The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Preliminary Examination is a pivotal step for aspirants seeking to enter the esteemed civil services of India. Among the diverse array of subjects tested, Art & Culture holds a significant position, encompassing the rich heritage of music, dance, and Indian cinema. Delving into the intricacies of these art forms, the UPSC Prelims Topic Wise Questions on Music, Dance, and Indian Cinema serve as a gateway for aspirants to demonstrate their understanding of the cultural tapestry that defines India. From classical ragas to folk dances, and from iconic film directors to cinematic milestones, this segment of the examination demands a nuanced comprehension of India’s artistic legacy, inviting candidates to unravel its multifaceted layers with scholarly precision.
Q1. Which one the following pairs is correctly matched? (1996)
(a) Naqqual Bihar
(b) Tamasha Orissa
(c) Ankia Nat Assam
(d) Baha Punjab
Ans. (c)
Pair (c) accurately pairs Ankia Nat as a genre of one-act plays staged in Assam. It is traditionally credited to the medieval saint Srimanta Sankardeva. Conversely, pairs (a), (b), and (d) are mismatched. Naqqual is a dance style primarily renowned in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
Tamasha, a customary expression of Marathi theater, holds sway across Maharashtra with performances staged by local or itinerant theater troupes. Bana, an indigenous dance of the Santhal tribe from Eastern India, takes center stage during the Baha festival.
Q2. Which one of the following dances involves solo performance?
(a) Bharatanatyam
(b) Kuchipudi
(c) Mohiniattam
(d) Odissi
Ans. (a,c)
Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam are both renowned for their solo performances. Originating from Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam intricately weaves Hindu religious narratives and spiritual expressions into its choreography. Traditionally performed by a solo dancer, it embodies the essence of devotion and storytelling. Meanwhile, Mohiniattam hails from Kerala and is celebrated for its graceful movements. Typically performed as solo recitals by women, it exudes elegance and finesse, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing.
Q3. Which one of the following pairs of folk dance and states is not correctly matched? (1999)
(a) Korku – Maharashtra
(b) Jhummar – Haryana
(c) Thali – Himachal Pradesh
(d) Mukna – Manipur
Ans. (a)
Pair (c) is not correctly matched as Thali dance belongs to Rajathan. It is performed by Kamar tribes.
Q4 . Which one of the following statements is not correct? (1999)
(a) ‘Neel Darpan’ was a play based on the exploitation of the indigo farmers.
(b) The author of the play ‘Ghashiram Kotwal’ is Vijay Tendulkar.
(c) The play ‘Navanna’ by Navin Chandra Das was based on the famine of Bengal.
(d) Urdu theatre used to depend heavily on Parsi theatre.
Ans. (c)
Statement (c) is inaccurate, as Navanna is actually a Bengali drama penned by Bijon Bhattacharya, inspired by the tragic events of the Bengali famine in 1943.
Q5. How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances? (2012)
1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance, but not in Bharatanatyam.
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam, but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (a)
Statement (1) accurately distinguishes between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances. Kuchipudi, hailing from Andhra Pradesh, involves performers speaking dialogues, whereas Bharatanatyam, another classical form, does not include spoken dialogues.
Statement (2) contains inaccuracies. Dancing on the edges of a brass plate with a pitcher full of water atop the head characterizes Kuchipudi, while Bharatanatyam relies on transitional leg, lip, and arm movements, expressive eye movements, and hand gestures to convey emotions.
Q6. In the context of cultural history of India, a pose in dance and dramatics called Tribhanga’ has been a favourite of Indian artists from ancient times till today. Which one of the following statements best describes this pose? (2013)
(a) One leg is bent and the body is slightly but, oppositely curved at waist and neck
(b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and make up are combined to symbolise certain epic or historic characters
(c) Movements of body, face and hands are used to express oneself or to tell a story
(d) A little smile, slightly curved waist and certain hand gestures are emphasised to express the feelings of love or eroticism
Ans. (a)
Tribhanga, a traditional dance pose originating from India, involves three distinct bends in the body: at the neck, waist, and knee. These bends create an elegant ‘S’ shape, adding grace and fluidity to the dancer’s form.
Q7. A community of people called Manganiyars is well- known for their
(a) martial arts in North-East India
(b) musical tradition in North-West India
(c) classical vocal music in South India
(d) pietra dura tradition in Central India
Ans. (b)
The Manganiyars, a renowned community in North-West India, are celebrated for their musical heritage. Residing in the desert regions of Rajasthan, specifically in districts such as Barmer and Jaisalmer, as well as across the border in Pakistan, they are predominantly Muslim. Their classical folk music is renowned, and they have a longstanding tradition as skilled professional musicians. The term “Manganiyar” translates to “those who ask for alms,” reflecting their historical association with performing for sustenance. These musicians have historically entertained royalty and feudal landlords at diverse events, from weddings to times of mourning.
Q8. Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched? (2000)
(a) Bakti Itihas – Badal Sarkar
(b) Sita Swayamvar – Vishnu Das Bhave
(c) Yayati – Girish Karnad
(d) Giddha – Jabbar Patel
Ans. (d)
The match between (d) and Gidhade is incorrect, as Gidhade was authored by Vijay Tendulkar in 1961. This play delved into the raw essence of violence within society.
Q9. The Raga which is sung early in the morning
(a) Todi
(b) Darbari
(c) Bhopali
(d) Bhimpalasi
Ans. (a)
In the early hours, the soulful melody of Miyan Ki Todi, a renowned Hindustani classical raga, fills the air, marking the beginning of a new day. It is said that Todi, the namesake of its thaat, flourishes best when performed at this time.
As twilight descends, the enchanting notes of Darbari Raga, belonging to the Kannada family, resonate, believed to have traversed from the realms of Carnatic music to find a place in Hindustani classical repertoire under the tutelage of the legendary Miyan Tansen. Its essence blooms under the moonlit sky, evoking emotions of deep reverence and contemplation.
Amidst the nocturnal stillness, Bhoopali, another gem in the treasure trove of Hindustani classical music, emerges, carrying the essence of its Kalyan thaat. Many compositions in this raga are adorned with the sentiment of longing, echoing the yearning of the soul. Its melodies weave a tapestry of emotions under the cloak of darkness.
As the sun reaches its zenith, the vibrant hues of Bheem Palasi, a raga belonging to the Kalyan thaat, come to life, filling the day with its resplendent aura. Its renditions resonate with the energy of daylight, offering a refreshing and invigorating musical experience to those who immerse themselves in its rhythm.
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