(i) Indus Civilization – Distinction between Indus Civilization and Vedic Civilization – Evolution of Varna, Jathi/Caste system – Religious conditions – Emergence of religious movements.
Question 1:
Examine the fundamental differences between the Indus Valley Civilization and the Vedic Civilization, focusing on their social structures, economic activities, and religious practices. (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 2:
Trace the evolution of the Varna and Jati (caste) system in India. Analyze its influence on the emergence of religious movements such as Buddhism and Jainism. (250 words, 15 marks)
(ii) Literature: Sanskrit Literature (Ancient): Vedic Literature, the Epics, and the Puranas – their impact on the life and culture of Indian people; Prose works on polity, ethics (Neeti), popular stories and Pancha Tantra (only important works); Mughal contributions to literature.
Question 3:
Discuss how ancient Sanskrit literature, particularly the Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas, shaped the socio-cultural ethos of Indian society. Illustrate with examples. (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 4:
Highlight the significance of classical prose works like Kautilya’s Arthashastra and Vishnu Sharma’s Panchatantra in shaping ancient Indian thought on polity and ethics. (150 words, 10 marks)
Question 5:
Evaluate the contribution of the Mughal period to Indian literature, focusing on Persian literary works and their lasting impact on Indian culture. (150 words, 10 marks)
(iii) Science and Technology: Mathematics, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Physiology and Medicine (including Surgery), Ship-building, Mining and Metallurgy, Engineering and Architecture.
Question 6:
Analyze the major achievements of ancient India in mathematics and astronomy. How did these advancements influence later developments in global science? (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 7:
Highlight ancient India’s pioneering contributions in the fields of medicine and surgery, particularly referring to Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. (150 words, 10 marks)
Question 8:
Discuss India's historical advancements in metallurgy and shipbuilding, with examples illustrating their importance in trade and commerce. (150 words, 10 marks)
(iv) Arts (Excluding Karnataka): The Maurya and Gupta periods; The Khajuraho temples; Jain temples at Mount Abu and the Odishyan temples; Pallava, Chola and Pandyan contributions; Mughal architecture; Cathedral architecture: Bom Jesus-Old Goa, St. Paul’s-Kolkata, and St. Thomas-Chennai. Painting: Ajanta frescoes; Mughal and Rajput schools of painting. Dance and Music: Classical music and dance; Mughal contributions to music; Folk arts of India.
Question 9:
Assess the architectural and sculptural contributions during the Maurya and Gupta periods. How do these reflect the socio-religious values of their time? (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 10:
Discuss the distinct architectural features of the Khajuraho temples, Jain temples at Mount Abu, and the Odishyan temples. How do these temples exemplify regional variations in ancient Indian architecture? (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 11:
Evaluate the architectural contributions of the Mughals and discuss their fusion of indigenous and foreign elements with special reference to the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri. (150 words, 10 marks)
Question 12:
Examine the contribution of the Ajanta frescoes, the Mughal and Rajput schools of painting, highlighting their thematic diversity and stylistic uniqueness. (150 words, 10 marks)
(v) India’s cultural contributions to the outside world: Central Asia, China, Japan, South-East Asia and Sri Lanka.
Question 13:
Explain India's cultural interactions with Southeast Asia, specifically through the transmission of religious, linguistic, and artistic traditions. Provide relevant examples. (250 words, 15 marks)
Question 14:
Evaluate the influence of Buddhism on cultural and societal developments in China and Japan, highlighting key historical exchanges. (150 words, 10 marks)
(vi) Religions of India:
Hindu Dharma
Question 15:
Examine the central doctrines and ethical concepts of Hindu Dharma with special emphasis on the principles of Purusharthas and Yoga philosophy. (250 words, 15 marks)
Jainism
Question 16:
Discuss the core principles of Jainism such as Ratnatraya and Ahimsa, and evaluate their contemporary relevance. (150 words, 10 marks)
Buddhism
Question 17:
Highlight the differences between the Hinayana and Mahayana sects of Buddhism, focusing on their doctrinal and philosophical variations. (150 words, 10 marks)
Christianity
Question 18:
Discuss the key teachings of Jesus Christ and assess the impact of Christian missionary activities in colonial India. (150 words, 10 marks)
Islam
Question 19:
Explain the fundamental principles of Islam, focusing on the Five Pillars and the role of Sufism, particularly in Karnataka. (250 words, 15 marks)
Sikhism
Question 20:
Trace the evolution of Sikhism, focusing on its key principles and practices. How has Sikhism historically contributed to India's pluralistic culture? (150 words, 10 marks)
