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Subject: History

  • What is the Turner Prize?

    Why in the News?

    • Jasleen Kaur, an Indian-origin artist, was awarded the Turner Prize for her exhibit that pays tribute to her family’s history of migration to Scotland.

    What is the Turner Prize?

    About
    • Named after JMW Turner (1775-1851), known for his dramatic seascapes and innovative use of color and light, it was first awarded in 1984 by Patrons of New Art.
    • It aims to promote interest in contemporary art and assist the Tate Gallery in acquiring new works.
    What makes it special?
    • One of the most prestigious awards in contemporary art, awarded annually by the Tate Gallery to an outstanding British artist.
    • Spotlights new talent and helps lesser-known artists gain international recognition.
    • The winner receives £25,000, and shortlisted artists receive £10,000 each.
    Significance in British Culture
    • A major cultural event in the UK, attracting wide media coverage and public attention.
    • Its controversial nature fuels discussions about the definition of art and the role of contemporary artists.
    • Winning the Prize often defines an artist’s place in British culture, establishing them as a significant figure in the art world.

  • Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival

    Why in the News?

    This year’s edition of the Hornbill Festival has sparked a significant public debate regarding the relaxation of Nagaland’s liquor prohibition law, a subject that has been contentious for over three decades.

    What is Hornbill Festival?

    • The Hornbill Festival is a celebration held every year from 1 – 10 December, in Kohima, Nagaland.
    • The festival was first held in the year 2000.
    • It is named after Indian hornbill (Buceros bicornis), the large and colourful forest bird which is displayed in the folklore of most of the state’s tribes.
    • Festival highlights include the traditional Naga Morungs exhibition and the sale of arts and crafts, food stalls, herbal medicine stalls, flower shows and sales, cultural medley – songs and dances, fashion shows etc.
    • It is a platform for showcasing the major cultural festivals of 14 recognised Naga tribes, each with its unique traditions and practices.
    • About Great Indian Hornbill:
      • IUCN Status: Vulnerable (upgraded from Near Threatened in 2018), CITES: Appendix I
      • Known as great pied hornbill, it is one of the largest hornbill species.
      • Can live up to 50 years in captivity.
      • Primarily fruit-eating, but also preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
      • Revered in many tribal cultures and rituals due to its size and colour.
      • Found mainly in India, especially in the Western Ghats and Nilgiris.
      • Nilgiris North Eastern Range supports some of the highest densities of nesting birds.
      • Known as ‘forest engineers’ or ‘farmers of the forest’, they play a key role in seed dispersal of tropical trees, indicating the health and balance of their forest ecosystems.

    What is the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act 1989?

    • The NLTP Act is a law enacted by the Government of Nagaland that prohibits the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the state.
    • The Act is one of the most stringent liquor prohibition laws in India, and its core features are as follows:
    • Key Features of NLTP Act 1989:
      • Complete Ban on Alcohol: The NLTP Act bans the production, sale, and consumption of all forms of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits. This includes both local (like rice beer) and commercial alcohol.
      • Exceptions: There are some exceptions under the law, such as alcohol being allowed for medical or scientific purposes and in certain regulated settings, like special licenses for non-local tourists during specific events (e.g., the Hornbill Festival).
      • Support from Religious Groups: The Act has received strong support from Christian church bodies, which constitute a majority in the state, as they view alcohol consumption as morally unacceptable and harmful to community life.

    Role of Alcohol in the Hornbill Festival:

    • The Hornbill Festival is often seen as an exception to the state’s liquor prohibition.
    • Thutse (local rice beer) is traditionally consumed during the festival, and according to academic Theyiesinuo Keditsu, the Hornbill Festival is the only time in the year when the state permits the open sale and consumption of alcohol, including Thutse.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?

    (a) Sand deserts of northwest India

    (b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir

    (c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat

    (d) Western Ghats

  • [pib] National Library Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information regarding the National Mission on Libraries (NML) Scheme in Rajya Sabha.

    About National Mission on Libraries (NML):

    Establishment Launched in 2012 by the Ministry of Culture to implement National Knowledge Commission (NKC, 2005) recommendations on library and information sciences development.
    Objectives To modernize public libraries, create a digital database, enhance library staff competence, and promote equitable library access, especially in backward areas.
    Structural Mandate Nodal Agency: Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF), Kolkata to oversee and coordinate efforts. (It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.)

    Key Components:

    1. National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): Digital resources, census of libraries, and reading habit studies.
    2. Model Libraries: 6 Ministry libraries, 35 state central libraries, 35 district libraries, and 629 district libraries with network connectivity.
    3. Library Survey: A survey of 5,000 libraries for infrastructure, resources, and usage data.
    4. Capacity Building: Training programs for improving skills and knowledge of library staff.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful weapon in country’s fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pro and cons of making the database available publicly available under open source licensing.

  • [pib] National Mission on Cultural Mapping  

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided details of the National Mission on Cultural Mapping in the Rajya Sabha.

    About National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM):

    Details
    • Launched by: Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
    • Implemented by: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
    Aims and Objectives
    • Document India’s cultural heritage, including art forms, artists, crafts, and performing arts.
    • Mapping of 6.5 lakh villages across India; Initial stages will focus on Bihar.
    • IT-enabled platform to store and manage cultural data. Web portal and mobile app (Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar).
    Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD):

    • Part of NMCM, by the Ministry of Culture and IGNCA.
    • Purpose: Documents India’s villages, focusing on culture, history, and traditions.
    • 7 Categories: Covers Arts & Crafts, Ecology, Scholastic Traditions, Epics, History, Architecture, and unique features.
    Features
    • Raise awareness about cultural heritage’s role in economic development and national unity.
    • Create National Register of Artists and Art Practices.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Safeguarding the Indian Art Heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.

  • [pib] Maha Kumbh Mela, 2025

    Why in the News?

    The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela will take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.

    [pib] Maha Kumbh Mela, 2025

    About Kumbh Mela

    Details A major pilgrimage and festival in Hinduism, occurring four times in twelve years at different locations in India. It attracts millions of pilgrims for spiritual purification.

    Types of Kumbh Mela:

      1. Kumbh Mela: Regular festival, celebrated every 12 years at one of the four locations.
      2. Maha Kumbh Mela: The largest, celebrated once every 12 years at Prayagraj (confluence of Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati).
      3. Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years in Prayagraj (half of the full Kumbh Mela).
    • Purna Kumbh Mela: Held when a complete 12-year cycle is completed.

    Locations:  Kumbh Mela rotates between four cities:

      1. Haridwar (on the banks of the Ganges),
      2. Prayagraj (confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati river),
      3. Ujjain (on the banks of the Shipra River),
    • Nashik (on the banks of the Godavari River).

    Key Rituals:

    • Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) – A ritual where pilgrims in Akharas (processions) bathe in the holy river.
    • Worship and Prayers – Pilgrims offer prayers along riverbanks, attend spiritual discourses, and perform fire rituals.
    • Religious Processions – Several religious processions involving saints, gurus, and devotees take place.
    • Community Prayers and Spiritual Discourses – Saints and religious leaders conduct spiritual teachings for the devotees.
    Significance and Features  
    • Spiritual Significance: Considered a sacred event for Hindus, aimed at spiritual cleansing, salvation, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth (Moksha).
    • Cultural Unity: It is a remarkable event showcasing India’s unity and diversity, where millions of people from across the world come together.
    • Mass Gathering: It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest peaceful gathering, with millions of pilgrims attending the event. In 2019, Kumbh Mela witnessed the largest peaceful public gathering ever recorded, with around 120 million people.
    • Pilgrimage Tourism – The Kumbh Mela also significantly boosts local tourism, with a major influx of national and international pilgrims, contributing to local and national economies.

    UNESCO Recognition – Kumbh Mela was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2017.

  • [pib] Conservation and Maintenance Work of Protected Monuments

    Why in the News?

    Conservation and maintenance work are being carried out at following places in Karnataka by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

    Key Facts
    Hoyasaleshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Halebidu, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 12th century during the Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvardhana.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Famous for its detailed sculptures, depicting mythological stories, deities, and animals.
    • Hoysala style architecture with a star-shaped platform and intricate stone carvings.
    • Temple is a masterpiece of the Hoysala architectural style, with complex stonework and frieze detailing.
    • UNESCO tentative list for World Heritage status.
    Amrutheshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Amruthapura, Karnataka, near Tarikere.
    • Built in the 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Architectural style reflects Vijayanagara influence with a prominent pillared hall.
    • Famous for its stone carvings, particularly those on the Shiva Linga.
    • Notable for its tank and the beautiful courtyard surrounding the temple.
    • Temple follows the tradition of Chola and Hoysala architecture, with distinct Vijayanagara elements.
    Gol Gumbaz

    		 • Located in Vijayapura, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate as his tomb.
    • Second-largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
    • Acoustic marvel: The dome has a whispering gallery, where sounds can be heard clearly from great distances.
    • The central dome spans 44 meters in diameter and is flanked by four towers.
    • The structure is made of lime mortar and stone.
    • Reflects Deccan Sultanate architectural brilliance, combining Persian, Ottoman, and Indian elements.
    Gomatesvara Temple

    		 • Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
    • Features the 57-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomatesvara), carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD.
    • The statue is the largest monolithic statue in India.
    • A major pilgrimage site for Jains; it commemorates the spiritual enlightenment of Bahubali.
    • The temple complex includes tall steps leading up to the statue, with pilgrims performing a ritual of climbing the steps.
    • Maha Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the statue is anointed with milk, water, and saffron in a grand ritual.
    • The temple and statue are considered an architectural marvel in Jain art and sculpture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    (a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar

    (b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli

    (c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram

    (d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri

  • 5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    Why in the News?

    On Constitution Day (November 26), President Murmu acknowledged the significant role of women members in the Constituent Assembly of India.

    5 Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly

    Name Their Contributions
    Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978) • Co-founded the Women’s India Association in 1917 with leaders like Annie Besant.
    • Advocated for women’s education and rights.
    • Spoke on the Hindu Code Bill and gender equality in the Constituent Assembly.
    • Became the first woman elected to the Madras legislature.
    • After independence, served as India’s goodwill ambassador to countries like Russia, China, and the US.
    Annie Mascarene (1902-1963) • Born in Travancore to a Latin Christian family considered at the bottom of the caste system.
    • Advocated for universal adult franchise and against caste-based voting rights.
    • Joined the Travancore State Congress and fought for political representation of marginalized communities.
    • As a member of the Constituent Assembly, called for a strong Centre and autonomy for local governments.
    • Elected as an independent candidate in 1952 from Thiruvananthapuram.
    Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001) • Hailing from a prominent family in Punjab, she faced resistance for her education, with a fatwa issued against her convent schooling.
    • Fought for women’s rights and opposed separate electorates based on religion.
    • Stayed in India post-partition and joined the Indian National Congress.
    • Elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1952.
    • Helped promote women’s hockey in India.
    Dakshayani Velayudhan (1912-1978) • First Dalit woman to graduate in science and the first Dalit woman in the Cochin Legislative Council.
    • Advocated for nationalism and opposed separate electorates for Dalits.
    • Strongly committed to social justice despite facing discrimination.
    • After independence, remained involved in the Dalit movement and continued advocating for social justice.
    Renuka Ray (1904-1997) • Came from an affluent family with a civil servant father and a progressive mother.
    • Joined the freedom struggle after meeting Mahatma Gandhi in 1920.
    • Advocated for women’s rights, particularly on divorce and inheritance.
    • Represented women’s organizations in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1943.
    • Opposed women’s reservation in legislatures, seeing it as a hindrance to women’s growth.
    • After losing the 1952 elections, returned to politics and worked on women’s empowerment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for:

    (a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
    (b) Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
    (c) Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
    (d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

  • [pib] Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.

    About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):

    About • Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
    • Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
    • Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
    Aims and Objectives • Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
    • Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
    • Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
    • Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
    • Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture.
    Implementation and Structural Mandate • Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
    • Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
    • Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
    • 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015.
    Significance • Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
    • Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
    • Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
    • Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why in the News?

    • On November 25, the Portuguese conquered Goa, establishing first territorial possession in India by any colonists.
      • This marked the beginning of Portugal’s 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended only in 1961, making them the last colonial power to leave India.

    On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why the Portuguese came to Goa?

    • Vasco da Gama’s voyage in 1498 revealed the thriving trade networks in the Indian Ocean.
    • The Portuguese aimed to capitalize on the wealth from the Indian Ocean trade routes.
    • Rivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish a military presence in the region.
      • In 1505, the Portuguese State of India was formally established, six years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival.
    • Francisco de Almeida, the first Viceroy, set up the first base in Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi).
      • The Portuguese controlled the Island of Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.

    How Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa?

    • Albuquerque (Viceroy, 1509-1515) understood that Goa was essential for controlling the maritime trade routes in the East.
    • The decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure, either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Albuquerque’s first attack on Goa (February-March 1510) was largely successful due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule among Goa’s Hindu population.
      • Many locals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan’s rule.
    • After being stranded on the Mandovi River during the monsoon season, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
    • In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque launched a successful attack and retook Goa.

    Who Was Timmayya?

    • Timmayya, a key figure in the conquest of Goa, is described in various sources as a pirate from Malabar.
      • However, other historians argue that he was of noble birth and held a prestigious position in the Vijayanagara Empire.
      • According to historians, Timmayya was actually a high-ranking admiral in the Vijayanagara navy.
    • Though the Portuguese regarded him as a corsair or pirate, he was in fact executing orders from the Vijayanagara Empire, attacking Portuguese and rival merchant ships on his empire’s behalf.
    • While some historians argue that Timmayya’s counsel was pivotal in the timing of the attack on Goa, others suggest that Albuquerque may have already planned the assault, with Timmayya’s advice simply solidifying the decision.

    Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?

    • The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire had long eyed Goa after it was lost to the Sultan of Bijapur.
    • Timmayya’s personal motivations were likely shaped by the empire’s strategic interest in regaining control of the region, as Goa was seen as a valuable territory in both military and economic terms.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:​

    1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.

    2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.​

    3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?​

    (a) 1 only ​

    (b) 1 and 2 only ​

    (c) 3 only​

    (d) 2 and 3 only

  • Guru Tegh Bahadur

    Guru Tegh Bahadur

    Why in the News?

    November 24 is commemorated as the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th guru of the Sikhs, who was executed on the orders of Aurangzeb in 1675.

    Guru Tegh Bahadur: Everything you need to know

    Details
    Who was Guru Tegh Bahadur?
    • Born on April 1, 1621 in Amritsar, Punjab to Guru Hargobind (6th Sikh Guru), Mata Nanaki
      • Death: November 11, 1675, executed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
    • Became 9th Guru (1665 to 1675)
    • Promoted the idea of Nirbhau (fearless) and Nirvair (without enmity) and emphasized the oneness of God.
    • Referred to as ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ (Shield of India).
    What was his historical contribution?
    • Guru stood up for the Hindu Kashmiri Pandits, defending their right to practice their religion against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s oppressive policies.
    • Refused to convert to Islam despite facing torture and persecution, ultimately leading to his execution.
    • Advocated for the principle of one God, rejecting idol worship and preaching about the unity of all religions.
    • Emphasized meditation, self-discipline, moral living, and serving others. He urged Sikhs to remain spiritually committed while defending the rights of the innocent.
    • His hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, with 115 hymns attributed to him.
    • Many Gurdwaras are dedicated to him, including Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, built on the site where he was executed.
    • Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1666.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:

    1. Dadu Dayal
    2. Guru Nanak
    3. Tyagaraja

    Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 2