series at 7 Shaktipeeths.

    Shakti – Festival of Music and Dance

    Events will be held at:

    1. Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati
    2. Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur, Maharashtra
    3. Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangada, Himachal Pradesh
    4. Tripura Sundari Temple, Udaipur, Tripura
    5. Ambaji Temple, Banaskantha, Gujarat
    6. Jai Durga Shaktipeeth, Deoghar, Jharkhand
    7. Shaktipeeth Maa Harsidhi Temple, Jaisinghpur, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

    What are Shaktipeeths?

    • Shaktipeeths are sacred sites in Hinduism associated with the Goddess Shakti or Devi, the divine feminine energy.
    • According to Hindu mythology, these sites are believed to be where various body parts of the goddess Sati/ Shakti fell to the earth when her body was dismembered by Lord Vishnu’s.
    • There are numerous Shaktipeeths spread across the Indian subcontinent and beyond, each considered highly sacred by devotees of the Goddess.

    Here are some major Shaktipeeths often seen in news:

     

    Temple Place (State/Country)
    Shankari Devi Temple Trincomalee (Sri Lanka)
    Kamakshi Amman Temple Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)
    Shrinkala Temple Pradmunyee (Pandua, West Bengal)
    Chamundeshwari Temple Mysuru (Karnataka)
    Jogulamba Devi Alampuram (Telangana)
    Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh)
    Mahalakshmi Temple Kolhapur (Maharashtra)
    Ekveera Temple Mahur (Maharashtra)
    Mahakaleswar Temple Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
    Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple Pithapuram (Andhra Pradesh)
    Biraja Temple Jajpur (Odisha)
    Bhimeswara Temple Draksharamam (Andhra Pradesh)
    Kamakhya Temple Guwahati (Assam)
    Alopi Devi Mandir Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
    Jwalamukhi Temple Jwalamukhi (Himachal Pradesh)
    Mangla Gauri Temple Gaya (Bihar)
    Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
    Sharada Peeth Sharda, Kashmir (Pakistan Occupied Kashmir)

    About Sangeet Natak Akademi

    • It is the national level academy for performing arts set up by the Government of India.
    • It was set up by the Indian education ministry on 31 May 1952 and became functional the following year, with the appointment of its first chairman, Dr. P. V. Rajamannar.
    • Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, inaugurated it on 28 January 1953 in a special function held in the Parliament House.

    Functions:

    • The academy functions as the apex body of the performing arts in the country to preserve and promote the vast cultural heritage of India expressed in music, dance and drama.
    • It also works with governments and art academies in states and union territories of the country. 

    Awards and fellowships:

    1. Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
    2. Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships (Ratna Sadsya)
    3. Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar
    4. Tagore Ratna and Tagore Puraskar

  • Ikshvaku Period Lead Coins unearthed in Phanigiri

    Why in the news?

    • Telangana’s Department of Heritage has recently unearthed a lead coin hoard belonging to Ikshvaku Period at Phanigiri, a renowned Buddhist heritage site.
    • The coins numbering 3,730 bore an elephant symbol on the obverse and a Ujjain symbol on the reverse.

    Who were the Ikshvaku (225-340 A.D)?

    1. Origin and Rule
    • The Ikshvaku dynasty was a feudatory under the patronage of the Satavahanas.
    • Their capital was located at Vijayapuri, modern-day Nagarjunakonda in Andhra Pradesh.
    • They ruled over the delta of the Krishna and Godavari rivers on the east coast of the Andhra region.
    • They claimed to be descendants of the legendary king Ikshvaku, mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts such as the Rigveda and Ramayana.
    • The dynasty’s founder was Vasishthiputra Chamtamula, who rose to power after the decline of the Satavahana dynasty.
    1. Cultural Affiliations
    • The Ikshvakus were Shaivites and performed Vedic rites, but they also patronized Buddhism, which flourished during their reign.
    • Under the reign of Vasishthi-putra Ehuvala Chamtamula, the Ikshvaku kingdom reached its zenith, marked by the construction of numerous Hindu and Buddhist shrines.
    • Their inscriptions and coins have been discovered at various archaeological sites, including Nagarjunakonda, Jaggayyapeta, Kottampalugu, Gurazala, Rentala, and Uppugunduru.
    1. Decline:
    • Successive rulers, such as Mathari-putra Vira-purusha-datta, Vasishthi-putra Ehuvala Chamtamula, and Vasishthi-putra Rudra-purusha-datta, contributed to the expansion and governance of the kingdom.
    • By the mid-4th century, the Pallavas had gained control of the former Ikshvaku territory, marking the decline of the dynasty.

    About Phanigiri

    • Phanigiri village derived its name from the shape of the hillock, which appears to be like a snake hood.
    • The word Phani in Sanskrit means snake and Giri means hillock.
    • Studies suggest that the village had a vibrant life from 1000 BC to 18th century AD.
    • Phanigiri is believed to be one of the important Buddhist monasteries strategically located on the hilltop, on the ancient trade route (Dakshinapatha) connecting the west and the east coast of the Deccan.
    • Various stages of earlier excavations here discovered Mahastupa, apsidal Chaityagrihas, Votive stupas, pillared congregation halls, Viharas, platforms with staircases at various levels, octagonal stupa chaitya, 24-pillared mandapam, circular Chaitya.
    • Cultural materials included terracotta beads, semi-precious beads, iron objects, Brahmi label inscriptions and holy relic casket.

     

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of Gupta Numismatic Art is not at all noticeable in later times?

  • Rakhigarhi findings to be mentioned in NCERT books

    Why in the news?

    The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has proposed to add information about the DNA analysis of skeletal remains found at Rakhigarhi.

    DNA Findings of Rakhigarhi

    Their key findings include-

    • Debunking of the Aryan Invasion Theory.
    • The genetic roots of the Harappans date back to 10,000 BCE.
    • DNA of the Harappans has continued to exist among the majority of the South Asian population.
    • The study indicates genetic continuity without large-scale immigration.
    • Ancestry was closely linked to Iranian ancestry and not at all to Steppe ancestry.
    • Farming skills have been developed indigenously contrary to prevalent theories that these came with migrants from the Steppes and Anatolian farmers.

    About Rakhigarhi

    • The ancient site of Rakhi-Khas and Rakhi-Shahpur are collectively known as Rakhigarhi, located on the right bank of the now dried up Palaeo-channel of Drishadvati.
    • It is located in the Ghaggar-Hakra River plain in the Hissar district of Haryana.
    • Total seven mounds are located here.
    • The site has yielded various stages of Harappan culture and is by far one of the largest Harappan sites in India.
    • The site shows the sequential development of the Indus culture in the now dried-up Saraswati basin.

    Major findings at Rakhigarhi

    • Findings confirm both early and mature Harappan phases and include 4,600-year-old human skeletons, fortification and bricks.
    • Digging so far reveals a well-planned city with 92 m wide roads, a bit wider than in Kalibangan.
    • The pottery is similar to Kalibangan and Banawali.
    • Pits surrounded by walls have been found, which are thought to be for sacrificial or some religious ceremonies.
    • There are brick-lined drains to handle sewage from the houses.
    • Terracotta statues, weights, bronze artefacts, comb, copper fish hooks, needles and terracotta seals have also been found.
    • A bronze vessel has been found which is decorated with gold and silver.
    • A granary belonging to the mature Harappan phase has been found here.
    • Fire altars structures were revealed in Rakhigarhi.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?​

    (a) Dholavira

    (b) Kalibangan

    (c) Rakhigarhi

    (d) Ropar

  • Lalit Kala Akademi chief’s powers curbed by Culture Ministry

    Why in the news?

    • The Ministry of Culture has restricted the powers of Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) Chairman, V Nagdas, preventing him from taking any administrative actions without prior consultation with the ministry.
    • The directive was issued, citing rule 19(1) of General Rules and Regulations of LKA, empowering the central government to intervene in administrative matters.

    About Lalit Kala Akademi

    Details
    Established 1954

    Inaugurated by then Education Minister Maulana Azad (Based on French Academy)
    Headquarters New Delhi, India
    Founding Legislation Lalit Kala Akademi Act, 1954

    Registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860.
    Type Autonomous Institution under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India
    Objective Promotion and development of visual arts in India
    Functions Conducting exhibitions, workshops, seminars, and research programs

    Granting scholarships, awards, and fellowships to artists

    Publishing journals, catalogues, and other art-related publications

    Collaborating with international art organizations and institutions
    Programs 1.    National Exhibitions of Art

    2.    Rashtriya Kala Mela

    3.    International Exhibitions

    4.    Scholarships, Awards, and Fellowships

    5.    Workshops and Residencies

    6.    Seminars and Conferences
    Key Initiatives Triennale India

    National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

    Art camps and symposiums
    Membership Open to visual artists, art enthusiasts, and art scholars
    Publications 1.    Lalit Kala Contemporary

    2.    Lalit Kala Series

    3.    Annual Reports

    4.    Catalogues and Journals
    Awards 1.    Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowship

    2.    National Awards in various art categories

    3.    Kalidasa Samman
    Gallery Lalit Kala Akademi Galleries in New Delhi and regional centers

     

     

    PYQ:

    2021: Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000 :​

    1.    American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.​

    2.    The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.​

    3.    Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others.​

    Which of the above statements are correct?​

    (a) 1 and 2 only ​

    (b) 2 and 3 only​

    (c) 1 and 3 only ​

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statement about the Lalit Kala Akademi:

    1. It was inaugurated in 1954 by then-Education Minister Maulana Azad.

    2. It is an autonomous Institution under the Ministry of Culture.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Archaeological Survey of India will ‘Delist’ some ‘Lost’ monuments. What’s happening, and why?

    Why in the news?

    Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 “centrally protected monuments” because according to them, they lag in National Importance.

     

    What does the “Delisting” of monuments mean?

    • Delisting means that the monument will no longer be protected, conserved, or maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).  Once delisted, the restrictions on construction-related activities around the monument are lifted. 
    • Legal Mandate: Section 35 of the AMASR Act outlines the process for delisting monuments. It empowers the Central Government to declare, via official notification, that a monument no longer holds national importance, thereby removing its protected status.

    Delisted Monuments: Kos Minar No.13 at Mujessar village in Haryana, Barakhamba Cemetery in Delhi, Gunner Burkill’s tomb in Jhansi district, a cemetery at Gaughat in Lucknow, and the Telia Nala Buddhist ruins in Varanasi.

    Challenges for the Archaeological Survey of India due to “untraceable” monument:

      • Survival issue: Some monuments, especially smaller or lesser-known ones, have been lost over time due to various factors such as urbanization, encroachments, neglect, and construction activities like dams and reservoirs.  
    • Among the 50 missing monuments, 14 had been lost to rapid urbanization, 12 were submerged by reservoirs or dams, and the remaining 24 were untraceable. 
    • Difficulty in Locating Monuments:  This could be due to factors like inadequate documentation, lack of historical records, changes in the landscape, or complete disappearance of the structure.
    • Issue with Preservation and Conservation:  Without knowing the monument’s location, it cannot be regularly inspected, assessed for its condition, or protected from encroachments or other forms of damage.
      • Despite the recognized need for 7,000 security personnel, only 2,578 were deployed due to financial limitations.
    • Therefore, ASI faces challenges in fulfilling this responsibility effectively, especially when dealing with monuments that are untraceable due to historical neglect or lack of resources.

    How many historical monuments have been lost in this way?

    • According to the Ministry of Culture’s submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture in December 2022, a total of 50 out of India’s 3,693 centrally protected monuments were missing.
    • In 2013, a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India highlighted the issue of missing monuments. The report stated that at least 92 centrally protected monuments across the country were missing.  

    Conclusion: The ASI has decided to delist 18 centrally protected monuments that are deemed to have lost national importance. This delisting means these monuments will no longer receive protection or conservation from the ASI.

    Mains PYQs

    Q Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Comment  (UPSC IAS/2018)

     

     

  • Artform in news: Mohiniyattam Danceform

    Why in the news?

    The Kerala Kalamandalam, a deemed university for arts and culture, has unanimously lifted gender restrictions allowing boys for learning Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form.

    About Mohiniyattam

    Description
    Name Meaning Mohini – female enchantress avatar of Vishnu;

    Aattam – rhythmic motion or dance (Malayalam)
    Roots Natya Shastra, ancient Hindu Sanskrit text on performance arts
    Style Lasya Style – delicate, eros-filled, and feminine
    Performers Traditionally women, but men also perform in contemporary times
    Music Includes Carnatic music, singing, and enactment of plays through dance
    Language Manipravalam : a Malayalam-Sanskrit hybrid
    Posture Parted feet, gentle swaying of body, soft footwork synchronized with music beats
    Gestures Follow the classical text of Hastha Lakshanadeepika with elaborate mudras (hand gestures)
    Costumes Plain white or off-white sarees with golden brocade, pleated sheets for freedom of movement, adorned with jewellery
    Accessories Jewellery on fingers, wrists, neck, and ears, ankle bells (for female performers), dhotis and similar accessories (for male performers)
    Makeup Natural with brilliant red lips, tikka (Gobi) on forehead, lined eyes
    Music Various rhythms and compositions in Manipravalam, accompanied by instruments like Mridangam, Idakka, flute, Veena, and Kuzhitalam
    Ragas Rendered in the Sopana Style, a slow melodic style rooted in the Natya Shastra

     

     

    PYQ:

    2012: How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?

    1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.
    2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements about Mohiniyattam is not true?

    1. Mohiniyattam derives its name from “Mohini,” the female enchantress avatar of Vishnu, and “Aattam,” meaning rhythmic motion or dance in Malayalam.
    2. Its roots can be traced back to the Natya Shastra, an ancient Hindu Sanskrit text on performance arts.
    3. Mohiniyattam is characterized by the Tandava style, known for its vigorous movements.
    4. Performances of Mohiniyattam typically include enactment of plays through dance, accompanied by singing and Carnatic music.