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Subject: History

  • Mangal Pandey: A Revolutionary Icon of Indian Independence

    Why in the news?

    It was on April 8th 167 years ago in 1857, Mangal Pandey was hanged.

    Who was Mangal Pandey?

    • Mangal Pandey, born on July 19, 1827, in Nagwa village of the Ballia district in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
    • He belonged to the kingdom of Awadh, which had been treacherously annexed by the British in 1856.
    • At the age of 22, he enlisted as a soldier in the British East India Company’s army, joining the 34th Bengal Native Infantry.

    Recap of his revolutionary activities

    1. Annexation of Awadh
    • The Begums of Awadh had an understanding with the British, and had been abiding by the terms of the agreement.
    • In spite of this, Awadh was annexed, in February 1856, which was greatly resented by the people.
    • Awadh was a region that supplied large numbers of soldiers of war to the Company’s army.
    • There were 75,000 soldiers from Awadh, and almost every agricultural family in the kingdom had a representative in the army.
    • Whatever happened in Awadh was of immediate concern to the Sepoy.
    1. Rise of Resentment
    • The deposition of the Nawab and the confiscation of the villages of taluqdars during the land revenue settlement of 1856 caused outrage.
    • Some 14,000 petitions were received from the Sepoys about the hardships they faced on account of the revenue system.
    • Mangal Pandey represented the discontent that the misery of British rule had brought upon peasant families.
    1. Flashpoint and the mutiny
    • Mangal Pandey was stationed at Barrackpore, near Calcutta (now Kolkata), where he became involved in a significant event that would later be known as the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.
    • He refused to use the newly introduced Enfield rifle, the cartridges of which had a covering that was believed to be made of animal fat (beef and pork), and which had to be bit open before the cartridges could be used.
    • This was viewed by the soldiers as a direct assault on their religious beliefs by the British who intended to bring an end to their religion and propagate Christianity.
    • On March 29, 1857, Pandey mutinied and fired at his Senior Sergeant Major.
    • He was overpowered and hanged on April 8, 1857, by the order of a Court Martial at Lal Bagan in Barrackpore.
    • His regiment was disbanded, like the 19th infantry at Behrampore, for showing resentment.

    PYQ:

    [2019] The 1857 Uprising was the culmination of the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British Rule. Elucidate.

     

  • 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

  • 100 Years of Vaikom Satyagraha

    Why in the news?

    This year April 1st marks 100 years of the Vaikom Satyagraha, in Kottayam, Kerala.

    About Vaikom Satyagraha

    • Vaikom was the epicentre of the Vaikom Satyagraha, which began in 1924.
    • This movement aimed to challenge the ban imposed on marginalized communities from entering the vicinity of the Vaikom Mahadevar Temple in the princely state of Travancore.
    • It sparked similar temple entry movements across India, advocating for the rights of untouchables and backward castes.
    • It introduced nonviolent public protest as a method of resistance in Kerala.

    A Precursor to the Vaikom Satyagraha

    1. Social and Political Developments
    • Backdrop of Social Injustice: Travancore, characterized by feudal and caste-based governance, imposed stringent restrictions on lower castes, denying them entry to temples and public spaces.
    • Emergence of Social Consciousness: By the late 19th century, progressive reforms and missionary activities led to increased awareness and education among lower castes, particularly the Ezhavas.
    • Rise of Educated Elite: Educated individuals from diverse backgrounds, including lower castes, began to challenge social norms and demand equality in opportunities and rights.
    1. Beginning of Agitation
    • Advocacy for Change: Ezhava leader T K Madhavan spearheaded efforts to challenge temple entry restrictions, advocating for direct action to confront discriminatory practices.
    • Influence of Gandhi’s Ideals: Inspired by Gandhi’s principles of non-cooperation, Madhavan sought support from the Indian National Congress (INC) to mobilize a mass movement against untouchability.

    Actual Course of Events

    1. Agitation
    • Leaders such as T.K. Madhavan, K.P. Kesava Menon, and George Joseph spearheaded the agitation.
    • Despite facing resistance and arrests by the police, the Satyagrahis persisted in their protest for over a year, resulting in numerous arrests and jails.
    • Notable figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Chattampi Swamikal, and Sree Narayana Guru extended their support to the movement, which gained nationwide recognition.
    • The involvement of women and support from various regions, including Punjab, highlighted the widespread impact of the Satyagraha.
    1. Suspension:
    • Initially suspended in April 1924 at Gandhi’s suggestion, the movement resumed when attempts to resolve the issue with caste Hindu leaders failed.
    • The absence of leaders like T.K. Madhavan and K.P. Kesava Menon, who were arrested, posed challenges to the movement.
    • V. Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) lent support from Tamil Nadu before also being arrested.
    • The resolution for the right to temple entry faced resistance in the Assembly, thwarted by traditionalist support and government pressure.
    1. Aftermath
    • On October 1, 1924, a procession of Savarnas (forward castes) submitted a petition to the Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai of Travancore, signed by around 25,000 individuals, urging for the temple’s open entry.
    • Gandhi’s meeting with the Regent Maharani and the procession led by Mannath Padmanabhan Nair underscored the growing support for the cause.
    • Eventually, on November 23, 1925, all temple gates were opened to Hindus except the eastern gate, marking a significant victory.
    • The Vaikom Satyagraha laid the groundwork for the temple entry proclamation of Kerala in 1936 and inspired similar movements’ nationwide, promoting social justice and equality.

    PYQ:

    Satya Shodhak Samaj organized (2016):

    (a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar’

    (b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat

    (c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra

    (d) a peasant movement in Punjab

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Vaikom Satyagraha of 1924 was essentially a:

    (a) Temple Entry Movement

    (b) Peasants’ Uprising

    (c) Salt Satyagraha

    (d) Swadeshi Movement

  • 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.

  • Monuments of National Importance (MNI) and their Listing/De-Listing

    Why in the news?

    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments” from its list of Monuments of National Importance (MNI), citing a lack of national significance.
    • ASI currently has 3,693 monuments under its purview, which will fall to 3,675 once the current delisting exercise is completed in the next few weeks.

    What are Monuments of National Importance (MNI)?

    • MNI in India are legally protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958.
    • This act empowers the Centre to declare certain monuments as MNIs through official notifications published in the Gazette of India.
    • It mandates the protection, preservation, and maintenance of MNIs to ensure their integrity and authenticity for future generations.
    • The Act empowers the central government to appoint authorities, such as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), to oversee the protection and management of MNIs.

    Key Features of MNI Protection

    • Prohibited Activities: The Act prohibits certain activities within the precincts of MNIs, such as construction, excavation, and removal of artifacts, without prior permission from the relevant authorities.
    • Designated Zones: Within a 100-meter radius of the monument, construction activities are prohibited to prevent encroachment and damage. An additional 200-meter radius (100 + 200 meters) constitutes a regulated area where construction is subject to specific regulations to maintain the monument’s integrity and surroundings.
    • Maintenance of Records: The Act requires the maintenance of records and registers documenting the history, conservation, and management of MNIs.

    Understanding Monument Delisting

    • Once delisted, monuments are no longer subject to ASI conservation efforts, allowing for regular construction activities in the vicinity.
    • Section 35 of the AMASR Act allows for the delisting of monuments deemed to have lost national importance.
    • The delisting process involves official notifications, with a two-month public feedback period to address objections or suggestions.

     

    PYQ:

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

    1. Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
    2. Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
    3. Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
    4. Varaha Image at Udayagiri

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments”. This essentially implies:

    1. The site will no longer be conserved, protected, and maintained by the ASI.
    2. Activities related to construction and urbanisation in the area can be carried out in a regular manner.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

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

  • 900-year-old Chalukyan Inscription discovered  

    What is the news?

    A 900-year-old Kannada inscription from the Kalyana Chalukya dynasty has been discovered in a state of neglect at Gangapuram, a temple town in Jadcherla mandal, Mahabubnagar, Telangana.

    • The inscription dates back to June 8, 1134 CE (Friday) and was issued by the Customs Officers of Tailapa-III, son of Kalyana Chalukya Emperor ‘Bhulokamalla’ Someswara-III.
    • It records the remission of toll taxes for the perpetual lamp and incense of God Somanatha.

    Who were the Chalukyas?

    Origin and Expansion:

    • The Chalukyas emerged as a prominent dynasty in the 6th century CE, with their capital at Badami in present-day Karnataka.
    • Pulakeshin I, the founder of the dynasty, ascended to the throne around 543 CE and expanded the empire by defeating the Kadambas, Mauryas, and other neighboring kingdoms.
    • Pulakeshin II, one of the most illustrious rulers of the Chalukyan Empire, ascended the throne in 610 CE and significantly expanded its territory through military conquests and diplomatic alliances.
    • The empire reached its zenith under Pulakeshin II, extending its influence over large parts of Southern and Central India, including present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.

    Dynastic Divisions:

    • The Chalukyan Empire witnessed the emergence of multiple dynastic branches, including the Badami Chalukyas, Western Chalukyas (also known as the Later Chalukyas), and Eastern Chalukyas (also known as the Chalukyas of Vengi).
    1. Badami Chalukyas ruled from their capital at Badami and were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and literature.
    2. Western Chalukyas, based in Kalyani (present-day Basavakalyan), continued the legacy of their predecessors and established their dominance over parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra.
    3. Eastern Chalukyas, based in Vengi (present-day Andhra Pradesh), carved out their own kingdom and played a crucial role in the political dynamics of South India.

    Religion and Faith:

    • The Chalukyas were patrons of art, literature, and architecture, fostering a rich cultural environment within their empire.
    • They promoted Hinduism as the dominant religion and contributed to the construction of numerous temples dedicated to Hindu deities, including the famous Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal.
    • The Chalukyas also patronized Jainism and Buddhism, leading to the construction of Jain caves and monasteries in regions under their control.

    Decline and Legacy:

    • The Chalukyan Empire faced internal conflicts, dynastic rivalries, and external invasions, leading to its gradual decline from the 12th century onwards.
    • The defeat of Vikramaditya VI by the Cholas in the 12th century marked the end of the Western Chalukya dynasty, while the Eastern Chalukyas continued to rule in Vengi until the 13th century.

    Administration:

    • The empire was divided into administrative units known as ‘Rashtras or Mandalas’, each governed by a local administrative officer known as a ‘Mandaleshwara’.
    • At the higher levels of administration, provincial governors known as ‘Rashtrakutas’ were appointed to oversee multiple mandalas and report directly to the king.
    • Revenue administration played a crucial role in sustaining the empire, with land revenue being the primary source of income. The empire maintained a sophisticated system of land measurement and taxation to ensure a steady flow of revenue.

    Arts and Culture:

    • Sculpture flourished under the patronage of the Chalukya rulers, with exquisite examples of stone carvings adorning temple complexes and royal monuments.
    • The famous Nataraja sculpture at Pattadakal, depicting Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance pose, is a masterpiece of Chalukyan art.
    • Pampa, a court poet of the Chalukyas, composed the epic poem “Vikramarjuna Vijaya” (also known as “Pampa Bharata” or “Pampa Ramayana”) in Kannada, narrating the story of the Mahabharata from the perspective of Arjuna.
    • The Chalukyan era witnessed the development of classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, as evidenced by sculptures found in temples such as the Mallikarjuna Temple at Pattadakal.
    • Ranna, a prominent Kannada poet of the Chalukyan period, composed the “Ajita Tirthankara Purana,” an epic poem celebrating the lives of the Jain Tirthankaras.

    Architecture:

    • Chalukyan temples are architectural marvels, characterized by their distinctive Dravidian and Nagara styles collectively called the ‘Gadag Style’ .
    • The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal, built by the Chalukyan king Vikramaditya II in the 8th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate carvings and towering gopurams (entrance gateways).
    • Similarly, the Durga Temple at Aihole, dating back to the 7th century, showcases exemplary Chalukyan architecture with its ornate pillars and sculpted panels depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes.

     

    PYQ:

    2019: Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

    1. Chalukya
    2. Chandela
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Vijayanagara

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The ‘Gadag Style’ of Temple Architecture is associated with which of the following dynasties?

    1. Chalukya
    2. Kakatiya
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Kadamba

  • Story of Usha Mehta and the Secret Congress Radio

    Why in the news?

    Who was Usha Mehta (1920-2000)?

    • Usha Mehta was born on March 25, 1920, in Mumbai, India.
    • Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, Usha Mehta became actively involved in the Indian independence movement from a young age.
    • One of Usha Mehta’s most notable contributions to the freedom struggle was her involvement in the radio broadcasting network known as the “Secret Congress Radio.”
    • She was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours in 1998.

    The Secret ‘Congress Radio’

    • On August 8, 1942, the historic Quit India Resolution was passed during the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay.
    • In this response, the idea of an underground radio station, known by various names such as the Freedom Radio, the Ghost Radio, or the Congress Radio, was conceived to counter the British-controlled AIR.
    • Usha Mehta, a 22 YO master’s student at Wilson College, became the voice of the Congress Radio.
    • The radio was an expensive endeavour, but funds were procured through various means, including contributions from Mehta’s colleague, Babubhai Khakhar.
    • Radio engineering expert Nariman Abarbad Printer constructed the Congress Radio transmission set.
    • Their first broadcast was on 14 August 1942.
    • Welcome line in her voice: “This is the Congress Radio calling on 42.34 from somewhere in India.”
    • In the beginning, they were broadcasting twice a day, in Hindi and English. But they reduced it to just once in the evening between 30 and 8.30 pm.
    • On 12th November 1942, the police raided the radio while Vande Mataram was being played and arrested Mehta and others.

    PYQ:

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

    1. Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
    2. Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
    3. Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
    4. Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

     

    2021: With reference to 8th August, 1942 in Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct?

    1. The Quit India Resolution was adopted by the AICC.
    2. The Viceroy’s Executive Council was expanded to include more Indians.
    3. The Congress ministries resigned in seven provinces.
    4. Cripps proposed an Indian Union with full Dominion Status once the Second World War was over

    Practice MCQ:

    In context to the Secret ‘Congress Radio’ in modern Indian history, consider the following statements:

    1. It was established to supplement the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930s.
    2. Usha Mehta was the voice of Congress Radio.
    3. It was broadcasted twice a day, in Hindi and English

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • Nana Jagannath Shankarseth: The ‘Architect of Mumbai’

    Why in the news-

    • The Maharashtra cabinet has resolved to request the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth, a revered social reformer, educationist, and philanthropist often hailed as the “architect” of Mumbai.

    About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth (1803-1865)

    • Born on February 10, 1803, in Murbad, Thane, into the affluent Murkute family.
    • His father, Shankar Murkute, earned the nickname “Shankar Sheth” due to his success in the jewellery and diamond trade.
    • He contributed in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the Bombay City.
    • He was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.

    Contribution of Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

    • Founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse.
    • Played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1853, contributing to India’s infrastructural development.
    • Recognized the importance of education in societal progress and opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform.
    • Co-founded the School Society and the Native School of Bombay, laying the foundation for educational institutions that nurtured future leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
    • Established the Bombay Native Education Society in 1822, the first of its kind in Western India, to promote education among the masses.
    • Collaborated with Sir George Birdwood and Dr Bhau Daji in major reconstruction efforts in Mumbai starting in 1857, transforming the city’s urban landscape.
    • Became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.
    • Honored with a marble statue at the Asiatic Society of Mumbai a year after his death in 1865, commemorating his contributions to society.

     

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:

    Q.The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he-

    1. exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British
    2. interpreted the ancient Indian texts and restored the self-confidence of Indians
    3. stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Q. Consider the following events:

    He founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse. Recognizing the importance of education in societal progress, he opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform. He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.

    The above description is mentioned about which of the following personality?

    a) Gopal Krishna Gokhale

    b) Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde

    c) Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

    d) Dhondo Keshav Karve