SEBA Class 10 Social Science Chapter 5 in English Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region

SEBA Class 10 Social Science Chapter 5 in English Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region | Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region Class 10 Question Answer | Class 10 Social Science Question Answer in English Chapter 5 As Per New Syllabus to each Chapter is provided in the list of SCERT, NCERT, SEBA Class 10 Social History Part 1 Chapter 5 Question Answer in English/Class 10 Social Chapter 5 Question Answer in English Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region.

Class 10 Social Science Chapter 5 Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region

SEBA Class 10 Social Science Question Answer Chapter 5 Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region। Social Science Guide for Class 10th Chapter 5 in English | Also Same NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social In this post we have tried to explain to you that Class 10 Social Science Question Answer Chapter 5 in English. If you are a teacher or Student of English Medium, then this is for you. Notes for Class 10 Social Science In English Medium can be very beneficial। Ncert/Scert Social Class 10 Chapter 5 Please read this carefully. By studying this SEBA Class 10 Social Science Question Answer Chapter 5 carefully, you can get good marks in your upcoming examination.

Chapter 5 Cultural Heritage of India and North East Region

Part: I History

TEXTUAL EXERCISE & ANSWERS

Very Short Answer Type Questions:

1. What was the Eastern border of the Indus Valley civilization extended upto Ganga Valley? 

Ans: Indus Valley civilization was extended upto Meerut in Ganga Valley.

2. When was the town culture developed during the Indus Valley civilization?

Ans: The town culture was developed during the Indus Valley civilization in 4000 years BC.

3. What was the presumed time of writing of the Rig Veda?

Ans: The presumed time of writing of the Rig Veda was the period between 1500 years BC to 1000 years BC.

4. The term Satyameva Jayate in the National Symbol was taken from which book?

Ans: The term Satyameva Jayate in the National symbol was taken from Mundak Upanishad.

5. Which book did establish the term ‘unity in diversity’?

Ans: Jawaharlal Nehru in his book ‘Discovery of India’ establish the term “Unity in Diversity’.

6. Greek Roman techniques were used in which style of sculptures of India?

Ans: Greek-Roman technique were used in Gandhara style of sculptures of India.

7. What was the name of the famous book on political science written in ancient India?

Ans: The name of the famous book on political science written in ancient India was Kautilya’s Arthasastra.

8. When was the Natyasastra by Bharat Muni written?

Ans: The Natyasastra by Bharat Mani was written between 200 years BC to second century.

9. How many Slokas are there in the Natyastra?

Ans: There are 6000 Slokes in the Natyasastra.

10. What is Heraka movement?

Ans: Freedom fighter Rani Gaidalu launched a movement named “Heraka’ for the revival and preservation of the traditional religious beliefs and cultural heritage of the tribes of Nagaland. 

11. Hornbill festival of Nagaland is based on which name of organism?

Ans: Hornbill festival of Nagaland is based Hornbill bird name of organism. 

12. The traditional festival ‘chapchar kut’ belong to which state?

Ans: The traditional festival ‘chapchar kut’ belong to Mizoram state.

13. What is the meaning of the word Mizo?

Ans: The term Mizo means inhabitants of the hills.

14. Which state of the North East has a matriarchal society?

Ans: Megalaya is the state of the North East has a matriarchal society.

15. What is the main theme of Manipuri dance? 

Ans: The main theme of Manipuri dance were:

(i) the childhood of the saint chaitanya,

(ii) Lord Krishna.

16. What is the ancient name of Assam?

Ans: Pragjyotispur and Kamrup was the ancient name of Assam. 

17. From which Bodo word the name Assam is considered to be derived?

Ans: From the Bodo word ‘ha-chom’ the name Assam is considered to be derived.

18. What is Charyapada?

Ans: Charyapada is the Assamese songs which written during the period from 10th to 14th century.

19. When was the Charyapada written? 

Ans: The Charyapada was written during the period from 10th to 14th century.

20. Under whose patronage did Madhab Kandali translate the Saptakanda Ramayana.

Ans: Under Barahi King Manimanikya patronage did Madhav Kandali translate the saptakanda Ramayana. 

21. Who was the first to introduce prose literature in Assamese?

Ans: Bhattadeva was the first to introduce prose literature in Assamese.

22. Who compose Zikir and Zari?

Ans: Ajan Peer (Sah Milan) composed the Zikir and Zari.

23. Who is Ajan Peer?

Ans: Sah Milan was popularly known as Ajan Peer. He was composed the Zikir and Zari.

24. When did Ajan Peer come to Assam?

Ans: In the 13th century Ajan Peer came to Assam. 

25. When was the stone gate of Da-Parbatia made?

Ans: The Da-Parbatia sculptures was made in 6th century influence by Gupta Sculpture.

26. What was the duty of the Changrung Phukan? 

Ans: Changrung Phukan was an officer of Ahom period, he supervised the construction and measurement of the roads, places, temples, houses etc.

27. Which artist got Padmashree award for the contribution in folk song?

Ans: Pratima Baruah Pande was the artist got Padmashree award for the contribution in folk song.

28. What is the name of the first news magazine of Assam? 

Ans: Arunodoi is the first news magazine of Assam.

29. Which tribe of North East is a part of the Austric ethnic group?

Ans: The Khasis of Meghalaya belong to the Austric ethnic group.

30. Name the writers of the books:

(a) Arthasastra, (f) Kaliya Daman, (b) Hashtividyarnava,  (g) Ramvijoy, (c) Kirtan, (h) Katha Geeta, (d) Naamghosa, (f) Raj tarangini, (e) Chordhora aru Pimpara Goshowa, (j) Bharat Sambhad.

Ans:

Name of the book	Writers
(a) Arthshastra	Kautilya
(b)  Hashtividyarnava	SUKUMAR Barkaith
(c) Kirtan	Sankardeva
(d) Naamghosa	Madhavdeva
(e) Chordhora aru Pimpara Goshowa	Madhavdeva
(f) Kaliya Daman	Sankardeva
(g) Ramvijoy	Sankardeva
(h) Katha Geeta	Bhattadeva
(i) Rajtarangini	Kalhan
(j) Bharat Sambhad	Jawarhalal Nehru

Short answer type questions:

1. Write the names of two foreign communities which came to India after 6th century.

Ans: Greeks and Mughals are the two foreign communities which came to India after 6th century.

2. Name two states used for worshipping and which were discovered during Indus Valley civilization.

Ans: Shivalinga and Pashupati are the two statues used for worshipping and which were discovered during Indus Valley civilization.

3. Mention two contribution of the Austrics to Indian culture.

Ans: The two contribution of the Austrics to Indian culture are:

(i) Cultivation of rice. 

(ii) preparation of raw sugar from sugarcane.

4. How does the geography of India play a role in creating cultural diversity of India?

Ans: The geographical diversity of India also resulted in diversity of the cultural heritage of the people. Some areas of the vast country have fertile land and the communication system is also improved. That is why those areas are economically and culturally advanced. While, on the other hand, some areas do not have these facilities and the people living in such areas have to face a hard life.

5. Write the name of the four Samhitas of the Vedas. 

Ans: The four Samhita of the Vedas are:

(i) Rig Veda.

(ii) Yajurveda.

(iii) Samaveda.

(iv) Atharvaveda.

6. What is written about religions tolerance in the 12th main stone carvings of Ashoka?

Ans: In the 12th main stone carvings of Asoka written about superiority of Emperor Ashoka’s thought of religion. Ashoka always maintained that no one should consider his or her own religion no superior to others.

7. What is multiculturalism?

Ans: The multi-culturalism refers to the respect that different groups of people of the country have for each other’s cultural heritage and traditions.

8. What are the divisions in the ancient Indian Culture? 

Ans: The ancient Indian culture can be divided into two categories:

(i) the big wall painting.

(ii) the smaller painting.

9. Write names of two scientist in ancient Indian.

Ans: The two scientist in ancient India are:

(i) Aryabhatta.

(ii) Barahmihir.

10. Write names of two medical books written in ancient India.

Ans: The two medical books written in ancient India are:

(i) Sarak Samhita and (ii) Susruta Samhita.

11. Write the names of two Moghul emperors to patrinise arts.

Ans: Akbar and Jahangir are the two Moghul emperors to patronise arts. 

12. Write the names of two pictorial books written in ‘Sanchipatin Assam?

Ans: The two pictorial books written in ‘Sanchipat’ in Assam are:

(i) Geet Govinda and (ii) Kumar Haran.

13. Write the name of two painters of Hasthividyarnava.

Ans: The two painters of Hasthividyarnava are: 

(i) Dilbar, (ii) Dosai.

14. What is Jhum Cultivation?

Ans: Jhum cultivation is found in the north-eastern states of India. It is a local name for slash and burn agriculture practised by the tribal people. In this system involves cleaning a piece of land by setting fire or clean fielding.

15. What is Zeng bihu?

Ans: The women of Upper Assam perform the bihu separately in the field. This bihu is called the Zeng bihu.

16. Write two divisions of Ojapali.

Ans: The two divisions of Ojapali are: 

(i) Byash oja and (ii) Sakannani oja.

17. Write names of two philosophers of ancient India.

Ans: The two philosopher of ancient India are:

(i) Kapil and (ii) Patanjali. 

18. Write names of two histories written during the Ahom era.

Ans: The two histories written during the Ahom era are:  

(i) Deodhai history (ii) Tungkhungiya history.

19. Write the names of two homogenous festivals of bihu celebrated lower Assam.

Ans: Deul in Darrang and Baash puja in Goalpara. 

20. What are the main ethnic groups of India?

Ans: The main ethnic groups of India are: 

Arya, Anarya, Mongoliya, Austric, Dravidians etc.

21. Write names of two folk dance of Darrang. 

Ans: The two folk dances of Darrang are: 

(i) Deodhani and (ii) Dhepadhulia.

22. Write three factors that creates unity among cultural diversity in India.

Ans: The three factors that create unity among cultural diversity in India are: 

(i) linguistic (ii) religious (iii) geographical factors.

23. What are the main divisions made for the Indian architectural setup? 

Ans: The main divisions made for the Indian architural setup are:

(i) Mosques (ii) Pillars (iii) Palaces (iv) Makowara.

24. Write names of three architectural setup of India which are declared as world heritage site by the UNESCO.

Ans: The three architectural setup of India which are declared as world heritage site by the UNESCO are:

(i) Sanchi stupa.

(ii) the caves of Ajanta.

(iii) the Taj Mahal.

25. What statues were mainly created in the field of Indian sculptures?

Ans: In the field of Indian sculptures, the people made statues of- (i) Gautam Buddha (ii) Mahavir (iii) different Gods and Goddess of the Hindus. (iv) fairies and (v) even of different animals related to Buddhism.

26. What are the three main styles of Indian Sculptures?

Ans: The three main styles of sculptures are: 

(i) Gandhara sculptures.

(ii) Mathura sculptures.

(iii) Amarawati sculpture. 

27. Name three pictorical books of Moghul age.

Ans: The three pictorial books of Moghul age are: 

(i) Jahangirnama.

(ii) Dastan-e-Amir.

(iii) Khamda.

28. What are the six skills (sorangas) of painting?

Ans: The six skills (sorangas) of paintings are: 

(i) shape (ii) measurement (iii) feelings expression techniques (iv) artistic presentation (v) knowledge of similarity (iv) rule of using brush. 

29. Write about three places of India having ancient wall paintings?

Ans: The three places of India having ancient wall paintings are: 

(i) Maharashtra (Ajanta).

(ii) Madhya Pradesh (Bagh).

(iii) Tamilnadu (Chittanavachal).

30. Write briefly on the culture of yoga in India. 

Ans: Yoga is a traditional Indian culture and it is a gift to the entire humanity. It is believed that the Indian were experts in yoga even during the Indus Valley civilization and it was widely practised during Vedic era. 

This traditional practice was brought into a standard by Maharshi Patanjali by compiling a book called Yogasutra in the second century. He described yoga as a way of physical, mental and spiritual well being. He shaped yoga as a complete way and philosophy of life.

There are ‘Astanga’ Yoga rule in Patanjali yoga system named Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahar, Dharana, Dhyan and Samadhi. Keeping in view the benefits of yoga, the United Nations has declared 21 June as the International Yoga Day. 

31. By what names the first seven day’s of Rongali Bihu are commonly known?

Ans: The first seven day’s of Rangali Bihu are commonly known as: 

(i) Goru bihu (ii) Manuh bihu (iii) Gonsai bihu (iv) Kutum Bihu (v) Chenehi Bihu (vi) Chera Bihu (v) Faat Bihu. 

32. What are the main subject matters of Kamrupi and Goalparia flok songs?

Ans: The main subject matters of Kamrupi and Goalparia folk songs are: the life style of common people, their happiness, sorrows etc.

33. Name the books where the ancient names of Assam-Kamrup and Pragjyotishpur are mentioned.

Ans: The ancient names of Assam-Kamrup and Pragjyotishpur are mentioned as: 

(i) The Ramayana (ii) Mahabharata (iii) Vishnu Puran

Long Answer Type Questions:

1. Write briefly on the source and development of multi-culturalism in India.

Ans: The multi-culturalism refers to the respect that different groups of people of the country have for each other’s cultural heritage and traditions. 

The term ‘unity in diversity’ was made popular by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Abul Kalam Azad, Subhash Chandra Bose and other during the time of freedom movement of India. Nehru in his book, “Discovery of India” also used the term ‘unity in diversity’ and thereby the message was established. Despite the linguistic, religious, geographical and economic diversity, the Indians are tied by a bond of unity. 

Different factors have been acting to create this unity. The multi-culturalism of Hinduism, political unity created by the empires of different ages, religious and cultural generosity of different rulers have also contributed to this unity. The Ramayana and the Mahabharata also united different parts of the country with the main stream of culture. Moreover, the different groups of the country seem to be tied to each other by cultural exchange. The issues creating diversity, in turn, unites the parts in other way.

2. The soul of Indian culture and civilization is regarded to be existed in the Sanskrit literature of ancient India-discuss the meaning of the sentence.

Ans: The old Sanskrit literature of India may be regarded as the soul of Indian culture and civilization.

Indian literature is glorified by some great works like-Vedas, Vedangas, Upanisadas like Brahmana and Aranyak, great epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, Gita and Puranas. Politics related book Kautilya’s Arthasastra, medicine related book Sarak and Susruta Samhita, pure literature of Kalidasa, Sudraka, Banabhatta etc. are some bright examples.

Philosophical works of Kapil, Patanjali, Gautam, Badarayan, Konad, Jaimini, Ramanuj, Madhabacharya, Historical works like Rajtarngini by Kalhan, scientific works by Aryabhatta, Barahmihirm. Brahmagupta, Bhaskarcharya – I and II Maharshi Bharadwaj, Books like Sangam Sahitya of South India are some great works to recognise the persuit of knowledge and taste of literature of the Indians.

These writings truly reflect the ways of life of the people of that time and their values, belief, knowledge in different fields like medical treatment, engineering, science and politics. These books are the result of serious studies, deep insight and tireless intellectual exercise by the great personalities of that time. These writings also played a great role in shapping the Indian society and brought about a cultural unity.

Likewise, concepts of transmigration, liberation (mokshya), heaven and hell, sin-virtue etc also popularised by this books. 

Some universal message like Satyameba Jayate’ from Mundak Upanisad. ‘Ahimsa param dharma” from Mahabharata, ‘Janani Janmabhumischa Swargadapi Gariyashi’ from Ramayan, ‘Basudhaiba Kutumbakam’ from mohopanisad etc. have been the base of Indian value system. 

‘Om osoto maa sadgamaya, tomoso maa jyotirgamaya, mrityurmaa amritamgamaya’ has great influence on Indian psyche.

These writtings in Sanskrit were later into other Indian language. Great values of these books have been followed in the Indian families heirarchically in terms of group singing (Nam-kirtan), customs and tradition etc. The teaching of these books have been applied by the people as the values of life.

3. Write about religious tradition in India.

Ans: At the time when the Arya culture was expanding in India, the social and religious tradition of different areas were also assimilated. As a result, the root of the Aryan culture began to transform. In the holy books like the Samhita, Brahman, Aranyak, Ramayana and Mahabharata, Upanisada and those written in the later stages like the puran, Smriti, Vedangas etc., these transformation can be witnessed.

During the Indus valley civilization, diverse ways of worshipping could be seen and various Deiteis (Gods) and Godnesses were worshipped by the people. But at the same time belief in one supreme power (God) also existed in Vedic system. Similarly, the ancient religious tradition of India accepted the principle of tolerence, co-existence and assimilation among new traditions or religions. They also respected reforms, change, even arguments in own beliefs. The religious beliefs in India also added new ways of worshiping over the years and there was no conflict between the Hindus and those following the Buddha and Jain religions. The kings also accepted religious tolerance and Emperor Ashoka had always maintained that no one should consider his or her own religion as superior to others.

Rather, people should follow a path of unity by acquiring essence of other religions. This message of Asoka was found in the No. 12 main stone writing of Girnar of 3rd century BC. This message bears the oldest witness of religious tolerance of Indian rules. 

In later stages, people of different religions like Christian, Islam, Jew, etc. entered India. In addition to those main religions, there are a huge number of local ethnic religious faiths practised in India. 

Apart from religious difference and co-existence, the spirituality greatly influences the social life, culture and civilization of Indian people. The impact of the religious faiths can be seen in the culture, traditions literature, art, sculpture, architechture, music, dance, painting, morality, values, rituals, festivals and lifestyle of the people of India.

The invasion by the Parsi in the sixth century BC, followed by the invasions by the Greek, Suk, Hum, Turki-Afghan, Portugues, Moghul, Dutchm, French, British etc. also had an impact on Indian culture. Many of these people stayed back permanently in India and enriched the Indian culture.

4. Write how the common and separate identity of the North-East is developed. 

Ans: The term North-East was coined by the British rulers of India. The states of region-Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Trupura, Meghalaya and Assam, each has traditional and distinctive cultural heritage and political history.

At the same time, the states of the region have some common feature and giving recognition to that, the Government of India has formed the North Eastern Council. However, Sikkim is also included in the North Eastern Council.

The North-eastern region has got a different common identity due to its unique geographical boundary.

The fertile Brahmaputra and Barak Valley plain being in the middle, the other states have been distributed in the north, south and east. The region is again surrounded by the foreign countries Bhutan, China, Myanmar and Bangladesh. All neighbouring states are hilly. Due to this type of natural setting, Assam is used by all the states as the central place for comfortable transport connection.

It is believed that a civilization grew in the Brahmaputra valley even in the pre-historic days, but writing history is available after the Barman rulers assumed power in the 4th century. The rulers of the neighbouring states sometimes expressed their subordination of sometimes obeyed to the rulers of the powerful royal families of assam in different times.

Information on above relationship between the neighbouring states during the region of Ahom royal families (1228-1826 AD) is found in the histories written in that age. The ruling families had ties with each other through marriage and during the times of crisis, the kingdoms helped each other with military might. Communication was set up among the kingdoms through messengers (dut). Barter of different items also took place between kingdoms. Thus unity and integrity among the people were set up.

5. Write briefly about the religious environment in the North-East. 

Ans: During the British days, the Missonaries started expanding Christianity in the North East, particularly in the hill states, while, the Hindu religion established roots in the area during ancient times. Hinduism was expanded in Manipur and Tripura in ancient times. The several tribes of the region still follow the Animist traditions.

For example, some tribes of Arunachal Pradesh follow the Hindu, Christian and Buddha religions but at the same time they also worship Doney Polo, that is their popular Deities, the Sun and the Moon.

Hornbil is one of the most popular festivals in Nagaland and it is celebrated in the first ten days in the month of December where all the tribes showcase their traditional and rich cultural heritage. As the Nagas believe the bird hornbil to be sacred, the festival is named after the bird.

Freedom fighter Rani Gaidalu launched a movement named ‘Heraka’ for the revival and preservation of the traditional religious beliefs and cultural heritage of the tribes of Nagaland. 

Majority of the Maitei people of Manipur are followers of Chaitanya’s cult. The impact of Vaishnava religion is seen in their rich cultural heritage. Songs, dances and musical instrument’s influenced by Vaishnava religion are seen among the Manipuris. The Manipuri classical Dance from developed mainly on the basis of the childhood of the saint Chaitanya, Lord Krishna etc. is recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademy, Govt. of India. Some of the people of Manipur still follow the Animist way of life.

Majority of the people of Tripura are Hindus and impact of Bengali culture is seen in the state. However, the culture of Tripura is a mixed culture enriched with the elements of various tribes.

The Khasi, Garo and Jayantiya people of Meghalaya started following Christianity from 1830 and now more than 70 percent people of the state are Christians.

6. Assam has a mixed culture due to assimilation of Aryan and non Aryan culture discuss briefly this aspect. 

Ans: According to Dr. Venkata Rao there are 61 major tribes and innumerable smaller tribes in Assam. Since the beginning the composite society of Assam consisted, on the one hand, of the caste Hindus claiming lineage from the Aryans, and on the other, the various non-Aryan tribes. In that society the tribal people formed the majority, while the Aryan settlements were like the islands in the ocean. There are vast differences among the tribes mainly in terms of languages/dialects dresses and costumes, habitations, food-habits in everything. Each and every tribe has its own and separate language/dialect, even the language of every village of the Nagas are different. It is said that there are altogether 47 spoken languages/ dialects among them.

There is no doubt about the fact that the known history of the Assamese society and culture is the manifestation of the collective efforts and achievements both of the Aryans and the non-Aryan elements. The Assamese language made its progress and development by absorbing the vocabulary of the various tribes and ‘Assamese culture enriched itself by assimilating many of the cultural traits and ethos prevailing among the numerous tribes.

Thus it is seen that the Assamese language, literature and culture have never been tree from the influence of the various tribal languages dialects and cultures. The survival of the Assamese language, literature, and culture is never possible without the survival of the various tribal languages/dialects and cultural forms and attitudes.

7. Write briefly on the heritage of paintings in Assam. 

Ans: Paintings in Assam started to take proper shape from the 17th century on wards mainly with the patronage of the kings, while the pictorial books were developed in the satras like small pictured books of North India.

Most famous pictorial books of that time include Hastibidyarnava, Ananda Lahari, Chitra Bhagawat, Geet Govinda, Kumor Haran, Sankhachur Badh, Lava Kushar Yuddha etc, written on Sanchipat.

The multi-coloured pictures were drawn with natural colours. A certain colour was painted on the Sanchipat first, then pictures of kings, palaces, deities, animals etc. were drawn as per the demand of the subject matter. The blank spaces were filled with flower, cripples etc. The colours mostly used were red, green, yellow and black. The book Hasthividyarnava written by Sukumar Borkaith had huge number of pictures of elephants of different sizes and colours. The pictures in the book were drawn by two artists named Dilbar and Dosai, Later, several of those books were published in print.

8. Write about religious unity and diversity in Assam.

Ans: (i) Majority of the people of Assam are Hindus. They are followed by people following Islam, Christian, Jain, Buddha, Sikh and other religions. 

(ii) The people following Hindu religion in Assam can be broadly divided into those following “Sakta”, “Shaiva”, “Vaishnav” and “Sourya” cults.

(iii) There are several Saktipithas in Assam. Among those the Kamakhya. temple in the state is famous all over the world. The neo Vaishnavite movement resulted in a large number of people of the State following Vaishnavism.

(iv) Trace of Islamic religion was first found in Assam in the 13th century. Poa Macca in Hajo is a holy place of Islamic people.

(v) The Zikir and Zari written by Ajan Peer (Sah Milan) are popular religious songs. Ajan Peer came to Assam during the reign of Gadadhar Singha.

(vi) During the invasion of the Burmese (Mans), Ranjit Singh of Punjab sent a group of Sikh soldiers to assist Ahom King Chandrakanta Singha. Some of them stayed back in the state and though their descendants now follow the Sikh religion, they have become Assamese by accepting Assamese culture. 

Some of the people living in the eastern part of the state including Tai Phake, Turung, Aitan, Khamti, Khamyang, Nora (Shyam), etc. follow Budhha religion. The Ahom kings followed a secularist outlook and they patronised for setting up places of worship of different religions. 

9. Why did cultural diversity, assimilation and change are taking place more rapidly in Assam than the other states of the region?

Ans: Among the states of the North East region, Assam has the most varied cultural traditions and mixture of cultures.

Assam is rich in natural resources and the fertile land, particularly in the Brahmaputra valley added to the richness of the state. At one point of time, Assam was connected with China by great Silk. Route, while, China was connected to the Roman Empire through Assam. From ancient times, different groups of people came to Assam for various reasons- for doing business, for pilgrimage and even as invaders and some stayed back in the state.

As already mentioned that the main ethnic groups of people in India are also found in Assam and the process of cultural assimilation also happened in Assam as occured in India, As a result, a mixed culture was developed in Assam with the integration of Arya and Anarya. 

The old name of Assam was Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup. These names are found in old writings including the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vishnu Puran, Kalika Puran, Yoginitantra, writings of Hiuen Tsang and even in the inscriptions of ancient Royal families. These two Sanskrit words have connected Assam to the Hindu mythology or Hindu astrology Noted scholar Banikanta Kakati was of the view that the words Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup originated from similar words in the Austric language. The Ahoms ruled the state from the 13th century. 

Some experts opined that the name Assam (Asom) emerged from sanskritization of the words ‘a-cham’ and ‘ha-chom’ used by the Ahom and the Bodo people respectively.

10. Really the society is like a book for studying the folk culture- provide your views on this issue. 

Ans: The society is like a book for studying the folk culture.

Assam has a very rich cultural heritage. In addition to the common cultural heritage, every tribe and sub tribes have their own rich traditional cultural heritage. Every tribe has its own dialects, folk-literatures, ornaments, food habits, housing culture, agriculture, fishing culture, various festivals, style of using cane & bamboo, family & social relationships, customs and traditions, dresses, music, traditional musical instruments etc. The natural feelings and expressions of a society or community is reflected by its folk culture. 

These traditional cultures practised for years are acquired by the people without any formal training. But a person can understand the tradition of other’s culture through special observation only. Of late, the social scientists have shown keen interest in the traditional folk cultures of different groups of people of the world.

11. Write shorts notes on:

(i) Sculptures of ancient India.

Ans: Sculptures of ancient India: The Indian sculpture reached the pinnacle of glory during the ancient days and right from the days of Indus Valley civilization, beautiful eye catching sculptures were made. Ancient sculptures were made with soils, stones. bronze, copper, silver and gold etc.

The sculptures of ancient India made in own style were also mounted with foreign designs. Among those sculptures some statues were simple, straight and unproportional and others were of proportionally bifurcated, trifurcated and quadrifurcated styles.

The feelings of the people like peace, comfort, anguish were reflected in the faces of the statues. Several statues of this kind crafted with micro artistic hands are found in different parts of India. The people made statues of Gautam Buddha, Mahavir, different Gods and Goddesses of the Hindus, fairies and even of different animals related to Buddhism.

The animal statues crafted on the top of the Ashoka Pillars are closely related to Gautam Buddha’s life and these are important elements of Indian culture. Several kings of ancient era patronized the art of making of these sculptures.

The sculptures of ancient India can be broadly divided into three major categories, Gandhara, Mathura and Amarawati sculptures. The Gandhar sculptures were developed mainly in North-West Pakistan and East Afghanistan. It had been a living sculpture form 1st century BC to 7th century. A number of Buddha statues were made by the practitioners of the Gandhar style and Greek-Roman style was also used to build several Buddha statues. 

The Mathura style, though developed by itself, was also influenced by the Gandhar style and this style reached its peak during the Gupta era.

The Amerawati style was practised for about 600 years from the 3rd century BC. Mainly Satbahanas patronized this art form. Indian sculpture got declined during medeaval period.

(ii) Indian Paintings.

Ans: Indian Paintings: The paintings of ancient India can be broadly divided into two categories- (i) the big wall paintings (ii) the smaller paintings.

The smaller paintings were used mostly in the books for decoration and Pictorial description. Paintings were made in both styles on the walls of Ajanta (Maharashtra), Bagh (Madhya Pradesh), Chittanavachal (Tamilnadu), Armamalai (Tamilnadu) caves based on the subject matters of Buddha, Jain and Hindu religions. Among these, Ajanta Cave paintings are world famous. 

From about 10th century, smaller paintings were done on the barks of Sanchi tree (Sanchipat), silk cloth etc. in places like Assam. Rajasthan, Orissa (Odisha), Mysore (Karnataka), Tanjore etc.

In the 1st century B.C. itself, the culture of six skills (suranga) of painting was started. This includes (1) shape, (2) measurement, (3) feelings expressing techniques (4) artistic presentation, (5) knowledge of similarity and (6) rule of using brush. These skills were first applied in wall paintings and later on in smaller paintings also. Colours were made from turmeric, sindur, earth worm etc. natural objects and the paintings were multicoloured.

Recently the evidence of painting culture in Parsi style of Sultanate era has been discovered. In Moghul era, mass culture of smaller paintings were done as patronised by Akbar, Jahangir and Sahjahan. This was mainly done in the biographies of Moghul emperors. Among pictorial books of that time the important ones were, Padsahnama, Tutinama, Jahangirnama, Dastan-e- Amir, Khamda etc. Parsi style of painting was also used in the pictorial descriptions of Hindu religious books like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The painting of Moghul era were done on the subjects like portrait of Kings. Darbars, war wining, hunting, garden, flower, animals etc. and these were found very skillful.

(iii) Traditional of songs and dance of India.

Ans. Traditional of songs and dance of India: India has a rich cultural heritage in music. The slokas of Sam Veda were read like song by the priests named ‘Udgata’ for the appeasement of the deities. In later stage, ‘Udgata’s were divided into various groups depending on their changing styles of singing of slokas.

The Mentor-disciple (Guru-sishya) tradition in classical music is still prevalent in India as a strong tradition. This tradition reached a high standard during Moghul period. Along with the music, different types of musical instruments were invented to accompany classical and folk music. Among those instruments shehnai, tabla, santur, sitar, beena, flute, dhol, taal, nagara, mridanga, khol, nupur, sharinda, dotara etc. were important.

These musical instruments are still popular India and certain classical instruments like sitar, flute. beena, tabla etc. are becoming more popular abroad. 

Like music, dances have also a rich tradition in India. Of the hundreds of traditional dances in the nook and corner of the country, eight dances have been recognised by the Govt. of India as the Indian Classical Dance forms. These are: Kathakali (Malayalam, Kerala) Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Bharatnatyam (Tamilnadu), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh). Odissi (Odisha) Kathak (Northern India), Manipuri (Manipur) and Satriya (Assam).

The Natyashastra by Bharat Muni was written between 200 BC to second century. In the Natyashastra, different rules of drama, music and dances were outlined in around 6000 slokas.

 (iv) Sculptures of Assam.

Ans: Sculptures of Assam: A huge number of sculptures are seen mainly on the temples in Assam. Some of these are two-dimensional wall statues and others are three dimensional complete statues. The, sculptures were made of stones as well as with elephant trunk, gold, silver, copper and wood etc. The sculptors mostly made sculptures of different deities like Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, Surya etc. while, sculptures of lion, sun, elephant, horses, etc. are also seen. 

Examples of beautiful sculptures of Assam can be seen in places like Da-Parbatia in Tezpur, Bamuni Pahar, Madan Kamdev, Ambari, Dabaka, Surya Pahar, Borganga, Numaligarh, Deopani, Hojai, Dibrugarh, Sukreshwar. Paglatek of Goalpara, Mangoldoi etc. Through the Ganga Yamuna statue in the stone gate of Da-Parbatia is smaller in size, from the artistic view point it is well appreciated. The Da-Parbatia sculpture were made in 6th century influenced by Gupta sculptures.

(v) Architecture of Assam.

Ans: Architecture of Assam: Majority of the old architectures in Assam were constructed in the middle age and in the patronage of the Ahom and Koch kings.

The famous of the architectures of that time including Rong Ghar, Kareng Ghar, Talatal Ghar and a number of temples built by the Ahom kings still bear testimony to the architecture of that time.

The most famous of the temples constructed during that time include Kamakhya, Ugratara, Umananda, Shiva Doul, Joy Doul, Devi Doul, Fakua Doul, Haygrib-Madhab temple of Hajo, Sukreswar-Devalaya Temple, Shiva temples in Dergaon and Bishwanath, Navagraha etc. temples. The temples were commonly of Nagara or Vesara style. The architectures of that time were made with stones and, bricks.

The construction of the multi-storied Talatal Ghar was started by Ahom King Rudra Singha and it was later completed by Rajeshwar Singha and the kings following him. The Rong Ghar was constructed in two storied form for enjoying celebration of the Bihu festival in the courtyard. The roof the Rong Ghar was made in the style of a play-boat (Khel-nao). A number of stone bridges were also constructed during the time of the Ahom kings. Of those, the bridges at Namdang, Darika and Dinjoy are still being used.

In Ahom period, one indigenous type of concrete (pulp) was made by mixing eggs, rice (Bora), cat fish etc. materials for framing the bricks. There was an officer called Changrung Phukan to supervise the construction and measurements of the roads, palaces, temples, houses etc. The histories written on the activities of the Changrung Phukan is called the Changrung Phukans history.

(vi) Vaishnavite literature of Assam.

Ans: Vaishnavite literature of Assam: The Vaishnavite movement launched by Sankaradeva and Madhabdeva in the 15th century influenced the life of the people of Assam in all aspects. This religious movement had a major impact on Assamese literature and a lot of poetry, songs, prose, charit puthi, drama etc. were written during that time. The main subject matters of these literary works were Ramayana, Mahabharata, Purana, theories of Hindu religion etc. Sankaradeva and Madhabdeva themselves wrote a number of classics. Sankardeva’s Kirtan, Madhabdeva’s Namghosha and the Borgeets of both the gurus were most popular among these.

The plays (Ankiya Naats) of Sankardeva- Patniprasad, Kaliya Daman, Keli Gopal, Rukmini Haran, Parijat Haran, Ram Bijay, Dadhi Mathan of Madhabdeva and his Jhumuras Chordhara and Pimpara Guchowa etc. are presented before huge gathering of spectators at Namghar and Satras. The first naat (drama) Chihnajatra of Sankardeva was even written and staged before Shakespeare’s drama. The famous textile design of Sankardeva the Brindabani Bastra was a magnificent creation of the Assamese weavers. This textile design has been preserved in British museum and in a few other famous museums in parts.

After Sankardeva and Madhabdeva, prominent writers like Bhattadeva, Ananta Kandali, Ram Saraswati and other kept up the tradition of Assamese literature. The real Assamese prose writing was first introduced by Bhattadeva with his writings like Katha Geeta, Bhagawat Katha, Ratnawali Katha etc.

Staying away from the ambit of the Sankari style of writing, writers- like Pitambar Kavi, Durgabar Kayastha, Su-kabi Narayandeva, Mankar and others also enriched Assamese literature. They composed story based on lyrics like Devi Manasaa, Padmaa, Sati Beula etc. The “Padya Geeta” written by Govinda Mishra born in 16th century still widely popular.

(vii) Folk songs of Assam.

Ans: Folk songs of Assam: Assam has a rich tradition of folk songs, which are sung on different occasions and in different environments. Some of these have been obsolete and others are flowing with force. Marriage songs (biya naam), appeasing song (nisukani geet) Kamrupi and Goalparia folk songs are most popular among other folk songs like Aainam, Dhainaarm, Dotara (tokari) song, chiyageet, Nangeli geet (cow-boy song), cherradhek etc.

A number of folk song artistes of the state including Khagen Mahanta, Rameswar Pathak and Pratima Baruah Pande have been honoured with the Sangeet Natak Akademi awards, while, Pratima Baruah Pande, a prominent Goalparia folk song artiste was also awarded the Padma Sree by the Government of India.

(viii) Religious unity in Assam.

Ans: Religious unity in Assam: Majority of the people of Assam are Hindus. They are followed by people following Islam, Christian, Jain, Buddha, Sikh and other religions.

The people following Hindu religion in Assam can be broadly divided into those following “Sakta’, “Shaiva”, “Vaishnav” and “Sourya” cults.

There are several Saktipithas in Assam. Among those the Kamakhya temple in the state is famous all over the world. The neo Vaishnavite movement resulted in a large number of people of the State following Vaishnavism.

Trace of Islamic religion was first found in Assam in the 13th century Poa Macca in Hajo is a holy place of Islamic people.

The Zikir and Zari written by Ajan Peer (Sah Milan) are popular religious songs. Ajan Peer came to Assam during the reign of Gadadhar Singha.

During the invasion of the Burmese (Mans), Ranjit Singh of Punjab sent a group of Sikh soldiers to assist Ahom King Chandrakanta Singha. Some of them stayed back in the state and though their descendants now follow the Sikh religion, they have become Assamese by accepting Assamese culture.

Some of the people living in the eastern part of the state including Tai Phake, Turung, Aitan, Khamti, Khamyang. Nora (Shyam), etc. follow Budhha religion. The Ahom kings followed a secularist outlook and they patronised for setting up places of worship of different religions.

(ix) Historical literature of Assam.

Ans: Historical literature of Assam: The histories written under the patronage of the Ahom kings also enriched Assamese literature. First those were written in the own language of Ahoms, but from the 16th century onwards, those were written in Assamese language also. During the British rule, a number of such histories were restored, preserved and printed. Those include Deodhai history, Tungkhungiya history, Kachari history, Jayantiya history, Tripura history. Padya history, Padshyah history etc. The modern Assamese language evolved after the American Baptist Missionaries published the first Assamese magazine Arunodoi in 1846. Gradually, the Assamese literature was influenced by various styles and characteristics of European literature.

(x) Bihu festival.

Ans: Bihu festival: Along with the Bihu festival and the Bihu git, Kamrupia and Goalpara folk songs are the richest repositories of the folk culture of Assam. The powerful and healthy manifestation of the folk culture remains preserved there. Folk culture has reflected the various facets of the life and living pattern of the toiling masses- the cultivators and the workers.

The exact date of the origin of the Bihu festival it can easily be surmised that it had been there since long time past before the advent of the Ahoms to Assam. Some scholars would like to identify some similarity between the Bihu dances with a sculptural specimen found near Tezpur belonging to the 9th century A.D. Bihu festivals are observed thrice in the Assamese calendar year-in the month of Bohag, Kati and Magh.

Of all the Bihus, the festival of the month of Bohag is full of festivity. This Bihu is closely connected with Bihu git, Bihu dance, and Husari, and hence its popularity. As it is observed during the springtime, the people naturally found themselves in a festive mood. The springtime is also the time for sowing seeds of various crops in the field. Bihu Git and Bihu dance are closely connected with a primitive ritual or magic for turning the earth capable of bearing fruits.

The Bihu festival is not of Aryan origin; it is rooted in tribal moorings. The people of the Bodo tribes called the Bihu as ‘Baisagu’. In the like manner, the Mishings called it the ‘Ali Ai Lrigang’ and the Lalung ‘Bahagi Utsab’ or ‘Bahagi Mela’. 

The Bihu festival was not popular amongst the caste Hindus specially the Brahmins of Assam, The members of the Assamese middle class of the later period like Haliram Dhekial Phukan, Gunaviram Baruah, Kamalakanta Bhattacharyya, and Budhindranath Dilihiai Bhattacharyya made. unpalatable comments on the Bihu festivals and Bihu songs and dance. However, Bihu was extremely popular amongst masses of the people in the medieval period.

Multiple Choice Questions

Choose the correct answer:

1. Of the following tribal groups the one belonging to the Austric language is-

(a) Naga. 

(b) Kashi. 

(c) Karbi. 

(d) Adi. 

Ans: (b) Kashi. 

2. The author of ‘Naam-Ghosha’ was-

(a) Madhabdeva. 

(b) Sankardeva. 

(c) Damodardeva.

(d) Bhattadeva. 

Ans: (a) Madhabdeva.

3. ‘Geet Gobinda’ was translate into Assamese by- 

(a) Ram Narayan Chakraborty. 

(b) Dandev Suryakhare. 

(c) Sukumar Barkaith. 

(d) Peetambar Kabi. 

Ans: (a) Ram Narayan Chakraborty. 

4. Arthasastra was written by-

(a) Kalidas. 

(b) Rajtarangini. 

(c) Kautilya. 

(d) Bhattadeva.

Ans: (c) Kautilya. 

5. The Natsyashastra was written by- 

(a) Kalidas. 

(b) Bharat Muni. 

(c) Kautilya. 

(d) Madhav Kandali. 

Ans: (b) Bharat Muni. 

6. Which one of the following Indian Classical Dance forms is of Andhra Pradesh?

(a) Kathakali. 

(b) Bharatnatya. 

(c) Kuchipudi. 

(d) Odissi. 

Ans: (b) Kuchipudi. 

7. Which Ahom king started the construction of multistoried Talatal Ghar in Assam?

(a) Rajeshwar Singha. 

(b) Chakradhwaj Singha. 

(c) Chandrakanta Singha. 

(d) Rudra Singha. 

Ans: (a) Rajeshwar Singha. 

Very short questions and Answers:

1. When was the developed civilization formed in the Sindhu Valley. 

Ans: Around 4000 BC, a developed civilization was formed in the Sindhu valley.

2. Where was the Indus Valley civilization formed?

Ans: The Indus valley civilization was formed in the Sindhu valley. 

3. Who were the main architects of the Sindhu civilization?

Ans: Dravidians were the main architects of the Sindhu civilization.

4. Which period is started to be the Vedic era? 

Ans: The Vedic era started after the fall of the Sindhu civilization around 1500 BC.

5. Name the oldest written religious book.

Ans: The Rig Veda was the oldest written religious book. 

6. Which period is considered to be the pre-vedic era?

Ans: On the basis of the time of the writing of the oldest written religious book, the Rig Veda, the period between 1500 BC to 1000 BC is considered to be the early-vedic era or pre vedic era.

7. Which period is considered to be the later-vedic era?

Ans: The period between 1000 BC to 600 BC is considered to be the later vedic era.

8. When was the Arya culture extended to the entire India?

Ans: The Arya culture extended to the entire India by 400 BC.

9. Who were the main architects of the vedic culture?

Ans: A group of Nordies were the main architects of the vedic culture.

10. What does the Nordies speak?

Ans: Nordies speak the Aryan language.

11. Write names of two Upanishadas in ancient India?

Ans: The two Upanishadas in ancient India are: (a) Brahmana and (b) Aranayak. 

12. Name two great epics in ancient India? 

Ans: The two great epics in ancient India are:

(a) Ramayana and

(b) Mahabharata.

13. Name the political related book in ancient India? 

Ans: The political related book in ancient India was Kautily’s Arthasastra. 

14. Name two medicine related book in ancient India?

Ans: The two medicine related book in ancient India are: (a) Sarak Samhita and (b) Susruta Samhita.

15. Name the Historical related book in ancient India? 

Ans: The Historical related book in ancient India are Rajtarangini by Kalhan.

16. Which book established the term ‘Ahimsa Param Dharma’? 

Ans: Mahabharata established the term ‘Ahimsa Param Dharma’.

17. Which book established the term Janani Janmabhumischa Swaragadapi Gariyasi? 

Ans: Ramayan established the term ‘Janani Janmabhumischa swargadai Gariyasi.

18. Which book established the term ‘Basudhaiba Kutumbakam’?

Ans: Mohonipanishad established the term ‘Basudhaiba Kutumbakam.’ 

19. Which day has the united Nations declared as the International Yoga Day? 

Ans: The united Nations declared June 21 as the International Yoga Day.

20. When did the Barman Bansha was formed?

Ans: In the 4th century.

21. Who worship Doney polo?

Ans: Some tribes of Arunachal Pradesh worship Doney polo.

22. Where is the festival Hornbill celebrate?”

Ans: The festival Hornbill is celebrate in Nagaland.

23. Who raised ‘Heraka’ movement?

Ans: Freedom fighter Rani Gaidalu.

24. What is the soul system of Meghalaya?

Ans: Meghalaya has a matriarchal society.

25. What does the word ‘Mizo’ mean?

Ans: The term Mizo means inhabitants of the Hills.

26. How was assam connected to china?

Ans: Assam was connected to china through the great Six Route.

27. Who wrote Saptakanda Ramayana?

Ans: Madhab Kandali wrote Saptakanda Ramayana.

28. Name the first Drama of Shankardeva.

Ans: Chinhajatra is the first Drama of Sankardeva.

29. In which year the first Assamese magazine Arunodoi was published?

Ans: The first Assamese magazine Arunodoi was published in 1846.

30. When the Islamic religion migrated to Assam?

Ans: Trace of Islamic religion was first formed in Assam in the 13th century.

31. Write the name of holy place of Islam in Assam?

Ans: Poa Macca in Hajo is the holy place of Islamic people.

32. Who wrote Hastibidyarnava?

Ans: Sukumar Borkaith wrote Hastibidyarnava. 

33. Name the Chansung Phukan’s history.

Ans:The histories written on the activities of the Changrung Phukan is called the Changrung Phuknan’s history.

34. From where Ajan Fakir came to Assam? 

Ans: Ajan Fakir came to Assam from Bagdad.

35. What was the real name of Ajan Fakir? 

Ans: The real name of Ajan Fakir was Sah Milan.

36. ‘Chapehar Kut’ is the traditional festival of which state?

Ans. Mizoram.

37. Name one popular ojapali performer from Darang? 

Ans. Lalit Chandra Nath/Kinaram Nath.

38. Which tribe of North East is a part of the Austrian ethinic group?

Ans. The khasi of Meghalaya belong to the Austrian ethinic group.

39. What are the main theme of Manipuri dance?

Ans. The childhood of the Saint Chaitanya, Lord Krishna are the main theme of Manipuri Dance. 

40. Who was the first to introducing prose literature in Assamese?

Ans. Bhattadev was the first to introduce prose literature. 

41. Which artist got Padmashree Award for the contribution in folk song?

Ans. Pratima Baruah Pande.

42. What do the Naga consider the bird hornbill?

Ans. The Naga consider the bird hornbill to be Sacred.

43. Who compiled the book ‘Yogasutra”?

Ans. Patanjali. 

44. Which book established the term ‘Ahimsa param Dharma’?

Ans. Mahabharata established the term Ahimsa Param Dharma. 

45. Name the Historical related book in ancient India? 

Ans. Rajtarangini by Kalhan.

46. The Government recognised classical Dance form of Tamil Nadu is-

Ans. Bharatnatyam.

Short Type Questions and Answers:

1. How far the Sindhu Civilization extended?

Ans: Around 4000 BC, a developed civilization was formed in the Sindhu valley. This civilization included major towns including Harappa Mahenjodaro and it was extended from Sindhu Valley to Meerut in Ganga Valley. 

2. Give a brief account of the religious aspect of Indus Valley civilization.

Ans: The people of Indus Valley used to worship Shiva, Sun, Cow, Power etc. 

4. What were the major books written in the post Vedic era?

Ans: The major books such as- Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, Atharva Veda as well as the Upanishada and Aranyak were written in the post vedic era.

5. Who were the main architects of the vedic culture? 

Ans: The main architects of the vedic culture were a group of Nordies who spoke the Aryan language. 

6. Name the various groups of people entered India and started staying in the country.

Ans: The various groups such as:

(a) the Drivers of Mediterraneans and the Nordic Aryans.

Along with other groups such as: 

(a) the Proto Australoids, 

(b) Negro, 

(c) Austries, 

(d) Mongoloids, 

(e) Western Brachcephalic groups of people entered India and started staying in the country.

7. Write the contribution of Austric towards Indian culture? 

Ans: The main contribution of Austric towards Indian culture are: 

(a) Cultivation of rice, 

(b) Preparation of molasses from sugarcane, 

(c) Making cloths from cotton etc.

7. Name two main characteristics of Indian culture?

Ans: The two main characterisites of Indian culture are:

(i) Multi-culturalism,

(ii) Unity in diversity.

8. What is Multi-culturalism?

Ans: The Multi-culturalism refers to the respect that different groups of people of the country have for each other’s cultural heritage and traditions.

9. Define the term ‘Unity in diversity’?

Ans: The term ‘Unity in diversity’ was made popular by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Ábdul Kalam Azad, Subhash Chandra Bose and others during the time of freedom movement of India. Jawaharlal Nehru in his book ‘Discovery of India’ also used the term ‘Unity in Diversity’ and thereby the message was established. 

10. Write names of three authors in ancient India?

Ans: Kalidas, Sudraka, Banabhatta etc. were the others in ancient India.

11. Name some philosophers in ancient India?

Ans: Kapil, Patanjali, Gautam, Badarayan, Konad, Jaimini, Ramanuj. Madhabacharya were some philosopher in ancient India.

12. What were the various types of architecture that was seen during the Sultanate and Badshahi era?

Ans: During the Sultanate and Badshali era, we get to see at last four types of architecture, those are: 

(i) Mosques (Masjids), (ii) Pilars (Minars), (iii) Palaces(Manjils), (iv) Makowara.

13. The sculptures of ancient India can be broadly divided into three main categories. What are they? Discuss.

Ans: The sculptures of ancient India can be boradly divided into three major:

(i) Gandhara (ii) Mathura (iii) Amarawati.

The Gandhara sculptures were developed mainly in North-West Pakistan and East Afghanistan. It had been a living sculpture from 1st century BC to 7th century. A number of Buddha statues were made by the practitioners of the Gandhar style and Greek-Roman style was also used to build several Buddha statues.

The Mathura style, though developed by itself, was also influenced by the Gandhara style and style this reached its peak during the Gupta era. 

The Amarawati style was practised for about 600 years from the 3rd century BC. Mainly Satbahanas patronized this art form.

14. Name the caves where the paintings were made based on the subject matters of Buddha, Jain and Hindu religions.

Ans: The caves like:

(i) Ajanta (Maharashtra), (ii) Bagh (Madhya pradesh) (iii) Chittanvachal (Tamilnadu), (iv) Armanmalai (Tamilnadu) were painting based on the subject matters of Buddha, Jain and Hindu religions. 

15. In which places of India the smaller printings were drawn?

Ans: About 10th century, smaller paintings were done on the barks of Sanchi tree (Sanchipat), Silk cloth etc. in places like (i) Assam, (ii) Rajasthan (iii) Orissa (iv) Mysore (Karnataka) (v) Tanjore etc.

16. What are the six skills/Saranga incorporated in the painting in the 1st century BC.?

Ans: The six skills/saranga incorporated in the painting in the 1st century BC were: 

(i) Shape (ii) measurement (iii) feelings expressing techniques (iv) artistic ,presentation (v) knowledge of similarity and (vi) rule of using brush.

17. How the colours were prepared for drawing in the 1st century BC.? 

Ans: In the 1st century BC the colours were made from turmeric, sindur, earth worm etc. natural objects,

18. Name some pictioral Books of the Mughal era.

Ans: Some pictorial Books of the Mughal era were:

(i) Padshahnama (ii) Tutinama (iii) Jahangirnama (iv) Dastan-e-Amir (v) Khamda etc.

19. On which subject the printings Mughal era were done?

Ans: The paintings of Moghal era were done on the subject like portrait of kings, Darbars, war wining, hunting, garden, flower, animals etc.

20. Mention the different musical instrument invented to accompany classical and folk music.

Ans: The different types of musical instrument were invented to accompany classical and folk music. Among these instrument were – shehnai, tabla, Santur, Sitar, beena, flute, dhol, taal, nagara, mridanga, khol, nupur, sharinda, dotara etc.

21. What is ‘Udgata”?

Ans: Udgata are the slokas of Sam Veda that was read like songs for the appeasement of duties by the priests.

22. Name the dance that have been recognised by the Government of Indian as the Indian classical forms?

Ans: The dance that have been recognised by the Government of India as the Indian classical forms are:

(i) Kathakali	Malayalam/Kerala
(ii) Mohiniyattam	Kerala
(iii) Bharatnatyam	Tamilnadi
(iv) Kuchipudi	Andhra Pradesh
(v) Odessi	Odisha
(vi) Kathak	North India
(vii) Manipuri	Manipur
(viii) Satriya	Assam

23. In which writings the old name of Assam was Pragjyotishpur has been found?

Ans: The old name of Assam was Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup. These names are found writings including 

(i) the Ramayana (ii) Mahabharata, (iii) Vishnu Puran (iv) Kalika Puran (v) Yoginitantra. (vi) writings of Hiuen Tsang and even in the inscription of ancient Royal families.

24. What is the origin of the name ‘Assam’.

Ans: The Ahoms ruled the state from the 13th century. Some experts opined that the name of Assam (Asom) emerged from sanskritization of the words ‘a-cham’ and ‘ha-chom’ used by the Ahom and the Bodo people respectively.

25. In Assam, who created literature in poem from by translating Purana and other ancient Indian epics? 

Ans: In the 14th century in Assam created literature in poem form by translating Purana and other ancient Indian epics were:

(i) Hem saraswati (ii) Rudra Kandali (iii) Haribar Bipra (iv) Kaviratna Saraswati and (v) Madhav Kandali.

26. What was the subject matter of literature of 15th century? 

Ans: In the 15th century, the main subject matters of literary works were-Ramayana, Mahabharata, Purana, theories of Hindu religion etc.

27. Name some ‘Ankiya naats’ by Sankardeva?

Ans: Some of the Ankiya naat’ written by Sankardeva are:

(i) Patniprasad (ii) Kaliyadaman (iii) Keli Gopal (iv) Rukmini Haran (v) Parijat Haran and (vi) Ram Bijoy etc.

28. Name two ‘Ankiya naat’ written by Madhabdeva?

Ans: Jhumuras, Chordhora and Pimpara Guchowa.

29. Name some prominent writers who kept up the tradition of Assamese literature after Sankardeva and Madhabdeva.

Ans: After Sankardeva and Madhavdeva, some prominent writers such as (i) Pitambar Kabi (ii) Durgabar Kayastha (iii) Su-Kabi Narayandeva (iv) Manbar etc.

30. Write some Historic of Mediaval period?

Ans: Some historic of Mediaval period are as follows:

(i) Deodhani history, (ii) Tungkhungiya history (iii) Kachari history (iv) Jayantiya history (iv) Tripura history (vi) Padya history (vii) Padshyah history etc.

31. What are the various cults of the Hindu Religion in Assam?

Ans: The various cults of the Hindu religion in Assam are: 

(i) Sakta cults (ii) Shaiva cults (ii) Vaisnav cults (iv) Sourya cults.

32. Name some people living in the eastern part of Assam follow Buddha religion.

Ans: The people living in the eastern part of Assam including Tai Phake, Turung, Aitan, Khamti, Khamyang, Nora etc. 

33. Name some famous pictorial books of Assam.

Ans: Some famous pictorial books of Assam are: 

(i) Hasthividyarnava (ii) Ananda Lahari (i) Chitra Bhagawat (iv) Greet Govinda (v) Kumar Haran (vi) Sankha chur Bodh (vii) Lava Kushar yudha etc.

34. Name some places in Assam where we find beautiful sculpture. 

Ans: Some places in Assam where we find beautiful sculpture are:

(i) Da-parbatia- Tezpur, (ii) Bamuni Pahar, (iii) Madan Kamdeva-Guwahati, (iv) Ambari, (v) Dabaka, (vi) Surya Pahar, (vii) Borganga, (viii) Nomaligarh, (ix) Deopani, (x) Hojai, (xi) Dibrugarh, (xii) Sukreswar (Guwahati), (xiii) Paglatek (Goalpara), (xiv) Mangoldon,

35. Name some historical movement and temples constructed with due patronage of the Ahom and Koch king?

Ans: The historical movement and temples constructed with due patronage of the Ahom and Koch King are:

(i) Kamakhya (ii) Ugratara (m) Umananda (iv) Siva Doul (v) Joy Doul (vi) Devi Doul (vii) Fokua Doul (viii) Haygrib Madhab temple (ix) Sukreswar devalaya (x) Siva temple in Dergaon and Biswanath (xi) Navagraha temple etc.

Mountain likes (i) Rong Ghar (ii) Kareng Ghar (iii) Talatal Ghar etc. 

36. What are the various folk song of Assam?

Ans: The various folk songs of Assam are:

(i) Marriage songs (Biya naam), (ii) Appeasing songs (Nisukani geet), (iii) Aainaam, Dhianaam, (iv) Dotara (Tokari) songs, (v) Chiyageet, (vi) Nangeli geet (cow-boy-song), (vii) Cherradhek etc.

37. Write two divisions of Ojapali? Discuss.

Ans: The two divisions of Ojapali are: (i) Byash Oja and (ii) Sukannani Oja. The stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata are sung in Byash, while in Sukannani, story in sung for appeasement of Manasa Devi 

38. In which district of Assam Ojapali is more popular?

Ans. Ojapali is more popular in the district of Kamrup, Nalbari, Barpeta and Darrang. 

39. Name the Ojapali performed who were awarded the sangeet Natak Akademi awards.

Ans: Lalit Chandra Nath and Kinaram Nath.

40. Name some popular folk dances of Darrang districts. 

Ans: Some popular folk dances of Darrang district are: 

(i) Dhepadhulia.

(ii) Bordhulia and 

(iii) Deodhani.

41. Name some popular folk dances of lower and upper Assam? 

Ans: Lower Assam: (i) Mohoho, (ii) Bhortal dance (ii) Thiya naam (iv) Ojapali etc.

Upper Assam: (i) Dhulia Ojapali and (ii) Jhumur etc. 

42. Mention two contribution of the Austric to Indian culture?

Ans: The two contribution of Austrics culture are:

(i) use of Sindoor in religions work, 

(ii) use of turmeric in food.

43. Write names of two Philosopher of ancient India?

Ans: Two philosopher of ancient India are:

(i) Madhavacharjee and 

(ii) Ramanuj.

44. What is the name of the language of Andhra Pradesh?

Ans: The language of Andhra Pradesh is Telegu.

45. What is folk culture? Give examples of folk culture of Assam?

Ans: Folk culture has reflected the various facts of the life and living pattern of the toiling masses the cultivators and workers.

For example, Bihu festival and Bihu geet (Kamrupta and Goalpara folk songs) 

46. What is the popular name of Baikunthanath Bhagawati Bhattacharya.

Ans: The popular name of Baikuntha nath Bhagwati Bhattacharya is Bhattadev.

47. Write the different terms used by any three major tribes of Assam in line of ‘Bihu festival’

Ans: (i) People of Bodo tribes called Bihu as ‘Baisagu’

(ii) Missing called it Ali-Aye-Lrigang.

(iii) Lalung called it Bohagi-Utsab,

48. Mention two popular literary works of Bhattadeva. 

Ans: Katha Bhagavat and Katha Gita.

Long Type Questions and Answers:

1. Comment upon the contribution of Bihu to the Folk culture of Assam. 

 Or

Briefly discuss the contribution of Bihu to the Assamese Society.

Ans: Bihu is the community festival of Assam. Three bihu festivals are observed in Assam- Bohag (Rangah) bihu, Kati (Kongali) bihu and Magh (Bhogali) bihu are observed in the months of Bohag (Baishag), Kati (Kartik) and Magh respectively.

Bihu is celebrated by all people of Assam with traditional gaiety. The Bohag Bihu is celebrated from the last day of Assamese month of Sot (Chait) to the first six days of Bohag. The last day of the Sot month is called the Sankranti or Domahi and that day is observed as “Garu bihu” (bihu festival for the cows).

Cow are an important part in the life of the Assamese people, who. mostly depend on agriculture and that is why the day is dedicated in the name of cows. Cows are specially treated on that day. On that day, cows are given a good bath in the rivers and ponds. The first day of the month of Bohag is called “Manuh bihu” (bihu for the human). People wear new cloths on that day and the younger ones seek blessings from the elders.

Different sports and cultural activities are organized in public places, Bibu naam (Huchari) followed by bihu dance are performed by the group of people in all houses. The hosts welcome them and seek blessings. The women of Upper Assam performed typical Jeng bihu. Different communities of Assam observe Bahag bibu with their own style in the befitting manner Bodo Rabha, Karbi, Missing, Deuri; Tiwa etc. communities have different dresses, songs customs to observe bihu in a very colourful manner. The vast Assamese culture means these multicolour cultures of all ethnic groups of people. The people also greet each other with “Bihuwans’ Different tribes of the state also observe Bihu with their own traditional ways.

Kati Bihu is observed on the last day of Assamese month of Ahin. People observe fasting in the day and light lamps under Tulsi and in paddy fields in the evening. Sky lamps (Akash Banti) are also lit in the paddy field. Bodo people lit lights under Cactus (Siju) tree with holiness. Some religious faiths are also associated with these traditions. 

Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu is celebrated on the last day of the Assamese month of Push. The day before the Bihu is called Uruka. People construct bhelaghar (temporary hut made of bamboo, straws etc) and meji in fields and community feasts are organized near those on the night of Uruka. In the morning of the day of Bihu the mejis are set on fire and people take blessings from the God of fire. People also prepare different traditional snacks, sweets, jalpan etc. in the festival and receive guests. During the time of Magh, all types of food become available. The Magh bihu is cPPalled ‘Bhogali’, because people observe this festival with heavy food enjoyment, i.e. bhoga.

Various festivals are observed in different parts of India, which are similar to Bhag, Magh and Kati bihu festivals of Assam. A cultural assimilation of different tribes and communities is reflected in bihu festivals of Assam.

2. Give an account of the development of Assamese literature during the Ahom period.

Ans: Literature has been the principal element in the cultural history of people. As in other parts of the country, in Assam too literature has created the tradition of a composite culture. Originally, the early Assamese literatures were produced in the Kamrupi language/dialect prevailing in Kamrup. The Ahoms recognized the script of this language as the Assamese script. With the growing acceptance of this language amongst the people the literatures of the medieval period created their literatures in this language under the patronage of the Kachari, Jaintia and Koch kings Towards the end of the 13th century Hem Saraswati and Harihar Bipra penned their narrative poems in Assamese under the patronage of Durlav Narayan, the king Kamrup-Kamata. By the end of this century or the beginning of the 14th Madhav Kandali wrote the Ramayana in Assamese under the patronage of Mahamanikyapha, the Lalung king of central Assam (Nowgong).

One important feature of the cultural life of medieval Assam is the origin of the historical literature. The tradition of writing history first in the Tai-Ahom language and then in Assamese had begun in the Brahmaputra valley under the initiative of the Ahoms. It is known for certain that the procedure of keeping written records of political events, accounts of the king and royal family, details of conquests and expansion of territory, the system of administration was followed almost since the beginning of their rule in Assam. They called these written records or chronicles as “Buranjis”. The chronicles were first written in the Tai-Ahom language, and thereafter by the 16th century they came to be written in the Assamese language. “Swarganarayan Maharaja Akhyan” is the first chronicle written in Assamese in 1526.

The chronicles or the Buranji literature of the Ahoms are the integral parts of the language and culture of medieval Assam. Srimanta Sankardev (1449-1569) was the greatest intellectual of medieval Assam. He received the patronage of the Koch king Maharaj Narnarayan of the kingdom of Kamrup-Kamatapur. Besides translation works he wrote 36 devotional songs (borgit), narrative poems, dramas, “Kirtan-Ghosha”, etc. His disciple and follower as well as one of the leading lights of the Neo-Vaisnavite movement in Assam, Madhabdev also enriched the coffers of Assamese literature. He wrote 157 devotional songs in Brajawali dialect besides several Ankiya Bhaona (short plays) and the “Nam-Ghosha”.

Under the patronage of the Ahom kings numerous literatures were produced during the 17th and 18th centuries. Under the behest of king Siba Singha (1714-44) and his queen consort Ambika Sukumar Barkaith wrote the “Hastividyarnab” which was illustrated by painters Dilbar and Dosai Under the royal patronage of the Ahom king Rudra Singha, Ram Narayan Chakraborty besides writing the narrative poem “Sangkhasur Vadh” translated “Gita Govinda” and the “Brahmabaibarta Puran” into Assamese.

Under the patronage of the Koch kings of Darrang, many litterateures contributed much towards the enrichment of the Assamese literature. In the reign of king Dharmanarayan Sukabı Narayandev wrote the “Padma Puran” in Assamese. During the reigns of the Koch kings of Darrang Baldev Suryakhari Daivagya wrote the “Darranga Raj Bangshavali” Thus it is seen that due to the patronage of the medieval kings of Assam as well as the zeal and aptitude of the litterature. Assamese literature made rapid strides.

3. Write about New-Vaishnavite Movement in Assam. 

Ans: The Vaishnavite movement launched by Sankaradeva and Madhabdeva in the 15th century influenced the life of the people of Assam in all aspects. This religious movement had a major impact on Assamese literature and a lot of poetry, songs, prose, charit puthi, drama etc. were written during that time. The main subject matters of these literary works were Ramayana, Mahabharata, Purana, theories of Hindu religion etc. Sankaradeva and Madhabdeva themselves wrote a number of classics. Sankardeva’s Kirtan, Madhabdeva’s Namghosha and the Borgeets of both the gurus were most popular among these.

The plays (Ankiya Naats) of Sankardeva- Patniprasad, Kaliya Daman, Keli Gopal, Rukmini Haran, Parijat Haran, Ram Bijay, Dadhi Mathan of Madhabdev and his Jhumuras Chordhara and Pimpara Guchowa etc. are presented before huge gathering of spectators at Namghar and Satras. The first naat (drama) Chihnajatra of Sankardeva was even written and staged before Shakespeare’s drama. The famous textile design of Sankardeva the Brindabani Bastra was a magnificent creation of the Assamese weavers. This textile design has been preserved in British museums and in a few other famous museums in parts.

After Sankardeva and Madhabdeva, prominent writers like Bhattadeva, Ananta Kandali, Ram Saraswati and other kept up the tradition of Assamese literature. The real Assamese prose writing was first introduced by Bhattadeva with his writings like Katha Geeta, Bhagawat Katha, Ratnawali Katha etc.

Staying away from the ambit of the Sankari style of writing, writers-like Pitambar Kavi, Durgabar Kayastha, Su-kabi Narayandeva, Mankar and others also enriched Assamese literature. They composed story based on lyrics like Devi Manasaa, Padmaa, Sati Beula etc. The “Padya Geeta” written by Govinda Mishra born in 16th century still widely popular.

Other luminaries of the intellectual resurgence that grew along with the Neo-Vaisnavite movement were Baikunthanath Bhagawat Bhattacharyya alias Bhattadev, Ananta Kandali, Sridhar Kandali, Ram Swaraswati, Ramcharan Thakur, Daitari Thakur, etc. Baikunthanath Bhagawat Bhattacharyya alias Bhattadev left sterling specimen of medieval Assamese prose style through his “Katha-Bhagawat”, “Katha-Gita”, “Katha Bhakti Ratnavali” etc. Literatuer. Pitambar Kabi immortalized the romance of Usha and Aniruddha through his narrative poem ‘Usha-Parinay’. Another important feature of the literatures of the 16th and 17th centuries was the production of the life-sketches of the religious pontiffs of the Neo-Vaisnavite movement. The star example in this regard is the “Katha-Guru-Charit”.

As around the Neo-Vaisnavite religious movement there grew up a host of religious but humanitarian literatures, in the same manner under the influence of Islam and more particularly under the Sufi saints like Shah Miran alias Ajan Fakir there emerged also a kind of humanitarian literature in the form of Jikir and Jari. Written in Assamese language these forms of literature also have still been regarded as invaluable treasures of medieval Assamese literature.

4. Why the cultural diversity, assimilation and change are taking place more rapidly in Assam than the other states of the North East region? Write briefly.

Ans: Among the states of the North East region, Assam has the most varied cultural traditions and mixture of cultures.

Assam is rich in natural resources and the fertile land, particularly in the Brahmaputra valley added to the richness of the state. At one point of time, Assam was connected with China by great Silk Route, while, China was connected to the Roman Empire through Assam. From ancient times, different groups of people came to Assam for various reasons-for doing business, for pilgrimage and even as invaders and some stayed back in the state.

As already mentioned that the main ethnic groups of people in India are also found in Assam and the process of cultural assimilation also happened in Assam as occured in India, As a result, a mixed culture was developed in Assam with the integration of Arya and Anarya.

The old name of Assam was Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup. These names are found in old writings including the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vishnu Puran, Kalika Puran, Yoginitantra, writings of Hiuen Tsang and even in the inscriptions of ancient Royal families. These two Sanskrit words have connected Assam to the Hindu mythology or Hindu astrology. Noted scholar Banikanta Kakati was of the view that the words Pragjyotishpur and Kamrup originated from similar words in the Austric language. The Ahoms ruled the state from the 13th century.

Some experts opined that the name Assam (Asom) emerged from sanskritization of the words ‘a-cham’ and ‘ha-chom’ used by the Ahom and the Bodo people respectively.

5. Discuss briefly the Architecture of India.

Ans: Temples and other places of worship reflect the architecture of India ancient times. During the Saltanati and Badshahi era, we get see at least four types of architecture. 

That is:

(i) Mosques (Masjid) (ii) Pillars (Minars) (iii) Palaces (Manjils) (iv) Makowara.

There are differences in the architectures in North and South India and the difference is more visible on the top half of the structures. Three architectural styles have been seen in the ancient stone temples. These are Nagar in north India, Dravid in south India and Vesara style in between Bindhya mountain and Krishna river.

The peaks (Sikhar) of the north Indian temples are semi circular and in south India it is rectangular and gradually smaller rectangulars in shape (Biman) towards the top. Vesara styled temples are mixture of Nagar and Dravid style. Every style is full of many macro and micro artistic skills. In some temples a couple of co-peaks were constructed along with the main peak (Biman) which were gradually declined like peaks of the mountain. Some peaks were designed with lines of statues of Deities. The architecture and art of these temples are very beautiful beautiful. The Ajanta cave temples were constructed by cutting stone of Ajanta Hills. 

The beauty of the front of these temples and technical skills applied in construction also bears testimony to the architectures of ancient India. The temples also have eye catching and beautiful sculptures of the deities and most of the temples were constructed according to the Hindu Vastu. Among a large number of Stupas in the country, the one in Sanchi is said to be the most beautiful and ideal.

Parsi style was used in the architectures during the Turkey, Afghan and Moghul eras. The Taj Mahal constructed during the Moghul period, is considered one of the most beautiful construction during that era. The Taj Mahal along with the caves of Ajanta and Sanchi stupa have been declared the World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO.

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