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Class 10 Social Science History Chapter 5 Cultural Heritage of Indian and North East Region
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Cultural Heritage of Indian and North East Region
Chapter: 5
HISTORY
Very Short Answers Type Questions:
Q1. What was the eastern border of the Indus Valley Civilisation extended up to Ganga Valley?
Ans: Meerut.
Q2. When was the town culture developed during the Indus Valley Civilisations?
Ans: The town culture developed during the Indus Valley Civilisations in Around 4000 B.C.
Q3. What was the presumed time of writing of the Rig Veda?
Ans: Between 1500 B.C. and 1000 B.C.
Q4. The term ‘Satyameva Jayate’ found in the national symbol was taken from which book?
Ans: The term ‘Satyameva Jayate’ found in the national symbol was taken from Mundak Upanishad.
Q5. Which book did establish the term ‘unity in diversity’?
Ans: Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s book ‘Discovery’ of India’.
Q6. Greek-Roman techniques were used in which style of sculptures?
Ans: Greek-Roman techniques were used in Gandhara style of sculptures of India.
Q7. What is the name of the famous book on political science written in ancient India?
Ans: Arthashastra written by Kautilya.
Q8. When was the Natyashastra by Bharat Muni was written?
Ans: Between 200 B.C. to second century.
Q9. How many slokas are there in the Natyashastra?
Ans: About 600 slokas.
Q10. What is Heraka movement?
Ans: Freedom fighter Rani Gaidalu launched a movement named “Heraka’ for the revival and preservation of the transactional religious beliefs and cultural heritage of the tribes of Nagaland.
Q11. Hornbill festival of Nagaland is based on which name of organism?
Ans: Bird Hornbill.
Q12. The traditional festival of Chapchar Kut belongs to which state?
Ans: Mizoram.
Q13. What is the meaning of the world Mizo?
Ans: The term ‘Mizo’ means the ‘inhabitants of the hills’.
Q14. Which state of the North East has a matriarchal society?
Ans: Meghalaya.
Q15. What are the main themes Manipuri Dance?
Ans: Saint Chaitanya, Lord Krishna etc.
Q16. What is the ancient name of Assam?
Ans: Pragiyotishpur and Kamrup.
Q17. From which Bodo word the name Assam is considered to be derived?
Ans: ‘Ha-chom’.
Q18. What is Charyapada?
Ans: Charyapada is the Assamese songs which written during the period from 10th to 14th century.
Q19. When was the Charyapada written?
Ans: Between 10th century to 14th century A.D.
Q20. Under whose patronage Madhab Kandali translated the Saptakanda Ramayana?
Ans: Barahi King Manimanikya.
Q21. Who was the first to introduce prose literature in Assam?
Ans: Sankardeva.
Q22. Who did compose Zikir and Zari?
Ans: Ajan peer (Sah Milan).
Q23. Who is Ajan Peer?
Ans: Ajan Peer was a composer of muslim religious songs who was also known by the name Sah Milan.
Q24. When did Ajan Peer come to Assam?
Ans: In the 13th century.
Q25. When was the stone gate of Da-Parbatia made?
Ans: 6th century A.D.
Q26. What was the duty of Changrung Phukon?
Ans: The main duty of Changrung Phukon was to supervise the construction and measurement of the roads, palaces, temples, houses, etc.
Q27. Which artist got Padmashree Award for the contribution to folk song?
Ans: Pratima Pande Baruah.
Q28. What is the name of the first news magazine of Assam?
Ans: ‘Arunodoi’ published by the American Baptist Missionaries in 1846.
Q29. Which tribe of North East is part of the Austric ethnic group?
Ans: The Khasi tribe of Meghalaya.
Q30. Name the writers of the books:
(i) Arthashastra?
Ans: Kautilya
(ii) Hasthividyarnava?
Ans: Sukumar Borkaith.
(iii) Kirtan?
Ans: Sankardeva.
(iv) Chordhora aru Pimpara Goshowa?
Ans: Madhabdev.
(v) Kaliya Daman?
Ans: Sankardeva.
(vi) Ramvijoy?
Ans: Sankardeva.
(vii) Katha Geeta?
Ans: Bhattadeva.
(viii) Rajatarangini?
Ans: Kalhan.
SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS:
Q1. Write the name of two foreign communities which came to India after the 6th century.
Ans: Greeks and Huns.
Q2. Name two statues used for worshipping and which were discovered during Indus Valley Civilisation.
Ans: Shivalinga and Pashupati are the two statues used for worshipping and which were discovered during Indus Valley civilization.
Q3. Mention two contributions of the Austrics to Indian culture.
Ans: Two contributions of the Austrics to the Indian culture are:
(i) Cultivation of rice.
(ii) Preparation of raw sugar (gur) from sugarcane.
Q4. How does the geography of India play a role in creating cultural diversity of India?
Ans: India’s vast size and diverse geography have led to the emergence of distinct regions with their own languages, dialects, and cultural practices. The Indian society has its origin in a variety of ethnic groups that came to India from various parts of the world. This has given India a cultural diversity. However, the geography of India too has had a role in creating and maintaining this diversity. The physiographic nature of India which consists of vast plains on one hand, high mountain terrains on the other, deserts on one hand and tropical forests on the other, and coastal areas on one hand and deep interiors on the other, has allowed each region to retrain its cultural identity in isolation from the other regions.
Q5. Write the names of the four Samhitas of the Vedas.
Ans: These are the following:
(i) Rigveda
(ii) Yajurveda
(iii) Samaveda
(iv) Atharvaveda
Q6. What is written about religious tolerance in the 12th main stone carvings of Ashoka?
Ans: In the 12th stone of Ashoka, Emperor Ashoka conveyed the message that no one should consider his or her own religion as superior to others. Ancient India was noted for the practice of religious tolerance. This is evident from the 12th main stone writings of Girnar in 3rd century B.C. of Ashoka. This writing bears the oldest witness of the religious tolerance of Indian rulers. It says that kings accepted religious tolerance and that Emperor Ashoka maintained that no one should consider his or her religion as superior to others. Rather, everyone should follow a path of unity by acquiring the essence of other religions.
Q7. What is multiculturalism?
Ans: The term ‘multiculturalism’, however, has not been used only to describe a culturally diverse society, but also to refer to a kind of policy that aims at protecting cultural diversity. Although multiculturalism is a phenomenon with a long history and there have been countries historically that did adopt multicultural policies, like the Ottoman Empire, the systematic study of multiculturalism in philosophy has only flourished in the late twentieth century, when it began to receive special attention, especially from liberal philosophers. The philosophers who initially dedicated more time to the topic were mainly Canadian, but in the 21st century it is a widespread topic in contemporary political philosophy.
Q8. What are the divisions of the ancient Indian culture?
Ans: The major divisions of ancient Indian culture are:
(i) the big wall painting.
(ii) Religious culture: The religious cultural includes the different ways of worshipping, celebrating religious festivals, religious practices and customs, etc. Several religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, etc. Coexist and live peacefully.
(iii) Social cultural: The social culture includes living styles, dressing style, food habits, social customs, practices, languages, folk culture, etc.
Q9. Write names of two scientists of ancient India.
Ans: (i) Aryabhatta.
(ii) Brahmagupta.
Q10. Write names of two medical books written in ancient India.
Ans: (i) Sarak Samhita.
(ii) Susruta Samhita.
Q11. Write the names of two Mughal emperors who patronised arts.
Ans: Two Mughal emperors who patronised arts were:
(i) Jahangir.
(ii) Akbar.
Q12. Write name of two pictorial books written in ‘Sanchipat’ in Assam.
Ans: Two pictorial books written in Sanchipat form in Assam are:
(i) Kumar Haran.
(ii) Ananda Lahari.
Q13. Write the names of the two painters of Hasthividyarnava.
Ans: Two painters of Hasthividyarnava were Dilbar and Dosai.
Q14. What is jhum cultivation?
Ans: Jhum cultivation is a traditional farming method where first the land of trees and other vegetation is cleared, burned and then cultivated for a limited number of years. Potash, present in the burnt soil, increases the nutrient content. Jhum cultivation is also known as shifting cultivation and slash and burn cultivation. It is one of the oldest systems of cultivation.
This cultivation is still being practiced in the North-Eastern hilly regions of India. It is also being practiced in the other hilly regions of India and Bangladesh.
Q15. What is Jeng Bihu?
Ans: Jeng Bihu is the counterpart of the old traditional men-only husori. It is seen mostly in upper Assam, and originally didn’t include the use of any musical instruments. jeng bihu performances are strictly Bohag only.
Q16. Write divisions of Ojapali.
Ans: Ojapali is one of the most popular folk dances of Assam.
(i) Byash oja.
(ii) Sukannani oja.
Q17. Write names of two philosophers of ancient India.
Ans: (i) Kapil
(ii) Patanjali.
Q18. Write names of two histories written during the Ahom era.
Ans: (i) Deodhai history.
(ii) Tungkhungia history.
Q19. Write the names of two homogenous festivals of Bihu celebrated in lower Assam.
Ans: Two homogeneous festivals of bihu celebrated in lower Assam include:
(i) Deul in Darrang.
(ii) Baash puja in Goalpara.
Q20. Write name of two folk dances of Darrang.
Ans: (i) Dhepadhulia
(ii) Bordhulia.
Q21. What are the main ethnic groups of India?
Ans: Indo-Arya, Dravidian.
Q22. Write three factors that create unity among cultural diversity in India.
Ans: Three factors that create unity among the cultural diversity in India are:
(i) The Ramayana and the Mahabharata also brought various parts of the country into contact with the mainstream of culture.
(ii) Cultural exchange appears to bind the country’s various groups together. The issues that cause diversity, in turn, unite the parts in a different way.
(iii) Hinduism’s multi-culturalism, political unity created by empires of various ages, and religious and cultural generosity of various rulers have all contributed to unity.
Q23. What are the main divisions made for the Indian architectural set up?
Ans: The main divisions for the Indian architectural set up especially during the Sultanate and Badshahi era are:
(i) Mosques (Masjids).
(ii) Pillars (Minars).
(iii) Palaces (Manjils).
(iv) Makowara.
The ancient stone temples have three architectural styles. These are the Nagar style in northern India, the Dravid style in southern India, and the Vesara style between the Bindhya mountains and the Krishna river.
Q24. Write names of three architectural set-up of India which are declared as world Heritage Site by the UNESCO.
Ans: Three architectural set-up of India which have been declared as world Heritage Site by the UNESCO are:
(i) Taj Mahal.
(ii) Ajanta Caves.
(iii) Sanchi Stupa.
Q25. What statues were mainly created in the field of Indian sculptures?
Ans: The pillars of Ashoka, also known as Ashoka pillars, are a series of columns scattered across India.as the name of suggest, they were constructed by the mauryan emperor Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BC.
Both Buddhist and Hindu sculpture concentrate on large, often near life-size, figures of the major deities, respectively Buddha, Vishnu and Shiva. The dynasty had a partiality to Vishnu, who now features more prominently, where the Kushan imperial family generally had preferred Shiva.
Q26. What are the three main styles of Indian sculptures?
Ans: The three main styles of Indian Sculptures are:
(i) Gandhara sculptures.
(ii) Mathura sculptures.
(iii) Amaravati sculptures.
Q27. Name three pictorial books of Mughal age.
Ans: Three pictorial books of Mughal age are:
(i) Padsahnama.
(ii) Dastan-e-Amir.
(iii) Jahangirnama.
Q28. What are the six skills (sarangas) of paintings?
Ans: The six skills (saranga) of paintings consist of the following:
(i) Shape.
(ii) Measurement.
(iii) Feelings expressing techniques.
(iv) Artistic presentation.
(v) Knowledge of similarity.
(vi) Rules of using brushes.
Q29. Write about three places of India having ancient wall paintings.
Ans: Three places in the India which have ancient wall paintings are:
(i) Chittanavasal wall paintings (Tamil Nadu)
(ii) Ajanta wall paintings (Maharashtra)
(iii) Bagh wall paintings (Madhya Pradesh).
Q30. Write briefly on the culture of Yoga in India.
Ans: Yoga is a traditional Indian culture that has been given to humanity as a gift.
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.
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.
Q31. By what names the first seven days of Rongali Bihu are commonly known?
Ans: Rongali (Bohag) Bihu is the most prominent. It is celebrated from the last day of the Assamese month of Sot to the first six days of Bohag.
The first seven day’s of Rongali 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.
Q32. What is the main subject matter of Kamrupi and Goalpara folk songs?
Ans: The main subjects of Kamrupi loka geet or folk songs is the appeasement of Maa Monasha and Stories of Lord Krishna and other religious stories . While the main subjects of Goalparia folk songs are based on nature and love stories. Stories of love with natural description are sang on Goalparia folk songs.
Q33. Name three books where the ancient names of Assam-Kamrup and Pragjyotispur are mentioned.
Ans: Three books were the ancient names of Assam, namely Kamrup and Pragjyotispur are mentioned includes:
(i) The Ramayana.
(ii) Mahabharata.
(iii) Vishnu Puran.
LONG ANSWERS TYPE QUESTIONS:
Q1. Write briefly on the source and development of multiculturalism in India.
Ans: The term multiculturalism has a range of meanings within the contexts of sociology, of political philosophy, and of colloquial use. In sociology and in everyday usage, it is a synonym for “ethnic pluralism”, with the two terms often used interchangeably, for example, a cultural pluralism in which various ethnic groups collaborate and enter into a dialogue with one another without having to sacrifice their particular identities.
Every state has not only their language but they have their different food habits, dress code, religion, culture etc. The cultural diversity of India has been saved by its long history it’s geography and diverse demography. India has historically been a multicultural society. North-East is one of the most Culturally diverse areas of the world. It is the home to about 200 tribes. The term unity in diversity fits perfectly with the regional landscape.
“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.
Q2. The soul of Indian culture and civilisation is regarded to be excited in the Sanskrit literature of ancient India. Discuss the meaning of the sentence.
Ans: Sanskrit is a Very Old & Classical Indian Language and it is also believed to be a “Deva Bhasha” or a Language used of, Written, Learnt, Practised and spoken, understood by Hindu Gods and Goddesses, and it is a dialect which descended Directly from The Heavens as per Hindu Culture and folklore.
Prior to Writing and engraving, we had a “Guru Shishya Parampara” in India which firmly emphasized upon Oral recitation and pronunciation with correct tones and annotations and they had to be retained in their (The Disciple’s) brains and in turn they were being chanted and propagated repeatedly within their Caste and Community members and progenies in The Olden days.
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 Sahity of South India are some great works to recognise the pursuit 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. Those 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 shaping and brought about a cultural the Indian society unity.
Likewise, concepts of transmigration, liberation (mokshya), heaven a hell, sin-virtue etc, also popularised by this books. Some universal message like ‘Satyamev Jayate’ from Mundaka Upanishad ‘Ahimsa param dharma’ from Mahabharata, Janani Janmabhoomischa Swargadapi Gariyashi’ from Ramayan, ‘Basudhaiba Kutumbakam from mahopanishad etc, have been the base of Indian value system.
‘Om osoto maa sadgamaya, tamaso maa jyotir gamaya, mrityurmaa amritamgamaya’ has great influence on Indian psyche.
These writings in Sanskrit were later into other Indian language. Great values of these books have been followed in the Indian families hierarchically 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.
Q3. Write about religious traditions in India.
Ans: Religion has historically influenced Indian society on a political, cultural and economic level. There is a sense of pride associated with the country’s rich religious history as the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism all emerged out of India. Moreover, while a majority of people in India identify as Hindu (79.8%), the medley of religions that exist within the country continually impact contemporary society.
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, Upanishad 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 Deities (Gods) and Goddesses 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 tolerance, 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 worshipping 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 convince, the spirituality greatly influences the social life, culture and cinization of Indian people he the literature art, sculpture, architecture, 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 Mayed back permanently in India and enriched the Indian culture.
Q4. Write how the common and separate identity of the North East is developed.
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, Upanishad and those written in the later stages like the puran, Smriti, Vedangas etc.. these transformations can be witnessed.
During the Indus valley civilization, diverse ways of worshipping could be seen and various Deities (Gods) and Goddesses 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 tolerance, co-existence and assimilation among new traditions or religions. They also respected reforms, change, even arguments in their own beliefs. The religious beliefs in India also added new ways of worshipping 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 convince, the spirituality greatly influences the social life, culture and cinization of Indian people, literature, art, sculpture, architecture, 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 Mayed back permanently in India and enriched the Indian culture.
Q5. Write briefly about the religious environment in the North East.
Ans: During the British days, the Missionaries 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.
Hornbill 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 hornbill to be sacred, the festival is named after the bird.
Freedom fighter Rani Gidalu 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 Jaintia people of Meghalaya started following Christianity from 1830 and now more then 70 percent people of the state are Christians.
Q6. Assam has mixed culture due to assimilation of Aryan and non-Aryan cultures-discuss briefly on this aspect.
Ans: Indo-Aryan migration to Assam is estimated to have occurred between the 2nd century BCE and 1st century CE not earlier than 500 BCE. The earliest epigraphic record suggests that the Indo-Aryan migration began latest by the middle of the 4th century CE.
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.
Q7. Write briefly on the heritage of paintings in Assam.
Ans: Manuscript painting in Assam is part of a rich cultural heritage of Assam and India. It grew during the medieval period through the institution of satras. In Assam the Ahoms from the very beginning of their settlement in the Brahmaputra valley developed both literature and painting. Painting developed as an art form and the tradition of illustrating the books through paintings was developed and widely practised in Assam during the mediaeval period.
The tradition of illustrating the literary works with painting grew under the patronage and influence of the neo-vaishnavite religious movement. The literary works were specially produced on Sanchipat. One of the features of the early writing in Ahom literature was that they left some space in the margin for illustration with miniature paintings. This was a great attraction to read the books. Important among the illustrated books written on Sanchipt included Hashtibidyarnava, Ananda Lahari, Chitra Bhagawat, Geet Govinda, Kumar Haran, Sankhachur Budh, Lava Kushar Yuddha, etc. These illustrated works are noted for their excellent quality as well as for their local touch.
The remains of these sculptures and architecture are found from the Indus valley civilization. These remains include figures of god-goddesses, animals, a bearded man and a dancer. Historical places, archaeological sites, monuments, palaces, caves, buildings, places related to historical events can be considered as the cultural heritage of India.
Q8. 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 “Sakia, “Shaiva”, “Vaishnav” and “Sourya cults
(iii) There are several Sakuipithas 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.
Q9. Why the Cultural diversity, assimilation and change are taking place more rapidly in Assam than the other states of the region?
Ans: Cultural diversity, assimilation and change are taking place rapidly in Assam because it has one of the most fertile land resources and natural resources in the region. Assam also has the richest mixture of culture and cultural heritage which is changing Assam rapidly. Assam’s culture is believed to be developed over 750 years in the first millennium which also provided stages for assimilation of the different cultural-mixes and intensities.
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.
Q10. Really the society is like a book for studying the folk culture-provide your views on this issue.
Ans: It is a proven truth that the society itself makes the greatest textbook for studying folk culture, which includes folk music, folk dances, and traditional rituals. Folk culture is rarely recorded in writing.
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.
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Q1. Sculptures of ancient India.
Ans: India was noted for the development of high quality sculptures during the ancient period. It reached its zenith of development during the Gupta period. Ancient sculptures were made of rocks, stones, bronze, copper and gold. The statues were made in local style. The feelings of the people like peace, comfort, anguish, divine love, etc. were depicted on these statues. The main subject matter of the sculptures were holy men like Gautam Buddha, Mahavir, gods and goddesses of Hinduism, different animals, etc. The sculpture styles of the ancient period can be divided into three categories, namely, Gandhara, Mathura and Amravati styles. Among these, the Gandhara style was most popular. This style was mostly used for the making of statues of Lord Buddha. The religious sculptures declined during the medieval period as Islam did not encourage making of statues and sculptures of dead human beings.
Q2. Indian paintings.
Ans: The art form dates back to the early 9th century, a period dominated by the Chola rulers, who encouraged art and literature. These paintings are known for their elegance, rich colours, and attention to detail. The themes for most of these paintings are Hindu Gods and Goddesses and scenes from Hindu mythology. In modern times, these paintings have become a much sought-after souvenir during festive occasions in South India.
The smaller paintings were used for the illustration of books. The big wall paintings can be seen in different parts of India such as in the walls of Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra), Bagh (Madhya Pradesh) and Chittanavachal (Tamil Nadu). The main theme of these paintings is related to life and activities of Lord Buddha, Mahavira and Hindu gods and goddesses. Among these paintings, Ajanta cave painting is the most magnificent and famous all over the world. During the Mughal era, paintings made great progress and noted painters were patronised by Akbar, Jahangir and Shahjahan. The smaller paintings mostly consisted of pictorial works in books. Mughal emperors encouraged such works. Important pictorial books of the period include works such as Padsahnama, Tutinama, Jahangirnama, Dastan-e-Amir, Khamda, etc.
Q3. Traditions of songs and dances in India.
Ans: The tradition of dance has been codified in the Natyashastra and performance is considered accomplished if it manages to evoke a rasa (emotion) among the audience by invoking a particular bhava(gesture or facial expression). India has a rich heritage of music and dance. The Vedas were to be recited in a particular musical style. Music reached its zenith of development during the Mughal period. Along with music, different types of musical instruments were also made to accompany classical and folk music. Among these instruments shehnai, tabla, santur, sitar, beena and flute were considered important. Folk instruments like dhol, taal, nagara, mridanga, khol, nupur, sharindra, dotara, etc. were extensively used. Like music, dance too received a lot of attention in the ancient period.
Dance in India has an unbroken tradition of over 2000 years. Its themes are derived from mythology legends and classical literature. There are two main forms of dances in India. These are folk dance and classical dance. They are not simply them movement of legs and arms but of the whole body.
There are hundreds of dance forms in India. Out of these, the government of India has recognised eight of them as Indian Classical Dances.
Q4. Sculptures of Assam.
Ans: 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-Parbatiya is smaller in size, from the artistic view point it is well appreciated. The Da-Parbatiya sculpture were made in 6th century influenced by Gupta sculptures.
Q5. Architecture of Assam.
Ans: The roof is typically erected by high gables to overcome heavy rainfall in the region, where walls are usually timber-framed, plastered with cement. With high ceilings and well-ventilated rooms, the floorings are either wooden or concrete with tiled, mosaic or stone surfacing with stilts.
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, Fakus 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 Rang Ghar was constructed in two storied form for enjoying celebration of the Bihu festival in the courtyard. The roof the Rang 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.
Q6. Vaishnavite literature of 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- Patni Prasad, 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 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 wrung writers like Pambar Kavi Durgabar Kayastha. Su kabi Narayandeva, Mankar and others also eariched Assamese literature. They composed story based on lyrics like Devi Manassa, Padmas, Sati Beula et The Padya Geeta written by Govinda Mishra born in 16th century still widely popular.
Q7. Folk songs of Assam.
Ans: Bihu songs are the most famous among music lovers in Assam and are based on themes like Assamese new year, farmers’ daily life, love and more. Bihu music is played with instruments like dhol, mohor singor pepe, cymbal, a bamboo instrument called gogona and a clapper made from bamboo known as toka. Bihu music is reflective of the Oriental influence on Assam’s folk music. It is an absolute delight to sit and listen to heart-touching Bihu songs during the Bihu festival when the entire state is in a celebratory mood.
Assam has a rich tradition of folk songs which are sung on different occasions in different environment. Folk songs of Assam are unique and special. These constitute an integral part of Assamese culture. These are sung during marriage occasions, festival season, harvesting, community gathering, etc.
The indigenous music of Assam includes Bihu songs, Bodo, Karbi and Mising songs that are all structured and sung to the Pentatonic scale quite similar to the traditional music of China, indicating a strong influence of Chinese music on Assamese culture.
Q8. Religious unity in Assam.
Ans: Assam’s history dates back to the time of the Aryans and is mentioned in epics, Tantric, Vedic, and Buddhist literature. The land has been ruled by many dynasties of great rulers. The people of the state are friendly, and they come from various tribes and communities.
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.
Q9. Historical literature of Assam.
Ans: The present state of Assam occupies the strategic north-east frontier region of the Indian Union. With the attainment of independence by India and the partition of the country into India and Pakistan the pendulum of frontier strategy has swung from the north-west to the north-east frontier where India marches with Tibet, China and Burma, and also Pakistan, over hundreds of miles. The recent stirrings in the hills on the north-east frontier areas of Assam where the modern age seems to have dawned slowly only after India’s achievement of freedom, have focussed much wider attention than before in the political and historical importance of this state which in British days continued to be more or less a backward province.
The language used by the ancient dynasties of Assam from the 4th century was Sanskrit and later Sanskrti borne Assamese. Assamese Literature of 10th to 14th century consisted of songs called Charyapada. Many writers translated Puranas and other Indian epics to write poetic literature. Madhab Kandali’s translation of Ramayana is famous. The 15th century saw the impact of the Vaishnavite movement started by Sankardev.
Many of these writings were restored during the British rule. Modern Assamese language developed since the first Assamese Journal ”Arunodoi” was published by the American Baptist Missionaries in 1846. Gradually Assamese literature began to imbibe influences of other literatures of the world.
They give us the intricate details of the working of the Ahom state machinery for over six hundred years, the history of the political, social and religious institutions that were built up in the country, the accounts of the foreign onslaughts that befell the country and were repulsed, and a picture of the language, customs and usages, and beliefs that flourished during that eventful period.
It is interesting to find that the historical literature of Assam of this period contains, besides the regular Buranjis of the Ahom Court and its relations with the races and kingdoms with which it came in contact during the course of the expansion of its dominion, also Buranjis dealing with separate tribes like the Kacharis and Jaintias who played an important role in the history of the period, and with neighbouring kingdoms like Tripura which were visited by diplomatic missions from the Ahom court.
Q10. Bihu festival.
Ans: Bihu is the most popular festival in Assam and is celebrated to honour the significance of agriculture in rural Assamese life. The festival is celebrated thrice in a year which marks three distinct phases in cultivation of paddy, the native crop of Assam. Bohaag Bihu or Rongaali Bihu is celebrated in the month of Baisakhi and marks the advent of planting. The Kati Bihu is celebrated on completion of sowing season in the month of Kartik, while Magh Bihu symbolises culmination of harvesting period and is celebrated in the month of Magh.
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 mediaeval period.
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