IA

Ishitha AnandAIR 50

Question 11ExamineGS1GS1

Examine how Chandragupta-II's reign symbolised a golden age of cultural development, laying the foundation for future advancements in Indian art and literature. (Answer in 250 words)

Open scan (p.26)

Introduction

The Chandragupta II of Gupta dynasty led to the golden age of India's cultural development

15 words

Main Body

Contributions in Art:

1Development of temple architecture eg) Dashavtar temple in Deogarh -> paved way for future Nagara style temple development
2Sculptural developments <- promoted the use of sandstone in sculpturing eg) Temple sculptures made of Chunar sand stone
3Rock-cut architectures eg) The Ajanta caves saw developments during his reign
4Mehrauli Pillar inscription

Contributions in literature:

1Development of Sanskrit literature <- Kalidasa was court poet who wrote Meghdoota, Ritusamhara etc. This fueled sanskrit prose.
2Advancement of secular literature eg) Navnitakam written by Dhanvantri
3Developing scientific treatises eg) Varahmihira wrote Brihatsamhita and Laghu samhita. Also Aryabhatta compiled his Aryabhatiyam
4Formulation of didactical and normative codes eg) The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras were compiled and finalised during his reign
5Also foreign scholars like Fa-Hien visited during his reign -> he wrote 'Fu-Yo Ki': Record of Buddhist Kingdom -> also promoted the Buddhist literature
6Growth of Dramatism eg) Vishakhadutta's: Mudrarakshasa, Devichandraguptam; Shudraka's -> Mrichhakatika
160 words1 paragraphs

Conclusion

Thus, Chandragupta II's reign saw immense growth due to the world famous 'Navratnas' that adorned his court and fueled development the proved to be a base for current Indian culture and art.

32 words

  • Excellent use of specific historical examples
  • Good structuring under Art/Literature headers

Topper

Ishitha Anand

AIR 50

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Indian Culture

Dynastic Art

Gupta Art and Architecture

Writing Stats

207

Total words

1

Paragraphs

descriptive

Tone