Question Q.11GS2GS2

The flourishing of various art forms during the Kushana period reflects the rich and diverse cultural landscape of the time. What insights does this provide into the socio-cultural aspects of that era? (15 marks, 250 words)

Main Body

Kushana period (30BC-375AD) was one of the five Yeuchi tribe kingdom in northwest India.

Nomadic Yeuchi tribes, Kushana dynasty, Karakida, Mahayana Buddhist, flourishing art and culture.

Flourishing art forms during Kushana:

1Gandhara and Mathura schools - Roman-Hellenistic influence, sharp features, white marble, Buddhist in masculine form, indigenous art

2Bronze sculptures - Kanikka sculpture with sword

3Buddhist culture propagated - first time Buddha represented in human form (earlier as wheat, lotus etc), propagate Jataka stories, Gupta art & Sarich stupa flourished

4Coin - large scale gold, silver, copper, coin with image of king (eg king Kameksha engraved coins)

Through literature (Buddhacharita), sculptures (Gandhara, Mathura school)

3Fourth Buddhist Council - help under Kanishka & Vasumitra

4Tolerant society - Brahmanical, Buddhist and Hellenistic culture co-existed

5Rise of urbanisation - centers like Mathura, Taxila

6Growth of Trade and commerce - with other contemporary Empires like later Guptas, Persia - shown through coins

Kushana period is acknowledge for its contributions in decrying literature, culture and respecting talent signifying virtue of Unity in Diversity.

176 words3 paragraphs

Conclusion

Kushana period is acknowledge for its contributions in decrying literature, culture and respecting talent signifying virtue of Unity in Diversity.

20 words

Examiner score

1/10

Open original scan

Page 24

Topper

DIVYA

AIR 1822025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Indian Constitution - Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure

Historical Underpinnings

Kushana Period - Art and Culture

Writing Stats

196

Total words

Paragraphs