Question 11GS1GS1

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)

Answer Keywords

Introduction

As per Romila Thapar, Gupta period is referred as the Golden age in Indian history [4th to 6th century AD]

20 words

Main Body

As per Romila Thapar, Gupta period is referred as the Golden age in Indian history [4th to 6th century AD]

Chandragupta II's reign - Golden age

Chandragupta II ruled from 375 to 415 AD. His reign is marked by following cultural developments:

1Art & Paintings - Ajanta murals were embellished in Ajanta caves representing Buddhist imagery, royal scenes

2Sculptural traditions - Sculptures of Gods, Goddesses were carved (e.g. Varaha sculpture @ Udayagiri caves)

3Literature → eminent writers such as Kalidasa, Varahamihira, adorned his court → Development of Sanskrit literary traditions (e.g. Abhijnanashakuntalam by Kalidasa) → Compilation of Purana, Ramayana & Mahabharata

4Temple Building - foundation of Nagara style laid during his reign (e.g. Bhitargaon Brick temple)

5Rock cut Architecture - caves and rock cut architecture was continued (e.g. Vidisha - Udayagiri caves - Hindu & Jaina caves)

6Numismatic - Gold coins (Dinaras) were struck with king in the obverse & deities in the reverse

7Musical Traditions - musicians were patronised by Chandra-II ensuring traditions of Sama Veda

8Learning & Education - Traditional pathshalas were opened to disseminate Vedic teachings

9Cultural & Religious Coexistention - Buddhism, Jainism & Hinduism flourished reflecting syncretic tradition

Thus Chandragupta II's reign laid the foundation for a plural & cosmopolitan culture carried forward by future dynasties.

219 words12 paragraphs

Conclusion

Thus Chandragupta II's reign laid the foundation for a plural & cosmopolitan culture carried forward by future dynasties.

18 words

Open original scan

Page 26

Topper

Saurabh Sharma

AIR 146

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times

Dynastic Art

Chandragupta II and cultural development

Writing Stats

257

Total words

Paragraphs

historical and descriptive

Tone