NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science

Chapter 7 India’s Cultural Roots

THE BIG QUESTIONS?

1. What are the Vedas? What is their message?

The Vedas are a collection of ancient sacred texts that form the foundation of Hinduism.
They consist of four main texts: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. These
texts contain hymns, rituals, prayers, and philosophical teachings that explore the nature of
the universe, the role of gods, and the duties of individuals. Their primary message focuses
on spiritual knowledge, the importance of moral conduct, and the relationship between
humans and the divine.

2. What new schools of thought emerged in India in the 1st millennium BCE? What are
their core principles?

In the 1st millennium BCE, several new schools of thought emerged in India, including
Buddhism, Jainism, and various philosophical traditions like the Upanishads.

● Buddhism taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing the
cessation of suffering and the attainment of Nirvana through ethical living,
meditation, and wisdom.
● Jainism promoted non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, and strict ascetic practices to
achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
● Upanishadic philosophy focused on the nature of reality and the self (Atman),
teaching that the individual soul is connected to the universal soul (Brahman) and that
knowledge leads to liberation.

3. What is the contribution of folk and tribal traditions to Indian culture?

Folk and tribal traditions have significantly enriched Indian culture by preserving unique
customs, art forms, and religious practices. These traditions offer a deep connection to nature
and local environments, as seen in their festivals, dances, and oral literature. Folk and tribal

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contributions include vibrant art, music, and storytelling that reflect the everyday life,
struggles, and celebrations of the people. Their influence can be seen in various aspects of
mainstream culture, from regional festivals to crafts and spiritual practices, enhancing the
cultural diversity of India.

LET’S EXPLORE
Do you know the term for a society where people select their leaders? How do you think
people can benefit from such a situation? What could happen if they lived under
leaders that they did not choose? (Hint: Think back to what you’re learning in the
theme ‘Governance and Democracy’!) Write your thoughts in a paragraph of 100–150
words.
Ans: A society where people select their leaders is called a democracy. In a democracy,
citizens have the power to choose their representatives through voting, ensuring that the
leaders are accountable to the people. This system benefits individuals as they can voice their
opinions, influence decisions that affect their lives, and participate in shaping the future of
their society. Democratic governance also promotes equality, freedom of expression, and the
protection of rights. However, if people live under leaders they did not choose, especially in
authoritarian or non-democratic systems, they may face restrictions on their freedoms. There
may be little to no accountability, and leaders might make decisions that don't reflect the
needs or desires of the people, leading to dissatisfaction, social unrest, and potentially a lack
of progress for society. Democracy encourages active participation and ensures that
leadership is a reflection of the people's will.

THINK ABOUT IT
Have you heard or read any other story that conveyed an important message? What
values did it teach you?
Ans: Yes, one well-known story that conveys an important message is "The Tortoise and
the Hare" from Aesop's Fables. This story teaches the value of perseverance, patience, and
humility. In the story, the hare, overconfident in his speed, mocks the slow tortoise and
assumes he will easily win a race. However, the hare becomes complacent and takes a nap,
while the tortoise steadily moves forward without giving up. In the end, the tortoise wins the
race, proving that slow and steady effort can lead to success.

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This story teaches us that consistency and determination are more valuable than
overconfidence or rushing through tasks. It highlights the importance of not underestimating
others and staying focused on goals, regardless of the obstacles. These values—patience,
hard work, and humility—are essential for success in life.

LET’S EXPLORE
1. Discuss the way the Buddha is depicted in the above panel.
Ans: The stone panel depicts the Buddha in a teaching posture, surrounded by disciples. The
Buddha is shown standing with a serene expression, possibly giving a sermon or imparting
wisdom, as his hand gestures appear to indicate a teaching moment. The other figures in the
panel are either listening attentively or offering gestures of reverence, showing the high
regard they hold for the Buddha. This depiction highlights the Buddha’s role as a spiritual
teacher and guide, emphasizing the dissemination of his teachings.

2. Can you name some states of India or some other countries where Buddhism is a
major religion even today? Try to plot these on a world map.

Regarding countries and states where Buddhism is a major religion today:

● In India: States like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh have
significant Buddhist populations.

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 ● Other countries: Buddhism is a dominant religion in countries such as Sri Lanka,
Thailand, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, Mongolia, and Japan.

You can plot these regions on a world map to see the spread of Buddhism across Asia,
tracing its influence from its origin in India to other parts of the world.

LET’S EXPLORE
Observe the above panel (from a Jain temple in New Delhi). What is striking about it?
What messages does it carry?
Ans: The panel from the Jain temple in New Delhi is quite striking due to its depiction of a
lion and a deer drinking peacefully from the same bowl. This imagery is symbolic and
carries deep messages about harmony, non-violence, and coexistence. In nature, a lion and a
deer are predator and prey, yet in this panel, they are portrayed together in peace, reflecting
the Jain philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and universal compassion.

The artwork conveys the message that all beings, regardless of their natural instincts or roles,
can live in peace and harmony. It emphasizes the Jain ideals of non-violence towards all
living creatures and the possibility of peaceful coexistence in a world often driven by
conflict. This depiction serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining compassion
and non-violence in our interactions with others, reflecting the core values of Jainism.

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Questions, activities and projects
1. If you were Nachiketa, what questions would you like to ask Yama? Write them
down in 100-150 words.
Ans: If I were Nachiketa, I would ask Yama, the god of death, about the nature of life after
death. My questions might include: What happens to the soul after it leaves the body? Is
there an afterlife, and if so, what determines the soul's journey beyond death? Can human
actions influence the nature of their next birth or liberation from the cycle of life and death? I
would also ask Yama how one can achieve moksha (liberation) and whether spiritual wisdom
or good deeds are the primary path to freedom from the cycle of rebirth.

2. Explain a few central ideas of Buddhism. Briefly comment upon them.

Ans: Buddhism teaches the Four Noble Truths, which are central to its philosophy: life is
suffering (dukkha), suffering is caused by desire, the cessation of suffering is possible, and
the path to the cessation of suffering is the Eightfold Path. This path includes the right
understanding, thought, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration.
Buddhism also emphasizes impermanence (anicca), the idea that nothing in the world is
permanent, and non-self (anatta), meaning there is no eternal soul or self. These principles
encourage detachment from material desires and lead to a peaceful state of mind.

3. Discuss in class the quotation of the Buddha which begins with “Not by water is one
made pure, though many people may bathe here [in sacred rivers]” to make sure that
its meaning has been understood by all.
Ans: This quotation by the Buddha, “Not by water is one made pure, though many people
may bathe here [in sacred rivers],” reflects his belief that true purity comes not from external
rituals, but from inner moral and spiritual practice. Bathing in sacred rivers might be a
common practice in some religious traditions, but the Buddha emphasizes that inner
purity—achieved through ethical conduct, mindfulness, and understanding—is far more
important.

4. Explain a few central ideas of Jainism. Briefly comment upon them.

Ans: Jainism revolves around the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness),
Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Asteya (non-stealing). Ahimsa, the most important
principle, requires Jains to avoid causing harm to any living being, no matter how small.
This principle is reflected in their strict vegetarianism and careful way of life. Jainism also

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teaches Anekantavada (many-sidedness), the belief that truth and reality are complex and
cannot be fully grasped from a single perspective. These ideas promote tolerance,
non-violence, and simplicity in living.

5. Consider and discuss in class André Béteille’s thought (see page 122).
Ans: André Béteille's idea suggests that the different castes and tribes in India have always
influenced each other’s religious beliefs and practices. While it is commonly understood that
tribal religions have been shaped by Hinduism, Béteille points out that Hinduism has also
been influenced by tribal traditions, not just in the early stages but throughout its history.

In class, you can discuss examples of how Hinduism adopted practices or beliefs from tribal
traditions, such as the worship of nature or local gods. Similarly, tribal groups have adopted
some Hindu practices. This shows that religion in India has evolved through constant
interaction and exchange between different groups.

The discussion can help us understand how this exchange has created a rich and diverse
culture in India and why it is important to respect and appreciate these differences.

6. Make a list of popular gods and goddesses in your region and the festivals they are
associated with.
Ans:
Durga – Durga Puja (West Bengal)
Krishna – Janmashtami (North India)
Ganesha – Ganesh Chaturthi (Maharashtra)
Lakshmi – Diwali (All over India)

7. As a class activity, list two or three tribal groups from your region or State.
Document some of their art and belief systems.
Ans:
● Gond Tribe (Madhya Pradesh): Known for their vibrant Gond paintings, which depict
flora, fauna, and mythology.
● Santhal Tribe (Jharkhand/West Bengal): Famous for their traditional music, dances,
and nature-based belief systems that worship spirits associated with forests.

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True or false

1. The Vedic hymns were written on palm-leaf manuscripts.

Ans: False – The Vedic hymns were passed down orally for centuries before being written
down, but they were not originally written on palm-leaf manuscripts.

2. The Vedas are India’s oldest texts.

Ans: True – The Vedas are considered the oldest texts of India.

3. The Vedic statement ekam sat viprā bahudhā vadanti reflects a belief in the unity of
cosmic powers.
Ans: True – The statement means "Truth is one, but the wise speak of it in many ways,"
reflecting a belief in the unity of cosmic powers.

4. Buddhism is older than the Vedas.

Ans: False – Buddhism emerged in the 6th century BCE, while the Vedas are much older.

5. Jainism emerged as a branch of Buddhism.

Ans: False – Jainism is a distinct religion and did not emerge as a branch of Buddhism.

6. Both Buddhism and Jainism advocated for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of
harm to all living beings.
Ans: True – Both religions emphasise non-violence (ahimsa) and peaceful coexistence.

7. Tribal belief systems are limited to belief in spirits and minor deities.
Ans: False – Tribal belief systems are diverse, including complex traditions, rituals, and
connections to nature, not just spirits and minor deities.

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