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2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

Target 2018: Integrated IAS General Studies

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 2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

Contents
......................... .. .. . . ..........................................................................
Topic 1. Adopt a Heritage Scheme .............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Priority Areas ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Need .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
What are the concerns? .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Topic 2. Visva Bharati University- Uniqueness in learning ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Uniqueness in learning .................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Topic 3. Yoga as India’s Newest Ambassador .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
Yoga as an ambassador of India ................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Topic 4. Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat for Integrating India ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Topic 5. Bahubali Mahamastakabhisheka: Historical Significance ........................................................................................................................ 5
Topic 6. Chardham Yatra: Route and Significance .................................................................................................................................................. 5
Topic 7. GI Tag tussle between Odhisa and Bengal for Rasgulla ........................................................................................................................ 6
Topic 8. Padmavat authenticity .................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Topic 9. Vivekananda: India needs him more than ever now ............................................................................................................................... 7
Topic 10. Bhagavadgita: Contemporary relevance ................................................................................................................................................... 8
Topic 11. Bodhgaya: The spiritual capital of the Buddhist world .......................................................................................................................... 9
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
Topic 12. Santhara: Judgement of Supreme Court .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Topic 13. River Saraswati: Search and New Studies about its existence ............................................................................................................. 9
Topic 14. Threats to Taj Mahal .................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Topic 15. Rajaravi Verma: How he changed Indian illustrated art ...................................................................................................................... 10
Topic 16. Ranganatha Swamy Temple: A manifestation of Dravidian Architecture ....................................................................................... 11
Topic 17. Regional New Year Celebrations of India ............................................................................................................................................... 11
Topic 18. Indian languages facing existential threat ............................................................................................................................................... 12
Topic 19. Globalisation and Its impact on Indian performing arts .................................................................................................................... 13
Topic 20. Unani Medicine: History and Significance ............................................................................................................................................. 14
Topic 21. Urdu’s contribution to Modern Indian identity ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Topic 22. India’s cultural diplomacy .......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Topic 23. Jallikattu versus Kambala .......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Difference between Kambala and Jallikattu .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Topic 24. Disaster Management at Museums: Challenges and NDMA Guidelines ....................................................................................... 16
Topic 25. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage .......................................................................................................................... 16
Topic 26. Contribution of Important British Orientalists towards rediscovery of Indian Heritage ............................................................. 17
The Four Heroes ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Role of Other British Orientalists ................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Topic 27. National Cultural Audiovisual Archives .................................................................................................................................................. 17
Topic 28. Harikatha Tradition .................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Topic 29. National Virtual Library of India .............................................................................................................................................................. 18
Topic 30. Spiritual route to spur tourism in India ................................................................................................................................................. 18

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 2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

Topic 1. Adopt a Heritage Scheme

“Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan”, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tourism,
Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and State/UTs Governments. The Project
aims to develop synergy among all partners to effectively promote “responsible tourism”.
Priority Areas
The priority areas under the scheme are as follows:
Developing basic tourism infrastructure;
Promoting cultural and heritage value of the country to generate livelihoods in the identified
regions;
Enhancing the tourist attractiveness in a sustainable manner by developing world-class
infrastructure at the heritage monument sites;
Creating employment through active involvement of local communities;
Harnessing tourism potential for its effects in employment generation and economic development;
Developing sustainable tourism infrastructure and ensuring proper Operations and Maintenance
therein.
Need ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

India is a cradle of civilization and it’s the duty of every Indian to preserve the rich heritage and culture of
great Indian civilization. The duty to preserve the rich heritage of the country is also enshrined in the
fundamental duties.
ASI that administers over 3,000 monuments lacks fund and is overworked. Private players can aid in
building the gap as they are already mandated to do public service through CSR activities under
companies act.
What are the concerns?
Privatisation of monuments
The concern of privatisation is unwarranted for. As there is no selling of monuments but only handing
over for their upkeep and maintenance.
Indemnity clause
Dalmia Group’s MoU with the government includes an ‘indemnity clause’ that will protect them in case of
any damage to the ancient structures. The official circular of Adopt a heritage appropriates no penalty,
and says that the “fourth party” will be held “harmless” against any loss, costs and expenses.This is a cause
of concern and needs to be addressed.
Public-private partnerships should be welcome in the effort of ensuring the survival of our heritage. With
course-correction, the scheme can be a promising model for elevating India’s tourism credentials.
Topic 2. Visva Bharati University- Uniqueness in learning
Santiniketan embodies Rabindranath Tagore’s vision of a place of learning that is unfettered by religious
and regional barriers. Established in 1863 with the aim of helping education go beyond the confines of the
classroom, Santiniketan grew into the Visva Bharati University in 1921, attracting some of the most
creative minds in the country.
Uniqueness in learning
The curriculum proposed by the university is the unique blend of art, human values and cultural
interchange. The idea as envisaged by the Tagore reverberates even today in every step, in every
brick and in every tree at Santiniketan.
Tagore always believed that “The highest education is that which does not merely give us
information but makes our life in harmony with all existence.” The Visva Bharati University through
its unique approach is striving to uphold the ideals of Tagore.
Being located in the heart of nature, the school aims to combine education with a sense of obligation

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 2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

towards the larger civic community.

The school strives at blending the best of western and traditional eastern systems of education.
The curriculum revolves organically around nature with classes being held in the open air.
Nature walks and excursions are a part of the curriculum. Special attention is paid to natural
phenomena and students were encouraged to follow the life cycles of insects, birds and plants.
Together with everyday subjects, emphasis is also given to vocational education.
Santiniketan is credited with taking the first path breaking steps in the field of education at a time when
the country was slowly getting hitched to the European mode of education. The Visva Bharati University
is continuing the great tradition which made a new beginning with Santiniketan. Reference
Topic 3. Yoga as India’s Newest Ambassador
The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution introduced by and co-sponsored by a
record 175 nations to make 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The motion was passed through
consensus vote.
Yoga as an ambassador of India
Everybody knows that yoga originated in India. Yoga sprung from the philosophical fountains of
India and then spread organically to the whole
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] of east, central Asia, and Persia over a period of time.
| www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

Yoga is seen as a part of sustainable lifestyle. Yoga is also propagating the message that by changing
our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help us deal with climate change. Along with
initiatives like solar alliance, Yoga is seen as Indian contribution in fighting climate change.
The flexibility and freedom of interpretation offered by yoga has helped it to penetrate across the
world. From seekers of nirvana to those wanting to rid of their stress and remain fit, all came into
its fold. Thus in a way enhancing the soft power of India.
The commercialisation of Yoga has also resulted in increased market for the Indian products. Thus
Yoga has become a tool to spread the idea of India.
As India is keen to make its civilizational message heard it has to convince the world about relevance of
yoga in solving problems of poverty, climate change and numerous wars. The current brand of
development based on consumerism is not sustainable. The new brand of sustainable development
replicates in Yoga. This aids Yoga to transform itself as an ambassador of India. [The Hindu]
Topic 4. Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat for Integrating India
The ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ programme’ promoted by the ministry of culture aims to actively
enhance interaction between people of diverse cultures living in different States and UTs in India, with the
objective of promoting greater mutual understanding amongst them.
The objectives of the programme include
To CELEBRATE the Unity in Diversity of our Nation and to maintain and strengthen the fabric of
traditionally existing emotional bonds between the people of our Country;
To PROMOTE the spirit of national integration through a deep and structured engagement between
all Indian States and Union Territories through a year-long planned engagement between States;
To SHOWCASE the rich heritage and culture, customs and traditions of either State for enabling
people to understand and appreciate the diversity that is India, thus fostering a sense of common
identity;
To ESTABLISH long-term engagements and
To CREATE an environment which promotes learning between States by sharing best practices and
experiences.
The objectives are attained through efforts like
Pairing of one state with another State/UT in India for reciprocal interaction between the
people. This promotes greater mutual understanding amongst them.
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The pairing and cultural exchanges between the states lead to greater awareness about each other’s
language, culture, traditions and practices of different states. This aids in enhanced bonding thereby
strengthening the unity and integrity of India.
India is a land of diversity. The initiative of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ aims to bind the nation by
enhancing the knowledge of diversity. The increased awareness about others way of living and culture will
aid in recognising the differences in the culture of various groups. This recognition is of great importance
in preserving the unity and integrity of India. [PIB]
Topic 5. Bahubali Mahamastakabhisheka: Historical Significance
The 57-foot piece of granite monolithic statue of the Jain God Bahubali or Gomateshwara is located on the
Vindyagiri hills at the Jain pilgrimage site of Shravanabelagola.
Bahubali Mahamastabhisheka refers to the abhisheka (anointment) of the Jain god Bahubali or
Gomateshwara which is held once in 12 years.
Who is Bahubali?
Bahubali is the son of the first tirtankara, Rishabanatha.
Jain mythology holds up Bahubali as the one who succeeded in attaining liberty from worldly
desires through a long period
ganeshrjarkad |of sustained |meditation.
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Bahubali was a ruler who won against his brother and was filled with grief over his actions and
therefore abandoned his possessions and kingdom in search for omniscience.
Jain poet Bopanna wrote of him as the one who “gave back the whole earth though he had
completely conquered it”.
The Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola was built in 983 AD. It was commissioned by the ruler and
minister of the Ganga dynasty, Chavunda-Raya.
Genesis of Mahamastakabhisheka
Together with installation of the statue, Chavunda-Raya also performed the great ceremony of
consecration of the image on March 13, in 981 AD.
This ceremony of anointing came to be referred to at the Mahamastakabhisheka Mahotsav and was
carried out every 10 to 15 years at an auspicious moment decided on the basis of the positioning of
heavenly bodies.
Over time, the event is decidedly carried out every 12 years on a grand scale with thousands of
priests and pilgrims gracing the event.
The Mahamastakabhisheka in 2018 was the 88th one wherein Millions of Jain worshippers flock
to Shravanabelagola to commemorate Bahubali on this auspicious day. [Indian Express]
Topic 6. Chardham Yatra: Route and Significance
Chardham Yatra is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage consisting of four shrines which include
Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath in Uttarakhand. It is believed that these holy shrines were
established by the great saint “Sri Adi Shankracharya” during the 8th Century.
The doorway to the Yatra is Yamunotri. Next destination is the renowned Gangotri shrine. Thereafter, the
pilgrim has to visit Shri Kedarnath Dham and finally Shri Badrinath Dham.
Significance of the Yatra
Hindus believes that the Chardham tour opens the gates of salvation by washing away all their sins.
It is held that the Chardham Yatra must be undertaken at least once in a lifetime which covers these
four shrines which have a great significance and place in Hindu mythology.
Chardham Yatra and Salvation
Yamunotri
Yamunotri the source of the sacred Yamuna River. Mythological stories boast that Yamuna was the
sister of Yamraj and he had promised goddess Yamuna that whosoever will take a dip in the Yamuna
River will not be taken to Yamlok and they would attain salvation.
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 2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

Gangotri
The major highlight of Gangotri Dham is Gomukh, which is the origin point of the Holy River
Ganges. It is believed that the holy river Ganga is the source of sanctity and purity and a dip in the
holy river washes away all their sins. This is said to open the doors of salvation.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a prominent pilgrimage for Hindus as it is one of the twelve jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva,
the God of destruction. Adi Shankracharya had restored the temple at Kedarnath.
Badrinath
Badrinath is considered as the most sacred among the four shrines. The Dham is dedicated to Lord
Vishnu, the protector and preserver of the divine Hindu Trinity. This region has also witnessed Saint
Adi Shankracharya getting freedom from the process of reincarnation.
The government has initiated the Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana to make the Yatra more convenient.
The project involves widening the existing, geometrically deficient highway that connects the four
abodes. [Financial Express]
Topic 7. GI Tag tussle between Odhisa and Bengal for Rasgulla
Geographical Indication (GI) tag is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific
geographical location or origin. It is| [email protected]
ganeshrjarkad used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special
| www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

quality and established reputation.

GI tag and its significance
The goods or products recognised with a GI tag are recognised for their origin, quality and
reputation and gives it required edge in the global market.
The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their production while earning a
premium and derive an improved livelihood.
GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection
of Industrial Property. .
At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual
Property Rights (TRIPS).
In India, GI tag Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999 governs it.
This Act is administered by Controller General.
The law ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity.
Violation of GI tags is punishable offence under law.
Tussle between Bengal and Odhisa
There was a two and a half year long battle between Bengal and Orissa over the right to obtain the
GI tag for Rasgulla.
Odhisa claims
Odhisa had argued that the Rasgulla had originated from the Jagannath Temple in Puri, where it is a
part of the religious rituals since the 12th century.
Odisha calls it ‘Pahala Rasgulla’.
West Bengal claims
West Bengal had sought the GI tag on what they call it as “Banglar Rasogolla”.
In West Bengal, confectioner Nobin Chandra Das is widely known as the one, who created Rasgulla
in the 1860s.
Bengal had told the GI registrar office that the one in Odisha is a different variety.
The Bengal one is off white or light cream coloured, spherical in shape while in other states; it varies
from brown to other colours.
The GI authorities have ruled that sufficient evidence has been produced by West Bengal on origin,
uniqueness etc.
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Current Status:
Bengal won the GI tag for Banglar rosogolla and not on rasgullas in general. Odisha now seeks to claim GI
tag for its own rasgullas separately. [Outlook India]
Topic 8. Padmavat authenticity
The age old controversy surrounding queen Padmavati got a new lease of life with the film named around
the queen was due for release.
Mohammad Jaisi Poem Padmavat
According to Jaisi’s version Rani Padmini was born at some time between 13th and 14th century in
Srilanka.
Padmini was noted for her unparallel beauty and had caught the eye of many suitors.
It was said that she had a talking parrot by name Hira-mani which spoke of padmini’s beauty at
length to Rana Ratan Singh of Chitoor.
He then proceeded to Srilanka and won her in a swayam vara.
Meanwhile Delhi came under the reign of Delhi Sultanate and Alauddin Khilji was the Second ruler
of the Khilji dynasty.
It is said that Alauddinganeshrjarkad
Khilji |was on a ruthless
[email protected] mission to expand his Kingdom and Rajputana was
| www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

one of his targets.

Apparently Alauddin Khilji once received a visitor who was a banished sorcerer from Rana Ratan
Singh’s kingdom.
He seeded Alauddin with an idea that the Khilji emperor must have the queen Padmini for himself.
Henceforth Alauddin Khilji set forth for Chittor and entrapped Ratan Singh.
Ratan Singh was told that the price for his freedom was his queen.
Rani Padmini made attempts to rescue her husband and failed.
Ratan Singh was also killed in cross-fire.
Elated Khilji emperor entered the castle to claim his prize.
By that time Padmini along with other women of Chitoor had committed Jauhar to save their
honour.
Authenticity of the Story
Historians put forth various contradictions in the Jaisi’s work
Alauddin Khilji had defeated Rana Ratan Singh in 1303 and died in 1313 AD. The records of this time
don’t have any reference to queen Padmini.
Rani Padmini is said to be born somewhere during 1500 AD which is 200 years after Alauddin
Khilji’s timeline.
No contemporary literary works has any reference to queen Padmini. Works of Barani and Khusrau
which are believed to be providing credible information about the medieval history has no mention
of queen by name Padmini.
Critics also point that Jayasi wrote Padmini was from Sri Lanka but believing it would be wrong as
she was born in Pungal Pradesh, an area between Bikaner and Jaisalmer.
Rima Hooja, historian and author of the book ‘A History of Rajasthan’ felt that a woman must have
inspired the legend of Padmini. It would seem that there must have been a queen whose action was such
that she was remembered even though the Rana line ended with the death of Rana Ratan Singh. The truth
lies somewhere between history and mythology. [quint]
Topic 9. Vivekananda: India needs him more than ever now
India which is a cradle of a many great civilisations has been blessed with a perennial tradition of saints
and sages who sacrificed everything for society and the nation. “Service to humanity is the greatest form
of worship” is the mantra that the far-sighted ancient Indian saints upheld in their life.

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Swami Vivekananda was as a legatee to these great saints, who had sculpted the spirit of India from the
Vedic ages.
Vivekananda the crusader
Vivekananda’s birth happened in the midst of a turbulent period. It was the worst of times, when the
nation had been floating without any direction.
It was mired in a disturbing state of ideological bankruptcy. Rulers and society treated Hinduism as
completely undesirable and totally nonsensical.
Vivekananda wanted to change the way Indians treated themselves. He wanted to break down
barriers and shape the future of India on the edifice of the Vedas.
His commitment was to recapture the ancient Vedic identity of India.
India needs Vivekananda now
Currently India is witnessing a turbulent phase. The very idea of India is being challenged by
religious fundamentalists, terrorists, and worthless politicians, Vivekananda’s concept of
nationalism, rooted in the Vedic thoughts, assumes great significance.
Vivekananda had a vision to make a nation nobody could think of attacking. That’s why he wanted a
young Indian generation having the courage and spirit of Rajaputra warriors.
He was a valiant monkganeshrjarkad
who had proclaimed the greatness of Hinduism and India in America at a
| [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

time when Europe and the Americas considered Bharat as a land of superstitions.
Vivekananda gave roaring call for Indian’s “India needs a young generation of iron muscles and steel
nerves”. This ignited a sense of patriotism and nationalism amongst Indian youth.
This views and thoughts provided colonial India a much needed new electric fire to stir up a fresh
vigour in its national veins.
Swami Vivekananda’s concept of India was a strong, powerful, and aggressive nation. At a time India is
battling multi-dimensional challenges like terrorism, religious fundamentalism, lack of ethics and
morality, increasing corruption the ideology and thought process propagated by Vivekananda can be
guiding light for India in 21st century. Hence it is said that “India needs Vivekananda more than ever now”.
Topic 10. Bhagavadgita: Contemporary relevance
Bhagavadgita which is the most beloved scriptures of India occurs in the Bhishma Parva of the
Mahabharata, comprises eighteen chapters from 25th to the 42nd. This ancient knowledge was first
transferred from Surya (The SUN) to King Ishvaku. Then this most secret and sacred knowledge
disappeared in sands of time. Later same was revealed by Lord Krishna in the dramatic event of
Mahabharata to Arjuna.
Bhagavadgita
The message of Bhagavadgita was revealed by the Krishna to address the fear and Attachment faced
by Arjuna.
Arjuna was grieving during Mahabharata because he was supposed to fight his near and dear ones.
Arjuna felt that he would incur the sin if he goes to fight his near and dear ones.
There was a lack of role clarity and he was not able to take right decision because of his fears.
Lord Krishna then in the middle of the battle field gave him the knowledge of Geeta and motivated
him to follow the path of Dharma by understanding his role and acting accordingly without getting
affected with his emotions.
As a result of Krishna’s teaching through Bhagavadgita Arjuna was then came out of his equipoise
state of mind and stood up to perform his karma(action).
Contemporary relevance
The world today is haunted by various challenges for which Bhagavadgita can guide us with the way
out.
Today individuals are not able to take decisions because of fear of uncertainties or our decisions are

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biased because of our attachments/inclinations.

Even today every individual is a victim of disease which Arjuna’s body and mind was experiencing at that
time, and every individual needs the cure of Geeta to perform right actions at right time.
Topic 11. Bodhgaya: The spiritual capital of the Buddhist world
The government has decided to nominate Bodhgaya as the spiritual capital of the Buddhist world. Prime
Minister called Gautam Buddha as India’s crown jewel and called Bodh Gaya as the land of enlightenment.
Why Bodhgaya as Spiritual capital of the Buddhist World?
Bodhgaya is a religious site and place of pilgrimage associated with the Mahabodhi Temple Complex
in Gaya district of Bihar.
It is famous because it place where Gautama Buddha, the Founder of Buddhism is said to have
obtained Enlightenment (Bodhimandala) under the peepal tree which is referred as Bodhi tree.
Bodh Gaya is the most important place and one of the main four pilgrimage sites related to the life of
Gautama Buddha along with Kushinagar, Lumbini and Saranath.
Mahabodhi Temple located in the Bodhgaya is also a world heritage site. By developing Bodhgaya as the
spiritual capital the government is aiming to serve as a civilizational bond between India and the Buddhist
world. ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

Topic 12. Santhara: Judgement of Supreme Court

Santhara also known as Sallekhana is a voluntary religious practice of jians where they practice
voluntarily fasting to death by gradually reducing the intake of food and liquids. Historical records also
show that around 300 BC Chandragupta undertook Santhara atop chandragiri hills in Shravanabelagola of
Karnataka.
Why human right activists oppose the practice
Human rights activists allege that it’s a social evil, and old people are made to undertake
Santhara/Sallekana by family members who don’t want to look after them for a variety of reasons.
Rajasthan High court judgement: Nikhil Soni v/s Union of India
High court ruled Santhara to be against right to life and it amounts to suicide.
The Verdict of the high court also criminalised the practice of Santhara.
Making Santhara illegal the Rajasthan high Court ruled that the act to be punishable under section
306 and 309 of IPC related to abetment of suicide.
It was not established that Santhara or Sallekhana is an essential practice of the Jain religion. Jain
scriptures or texts don’t say that moksha (salvation) can be achieved only by Santhara/Sallekhana.
Objections of the Jain community for the order
Jains argue that Santhara/Sallekhana is an ancient religious practice aimed at self-purification.
The vow of Santhara/Sallekhana is taken when all purposes of life have been served, or when the
body is unable to serve any purpose of life.
It is not the giving up of life, but taking death in their stride.
Verdict of Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has stayed the order of the Rajasthan High Court calling Santhara illegal. The bench
also admitted the appeal for hearing and has granted leave. This means that the matter will come up for
hearing only after a few years from now when other older appeals are decided. Indian Express
Topic 13. River Saraswati: Search and New Studies about its existence
River Saraswati is one of the Rigvedic Rivers mentioned in the rig Veda. The Saraswati River played an
important role in Hinduism since Vedic Sanskrit.
Geological studies about the existence of the river Saraswati
A team of scientists from Department of Geology, Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU), Baroda, has
confirmed through radio isotope studies about a river which had originated from the Himalayas and
traversed through northwest India 10,000 years ago before getting discharged into the Great Rann
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of Kutch (GRK) in Gujarat.

Scientists of the Department of Atomic Energy had found out that the ground water found in
Jaisalimer desert in Rajasthan was the same as that of the 10,000 old river which had meandered
from the Himalayas before getting discharged at GRK.
The Indian Space Research Organisation with the help of its remote sensing satellites too had
tracked the course of the river believed to have flowed more than 10,000 years ago through the same
region.
The findings by the study group commissioned by the Haryana government is of the view that the
river existed at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in Dehradun.
Studies challenging its existence
The research paper of the IIT Kanpur contradicts the existence of the river.
The Ghaggar–Hakra palaeochannel often claimed to be river Saraswati is said to be that of river
Satluj which changed the course about 9000 years ago.
Given River Saraswati’s importance in Hinduism which forms the Hindu holy triumvirate along with the
Ganga and Yamuna, and their hypothetical confluence in Allahabad which is the site of the world’s biggest
gathering every 12 years during the Kumbh Mela, the question of its existence has been a matter of
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
controversy. Researchers on both sides vehemently defending their findings about the existence of the
river much of the arguments are based on remote sensing data.
Topic 14. Threats to Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal is the pride of India. It also finds a place among the wonders of the world and is also part of
UNESCO world heritage site. But the great monument is now facing existential threat.
Threats to Taj Mahal
Pollution
Air and water pollution is affecting the 17th-centry tomb. The levels of air and water pollution at the
city of Agra where the majestic tomb is located has increased due to growth in India’s industry,
traffic and population.
The growth of industry, traffic and population is also affecting the outer layer of Taj Mahal by
discoloring of the white marble (making it go black or yellow) and peeling off of the material from
the monument.
The monument is also affected by the dropping waters tables and bacteria from the Yamuna River
that runs alongside it.
Structural
Cracks have appeared in parts of the tomb
Signs of tilting are being shown by the four minarets which surround the tomb and they may
collapse since the wooden foundation that are under the wells are rooting due to the lack of water it
is getting.
The Yamuna River which runs alongside the Taj Mahal might is facing the fear of extinction
and without the Yamuna River; the Taj Mahal will not survive.
Large businesses and companies draw water from the Yamuna upstream of the Taj Mahal as a result
there is a reduce flow in the river Yamuna. This is resulting the rotting of the wooden foundation of
the minarets.
The other challenge for the monument is from the religious fundamentalist groups who are often
attacking the heritage of the great monument. Various organisations fear that in the absence of the
concentrated efforts the Majestic monument would become a thing of past.
Topic 15. Rajaravi Verma: How he changed Indian illustrated art
Rajaravi Varma traveled all over India, from his native state of Travancore to Lahore, diligently sketching
what he saw.

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New era by Rajaravi Verma

The representation of the traditional Indian Women who is curvy and buxom was first initiated by
the Rajaravi Verma.
He brought India together with his representation of the Indian women. the skin color was from
north India, the way the sari was draped was Maharashtrian and the jewelry was usually from south
India.
The illustrations of women in today’s comic books of the Hindu epics “Ramayana” and
“Mahabharata” are a simplification of the stereotype that Mr. Varma had created then.
His iconic works of Shakuntala an oil-on-canvas painting of the half-nymph of the “Mahabharata,”
later inspired a series of similar visuals that were used to sell women’s products like perfumes and
creams.
The bright colors and dramatic gestures of “Sitaharan,” depicting the scene from the “Ramayana”
where Ravana, the 10-headed king, kidnaps Sita, wife of the god Rama, are strikingly similar to the
visuals in modern comic books like the “Amar Chitra Katha” series.
His works are also criticised for the fact that this pan-Indian, homogenized visual imagery, created for
mass-market consumption overshadowed the diversity of illustrations of the epics that existed before Mr.
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
Varma arrived on the landscape of Indian art.
Topic 16. Ranganatha Swamy Temple: A manifestation of Dravidian Architecture
Sree Ranganatha Swamy temple has won the UNESCO Asia Pacific Award of Merit 2017 for cultural
heritage conservation. It is a representative of the age old Dravidian architecture.
Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple and Dravidian architecture
The following features in the Ranganatha Swamy temple make it a representative of Dravidian
architecture:
The gopuram of the temple which is called the Rajagopuram and is 236 feet (72m) tall is the tallest in
Asia.
The hall of 1000 pillars is a fine example of a planned theatre-like structure.
The temple complex hosts numerous water bodies inside. The Temple complex has 2 large Temple
tanks inside it, Chandra Pushkarini and Surya Pushkarini. The Complex has been built in a way that
all the water collected flows into the tanks.
Apart from the 7 prakaramswith massive walls, the Temple Complex has 21 very colorful
sculpted gopurams (consecrated gateways with towers), 50 sub shrines, 9 sacred pools,
gilded Vimana (dome) over the sanctum sanctorum of the presiding deity.
The huge Granaries which stand testimony to a systematic food security planning not only to the
temple but probably to the entire population of the temple town.
The exterior of the Vimana and attached mandapa has finely worked pillars with fluted shafts,
double capitals and pendant lotus brackets. Sculptures are placed in the niches of three sides of the
sanctuary walls.
The Vahanas (Vehicles on which The Lord is mounted and carried on the shoulders by devotees) are by
themselves excellent pieces of architecture in the temple. The Garuda vahana, Simha vahana, Yanai
vahana, Kudirai vahana, Hanumantha Vahana, Yazhi vahana, Sesha vahana, Annapakshi Vahana, Otrai and
ettai Prabhai vahana are all examples of unmatched beauty.
Topic 17. Regional New Year Celebrations of India
India is a land of diversity. This diversity manifests even in the way the various parts of the country
celebrates the New Year.
Ugadi
Ugadi symbolizes beginning of an age, celebrated in the state of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Ugadi is
celebrated in the month of March–April (Chaitra month).
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Gudi Padwa
Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the first day of Chaitra month and it’s a New Year day for Maharashtrians
and Konkanis.
Baisakhi
Baisakhi is the biggest harvest festival celebrated across North Indian states, especially in the Land of Five
River’s Punjab. Usually Baisakhi falls on 13th April, and some time on 14th and also celebrated as the day of
the formation of the Sikh Khalsa.
Puthandu
The traditional Tamil New Year starts on mid-April either on 13 or 14 April, or first day of Tamil month
Chithirai. People wish each other “Puthandu Vazthukal” which means Happy New Year.
Bohag Bihu
The spring festival “Bohag Bihu” celebrated in the middle of April as the beginning season of agriculture.
The Assamese New Year festival bihu is the most important festival of Assam, celebrated by fun and
abundance, faith and belief. There are three bihu festivals in Assam, other two are Maagh and Kaati.
Pohela Boishakh – Nabo Barsho
The Nabo Barsho of Bengal is celebrated with great deal of enthusiasm and energy during the mid of April.
Pohela Boishakh is also celebrated by tribal people in hilly areas of Tripura.
Bestu Varas ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
Bestu Varas mark the beginning of the harvest season in Gujrath. It is celebrated as Gujarati New Year on
the day after Diwali along with religious rituals and traditions.
Diwali
Marwaris of Rajasthan celebrate Diwali as a new year, the most auspicious day to start new things.
Vishu
Vishu is the new year of Kerala. The most important event of the festival is “Vishukkani” means the first
object viewed in the morning. It is one of the most popular traditional celebration festival followed by
people of Kerala.
Losoong
The Losoong is one of the most popular and old age festivals of Sikkim, celebrated on month of December.
It marks as the end of harvesting season and the New Year for people of Sikkim.
Navreh
Navreh the lunar New Year is celebrated in Kashmir. Navreh the lunar New Year is celebrated as New
Year in Kashmir. It coincides with New year’s observed in other parts of the country such as Gaudi
Parva,Ugadi and cheti Chand the new year day of Sindhi people.
Topic 18. Indian languages facing existential threat
The linguistic survey of India has documented the linguistic richness of the country.
There are over 780 languages and 66 different scripts in India.
Arunachal Pradesh is the richest among the States with 90 languages.
Assam with 55 languages, Gujarat 48, Maharashtra 39, and West Bengal 38 are among the most
linguistically diverse States.
As per the 2011 Census, there are about 122 languages spoken by more than 10,000 people. Of them
22 are the scheduled languages.
Other than the 122 languages, the survey has come up with languages that are spoken by less than
10,000 people many from tribal areas, nomadic communities and from the interiors of north-eastern
part of the country.
Indian languages facing threat of extinction
According to UNESCO, 197 languages in India are reported to be endangered of which 81 are vulnerable
followed by definitely endangered (63), severely endangered (6), critically endangered (42) and already
extinct (5).
According to (UNESCO), any language spoken by less than 10,000 persons is considered “potentially
endangered”.

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Andaman and Nicobar tops the list with 11 critically endangered languages, mainly tribal dialects.
Among the states, it is Manipur with seven languages, followed by Himachal Pradesh with 4
endangered languages.
The other languages in the endangered category are Manda, Parji and Pengo (Odisha), Koraga and
Kuruba (Karnataka), Gadaba and Naiki (Andhra Pradesh), Kota and Toda (Tamil Nadu), Mra and Na
(Arunachal Pradesh), Tai Nora and Tai Rong (Assam), Bangani (Uttarakhand), Birhor (Jharkhand),
Nihali (Maharashtra), Ruga (Meghalaya) and Toto (West Bengal).
Causes for fear of extinction
English has become the language of knowledge and employability, as well as the primary language of
the internet. The major content of the digital sphere is now in English, and, therefore, other
languages have been marginalised.
People have started considering native languages as kitchen languages. As a result the native
languages are losing their space.
As a result of globalisation, the domains of use of some languages are shrinking with the result that
many Indian languages have become threatened and even endangered.
Political marginalisation which started when state boundaries were drawn based on linguistic lines
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
for example, Gondi. The language is spoken by nearly 12 million Gond adivasis, who live in
Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Madhya Pradesh. And yet, there
is no one standardised Gondi language that unifies them all.
Topic 19. Globalisation and Its impact on Indian performing arts
Globalisation refers to breaking down of the barriers. As the wave of globalisation swept across the world
in the last two decades, Indian performing arts have also come under its sway.
The positive impacts of globalisation
Enhanced outreach
India is home to diverse art forms which were confined by the geographical constraints. The globalisation
which is breaking down the barriers has aided in enhancing the outreach.
Conservation
The Indian performing arts were in a dire need of conservation. Globalisation has aided in conservation of
the performing arts by effective use of modern technology.
Fusion and emergence of new forms
Globalisation has aided the cross culture exchanges and interactions. This enhanced interactions has
resulted in the emergence of the fusion of different art forms and also occasionally led to emergence of
new forms altogether.
The negative impacts of globalization on the arts
Commercialisation
The enhanced outreach has opened a new arena for commercial exploitation of the art forms. As a result
the art forms are forced to confine themselves to the commercial interests. Often resulting in the
distortion of the art form.
Extinction
The enhanced access has resulted in fierce competition among the art forms to gain the hold. As a result
the art forms are also facing the fear of extinction. Various folk traditions are on the verge of extinction
due to overarching role of the cinema.
Originality
The enhanced reach has also resulted in the shallow penetration. This shallow penetration has resulted in
inability to internalize the art forms. As a result the art forms are losing their originality.
Globalisation has become a double edged sword at one side it is showering the benefits but on the other it
is creating bottlenecks. It is for the rationality of the humanity to use the globalisation so that the art
forms are preserved for the future without loosing the originality or degrading themselves.
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Topic 20. Unani Medicine: History and Significance

Unani Medicine is a traditional system of medicine practiced in Indian subcontinent. Unani medicine is
also called Unani tibb, Arabian medicine, or Islamic medicine.
Origin of the Unani medicine
The origins of Unani medicine are found in the doctrines of the ancient Greek
physicians Hippocrates and Galen.
During the Caliphate the bulk of knowledge from different parts of the world were translated into
Arabic this included principles of medicine.
As a discipline it was later developed and refined through systematic experiment by the Arabs, most
prominently by Muslim scholar-physician Avicenna.
With additional contributions of medical wisdom from other parts of the Middle East and South
Asia, Unani medicine came to be known also as Arabian, or Islamic, medicine.
According to Unani system of medicine the human body is composed of four basic elements: earth, air,
water and fire having cold, hot, wet and dry temperaments respectively. The body fluids are composed of
four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. These humors have their own temperament:
Blood: hot & wet ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

Phlegm: cold & hot

Yellow bile: hot & dry
Black bile: cold & dry
The quality and quantity of four humors affect the state of health and disease in the body.
According to Unani medicine, health is considered as a state of body with humors in equilibrium and body
functions normal. Health is based on six essential elements:
1. Air
2. Drinks and food
3. Sleep and wakefulness
4. Excretion and retention
5. Physical activity and retention
6. Mental activity and rest
This theory is indirectly having partial similarity with the accepted definition of health as a state of
physical, mental and social wellness.
Although a complete system of treatment, the Unani system, similar to other systems of medicine, has
drawbacks in terms of application and effectiveness. The vast materia medica, from herbal and animal to
mineral sources, as described in ancient Unani textbooks, is sometimes so vague that authenticity must be
established by modern pharmacognostic assessments.
Topic 21. Urdu’s contribution to Modern Indian identity
Urdu evolved from the medieval apabhramsa register. Urdu words largely have base in Sanskrit and
Persian. The Urdu language is also heavily influenced by Peersian and Arabic.
Urdu and Modern Indian identity
Urdu gave India the most popular slogan of the freedom movement “Inquilab zindabad”. “Inquilab
zindabad– Long live revolution was coined by Urdu poet and freedom fighter Hasrat Mohani in 1921.
Urdu also produced unmatched patriotic verses during the freedom struggle suffered the most from
Partition.
Subhas Chandra Bose chose three Urdu words as the motto for his Indian National
Army: ittehad, itmad, qurbani, or unity, confidence, sacrifice.
Poet-philosopher Muhammad Iqbal’s Ode to India, “Saare jahan se accha, Hindostan hamara”, or “Our
India is unrivalled in the world”, came close to being adopted as the national anthem.
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Urdu verses like “Mazhab nahi sikhata, apas mein bair rakhna; Hindi hain hum watan hai Hindostan
hamara”, or “Religion does not teach us to bear malice towards one another; We are all Indians and
India is our homeland” promoted sense of oneness among the Indians.
Urdu poetry was also a major vehicle for the expression of patriotism and defiance of British rule.
Urdu poetry was a major vehicle for the expression of patriotism and defiance of British rule.
It is time to reassert Urdu’s unique contribution to the construction of India’s inclusive national identity
currently under threat from divisive forces of communalism and chauvinism. [The Hindu]
Topic 22. India’s cultural diplomacy
Cultural Diplomacy is recognised as an important instrument of foreign policy in promoting international
links among peoples and countries. There is an intrinsic link between culture and commerce. India’s
cultural diplomacy is spearheaded by ministry of culture and external affairs.
India and cultural diplomacy:
India has signed 126 bilateral cultural agreements and is currently implementing 58 Cultural
Exchange Programmes with other countries.
In pursuance of cultural diplomacy India has also set up Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)
in 1950. Since its creation, ICCR has used a number of instrumentalities, like Cultural Centres,
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

Festivals of India, Chairs of Indian Studies, etc. in promoting not only cultural but broader linkages
with countries across the world.
The government has initiated Project Mausam to explore the multi-faceted Indian Ocean
‘world’–collating archaeological and historical research in order to document the diversity of
cultural, commercial and religious interactions in the Indian Ocean.
Culture has no boundaries and using it as a way to interact with the masses has been the most effective
way to win hearts in the era of globalization.
Importance of cultural diplomacy
The strength of a modern country is no longer measured by the size of population, territory or
economy – but, by the level of the country’s integration in different international structures and by
the number and quality of relationships and links established with friends, allies and
partners. Cultural diplomacy provides one such opportunity.
Cultural diplomacy can help people adjust faster to the demands of quick and comprehensive
changes.
Given the need of modern countries to cooperate with each other in meeting these new threats and
challenges there is no better platform of communication than the cultural diplomacy. [Diplomat
Magazine]
Topic 23. Jallikattu versus Kambala
Both Jallikattu and Kambala have created a new set of controversy. With ordinance of TN for allowing of
Jallikattu getting the presidential nod Karnataka too followed the footsteps to get the legal clearance for
Kambala.
Difference between Kambala and Jallikattu
Jallikattu is Tamil Nadu’s traditional bull-taming sport, which is played on the third day of Pongal in
rural parts of the state. Kambala is a yearly buffalo race that is held between November and March
by the coastal rural communities of Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
In Jallikattu, the participant who holds the hump for as long as possible and attempts to bring the
bull to a stop wins the game. Kambala starts with buffaloes’ exhibition and is followed up by buffalo
race in muddy fields. Every team competes with two buffaloes and a farmer. The fastest team wins
the race.
PETA believes that Jallikattu exploits bulls’ natural nervousness as prey animals by deliberately

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placing them in a terrifying situation in which they are forced to run away from those they perceive
as predators. This led to calls for banning of Kambala. PETA put forward that during Kambala,
bovines are beaten and made to race through flowing water, resulting in death of several animals
due to broken limbs and weakness.
Topic 24. Disaster Management at Museums: Challenges and NDMA Guidelines
Strengthening of the museum sector is an important part of nation-building. Museums have the potential
to become a high revenue generating enterprise for the tourism industry.
Challenges with Museums in India
The post of director is vacant in large number of museums in India. Also the postings at museums
are regarded as punishment posting for IAS officers.
It is also common practice to appoint officers as Museum Directors who have absolutely no
knowledge of arts management or curatorial practices.
There is no training organized for such Directors to equip them with the requisite skills to lead city /
state museums. So that almost kills the point of developing a vision for the museum.
Lack of vision to figure out what would make museums more attractive for audience to come and
feel connected. The Museums which have a lot of visitor walk-ins are seemingly forgetting to
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acknowledge or recognise the thin line between outreach and engagement.

In India all museums always report to the government whereas museums across the world have
some degree of autonomy.
Museums need to rethink in terms of how they manage and collect the items of heritage whereas in
the West, many museums would have a collection development strategy.
NDMA guidelines to avert disaster at museums
NDMA guidelines lay out the basic framework for various ministries that govern museums, as well as
individual museums to familiarise themselves with the requirements of a disaster risk management plan.
These guidelines are a template for museum professionals to develop disaster management plans through
risk assessment, risk reduction, emergency response and post-disaster recovery.
NDMA guidelines
The guidelines have been divided into three parts:
Safety of visitors and personnel
This relates to Safety of the museum staff and visitors; protecting its objects, and the building itself. The
first part involves having fire systems – detectors, sprinklers, hydrants, extinguishers, etc are in place and
functional.
Storage
This requires museum to have varied storage chambers for its antiques, artifacts and art objects to
prevent damage to them during a fire, flood or tsunami.
Building
This involves securing the museum edifice itself, which in many cases is a heritage building.
While each museum can adapt the guidelines as per its unique character – as a site, modern or period
museum – the basic principles laid out will be nonnegotiable.
Topic 25. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage
The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) was founded in 1984 in New Delhi with
the vision to spearhead heritage awareness and conservation in India. Today INTACH is recognized as one
of the world’s largest heritage organizations, with over 190 Chapters across the Country. In the past 31
years INTACH has pioneered the conservation and preservation of not just our natural and built heritage
but intangible heritage as well. Headquartered in New Delhi, it operates through various divisions such as
Architectural Heritage, Natural Heritage, Material Heritage, Intangible Cultural Heritage, Heritage
Education and Communication Services (HECS), Crafts and Community Cell, Chapters, INTACH Heritage
Academy, Heritage Tourism, Listing Cell and Library, Archives and Documentation Centre.
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Topic 26. Contribution of Important British Orientalists towards rediscovery of Indian

Heritage
British Orientalists re-discovered India’s artistic heritage and made it accessible to all of us. We note here
that during 18th century, Oriental studies referred to studies of India and Persia, as opposed to India, China
and their neighbours currently.
The Four Heroes
The four brightest names among them are of Sir William Jones, James Princep, Charles Wilkins and H.H.
Wilson. All these four heroes were either founders or early members of the Asiatic Society (of Bengal) and
were pioneering academics who contributed to linguistics, science, and literature in Oriental studies.
William Jones
Sir William Jones spent a decade in India as judge in Calcutta; and during this period, he founded
“The Asiatic Society of Bengal”.
He was the first to propose the linguistic family of Indo-European language and is known as fater of
comparative linguistics. His work laid the foundation of theory of Proto-Indo-European mother
tongue.
He was a prolific translator and had produced
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] authoritative English translation of numerous
| www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

important Sanskrit documents, including Manu Smriti (Laws of Manu), and Abhiknana Shakuntala.
James Prinsep
Numismatist James Pricep had worked in Varanasi and Calcutta mints for around two decades.
He was the founding editor of the Journal of Asiatic Societyu of Bengal and is best known as pioneer
of numismatics in India.
He studied numerous coins of Bactrian and Kushan kings and also deciphered the
Kharosthi and Brahmi scripts; allowing us to get introduced to King Ashoka Maurya.
Charles Wilkins
Charles Wilkins is considered to be the first British person to have mastered Sanskrit Language. He
created world’s first Bengali typeface out of his necessity to print important text in Bengali
grammar by his fellow orientalist Nathaniel Brassey Halhed.
He was also the first person to translate into English the Bhagavad Gita, and was officially, first
director of the “India Office Library”.
H. H. Wilson
HH Wilson had served as the Secretary of the Asiatic Society of Bengal in last decade of 18th century; and
was key person to bridge the gap between Sanskrit and English. His main contribution was writing
world’s first comprehensive Sanskrit dictionary; he translated Meghadutam to English. He is also known
to have advocated use of local languages for instruction in Indian native schools.
Role of Other British Orientalists
Alexander Cunningham
It was due work of British explorers that we discovered the Indian connections of Buddha. They not only
traced Bodhgaya but also discovered Sanchi Stupa, which was long buried in forests. Alexander
Cunningham had conducted excavations at Sarnath in 1837 along with Colonel F.C. Maisey and made
careful drawings of the sculptures. In 1842 he excavated at Sankissa and at Sanchi in 1851. In 1854 he
published The Bhilsa Topes, an attempt to establish the history of Buddhism based on architectural
evidence. He used his engineering skills to drill deep down into the main stupa at Sanchi, and gathering
evidence that Buddhism was widespread for several centuries from the Mauryan period down to the
Gupta empire.
Topic 27. National Cultural Audiovisual Archives
In March, 2018, the National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA) project of Ministry of Culture was
certified as world’s first Trusted Digital Repository as per ISO 16363:2012 standard. The certification was

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granted by Primary Trustworthy Digital Repository Authorisation Body Ltd. (PTAB), United Kingdom.
NCAA is implemented by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). Its primary objective is to
identify and preserve cultural heritage of India available in audiovisual form through process of
digitization and make it accessible to the people.
The digitization and metadata standards followed for NCAA are in parity with international standards
within overall framework of OAIS (Open Archival Information System) model. They digitization standards
are as per prescribed by International Association of Sound & Audiovisual Archives (IASA) and metadata
schema is extended Dublin Core, followed by galleries, archives, libraries, and museums worldwide.
At present, NCAA has total of 21 Partnering Institutions from across the country, covering 11
governmental and 10 non-governmental cultural organisations It has digitized over 23,000 hours of
unpublished audiovisual recordings.
NCAA pilot digital repository was developed in collaboration with Centre of Excellence for Digital
Preservation by C-DAC, Pune. It was established with and powered by DIGITĀLAYA, developed by C-DAC
Pune in compliance with OAIS Reference Model ISO 14721:2012.
Topic 28. Harikatha Tradition
Harikatha, a traditional art story-telling was in news for its revival due to patronage from various cultural
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies

organisation. Harikatha is a form of Hindu religious discourse in which the storyteller explores a religious
theme, usually based on the life of a saint or a story from an Indian epic.
Harikatha is an art form composed of storytelling, music, drama, dance, poetry, and philosophy in
South India especially in villages of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
It had originated from Ajjada village of Srikakulam in Coastal Andhra. Its aim is to imbue truth and
righteousness in the minds of people and sow the seeds of devotion in them.
It also aims to educate people about knowledge of atman (self) through stories and show them the
path of liberation.
Harikatha at its peak was a popular medium of entertainment, which had helped to transmit
cultural, educational and religious values to the masses.
Style of Harikatha
Harikatha involves the narration of a story, intermingled with various songs relating to the story. The
subject for the Harikatha story may be any Hindu religious theme. Usually the narration of story involves
numerous sub-plots and anecdotes, which are used to emphasise various aspects of the main story. The
main story teller is usually assisted by one or more co-singers, who elaborate the songs and Mridangam
accompanist. The storyteller uses a pair of cymbals to keep beat.
Topic 29. National Virtual Library of India
The purpose of National Virtual Library of India is to facilitate a comprehensive database on digital
resources on information about India and on information generated in India, in an open access
environment. As per our estimates India also has the largest collection of Manuscripts. For
documentation, conservation /preservation and digitization of Manuscripts project, National Mission for
Manuscripts (NMM) was launched by the Ministry of Culture in 2003.
So far, it has documented more than 42 lakh Manuscripts in different scripts and languages. For
conservation of Manuscripts, Manuscripts Conservation Centres (MCCs) have been established by NMM
all over the country, which conduct preventive and curative conservation of Manuscripts requiring
conservation in their region.
Topic 30. Spiritual route to spur tourism in India
India is known worldwide for its spirituality. Being land of diverse religions, sects India can take spiritual
route to give boost to tourism.

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Target 2018: Integrated IAS General Studies 18

 2018-GS-Mains: Revision Document-1: Indian Culture

Opportunities under religious tourism

India’s diversity of the religion. Almost all the religions of the world are being practiced in India and
have evolved by amalgamating the local features.
India is land of birth to two great religions of Jainism and Buddhism.
Positive secularism of actively encouraging all the religions rather than a negative connotation of
separating state and religion.
Golden period of the ancient and medieval period wherein there were large number of religious
structures and monuments erected display the vibrancy of the Indian culture.
Mammoth events like Kumbh mela, Bahubali mastakabhisheka which brings into life the vibrancy
and dynamism of ancient India.
Rich art forms which include classical dances and folk traditions which are intertwined with the
religion can boost the prospects of the spiritual tourism.
The steps taken by the government include:
Swadesh Darshan Scheme, wherein infrastructure will be built around places of tourist interest
under the umbrella of 15 themes such as Buddhist Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Spiritual Circuit,
Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit.
ganeshrjarkad | [email protected] | www.gktoday.in/academy/module/integrated-ias-general-studies
Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme that focuses on the
development and beautification of identified pilgrimage destinations.
The government has approved allocation of about Rs. 7,000 crore for about 90 projects under the two
schemes. [The Hindu]

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Target 2018: Integrated IAS General Studies 19