In the vast spectrum of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Preliminary Examination, Art and Culture serve as a captivating domain, embodying the essence of civilizations past and present. Among the myriad topics within this realm, the category of Miscellaneous questions stands out, offering a mosaic of inquiries that delve into the multifaceted tapestry of human expression. From architectural marvels to traditional crafts, from classical dance forms to indigenous music, each query unravels a thread of cultural heritage, inviting candidates to explore the rich heritage and diverse traditions that shape India’s cultural landscape. These questions not only assess candidates’ knowledge but also their ability to decipher the nuances of art and culture, reflecting the UPSC’s commitment to fostering a holistic understanding of the nation’s heritage among aspirants.
Q1. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists. (1995)
List I (Eras) List II (Reckoned from)
A. Vikram era 1. 3102 Đ’. Đ¡.
B. Saka era 2. 320 A.D.
C. Gupta era 3. 78. A.D
D. Kali era 4. 58 A.D.
5. 248 A.D.
ABCD
(a) 2 4 5 1
(b) 1 3 2 4
(c) 4 5 2 3
(d) 4 3 2 1
Ans. (d)
The accurate correspondence is A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1.
Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain initiated the Vikram era in 57 BC, marking his triumph over the Saka in 56 BC.
Kanishka, the emperor of the Kushan dynasty, assumed the throne in 78 AD, serving as the inception of the Saka era.
The Gupta era, commencing around 318-319 AD, was adopted by the Gupta emperors, with scholars like V.A. Smith and P.L. Gupta correlating it with Chandragupta I’s ascension.
As per Puranic sources, the conclusion of the Dvapara era and the commencement of the Kali era, dated back to 3102 BC, were marked by Lord Krishna’s departure.
Q2. Chapchar Kut is a festival celebrated in the state of (2002)
(a) Arunachal Pradesh
(b) Assam
(c) Mizoram
(d) Sikkim
Ans. (c)
The Chapchar Kut festival, observed in Mizoram, embodies the vibrant spirit of the state. Its name, Chapchar Kut, signifies the anticipation of bamboo and tree remnants drying out for slash-and-burn agriculture, known as Jhumming. Originating in the village of ‘Suaipui,’ this festivity marks the arrival of spring with immense enthusiasm and joy.
Q3. Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?
1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1,2 and 3
Ans. (c)
Banaras Brocades and Sarees, renowned for their intricate weaving craftsmanship, and Tirupathi Laddu, a revered offering at the Tirumala Temple, have been granted the prestigious status of ‘Geographical Indication’.
Banaras Brocades and Sarees represent a longstanding tradition of weaving excellence in India, celebrated for their opulent brocade sarees and exquisite dress materials. Meanwhile, Tirupathi Laddu holds a special significance as a divine offering, known as Prasadam, at the Tirumala Temple.
The recognition of ‘Geographical Indication’ for Tirupathi Laddu ensures that only the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams are authorized to produce and distribute this sacred sweet.
In contrast, Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma stands as a beloved and complete dish in Rajasthan, characterized by its unique serving ritual of crushing the Baati and drizzling it with pure Ghee. Accompanied by Daal (lentils) and spicy garlic chutney, it embodies the culinary heritage of the region. However, as of yet, Rajasthani ‘Daal-Bati-Churma’ has not attained the status of Geographical Indication.
Geographical Indication (GI) signifies products originating from specific regions, possessing distinct qualities or reputations derived from their geographical origins. The Government of India has enacted laws governing the registration and protection of Geographical Indications of Goods to safeguard such unique products and their cultural significance.
Q4. Consider the following pairs. (2015)
Places of Pilgrimage – Locations
1. Srisailam – Nallamala Hills
2. Omkareshwar – Satmala Hills
3. Pushkar – Mahadeo Hills
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (a)
Pair (1) accurately identifies the shrine of Lord Mallikarjuna, nestled atop the flat peak of Nallamala Hills in Srisailam, renowned as one of India’s oldest pilgrimage sites. Situated on the right bank of the Krishna River in Kurnool district, this revered mountain is known by various names including Sindhan, Srigiri, Sriparvatha, and Srinagam. It has been a cherished destination for Saivite devotees for ages.
However, pairs (2) and (3) are mismatched. Omkareshwar isn’t nestled between the steep hills of the Vindhya and Satpura ranges; rather, it is located on a one-mile-long, half-mile-wide island formed by the Narmada River’s bifurcation. The Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, located in Pushkar, Rajasthan, is closely associated with the sacred Pushkar Lake and remains one of the rare temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, the Hindu creator deity, in India.
Q5. Consider the following pairs. (2017)
Traditions – Communities
1. Chaliha Sahib Festival – Sindhis
2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra – Gonds
3. Wari-Warkari Communities – Santhals
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None of these
Ans. (a)
Pait (1) is accurately associated as the Chaliha, a significant festival observed by the Sindhis, centers around their devotion to Jhulelal, their deity.
However, Pairs (2) and (3) are mismatched. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat spans three weeks and is both a pilgrimage and festival in Uttarakhand, India. It draws pilgrims from across the Garhwal and Kumaon divisions, as well as other regions worldwide. Conversely, Pandharpur Wari, also known as Wari, is an annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur, Maharashtra, paying homage to the Hindu god Vithoba.
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