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UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Q.1. The famous female figurine known as 'Dancing Girl', found at Mohenjo-daro, is made of     [2025]
(a) Carnelian 
(b) Clay 
(c) Bronze 
(d) Gold

UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSEView Answer  UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSE

Correct Answer is Option (c)
The 'Dancing Girl' figurine from Mohenjo-daro, a masterpiece of Indus Valley art, is crafted from bronze using the lost-wax casting technique.
UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSE

Q.2. With reference to forced labor (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct?    [2019-I]
(a) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people.
(b) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.
(c) The forced laborer is entitled to weekly wages.
(d) The eldest son of the laborer was sent as the forced laborer.

UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSEView Answer  UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSE

Correct Answer is Option (a)
A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India by Upinder Singh, page 508: Forced labor (Vishti) became more common than before in this Gupta period. The fact that it is mentioned along with the taxes in the land grant inscriptions suggests that Vishti was considered a source of income for the state, a sort of tax paid by the people. The fact that most of the inscriptions referring to Vishti come from Madhya Pradesh and Kathiyawar regions may suggest this practice for more prevalent in these areas. So, a is right b is wrong.

Q.3. Consider the following:     [2019-I] 

  1. Deification of the Buddha 
  2. Treading the path of Bodhisattvas 
  3. Image worship and rituals 

Which of the above is/ are the feature/ features of Mahayana Buddhism? 
(a) 1 only 
(b) 1 and 2 only 
(c) 2 and 3 only 
(d) 1, 2 and 3

UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSEView Answer  UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery | History for UPSC CSE

Correct Answer is Option (d)
The Mahayana followers believe in idol or image worship of Buddha. So 1 and 3 are correct. The concept of Bodhisattva is the result of Mahayana Buddhism. So 2 is also correct.

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FAQs on UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims): Indian Architecture, Sculpture and Pottery - History for UPSC CSE

1. What are the major influences on Indian architecture throughout history?
Ans. Indian architecture has been influenced by various factors including religious beliefs, regional styles, and foreign invasions. Key influences include Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, which led to the construction of temples, stupas, and monastic complexes. The arrival of Islamic architecture introduced features like domes and minarets, while colonial rule brought European architectural styles. The integration of these influences has resulted in a diverse architectural heritage across India.
2. What are the distinguishing features of Indo-Islamic architecture?
Ans. Indo-Islamic architecture is characterized by several distinctive features including the use of arches, domes, intricate decorative patterns, and calligraphy. Buildings often incorporated red sandstone, marble, and elaborate jali (lattice) work. Notable examples include the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb, which showcase a blend of Persian, Mughal, and indigenous styles, emphasizing symmetry and grandeur.
3. How did regional variations impact Indian sculpture?
Ans. Regional variations significantly impacted Indian sculpture by reflecting local traditions, materials, and themes. For instance, the intricate stone carvings of Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh differ from the bronze sculptures of Tamil Nadu’s Chola dynasty. Each region developed unique styles, techniques, and subjects, influenced by local beliefs, cultures, and historical contexts, leading to a rich and diverse sculptural heritage across India.
4. What is the significance of pottery in ancient Indian culture?
Ans. Pottery in ancient India played a crucial role in daily life and cultural expression. It was used for storage, cooking, and rituals, often reflecting the technological advances and artistic sensibilities of the time. The painted pottery from the Indus Valley Civilization, for instance, showcases intricate designs and motifs. Pottery also served as a means of trade and communication, with styles varying regionally, thus providing insights into the social and economic aspects of ancient Indian society.
5. What are the key features of Buddhist architecture in India?
Ans. Buddhist architecture in India is marked by stupas, viharas (monasteries), and chaityas (prayer halls). Stupas, like the Sanchi Stupa, are hemispherical structures containing relics and serve as pilgrimage sites. Viharas feature monastic cells arranged around a central courtyard, while chaityas are characterized by vaulted roofs and intricate carvings. The architecture often emphasizes simplicity and harmony, reflecting Buddhist principles and the spiritual journey of followers.
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