Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Context: Introduce the Chola dynasty (9th to 13th century CE) as a significant South Indian empire renowned for its contributions to art and architecture. Thesis Statement: Assert that the legacy of the Cholas, particularly in art and architecture, ...
Model Answer Changes in Society from Rig Vedic to Later Vedic Period 1. Varna System Evolution During the Rig Vedic period, society exhibited a flexible social structure. However, in the Later Vedic period, the Varna system became formalized. The Purusha Sukta describes the creation of four varnas,Read more
Model Answer
Changes in Society from Rig Vedic to Later Vedic Period
1. Varna System Evolution
During the Rig Vedic period, society exhibited a flexible social structure. However, in the Later Vedic period, the Varna system became formalized. The Purusha Sukta describes the creation of four varnas, with Brahmins and Kshatriyas rising to prominence.
2. Patriarchal Society
The status of women declined as patriarchal norms solidified. In the Rig Vedic period, women enjoyed greater freedom, including choosing their spouses, but by the Later Vedic period, practices like child marriage became common.
3. Role of Brahmins
Brahmins gained significant power, controlling religious rituals and advising rulers. The Yajurveda illustrates their pivotal role in conducting elaborate rituals for kings.
4. Village Settlements
The Later Vedic period saw the emergence of village-based societies, with settled agriculture becoming the norm. The Ganga-Yamuna Doab emerged as a central region for agricultural communities.
5. Political Changes
Governance evolved from tribal assemblies like Sabhas and Samitis in the Rig Vedic period to centralized monarchies in the Later Vedic period, marking a shift towards hierarchical power structures.
Changes in Economy from Rig Vedic to Later Vedic Period
1. Pastoral to Agrarian Economy
The economy transitioned from pastoralism to agriculture. The introduction of iron plows in the Ganges Valley significantly boosted agricultural productivity.
2. Land Ownership
Private land ownership became more prominent, with kings granting land to Brahmins. The term Bhoomi-daan reflects the importance of land grants during this period.
3. Trade and Commerce
With the shift to an agrarian society, trade flourished. The Shrenis, or guilds, organized traders and artisans into professional groups.
4. Cattle Wealth to Land Wealth
While cattle were central in the Rig Vedic period, the Later Vedic period emphasized land wealth, reflected in the Ashvamedha Yajna symbolizing territorial dominance.
5. Barter to Proto-Currency
The economy shifted from barter systems to proto-currencies, such as Nishka and Krishnala, indicating growing trade complexities.
Conclusion
In summary, the transition from the Rig Vedic to the Later Vedic period marked significant social stratification and economic shifts from pastoralism to agriculture, laying the groundwork for future societal structures.
See less
Model Answer Introduction The Chola dynasty, which thrived from the 9th to the 13th century CE, is celebrated for its monumental contributions to art and architecture, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire pride and admiration today. Contributions to Art The Cholas perfected the art of bronze cRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Chola dynasty, which thrived from the 9th to the 13th century CE, is celebrated for its monumental contributions to art and architecture, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire pride and admiration today.
Contributions to Art
The Cholas perfected the art of bronze casting, producing exquisite sculptures that are renowned worldwide. Notable among these is the Nataraja sculpture, which represents Shiva in a dynamic cosmic dance, celebrated for its intricate depiction of motion and balance. Their artisans were skilled at creating realistic human figures, as exemplified by the bronze figure of Sambandar, showcasing both physical beauty and emotional depth.
Chola art was deeply rooted in religious themes, often portraying complex symbolism. The Ardhanarishvara sculptures, depicting Shiva as both male and female, symbolize the unity of opposites. Furthermore, their advanced metal craftsmanship allowed for detailed representations of deities, as seen in the bronze figurines of Parvati and Vishnu, highlighting the artisans’ meticulous attention to intricate details.
Contributions to Architecture
In architecture, the Cholas are credited with perfecting the Dravidian temple style, characterized by towering vimanas and grand gopurams. The Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur stands as a monumental achievement, showcasing advanced engineering with its massive granite monolith of Nandi, weighing over 20 tons. The Cholas also innovated by integrating water management systems, such as pushkarinis (temple tanks) for ritual purification.
Their architectural influence extended beyond India, impacting regions in Southeast Asia, as seen in the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, which exhibit Chola architectural features. The Chola style laid the groundwork for subsequent dynasties, particularly the Vijayanagara Empire, which adopted and expanded upon their innovations.
Conclusion
Though the great Cholas are no more, their contributions to art and architecture remain a source of pride, symbolizing the zenith of Dravidian artistry. Their legacy is immortalized in the intricate sculptures and grand temples that continue to inspire awe and admiration, reflecting the artistic brilliance of medieval South India.
See less