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Subject: History

  • In news: Veer Bal Diwas

    veer bal divas

    Introduction

    • The Prime Minister paid homage to the courage and sacrifice of the Sahibzade, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.
    • This day, announced on January 9, 2022, commemorates the martyrdom of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.

    Veer Bal Divas: A Day of Remembrance

    • Inception: Veer Bal Divas was established to honor the young Sahibzade who were martyred at the ages of 6 and 9.
    • Guru Gobind Singh’s Legacy: Guru Gobind Singh, as the tenth Guru of Sikhs and founder of the Khalsa, holds a significant place in Sikh history.

    The Legend of the Sahibzades

    • Meaning of Sahibzada: In Punjabi, “Sahibzada” means “son,” referring to the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh.
    • Sacrificial Week: The week from December 21 to 27 is observed in memory of the Sahibzades’ sacrifices for Sikhism and Hinduism.
    • Martyrdom for Faith: The Sahibzades, Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh, were martyred defending their faith against forced conversion.

    Backstory of Their Martyrdom

    • Khalsa Panth and Anandpur Sahib: After establishing the Khalsa Panth, Guru Gobind Singh left Anandpur Sahib with his family in December 1704 amidst Aurangzeb’s invasion.
    • Capture and Martyrdom: The younger Sahibzades were captured by Subedar Wazir Khan of Sirhind and faced pressure for religious conversion, leading to their tragic martyrdom.
    • Elder Sahibzades’ Sacrifice: The elder Sahibzades, Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh, were martyred in the battle of Chamkaur in 1705.

    Implications and Historical Impact

    • Guru Gobind Singh’s Response: Upon learning of their martyrdom, Guru Gobind Singh wrote the ‘Zafarnama’ to Aurangzeb, declaring the Khalsa’s readiness to challenge his empire.
    • Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s Revenge: He avenged the Sahibzades’ martyrdom, punishing Wazir Khan and establishing Sikh dominance in the region.
    • Emergence of the Sikh Empire: This sacrifice paved the way for the later establishment of a vast Sikh empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

    Significance in Indian History

    • A Watershed Moment: The martyrdom of the Sahibzades is a pivotal event in Indian history, remembered with both respect and sorrow.
    • Legacy in Sikh Tradition: The Sahibzades’ names are honored in the Sikh Ardas, symbolizing their enduring legacy in Sikh faith and history.

  • Goa’s Konsachem Festival and St. Bartholomew’s Feast

    Konsachem

    Central Idea

    • In Goa, August marks the formation of new rice grains, celebrated through the festival of Konsachem.

    Konsachem Festival and Its Traditions

    • Background: Konsachem, observed by Goan Hindus and Catholics, honors the new rice grains, known as konxeo in Konkani.
    • Shared Rituals: The first harvested rice sheaves are taken for blessings – to deities by Hindus and to saints by Catholics.
    • Catholic Celebrations: For Goan Catholics, the festival peaks on August 24, the Feast Day of St. Bartholomew, one of Jesus Christ’s 12 Apostles.
    • Observances: The celebration includes a procession, ritual cutting of grain, and a thanksgiving mass, with offerings made to St. Bartholomew.

    Bartholomew’s Legacy and Christian Faith in India

    • Missionary Journey: Bartholomew is believed to have landed in Kallianpur and preached along the Konkan coast, reaching as far as Karachi.
    • Lesser-Known Apostles: While St. Thomas’s mission in Kerala and Tamil Nadu is well-documented, St. Bartholomew’s contributions in India are less known but significant.
    • Martyrdom and Influence: He is revered for his martyrdom in Azerbaijan and his role in the Christianization of Armenia and Georgia.
    • Pre-Portuguese Christian Origins: Research by scholars underscores Christianity’s roots in India dating back to the Apostles, reinforcing its integral place in Indian faith traditions.

  • Time Measurement and Role of Ujjain in Ancient Astronomy

    ujjain

    Central Idea

    • The newly elected Madhya Pradesh CM asserted that Ujjain, was the reference for world time 300 years ago, before the Prime Meridian shifted to Paris and then Greenwich.
    • For UPSC aspirants, understanding these nuances is essential for a comprehensive grasp of India’s scientific heritage and its global context.

    Time Measurement and Ujjain’s Role

    • Ujjain’s Central Meridian: Before Greenwich’s establishment in 1884, Ujjain was the central meridian for time in India, influencing Hindu almanac calculations.
    • Vedshala Observatory: The Vedshala or Government Jiwaji Observatory in Ujjain offers insights into ancient Indian timekeeping methods.

    Ujjain’s Geographical and Astronomical Significance

    • Surya Siddhanta’s Contributions: This 4th-century astronomical treatise positions Ujjain at the intersection of the zero meridian of longitude and the Tropic of Cancer, highlighting its global importance.
    • Astronomical Landmarks: Ujjain’s location on the Tropic of Cancer, intersecting significant temples, underscores its historical and religious significance in Hindu cosmogony.

    Legacy of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and the Vedshala

    • Observatory’s Origins: Built between 1725-1730 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the Vedshala was inspired by the observatory in Samarkand and predates those in Jaipur, Delhi, Mathura, and Varanasi.
    • Motivation for Construction: Jai Singh’s initiative to educate the country in astronomy was sparked by a debate in the Mughal court over astronomical calculations.

    Ujjain’s Astronomical Heritage and Contributions

    • Center for Ancient Astronomy: Ujjain was a hub for astronomical and mathematical studies, home to scholars like Varahamihira, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskaracharya.
    • Vikram Samvat Calendar: King Vikramaditya’s establishment of the Vikram Samvat calendar around 58–56 B.C. further cements Ujjain’s historical importance.

    Exploring the Vedshala’s Instruments and Functions

    • Yantras and Their Uses: The observatory houses various instruments (yantras) for measuring time, celestial altitudes, planetary motions, and eclipses.
    • Unique Instruments: The Shankhu Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Nadi Valay Yantra, and Bhitti Yantra demonstrate the sophistication of ancient Indian astronomical tools.
    • Taramandel Shows: The observatory also features a planetarium offering educational shows about celestial bodies.

    Ongoing Astronomical Research and Preservation

    • Renovation and Continuation of Studies: Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia of Gwalior renovated the observatory in 1923, ensuring the continuation of astronomical research.
    • Annual Ephemeris Publication: The observatory publishes an ephemeris, detailing the daily positions and movements of planets.

    Conclusion

    • Balancing Historical Pride and Scientific Accuracy: While appreciating Ujjain’s rich astronomical heritage, it’s crucial to distinguish between historical significance and contemporary scientific standards.
    • Insights for UPSC Aspirants: Understanding Ujjain’s role in ancient timekeeping and astronomy offers UPSC aspirants a nuanced perspective on India’s scientific contributions and cultural heritage.
    • Enduring Legacy: Ujjain’s astronomical legacy, exemplified by the Vedshala Observatory, continues to be a testament to India’s historical advancements in science and time measurement.

  • Vipassana: the Ancient Buddhist Meditation Practice

    Central Idea

    • A political leader is set to attend a 10-day Vipassana meditation retreat in Punjab, skipping a summons by the Enforcement Directorate.

    About Vipassana

    Details
    Meaning “To see things as they really are”
    Origin Rooted in Buddhism, attributed to Gautama Buddha, rediscovered and refined by him over 2,500 years ago.
    Historical Roots Preserved in Theravada Buddhism, especially in Myanmar; based on teachings in the “Satipatthana Sutta.”
    Technique Mindfulness or insight meditation focusing on the interconnection between mind and body through physical sensations.
    Practice Observing natural breath and bodily sensations, understanding their impermanent nature, typically taught in 10-day retreats.
    Goal Self-transformation through self-observation, leading to improved mental clarity and insight.
    Non-Sectarian Taught as a universal practice, suitable for all backgrounds.
    Global Spread Popularized globally by S.N. Goenka and others in the 20th century.
    Retreats Offered worldwide, often free of charge, funded by donations.
    Scientific Research Studies show benefits in stress reduction, mental health, and treatment of substance abuse.
    Code of Discipline Includes abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual activity, false speech, and intoxicants during courses.

  • Prehistoric Andriamamelo Cave Art in Madagascar

    Andriamamelo Cave

    Central Idea

    • Unique prehistoric rock art has been found in the Andriamamelo Cave in western Madagascar, marking a first for the island.
    • It reveals pictorial art with nature, human-like, and animal-like figures.

    Andriamamelo Cave Art: Key Features

    • Beyond Basic Symbols: Previously, Madagascar’s rock art mainly featured basic symbols. The new findings depict more complex scenes and figures.
    • Egyptian Religious Motifs: Some scenes bear a resemblance to motifs from Egypt’s Ptolemaic period (300-30 BCE). Major images hint at Egyptian deities like Horus, Thoth, Ma`at, and Anubis.
    • Ethiopian and Afro-Arab Connections: Symbols and writings suggest cultural links to the Ethiopian and Afro-Arab worlds.
    • Borneo Cave Art Style: The art shares similarities with a two-millennia-old cave art style from Borneo.
    • Depiction of Extinct Animals: The art may depict at least three extinct animals of Madagascar, including a giant sloth lemur, elephant birds, and a giant tortoise.
    • Mysterious M-Figures: The ubiquitous M-shaped symbol matches the Amharic alphabet’s “hawt” and is linked to the concept of the “breath of life” in some Austronesian languages.
    • Absence of Modern and Religious Symbols: The art lacks Christian, Muslim, Hindu symbols, and modern motifs, indicating its ancient origins.

    Dating Challenges and Speculations

    • Difficulty in Dating: Direct dating of the cave art is challenging due to the inorganic nature of the black pigment.
    • Estimated Age: The presence of extinct animals and absence of modern symbols suggest the art could be around 2,000 years old.
    • Potential Historical Evidence: The art might provide insights into who colonized Madagascar and when.

  • Guru Teg Bahadur: Martyrdom and Legacy

    guru teg bahadur

    Central Idea

    • PM paid homage to Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, on his martyrdom day, highlighting his bravery, moral integrity, and teachings that foster unity and peace.
    • His sacrifice, especially his defence of Kashmiri Pandits against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s forced religious conversions in the 17th century, stands as a pivotal moment in Indian history.

    Guru Teg Bahadur’s Life and Contributions

    • Extensive Travels: Guru Teg Bahadur, born on April 1, 1621, was known for his extensive travels across India, akin to Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
    • Reviving Sikh Centers: His journeys were instrumental in revitalizing Sikh centers beyond Punjab, setting the stage for the formation of the Khalsa by his son, Guru Gobind Singh, in 1699.
    • Poetic Legacy: A prolific poet, Guru Teg Bahadur’s hymns are an integral part of the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism.
    • Founder of Anandpur Sahib: He founded Anandpur Sahib in 1665, a city of great religious and historical significance for Sikhs.

    Execution by Aurangzeb

    • Protection of Kashmiri Pandits: In 1675, Kashmiri Pandits approached Guru Teg Bahadur for protection against Aurangzeb’s religious persecution.
    • Arrest and Martyrdom: Guru Teg Bahadur was arrested and later executed in Delhi on November 24, 1675, in Chandni Chowk, for refusing to convert to Islam and standing up for religious freedom.
    • Memorials in Delhi: Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib marks the place of his execution, and Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib commemorates the site where his body was cremated.

    Try this PYQ:

    Q.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

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”nyc60iuelx” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Channapatna Toys in Afghan school academics

    Channapatna Toys

    Central Idea

    • Channapatna toys, a traditional craft from Karnataka, India, have become part of children’s academic activities in Afghanistan.

    About Channapatna Toys

    Details
    Location Channapatna, the Gombegala Ooru (Toy-town), about 60 km from Bengaluru, in Ramanagara district, Karnataka, India.
    Industry Over 250 cottage units and around 50 factories dedicated to toy-making.
    History Originated during Tipu Sultan’s reign in the 18th century, influenced by Persian artisans.
    Features – Handmade using traditional techniques

    – Made primarily of Ivory Wood, also sandalwood and mango wood

    – Painted with organic, natural dyes

    – Safe shapes for children (round, blunt edges).
    Recognition Received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2005.

  • In news: Gandabherunda Art

    Gandabherunda Art

    Central Idea

    • Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has secured legal rights for the unique artistic representation of Gandabherunda Art as symbol of their corporate identity.

    About Gandabherunda Art

    Details
    Cultural Origin Ancient motif found in various cultures including Hittites, Egyptians, Sumerians, and Indians.
    Introduction to India Suggested by John Marshall to be introduced by the Shakas (Scythians), but also found in ancient Indian texts.
    Ancient Indian References Appears in Panchatantra, Mahabharata, Panini’s grammar, and Jain texts like Kalpa Sūtra.
    Archaeological Sites Found in Sirkap near Taxila and the Sanchi Stupa.
    Literary Appearances Featured in Buddhist literature and Panchatantra, often symbolizing unity and vigilance.
    Karnataka Temple Sculptures Prominently depicted in Hindu temples in Karnataka, linked to Vishnu’s Narasimha avatar in Narasimha Purana.
    Contemporary Significance State symbol of Karnataka; associated with the Mysuru royal family and the Order of Gandabherunda.
    Historical Usage Earliest depiction in the Mathura art period (1st century CE). Significant use in the Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1646 CE).
    Karnataka Emblem Official state emblem of Karnataka, adopted in 1956.
    Architectural Presence Common in South Indian temple architecture, especially in Karnataka. Notable at the Chennakesava Temple at Belur.
    Symbolism Represents material and spiritual power, strength, and fearlessness.

  • Explained: Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Case

    Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi

    Central Idea

    • On December 14, the Allahabad High Court allowed an application for the inspection of the Shahi Idgah mosque complex, reigniting the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah Masjid dispute.
    • Hindu petitioners assert that the mosque, constructed by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1670, was built over Lord Krishna’s birthplace in Mathura. The mosque is adjacent to the Krishna Janmasthal Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.

    Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi: Latest Legal Plea

    • Nature of the Application: The application is part of a petition initiated by eight individuals including the “next friend” of Bhagwan Shree Krishna Virajman.
    • Survey Approval: Allahabad High Court approved the survey of the Shahi Idgah mosque on December 14.
    • Petition’s Demands: The petitioners seek the removal of structures allegedly encroaching on the disputed land by the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board and the mosque committee, and the transfer of this land to the Shree Krishna Janmbhoomi Trust.
    • Challenge to the 1968 Agreement: The plea contests the legality of a compromise agreement dated October 12, 1968, between the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan and the Trust Shahi Masjid Idgah.

    Historical Background and Claims

    • Aurangzeb’s Alleged Demolition: The Hindu petition cites historical records, claiming Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of Hindu temples, including one at Lord Krishna’s birthplace, to construct the Idgah Mosque in 1669-70.
    • Reference to Official Records: The petition mentions the Official Court Bulletin (Akhbaraat) from January to February 1670 as evidence of Aurangzeb’s orders.

    Counterclaims by the Muslim Side

    • Legal Arguments: Representatives of the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board and the mosque committee argue in the High Court that the mosque does not fall within the disputed 13.37 acres and dispute the location of Krishna’s birthplace.
    • Challenging the Hindu Claims: They assert that the Hindu claims are based on speculation and lack documentary evidence.

    Historical Ownership and Management

    • Land Ownership Changes: The site, originally nazul land, was auctioned by the East India Company in 1815 to Raja Patni Mal of Benaras.
    • Subsequent Transactions: The land was later sold to Jugal Kishore Birla, and the ownership rights were transferred to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust, established by Birla.
    • Temple Management: In 1956, the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Sewa Sangh, later renamed as Sansthan, was established for temple management.

    Parallel with the Gyanvapi Case

    • Similar Legal Proceedings: The Mathura case is comparable to the Gyanvapi Mosque dispute in Varanasi, where a court-ordered survey led to the discovery of a structure claimed as a “shivling” by Hindus and a “fountain” by Muslims.
    • Archaeological Surveys and Legal Challenges: The Varanasi district court’s order for a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque and the subsequent legal hurdles reflect similar developments in the Mathura case.

    Conclusion

    • Continuation of Legal Battles: The dispute, rooted in deep historical and religious significance, continues to unfold through legal channels.
    • Broader Implications: These cases underscore the complexities of addressing historical claims, legal processes, and maintaining communal harmony in the context of religiously significant sites in India.

  • 100 years on, remembering Maulana Azad’s words on Hindu-Muslim unity

    Film on Maulana Abul Kalam Azad set to hit theatres on Jan 18 - DailyExcelsior

    Central idea 

    The article reflects on the legacy of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, emphasizing his commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity and his pivotal role during the Partition era. The author expresses concerns about the current state of unity, citing instances of hate and intolerance, and calls for introspection to preserve the values Azad stood for.

    Key Highlights:

    • The author reflects on the life and contributions of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, focusing on Azad’s commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity and his refusal to sign the Partition Resolution.
    • The article highlights pivotal moments in Azad’s life, emphasizing his dedication to unity and the challenges faced during the partition.

    Key Challenges:

    • The author expresses concern about the current state of Hindu-Muslim unity, citing rising hate and intolerance.
    • Instances of vandalizing Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament are presented as challenges to the values Azad stood for.

    Key Terms:

    • Hindu-Muslim ittehad (unity)
    • Partition Resolution
    • Swaraj
    • Kakinara
    • Kashmir

    Key Phrases:

    • “Over my dead body.”
    • “You are throwing us to the wolves.”
    • “Nehru ki galtiyon ka khamyaza Kashmir ko bhugatna pada.”
    • “Julam dhha le, tu sitam dhha le/ Hamare bhi to din hain aane waale.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “If an angel were to descend from heaven and declare that India would get Swaraj in 24 hours, provided she relinquishes Hindu-Muslim unity, I will answer, ‘Never’.”
    • “Hate is the favored word; expressions like ‘mohabbat ki dukaan’ are sniggered at.”
    • “Our day, too, will come.”

    Anecdotes:

    • The author recalls instances of vandalism against Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament, reflecting the challenges faced by ideals of unity.

    Key Statements:

    • “The angel has descended and made his declaration, but he has been shown his place.”
    • “Indians are being swept by a tsunami of hate.”
    • “Today, I grope about in the endless darkness in which my country has been enveloped.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Mention of Kakinara incident and recent expressions in Parliament.
    • Reference to the filmmaker K A Abbas and his film “Rahi.”

    Key Facts:

    • Azad’s refusal to sign the Partition Resolution.
    • Azad’s pivotal role in advocating Hindu-Muslim unity.
    • Instances of vandalism against Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament.

    Key Data:

    • The time frame: 100 years since Azad’s pivotal speech, approaching 2024.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The author critically examines the current state of Hindu-Muslim unity, expressing concerns about rising hate and intolerance.
    • The article reflects on the impact of political and social changes on the legacy of freedom fighters like Azad.

    Way Forward:

    • The article implies a call for introspection and a renewed commitment to the values of unity, advocating for a more inclusive and tolerant society.