Art and Culture | Miscellaneous
1. Languages and Social Practices
MADHIKA LANGUAGE
Context: Madhika, a language with just two speakers in Kerala with no script is on the brink of extinction.
About Madhika Language:
- Language and Community: Madhika is a language spoken by the Chakaliya community, which migrated from Karnataka centuries ago. It is now on the brink of extinction, with only two fluent speakers remaining.
- Language Characteristics: Madhika, a blend of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam, resembles Kannada but is influenced by multiple languages.
- Linguistic Roots: Madhika is largely influenced by Havyaka Kannada, an old form of Kannada, but it has not been documented, putting its survival at risk.
- Impact of Malayalam: The dominance of Malayalam, both socially and in education, has contributed to the decline and near-extinction of the Madhika language.
Current status of Endangered Languages in India:
- According to UNESCO norms, any language spoken by only 10,000 people is potentially endangered.
- 2011 Census: India's language Census records only those with more than 10,000 speakers.
- According to UNESCO norms, any language spoken by only 10,000 people is potentially endangered.
- 2011 Census: India's language Census records only those with more than 10,000 speakers.
| Degree of Endangerment | Intergenerational Language Transmission |
|---|---|
| Safe | Language is spoken by all generations; intergenerational transmission is uninterrupted |
| Vulnerable | Most children speak the language but it may be restricted to certain domains (e.g., home) |
| Definitely endangered | Children no longer learn the language as mother tongue in their home |
| Severely endangered | Language is spoken by grandparents and older generations; while the parent generation may understand it, they do not speak it to children or among themselves |
| Critically endangered | The youngest speakers are grandparents and older, and they speak the language partially and infrequently |
| Extinct | There are no speakers left and included in the Atlas if presumably extinct since the 1950s |
Knowledge Nugget: About Chakaliya Community
- The Chakaliya community was once nomadic and worshipped Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
- They were originally recognized as a Scheduled Tribe, later classified as a Scheduled Caste in Kerala.
- The Chakaliya community was once nomadic and worshipped Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
- They were originally recognized as a Scheduled Tribe, later classified as a Scheduled Caste in Kerala.
NATA PRATHA
Context: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued notices over a practice known as 'Nata Pratha'.
About Nata Pratha:
- Etymology: The word "Nata" means relationship.
- Nata Pratha: Nata Pratha is a social practice in which girls are sold or married off under family agreements, often involving financial transactions. This practice has no legal sanctity and is seen as a social evil.
- These transactions are formalized using "stamp paper," giving a semblance of legality to an otherwise illegal and unethical practice.
- Prevalent: This custom is prevalent in parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. It is mainly practised by the Bhil tribe, one of the largest tribes in South Asia.
Knowledge Nugget: About Bhils
- The name is derived from the word 'billu', which means bow.
- They are one of the largest tribal groups in India, found in the central and western parts of India, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
- Language and Culture: Bhil language, part of the Indo-Aryan language group.
- Occupation and Economy: Traditionally skilled in hunting, gathering, and agriculture (millets and wheat), many Bhils have transitioned to wage labor, construction, and forestry-related work.
- Social Organization: The Bhil tribe has a patrilineal social structure, with extended families living in clans (known as "Gotra").
- Religion: They follow animistic beliefs and worship various nature spirits, but many have also converted to Hinduism and follow Shaivism or Vaishnavism.
- The name is derived from the word 'billu', which means bow.
- They are one of the largest tribal groups in India, found in the central and western parts of India, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
- Language and Culture: Bhil language, part of the Indo-Aryan language group.
- Occupation and Economy: Traditionally skilled in hunting, gathering, and agriculture (millets and wheat), many Bhils have transitioned to wage labor, construction, and forestry-related work.
- Social Organization: The Bhil tribe has a patrilineal social structure, with extended families living in clans (known as "Gotra").
- Religion: They follow animistic beliefs and worship various nature spirits, but many have also converted to Hinduism and follow Shaivism or Vaishnavism.
2. Cultural Initiatives and Agreements
PROJECT PARI
Context: The Ministry of Culture has initiated Project PARI (Public Art of India) for the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee.
About Project PARI:
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
- Executors: Managed by Lalit Kala Akademi and National Gallery of Modern Art.
- Objective: The project showcases public art blending India's traditional heritage (lok kala/lok sanskriti) with modern themes, highlighting the significant participation of women artists and celebrating Bharat's Nari Shakti.
- Participation: Over 150 visual artists from across India.
- Art Styles: Includes Phad (Rajasthan), Thangka (Sikkim/Ladakh), Miniature (Himachal Pradesh), Gond (Madhya Pradesh), Tanjore (Tamil Nadu), Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh), Alpona (West Bengal), Cheriyal (Telangana), Pichhwai (Rajasthan), Lanjia Saura (Odisha), Pattachitra (West Bengal), Bani Thani (Rajasthan), Warli (Maharashtra), Pithora (Gujarat), Aipan (Uttarakhand), Kerala Murals (Kerala), and Alpana (Tripura).
- Sculptures Themes: Sculptures pay tribute to nature, inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhiji, Indian toys, hospitality, ancient knowledge, primeval sound (Naad), harmony of life, and the divine tree Kalpataru.
- World Heritage Inspiration: Some artworks and sculptures draw inspiration from World Heritage Sites like Bimbetka and the seven natural World Heritage Sites in India.
CULTURAL PROPERTY AGREEMENT
Context: India and the United States of America have signed their first-ever 'Cultural Property Agreement'.
About Cultural Property Agreement:
- Aim: To prevent and control the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA. The CPA restricts the import of certain Indian archaeological and ethnological materials into the US, enabling the swift seizure and return of Indian antiquities.
- Significance: Enhances cultural diplomacy, promotes tourism, and enriches education, among other benefits.
- Efforts to Prevent Antiquities Smuggling:
- Global Level: Article 9 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention aims to prohibit and prevent the illicit import, export, and transfer of ownership of cultural property.
- National Level: Section 3 of the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972, prohibits the export of antiquities from India.
3. Legal and Constitutional Developments
MITAKSHRA LAW
Context: The Supreme Court ruled that a child born of a void or voidable marriage can inherit the parent's share in joint Hindu family property under Mitakshara law.
About Mitakshra Law:
- Mitakshara is a legal commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti, renowned for its doctrine of "inheritance by birth."
- It was authored by Vijnaneswara in the late 11th century.
- Mitakshara Law of Succession governs Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) in most of India, except West Bengal and Assam.
- The Mitakshara school grants sons, grandsons, and great-grandsons an inherent right to family property.
- Coparcenary Rights: Rights and responsibilities of Hindu joint family members concerning ancestral property.
Comparison: Mitakshara vs Dayabhaga
| Features | Mitakshara | Dayabhaga |
|---|---|---|
| Basis of Inheritance | It follows an inheritance by birth. Sons have acquired rights to Property when they are born. | It follows an inheritance after the father's death. Sons don't have rights until the father's death. |
| Region of Practice | It followed in most of the regions across India except West Bengal and Assam | It followed in only West Bengal and Assam |
| Joint Family Property | There's a concept of Joint family ownership, where the male members of up to four generations (sons, grandsons, great-grandsons) share the Property | There's no concept of a joint family. Instead, it follows individual ownership consent. This means the Property is individually divided after the owner's death |
| Right to Partition | The son has the right to demand Partition of the Property during the father's lifetime | Partition can only occur after the father's death, and the son can't demand property partition when the father is alive |
| Women's Property Rights | Historically, women haven't had the right to inheritance. However, after the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act of 2005, daughters have equal rights | Daughters can inherit Property, especially in the absence of sons. Even women's rights are stronger for inheritance |
| Features | It's a conservative system | It's a liberal system |
| Authority Over Property | The father can't sell or transfer Property without the consent of other coparceners | The father has more control over the Property and rights to sell or transfer |
| Rights of Widows | A widow can't demand the patient but has the right to property maintenance | A widow can inherit the Property and receive a share of the Property after the husband's death |
| Essence of Ownership | Property is traded as joint family ownership until formally partitioned | Property is treated as individual ownership and divided among heirs after the father's death |
NEW FLAG AND INSIGNIA OF SUPREME COURT
Context: President unveils New Flag & Insignia of Supreme Court to mark its 75th year.
About New Flag:
- The new flag is blue and prominently features the Ashoka Chakra, the Supreme Court building, and the Constitution of India.
- The insignia includes the phrase "Yato Dharmastato Jayah" inscribed in Devanagari script, which translates to "Where there is Dharma, there is victory."
About New Lady Justice:
- The new statue is dressed in a saree, with no blindfold. It holds the Indian Constitution in one hand and scales in the other.
- Historical Background: Inspired by Justitia, the Roman goddess of Justice, the blindfold was added during the Renaissance to symbolize impartiality, indicating that justice should be blind to wealth, power, or status.
- Reason for the Change:
- Colonial Legacy: The 'Lady Justice' symbol was introduced during British rule. The new statue seeks to shed colonial symbols, reflecting India's independence and traditions.
- Indian Tradition: The saree represents Indian culture, while the open eyes emphasize that the law should understand and address societal inequalities, especially for marginalized groups.
- Constitutional Emphasis: Replacing the sword with the Indian Constitution highlights the supremacy of the Constitution, underscoring the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional principles.
- Impartiality and Fairness: The scales remain to symbolize the enduring commitment to impartiality, ensuring judgments are based on the merits of each case.
4. International Events and Engagements
COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Context: The upcoming edition of Commonwealth will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2, 2026.
More on News:
- Organisers have decided to limit the Games to 10 integrated disciplines.
- Wrestling, badminton, table tennis, hockey, squash and cricket have been dropped.
- Out of India's 61 medals in CWG 2022, 30 came from these six disciplines.
About Commonwealth Games (CWG):
- The CWG nations is a group of 54 nations, most of which were former colonies of the British Empire.
- The first official Commonwealth Games, then known as the British Empire Games, were held in 1930 with Canada's Hamilton as hosts.
- Since the inaugural edition, the Commonwealth Games have been held every four years, barring a break in 1942 and 1946 because of World War 2.
- India hosted the 19th Commonwealth Games in 2010.
GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT SCHEME
Context: Recently, the Government of India launched the Global Engagement Scheme.
About Global Engagement Scheme (GES):
- It is an initiative by the Ministry of Culture.
- Objective: Strengthen global ties and India's image through cultural exchange and artistic promotion.
- 3 components:
- Festival of India (FoI): Organizes global cultural festivals showcasing folk arts, classical and contemporary dance, music, and theater.
- Grant-in-aid: Supports Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies for organizing cultural programs abroad.
- Contribution Grant (Contribution to International Organizations and Delegation under CEP): Supports India's membership in key international organizations like ICCROM, UNESCO, and the World Heritage Fund. Facilitates India's participation in global meetings and the hosting of international events.
- Veteran Artists Scheme: Financial assistance of up to ₹6,000/month for artists aged 60+ who have made significant contributions to arts and culture, adjusted with any state pension received.
CONSTITUTION DAY
Context: On November 26, 2024, India marked a historic milestone by celebrating the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution.
About the Constitution Day:
- The Constitution, adopted on November 26, 1949, and enforced on January 26, 1950, established India as a sovereign, democratic republic.
- It has been commemorated annually since 2015 to honor this transformative moment in India's history.
- Theme: "Humara Samvidhan, Humara Swabhimaan" (Our Constitution, Our Pride).
Background of Constitution Framing and Interim Government:
- Cabinet Mission of 1946: Watershed moment in India's struggle for independence.
• Proposal of Constituent Assembly: This constituent assembly would have 389 members, with provincial assemblies contributing 292, chief commissioner's provinces contributing 4, and princely states contributing 93.
• Constitution Creation: Members of groups A, B, and C were to sit separately in the constituent assembly to decide the constitution for provinces and, if feasible, groups as well. The whole constituent assembly (all three parts A, B, and C united) would then convene to draft the union constitution.
• Interim Government: The Congress led interim government was formed on 2 September 1946. No Muslim League members joined at this point. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru was sworn in as Vice President of the Executive Council. Muslim League joined the Interim government in October 1946.
- Constituent Assembly:
• Formation: It was formed on December 6, 1946, and held its inaugural meeting on December 9, 1946.
• President: Dr. Rajendra Prasad, elected as the first President of the Constituent Assembly on December 11, 1946, later became the first President of India in 1950.
• Objective Resolution: Proposed by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru on 13th December 1946, the resolution was adopted on 22nd January 1947.
• Constitution Adopted (26 November 1949): This day, celebrated as Constitution Day or National Law Day, marks the adoption of India's Constitution.
• Last Meeting of Constituent Assembly (24 January 1950): The Assembly held its final session, during which the 'Constitution of India,' comprising 395 articles, 8 schedules, and 22 parts, was signed and accepted by all members.
• Constitution Came into Force (26 January 1950): Replacing the Government of India Act 1935, the Constitution became India's fundamental law, transforming the Dominion of India into the Republic of India.
- Cabinet Mission of 1946: Watershed moment in India's struggle for independence.
• Proposal of Constituent Assembly: This constituent assembly would have 389 members, with provincial assemblies contributing 292, chief commissioner's provinces contributing 4, and princely states contributing 93.
• Constitution Creation: Members of groups A, B, and C were to sit separately in the constituent assembly to decide the constitution for provinces and, if feasible, groups as well. The whole constituent assembly (all three parts A, B, and C united) would then convene to draft the union constitution.
• Interim Government: The Congress led interim government was formed on 2 September 1946. No Muslim League members joined at this point. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru was sworn in as Vice President of the Executive Council. Muslim League joined the Interim government in October 1946.
- Constituent Assembly:
• Formation: It was formed on December 6, 1946, and held its inaugural meeting on December 9, 1946.
• President: Dr. Rajendra Prasad, elected as the first President of the Constituent Assembly on December 11, 1946, later became the first President of India in 1950.
• Objective Resolution: Proposed by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru on 13th December 1946, the resolution was adopted on 22nd January 1947.
• Constitution Adopted (26 November 1949): This day, celebrated as Constitution Day or National Law Day, marks the adoption of India's Constitution.
• Last Meeting of Constituent Assembly (24 January 1950): The Assembly held its final session, during which the 'Constitution of India,' comprising 395 articles, 8 schedules, and 22 parts, was signed and accepted by all members.
• Constitution Came into Force (26 January 1950): Replacing the Government of India Act 1935, the Constitution became India's fundamental law, transforming the Dominion of India into the Republic of India.
5. Heritage and Archaeological Discoveries
THE BAHAMANI ARCHITECTURES OF BIDAR
Context: The Karnataka Waqfs Board has claimed 17 monuments inside the historic Bidar Fort as Waqf property.
About the Bidar Fort:
- Location: Situated in Bidar City, Karnataka.
- Built By: Kakatiya ruler Madhav Varma II in the 10th century.
- Dynasties: The fort was home to many dynasties including Bahmani Sultanate (1347-1518), Barid Shahi Dynasty (1527-1619), Mughal Empire (1619-1724) and Nizam of Hyderabad (1724-1948).
- Renovation: Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar his capital in 1430 and renovated it as an impressive citadel.
- Layout: The plan of the Bidar city fortification is pentagonal. There are five gateways for entry into the city fort.
- Material: Constructed using trap rock, stone, and mortar.
Key Features:
- Gateways: Seven arched gates, including notable ones like Gumbad Darwaza and Sharaza Darwaza.
- Bastions: 37 octagonal bastions with metal-shielded cannons.
- Structures: Includes over 30 Islamic monuments.
Cultural Significance:
- Style: Showcases Islamic and Persian architectural influences.
- Legacy: A testament to over 500 years of Indian history.
- Gateways: Seven arched gates, including notable ones like Gumbad Darwaza and Sharaza Darwaza.
- Bastions: 37 octagonal bastions with metal-shielded cannons.
- Structures: Includes over 30 Islamic monuments.
Cultural Significance:
- Style: Showcases Islamic and Persian architectural influences.
- Legacy: A testament to over 500 years of Indian history.
Knowledge Nugget: About the Bahmani Dynasty
- It was the first independent Muslim sultanate in the Deccan plateau of India that ruled for almost 200 years from 1347–1527.
- Founder: By Alauddin Hasan Gangu Bahman Shah, an Afghan adventurer, in 1347.
- Capital: Gulbarga, for the first 75 years followed by Bidar for over a century.
- Language: The official language was Persian, and the common languages were Marathi, Deccani, Telugu, and Kannada.
- Notable Rulers: In total the dynasty had 18 rulers.
• Muhammad Shah I: The son of Alauddin Bahman Shah, he defeated the Hindu principalities of Vijayanagara and Warangal.
• Firoz Shah Bahmani: He built an observatory near Daulatabad.
• Ahmad Shah I: Also known as Wali (the Saint), he created an environment that attracted scholars from around the world.
- It was the first independent Muslim sultanate in the Deccan plateau of India that ruled for almost 200 years from 1347–1527.
- Founder: By Alauddin Hasan Gangu Bahman Shah, an Afghan adventurer, in 1347.
- Capital: Gulbarga, for the first 75 years followed by Bidar for over a century.
- Language: The official language was Persian, and the common languages were Marathi, Deccani, Telugu, and Kannada.
- Notable Rulers: In total the dynasty had 18 rulers.
• Muhammad Shah I: The son of Alauddin Bahman Shah, he defeated the Hindu principalities of Vijayanagara and Warangal.
• Firoz Shah Bahmani: He built an observatory near Daulatabad.
• Ahmad Shah I: Also known as Wali (the Saint), he created an environment that attracted scholars from around the world.
ICCR ORGANISES CONFERENCE ON PALI AS CLASSICAL LANGUAGE
Context: The Indian Council for Cultural Relations organized a conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with Buddhist monks and scholars.
About Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR):
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of External Affairs
- Founded: It was established in 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
- Aim: To promote Indian culture and values internationally and foster cultural exchanges with other countries.
- It is also responsible for facilitating the International Day of Yoga celebrations by Indian Missions/Posts abroad since 2015.
- Awards: Indologist Award, World Sanskrit Award, Gisela Bonn Award.
NATIONAL MISSION FOR MANUSCRIPTS (NMM)
Context: The government plans to "revive and relaunch" the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM).
About National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM):
- It is a national level comprehensive initiative under the Ministry of Culture to work towards conserving the manuscript heritage of India.
- Presently, NMM is a part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts.
- It covers a variety of themes including scripts, languages and calligraphies, illuminations and illustrations under the project.
- Establishment: 2003, by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
- Objectives: Documentation, conservation, digitization, and dissemination of India's manuscript heritage.
- Motto: Conserving the past for the future.
INDIA-SAUDI BILATERAL HAJ AGREEMENT 2024
Context: 1,75,025 pilgrims from India have been finalized for Haj Pilgrimage 2024.
Major Initiatives for Haj 2024:
- Bilateral Agreement: Quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims; 1,40,020 via Haj Committee.
- Enhanced Medical Care: Round-the-clock support for 40,000 elderly pilgrims.
- Facilitation Centres: Robust consular support through Indian Missions abroad.
About Hajj:
- Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Kaaba in the sacred city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims.
- The rites of pilgrimage are performed over five to six days, extending from the 8th-12th or 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.
- It is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahadah (oath that one believes there is no god but Allah), salat (prayer), zakat (almsgiving) and sawm (fasting of Ramadan).
- Hajj became obligatory for every able-bodied Muslim adult who has the financial means to do it after Prophet Muhammad's "farewell pilgrimage" in 632 AD.
- Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Kaaba in the sacred city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims.
- The rites of pilgrimage are performed over five to six days, extending from the 8th-12th or 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.
- It is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahadah (oath that one believes there is no god but Allah), salat (prayer), zakat (almsgiving) and sawm (fasting of Ramadan).
- Hajj became obligatory for every able-bodied Muslim adult who has the financial means to do it after Prophet Muhammad's "farewell pilgrimage" in 632 AD.
6. Recent Discoveries and Heritage News
KADAMBA INSCRIPTION
Context: An inscription written in Kannada and Sanskrit has been found in the Mahadeva temple at Cacoda, southern Goa.
About Kadamba Inscription:
- The record is written as a vocal statement of the father's lamentation over his son's death.
- It records the story of Talara Nevayya's son, Gundayya, who vowed to fulfill his father's wish of capturing the gopura (gate) of the port of Goa. Gundayya fought and died after completing his father's wish.
- It follows the literary style of the Talangre inscription of Jayasimha I of the same period.
- The inscription opens with an auspicious word 'Be it well' (Swasthi Shri).
- The epigraph is engraved in Kannada and Nagari characters.
About the Kadambas of Goa (10th-14th century):
- They were the feudatory/subordinates of the Chalukyas of Kalyana.
- Kadamba Shasthadeva was appointed the Mahamandaleshwar of Goa by the Chalukya king, Tailapa II as a reward for his help against the Rashtrakutas.
- Kadamba Shashthadeva later conquered Chandavara and Gopakapattana (modern-day Goa) and established the Goan Kadamba dynasty in 960 CE.
- Chandor, formerly known as Chandrapur, was the capital of this dynasty, and an important port.
- King Shashthadeva made the port city of Gopakpattana as his subsidiary capital after annexing Goa, Port Gopakapattana and Kapardikadvipa and a large part of South Konkan to his kingdom.
- They were the feudatory/subordinates of the Chalukyas of Kalyana.
- Kadamba Shasthadeva was appointed the Mahamandaleshwar of Goa by the Chalukya king, Tailapa II as a reward for his help against the Rashtrakutas.
- Kadamba Shashthadeva later conquered Chandavara and Gopakapattana (modern-day Goa) and established the Goan Kadamba dynasty in 960 CE.
- Chandor, formerly known as Chandrapur, was the capital of this dynasty, and an important port.
- King Shashthadeva made the port city of Gopakpattana as his subsidiary capital after annexing Goa, Port Gopakapattana and Kapardikadvipa and a large part of South Konkan to his kingdom.
11TH-CENTURY JAIN SCULPTURES DISCOVERED
Context: Three Jain sculptures dated around 11th century CE were discovered in Varuna village in Mysuru, Kerala.
Jain Tirthankara Sculptures in India:
- Most of the sculptures are representative of the 24 Tirthankars of Jainism.
- They are represented in the seated lotus position, or standing in the meditation Khadgasana position.
- Usually, the standing Tirthankara is the most iconic Jain sculpture, with a rigid and usually nude representation.
- These types of sculptures usually represent the ideal of a rigorous asceticism - central to the Jainism practice.
- Jain sculptures found in khadgasana position:
- Shravanabelagola: Home to the iconic Gommateshvara statue, a 57-foot tall monolith of Bahubali.
- Halebidu: The Hoysala temples depict several Jain Tirthankaras.
- Dilwara Temples: Located near Mount Abu.
- Other Jain sculptures found carry narrative sequences from Jain Devotional texts, or have inscriptions from the Jain wordings in Prakrit languages.
Knowledge Nugget: About Khadgasana
- One of the various asanas (postures) commonly depicted in Jain iconography.
- In Khadgasana, the Tirthankara is shown standing with feet about two inches apart.
- The hands are placed naturally by the sides, without touching the body.
- One of the various asanas (postures) commonly depicted in Jain iconography.
- In Khadgasana, the Tirthankara is shown standing with feet about two inches apart.
- The hands are placed naturally by the sides, without touching the body.
KAJI NEMU
Context: The Assam Government declared "Kaji Nemu" as the state fruit.
About Kaji Nemu:
- Kaji Nemu, also called Citrus Limon, is a juicy, aromatic lemon with immense nutritional value.
- It is found only in Assam and some parts of the Northeast.
- It is also called Assam Lemon and was given a GI Tag by the Assam government in 2019.
Knowledge Nugget: About State Symbols of Assam
- State Animal: The one-horned rhino.
- State Bird: The white-winged wood duck.
- State Tree: The hollong tree (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus).
- State Flower: The foxtail orchid.
- State Animal: The one-horned rhino.
- State Bird: The white-winged wood duck.
- State Tree: The hollong tree (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus).
- State Flower: The foxtail orchid.
DELISTING OF MONUMENTS
Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 "centrally protected monuments".
More on News:
- These monuments, including landmarks like the medieval highway milestone (Kos Minar No.13) in Haryana, Barakhamba Cemetery in Delhi, and Telia Nala Buddhist ruins in Varanasi, are considered 'untraceable'.
- "Untraceable" Monuments: Lost to urbanization, neglect, or dam construction. Public memory and precise locations of many sites are lost.
About Centrally Protected Monuments:
- Definition: These are locations designated as such under the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological locations and Remains Act of 1958 (AMASR Act).
- Regulation: It governs the preservation of monuments and archaeological sites with national and historical significance that are over 100 years old.
- Process of deleting the lost/untraceable monuments:
- Delisting: Monuments will no longer receive conservation, protection, or maintenance from ASI, allowing construction and urbanization in the area.
- Denotification: The deletion necessitates denotification of the stated monument under Section 35 of the AMASR Act.
- Section 35: It allows for the issuance of notifications only for Centrally Protected Monuments that the Union government determines to be no longer of national interest.
Knowledge Nugget: About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Culture
- Objective: To carry out archaeological research and the preservation of the nation's cultural heritage.
- Mandate: It regulates all archaeological activities in the country in accordance with the rules of the AMASR Act of 1958. It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Culture
- Objective: To carry out archaeological research and the preservation of the nation's cultural heritage.
- Mandate: It regulates all archaeological activities in the country in accordance with the rules of the AMASR Act of 1958. It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
ASI TO COPY STONE INSCRIPTIONS ONTO PAPER
Context: ASI embarks on exercise to copy stone inscriptions onto inked papers in Tiruppur.
About Thalishwarar Temple:
- Thalishwarar temple is an ancient granite stone temple in the Kongu region, dedicated to the deity Thaleekeeiswarar.
- Inscriptions: Out of the eight inscriptions identified one is in Vattezhuthu (an ancient Tamil script) used from the 5th to 12th century AD, likely from the 9th century. The remaining seven inscriptions are in Tamil, probably from the 12th century. The inscriptions are believed to document the construction of the Thalishwarar temple.
- Historical Significance: The temple was built by medieval Chera ruler Kokkandan Viranarayanan, who ruled the Kongu region in the 9th century AD.
- Methodology: The inscriptions were copied using the "estampage method", a technique where an exact imitation of an inscription is created on ink paper for further analysis.
7. Cultural Mapping and Historical Trials
CULTURAL MAPPING OF VILLAGES
Context: Recently, the Ministry of Culture has initiated the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM).
About National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM):
- Purpose: Cultural mapping provides "an integrated picture of the cultural character, significance, and workings of a place" in order to help communities recognise, celebrate, and support cultural diversity for economic, social and regional development.
- Aim:
- To create awareness about the strengths of cultural heritage and its interface with development and cultural identity.
- Cultural Mapping of 6.5 Lakh villages along with their geographical, demographic profiles, and creative capitals.
- To cover all the inhabited villages of India which are marked as 'village', in the Census List, 2011 published by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
- Creation of National Registers of Artists and Art practices.
- Development of a web portal and mobile app to function as a National Cultural Work Place (NCWP).
- Three interlinked programmes:
- Sanskritik Pratibha Khoj: Focuses on national cultural awareness, talent hunts, and the revitalization of folk and tribal heritage.
- Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD): Involves cultural mapping to identify artists and craftspeople across India.
- National Cultural Workplace (NCWP): An interactive web portal for artists and craftsmen, serving as an online platform for cultural service providers.
- The initiative highlights local traditions such as Thongjao's pottery ('Land of Pottery', Manipur) and other rural stories.
About Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD):
- It is a pan-India initiative of the Ministry of Culture under the National Mission on Cultural Mapping and was launched in July 2023.
- Objective: To culturally map India's 6.5 lakh villages, spanning 28 States and 8 Union Territories, on a comprehensive virtual platform.
- Few villages included:
• Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra: A village where houses don't have doors, as residents believe Lord Shani protects them from theft.
• Thiruchigadi, Tamil Nadu: Known for its colony of female potters from the Kota tribe in the Nilgiri Mountains.
• Khonoma, Nagaland: India's first green village, near the Indo-Myanmar border.
• Suketi, Himachal Pradesh: Home to Asia's oldest fossil park and associated with the Pajhota agitation.
- It is a pan-India initiative of the Ministry of Culture under the National Mission on Cultural Mapping and was launched in July 2023.
- Objective: To culturally map India's 6.5 lakh villages, spanning 28 States and 8 Union Territories, on a comprehensive virtual platform.
- Few villages included:
• Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra: A village where houses don't have doors, as residents believe Lord Shani protects them from theft.
• Thiruchigadi, Tamil Nadu: Known for its colony of female potters from the Kota tribe in the Nilgiri Mountains.
• Khonoma, Nagaland: India's first green village, near the Indo-Myanmar border.
• Suketi, Himachal Pradesh: Home to Asia's oldest fossil park and associated with the Pajhota agitation.
Knowledge Nugget: About Kota Tribe
- Kotas: An ethnic group indigenous to the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu.
- Language: They speak a unique language belonging to the Dravidian family.
- Tribal Status: Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
- Cultural Practices: Women had significant autonomy in choosing marriage partners and actively participated in economic activities.
- Kotas: An ethnic group indigenous to the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu.
- Language: They speak a unique language belonging to the Dravidian family.
- Tribal Status: Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
- Cultural Practices: Women had significant autonomy in choosing marriage partners and actively participated in economic activities.
THE RED FORT TRIALS
Context: Decades after the Red Fort trial, it is hoped that India's leaders find the wisdom to commit themselves again to what unites us citizens as a people.
About the Red Fort Trials:
- The Red Fort Trials, also known as the Indian National Army trials or the INA trials.
- Background: The Indian National Army (INA), led by Subhas Chandra Bose, was formed during World War II with the support of Japan to fight against British rule in India. Many soldiers from the British Indian Army joined the INA. However, after the war, the British captured several soldiers and INA officers and decided to put them on trial for treason, murder and other charges. The historic court martial commenced on November 5, 1945. The decision was made to hold a public trial, and it was decided to hold these at the Red Fort.
- Time Period: These were a British Indian court-martial held between November 1945 and May 1946.
- Causes of Trials: British desire to reassert authority, to divide Indians by playing on communal lines, etc.
- Charges Faced: First in the dock were three top captured INA members, Shahnawaz Khan, Prem Sahgal and Gurbaksh Dhillon. They were jointly charged with waging war against the nation (Section 121 of Indian Penal Code or IPC) and were individually charged for murder and abetment to murder.
- Support by Indians: It led to sympathy for the INA across the country, and before long, demonstrations began springing up in different parts in solidarity with the captured troops.
- Action by Congress: Congress leader and the country's first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, also got on board the INA officers' legal defence team, along with party colleague Bhulabhai Desai and barrister Tej Bahadur Sapru.
- Result: The three INA members were found guilty of waging a war. They were, however, not given the death sentence but dismissed from service and handed transportation for life, which too was remitted.
- Continuation of Trials and Revolts: The release of the three, however, did not result in the rest of the captured INA troops going on trial. Although the British Indian Army was recommended to cease the trials, as it could lead to mutinies, the force's then commander-in-chief, Claude Auchinleck, decided to go ahead with the rest of them. This led to the loyalties of the serving Indian Armymen shifting towards the country as the majority turned nationalist.
- Phase of Mass Mutiny: In January 1946, a massive strike was imposed by officers and pilots of the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF). By February, the ships of the Royal Indian Navy (RIN) also joined the mutiny. Civilians in Mumbai joined the strikes as well.
- Impact: The punishment given to them and Jawaharlal Nehru on August 20, 1945 said that it would in effect be a punishment on all India and all Indians, a deep wound would be created in millions of hearts.
High-Yield Interactive UPSC Quiz (Chapter 8 Focus)
Q1. With reference to the Mitakshara law of inheritance, consider the following statements:
1. It is a legal commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti authored by Vijnaneswara.
2. Under Mitakshara law, sons acquire rights to property by birth.
3. Mitakshara law is followed only in West Bengal and Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer: A. Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Mitakshara law is followed in most of India except West Bengal and Assam, which follow the Dayabhaga system.
Q2. Consider the following pairs of tribal communities and their associated practices/language:
1. Chakaliya community - Madhika language
2. Bhil tribe - Nata Pratha
3. Kota tribe - Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG)
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Correct Answer: C. All three pairs are correctly matched. The Chakaliya community speaks Madhika, the Bhil tribe practices Nata Pratha, and the Kota tribe is classified as a PVTG.
Q3. With reference to the Red Fort Trials (INA trials), consider the following statements:
1. The trials were held between November 1945 and May 1946.
2. Three top INA members - Shahnawaz Khan, Prem Sahgal, and Gurbaksh Dhillon were tried.
3. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru was part of the legal defence team.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer: D. All three statements are correct. The INA trials were held from November 1945 to May 1946, tried three key INA officers, and Nehru was part of the defence team.
Q4. Consider the following statements about the National Mission on Cultural Mapping:
1. It aims to culturally map 6.5 lakh villages across India.
2. The mission is executed by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts.
3. 'Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar' is a programme under this mission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer: D. All three statements are correct. The NMCM aims to map 6.5 lakh villages, is executed by IGNCA, and includes the MGMD programme.