UGC NTA NET/JRF Exam, INDIAN CULTURE, December-2023

The archaeological sites that do not have an early Harappan level among the options given are Lothal and Desalpur. Lothal, primarily known for its mature Harappan phase features such as a sophisticated dockyard and advanced urban planning, does not have significant evidence of the early Harappan level.

Similarly, Desalpur, while less frequently discussed in the context of the major Harappan sites, also lacks clear evidence of early Harappan occupation. This sets these sites apart from others like Kot Diji, which is famous for its early Harappan fortifications and related cultural layers.

The correct statements about the reign of Firuz Tughlaq are that the grants of teachers were raised significantly, students were given stipends, and a hospital was established in Delhi. Firuz Tughlaq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1351 to 1388, is known for his administrative reforms and public welfare projects. His initiatives included increasing support for education by enhancing the salaries of teachers and providing stipends to students, as well as improving healthcare by establishing hospitals.

The correct statements about Bankim Chandra Chatterji include that he wrote "Durgesh Nandini", "Anand Math", and "Rajmohan's Wife", and that "Anand Math" contained the famous song "Vande Mataram". Bankim Chandra Chatterji was a key figure in the literary renaissance of Bengal and India. "Anand Math" is especially noted for inspiring the Indian nationalist movement with its song. However, his first novel was not "Anand Math" but "Durgesh Nandini", making option (d) incorrect.

The correct statements about Ramakrishna Paramahamsa are that his birth name was Gadadhar Chattopadhyaya, he served as a priest at the Kali temple in Dakshineswar, and he preached the universality of all religions, famously saying that in whichever name or form one wishes to worship God, God appears in that form. His teachings emphasized the unity of all religious paths to realizing the divine. His wife was Sarada Devi, not Latamani, which is an error in the options (d).

The correct statements about Akbari architecture are that the domes were usually of the Lodi type and the buildings were chiefly executed in red sandstone with insertions of white marble. Akbar's architectural style is noted for its synthesis of various traditions, including Persian and Indian elements, and use of locally available red sandstone. The establishment of the new city at Sikri, known as Fatehpur Sikri, was to celebrate his victory over Gujarat, not Bengal, and the focus was on the grand mosque and his palace complexes rather than a Khanqah for Nizamuddin Auliya.

The Mughal nobility underwent several transformations under different rulers, two significant changes being under Humayun and Akbar. Under Humayun, the introduction of a few Shiite nobles began to diversify the previously Sunnidominated nobility. Akbar expanded this policy by inducting "New Men" who were Shaikhzadas (descendants of Islamic scholars) and Rajputs, integrating local Indian elites into the Mughal administration. This helped stabilize and legitimize Mughal rule in India by co-opting local power structures and blending Persianate court culture with Indian aristocratic traditions.

The Ashokan inscriptions at Shahbazgarhi and Mansehra are in the Prakrit language written in the Kharoshti script. These inscriptions are part of the Edicts of Ashoka, which were orders issued by Emperor Ashoka, carved on rocks and pillars throughout his empire. The Kharoshti script was used predominantly in the northwestern regions of the empire, which is present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, where these two inscriptions are located. This script was primarily used for administrative and official decrees during the Mauryan period.

The stone sculptures associated with the Mauryan period include the Parkham Yaksha and the Didarganj Yakshi. These sculptures exemplify the artistic style of the Mauryan era, characterized by highly polished, almost lifelike finishes, and detailed anatomical accuracy, which was revolutionary at the time. The Parkham Yaksha and the Didarganj Yakshi are notable for their exquisite craftsmanship and the light-reflective properties of the stone used, which is typical of Mauryan sculpture.

In Riti literature, Keshavdas Mishra was a pioneering figure, known for using Braj Bhasha to compose works such as Rasik Priya and Kavi Priya, earning him a reputation as an Acharya (master) in Hindi poetic tradition. Bhushan Tripathi, another prominent Riti poet, was the court poet of Shivaji and is well-regarded for his works that laud the exploits of several contemporary heroes, including Shivaji. His work, Shivaraja Bhushan, indeed focuses on the conquests and triumphs of Shivaji, celebrating his victories and leadership in a style typical of Riti poetry, which emphasizes elaborate depictions and ornate expressions.

Bhasa, one of the earliest and most celebrated Sanskrit playwrights, is credited with numerous plays, notable among them are "Pancharatra" and "SvapnaVasavadatta". These dramas are characterized by their innovative structures and profound narratives, focusing on themes of royal politics, destiny, and dharma. Bhasa's works are considered pivotal in the development of classical Sanskrit drama, bridging the religious and secular aspects of ancient Indian theatre, demonstrating his mastery over both dialogue and dramatic timing.