Subject: Art and Culture

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Culture will formalise partnerships with around 20 institutions under the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a flagship national initiative for manuscript conservation, digitisation, and research.

About Gyan Bharatam Mission:

• Overview: It is a flagship national mission of the Ministry of Culture (GoI) to preserve, digitise, and promote India’s manuscript heritage.
• Launch: Approved as a Central Sector Scheme (2024–2031) with an outlay of ₹482.85 crore.
• Background: Builds upon the National Mission for Manuscripts (2003), which documented over 44 lakh manuscripts.
• Objective: To integrate traditional conservation with modern digital technologies including AI, cloud storage, and blockchain authentication.
• Core Goal: Establish a National Digital Repository (NDR), a unified, globally accessible platform showcasing India’s intellectual and cultural heritage.
• Vision Alignment: Supports Viksit Bharat @2047 and India’s role as a Vishwa Guru in global knowledge preservation.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Scope: Covers identification, conservation, digitisation, translation, and public dissemination.
• Survey & Documentation: Creation of a national manuscript inventory through Manuscript Resource Centres (MRCs).
• National Digital Repository (NDR): Uses AI-based Handwritten Text Recognition (HTR) for searchable digital access.
• Institutional Network: Implements through Cluster Centres and Independent Centres for nationwide coordination.
• Scientific Conservation: Strengthens Manuscript Conservation Centres (MCCs) for preventive and curative preservation.
• Funding Structure: 70% upfront release and 30% post-verification based on measurable outcomes.
• Public Engagement: Promotes youth and researcher participation via Gyan-Setu AI Innovation Challenge.
• Quality Assurance: Ensures accountability through third-party audits, utilisation checks, and review mechanisms.

Why in the News?

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to Laszlo Krasznahorkai, a Hungarian novelist known for his dense, philosophical narratives and apocalyptic vision of modern existence.

About Laszlo Krasznahorkai:

• Overview: Hungarian novelist celebrated for his dense, philosophical, and apocalyptic prose that examines the fragility of modern civilization.
• Background: Regarded as one of Europe’s leading postmodern writers, noted for long, flowing sentences and hypnotic rhythm.
• Themes & Style: His works probe moral collapse, spiritual decay, existential isolation, and the search for meaning amid disorder.
• Literary Voice: Combines dark humor with metaphysical reflection; often set in bleak, decaying landscapes where characters struggle between despair and artistic endurance.
• Recognition: Known as a “writer’s writer”, his art embodies a belief in the redemptive endurance of literature.

Major Works & Adaptations:

• Satantango (1985):  Debut novel portraying a collapsing rural community; adapted by Béla Tarr into a seven-hour film, acclaimed for its realism and existential tone.
• The Melancholy of Resistance (1989): Allegory of hysteria and conformity in a small town; adapted as Werckmeister Harmonies (2000).
• War and War (1999): Follows a Hungarian archivist obsessed with preserving a manuscript symbolising human history; explores madness and transcendence.
• Seiobo There Below (2008): Interlinked stories on art and divinity across cultures; won the 2015 Man Booker International Prize.
• Baron Wenckheim’s Homecoming (2016): Tragicomic portrait of post-communist moral decay; won the 2019 National Book Award (Translated Literature).

Why in the News?

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra, a maestro of Hindustani classical music and Padma Vibhushan recipient, passed away at 89.

About Thumri Music:

• Nature: Thumri is a semi-classical vocal genre of North India known for its emphasis on emotion (bhava) rather than rigid raga structure.
• Origin: Developed in the 19th century under Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Lucknow; later enriched in Banaras, where it absorbed devotional and folk influences.
• Etymology: Derived from thumakna (“to walk gracefully”), reflecting its rhythmic, fluid, and expressive nature tied to Kathak dance.
• Themes: Revolves around Sringara rasa, love, separation, and devotion especially, Radha-Krishna narratives; often sung from a female perspective.
• Language: Primarily in Braj Bhasha, Awadhi, and Hindi, with traces of Urdu and Sanskrit.
• Musical Features:
  • Uses popular ragas like Bhairavi, Khamaj, Kafi and tālas like Dadra and Keherva.
  • Allows improvisation, vocal ornamentation (murki, meend, gamak), and interpretive freedom.
• Forms of Thumri:
  • Bandish-ki-Thumri: Structured composition, rhythmically defined.
  • Bol-Banao Thumri: Lyrical, slow, emotive style allowing deeper expression.
• Major Gharanas:
  • Lucknow Gharana: Courtly refinement and dance association (Begum Akhtar).
  • Banaras Gharana: Devotional Purab Ang tradition (Girija Devi, Rasoolan Bai, Siddheshwari Devi, Chhannulal Mishra).
  • Patiala Gharana: Fast, rhythm-oriented style with tappa influence (Bade Ghulam Ali Khan).

Thumri and Indian Classical Tradition:

• Position in the Hindustani system:
  • Thumri is semi-classical, bridging the gap between pure classical forms (like Khayal and Dhrupad) and folk/dance traditions.
  • It prioritises emotional storytelling over technical display, making classical music accessible to the wider public.
• Connection with Kathak:
  • Thumri complements Kathak dance, aiding abhinaya (expressive gesture) through musical narration.
• Hindustani vs Carnatic contrast:
  • Hindustani classical music (North India) focuses on raga improvisation;
  • Carnatic music (South India) is composition-centric with structured kritis and rigid tala frameworks.
• Cultural Role:
  • Thumri mirrors the fusion of classical, folk, and devotional idioms, symbolising India’s cultural inclusivity.
  • It thrives on the interplay of bhava (emotion), raga (melody), and laya (rhythm)—a trinity central to Indian aesthetics.

Why in the News?

The prehistoric geoglyphs of the Konkan coast may date back as far as 24,000 years, based on new stratigraphic evidence from Koloshi caves in Maharashtra.

About Konkan Geoglyphs:

• Overview: Prehistoric rock engravings (geoglyphs/petroglyphs) carved on laterite plateaus of the Konkan coast (Maharashtra, Goa, southern Karnataka).
• Depictions: Humans, animals (elephants, tigers, rhinos, stingrays, turtles, peacocks), and abstract motifs.
• Technique: Created by scooping, etching, pecking into laterite; grooves 3–5 cm deep, 3–4 cm wide.
• Unique Feature: Unlike painted caves (e.g., Bhimbetka), these are open-air geoglyphs, rare in India.
• Cultural Value: Provide insights into prehistoric ecology, rituals, and transition from hunter-gatherer to agrarian societies.

Important Sites:

• Maharashtra (Ratnagiri–Sindhudurg): Ratnagiri alone hosts 1,500+ carvings across 210 sq. km.
  • Kasheli: Giant elephant (13×18 m), 125+ carvings of sharks, stingrays, rhinos (though locally absent), tigers.
  • Barsu: Human figure flanked by two tigers, resembling Harappan seals. Local are protesting a proposed oil refinery which might demolish this site.
  • Rundhye Tali: Concentric circles, abstract motifs, jellyfish/tiger outlines.
  • Devache Gothane: Standing human figure; linked to magnetic deflection anomaly.
  • Devi Hasol: Snake-like square design (8 m); still part of Aryadurga temple rituals.
  • Jambharun, Ukshi, Kudopi: Faunal + abstract petroglyphs.
• Goa:
  • Usgalimal (Phansaymal): Bulls, deer, spirals, cup marks, grinding grooves.

History and Antiquity:

• Dating: Traditionally ~10,000 years old; new excavations at Koloshi caves push age back to 24,000 years (cultural layers ~38,000 years).
• Continuity: Geoglyph-making persisted till the early historic period, showing ritual and symbolic evolution.
• Ecological Record: Depict species long extinct in Konkan (rhinoceros, hippopotamus), indicating Pleistocene fauna.
• World Context: Compared with Nazca Lines (Peru), Atacama Giant (Chile), and Blythe Intaglios (US) — Konkan geoglyphs are smaller but more intricate and ecologically detailed.
• UNESCO Status: On India’s Tentative List (2022); nomination under preparation for 2027–28 cycle.

Why in the News?

The PM has recently inspected the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal in the Ahmedabad district.

About National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal:

• Location: Lothal, Ahmedabad district, Gujarat, in the Bhal region near the Gulf of Khambhat.
• Developer: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
• Objective: To showcase India’s 5,000-year-old maritime history, especially the role of Lothal as the world’s earliest dockyard during the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Historical Significance of Lothal:
  • Built around 2200 BCE as a major Harappan trade and craft centre for beads, gems, and ornaments.
  • Lothal in Gujarati means “Mound of the Dead”, similar to Mohenjo-daro.
  • Excavated by S.R. Rao (1955–1960).
  • Dockyard confirmed through studies (size: 222 x 37 m), once linked with Sabarmati’s old course.
  • Evidence of Lock Gates and Sluice System to regulate flow of water.
  • Trade connections extended to Mesopotamia and other ancient regions.
  • Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2014); only known port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Features of the Complex:
  • Exhibition halls, maritime park, amphitheater, museum, and research/educational facilities.
  • Will highlight ancient trade routes, shipbuilding traditions, and navigation techniques.
  • Expected to be a major hub for cultural tourism and heritage education.

Why in the News?

The 14th Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli Festival was inaugurated in Manipur.

About Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli Festival:

• Overview: An annual agricultural and cultural festival celebrated in Sirarakhong village, Ukhrul district, Manipur.
• Origin: Began in 2010 to promote the Hathei chilli and its farming traditions.
• Focus: Highlights the Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Hathei chilli, which received GI status in 2021.
• Activities: Involves flag hoisting, Tangkhul Naga cultural events, buyer–seller meets, marketing programmes, exhibitions, and awareness drives on government schemes.

Salient Features of Hathei Chilli:

• Local Identity: Known as Sirarakhong chilli, indigenous to Ukhrul district.
• Cultivation: Grown on slopes under the traditional jhum system.
• Distinct Qualities: Recognised for its bright red colour, unique flavour, and medium pungency.
• ASTA Value: Possesses a high American Spice Trade Association colour value, making it sought after for food colouring.
• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and calcium, with medicinal value.
• Uses: Widely used in cooking, pickles, flavouring, food colouring, and processing industries.
• Uniqueness: Its qualities stem from the soil and climate of Sirarakhong, not reproducible elsewhere.

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed State governments not to process applications for Sikh pilgrims’ visit to Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, for the November 2025 birth anniversary (Parkash Gurpurab) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

About Nankana Sahib:

• Location: Punjab province, Pakistan, near Lahore.
• Historical Significance: Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469). Earlier called Rai-Bhoi-Di Talwandi; renamed Nankana Sahib in his honour.
• Major Shrines:
  • Gurdwara Janam Asthan: Built over Guru Nanak’s birthplace by Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1818–19).
  • Other sites: Gurdwara Patti Sahib, Bal Leela, Mal Ji Sahib, Kiara Sahib, Tambu Sahib, and shrines linked to Guru Arjan (5th Guru) and Guru Hargobind (6th Guru).
• Cultural Relevance: Pilgrimage site for millions of Sikhs globally; integral to the annual Parkash Gurpurab commemorations.

About Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539):

• Birth & Early Life: Born in 1469 at Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib). Enlightened at Sultanpur Lodhi in 1496.
• Teachings: Rejected rituals, caste hierarchy, and idol worship; emphasised devotion to one formless God (Nirankar).
• Core Philosophy:
  • Three Pillars: Naam Japna (remembrance of God), Kirat Karna (honest work), Vand Chhakna (sharing with others).
  • Equality & Justice: Advocated gender equality, social service (Seva), and community dining (Langar).
  • Message: “Ek Onkar Satnam”, Oneness of God and humanity.
• Death: Passed away in 1539 at Kartarpur Sahib (now in Pakistan). Appointed Guru Angad Dev Ji as successor.

Why in the News?

ASI will install a revised plaque at Sarnath, crediting Babu Jagat Singh (1787–88) for uncovering its archaeological importance, rather than British archaeologists.

About Sarnath:

• Location: Near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, at the confluence of the Ganga and Varuna rivers.
• Religious Importance: After enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Gautama Buddha delivered the Dhammachakkappavattana Sutta (First Sermon) here in 528 BCE to five disciples, laying the foundation of the Sangha.
• Key Monuments:

1. 1. Dhamek Stupa (built c. 500 CE, 39 m high, 28 m diameter).
   2. Ashoka Pillar with Lion Capital (India’s national emblem) and Ashoka Chakra.
   3. Chaukhandi Stupa (Gupta era; octagonal tower added in Mughal period).
   4. Mulagandha Kuti Vihar with frescoes of Buddha’s life.
   5. Sarnath Archaeological Museum with the original Lion Capital and Buddhist sculptures.

• Archaeology: Excavations over 200 years, including B. R. Mani (2013–14), show Buddhist activity even before Ashoka.
• Holy Site: One of Buddhism’s Four Holy Places (others: Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Kushinagar).
• Historic Role: By the 7th century CE, Sarnath hosted 30 monasteries and over 3,000 monks, flourishing under Mauryan, Kushan, and Gupta patronage.

Plaque Controversy and ASI Action:

• Current Plaque: Credits Mr Duncan and Col. E. Mackenzie (1798) for exposing Sarnath, followed by excavations by Cunningham, Kittoe, Oertel, Marshall, Hargreaves, and Sahni.
• Jagat Singh Claim: Descendant of Babu Jagat Singh (of Benares ruler Chait Singh’s family) petitioned ASI, arguing he first exposed Sarnath’s remains in 1787–88 during a digging exercise.
• ASI’s Response: ASI confirmed revision; a corrected plaque will be installed soon. Officials noted many pre-1861 plaques reflected British biases.
• Artifacts: Jagat Singh’s digging uncovered a casket with Buddha relics, now partly housed in the Asiatic Society, Kolkata.

Cultural Significance:

• UNESCO Nomination: Officially proposed for the World Heritage List (2025–26 cycle) after 27 years on the tentative list.
• Policy Context: India projects itself as the land of Buddha; recently issued notices to stop auctions of Buddhist relics abroad.