Chapter 7: The Making of Regional Cultures

History • Class 7

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate16 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'The Making of Regional Cultures' explores how regional cultures in India have developed and evolved over time, often as a result of the intermixing of local traditions with influences from other parts of the subcontinent. It discusses the role of language, religious traditions, and cultural practices like dance and painting in shaping regional identities. The chapter also highlights the development of regional languages like Bengali and Malayalam, regional architectural styles, and artistic traditions such as Kathak dance and miniature paintings.

Key Topics

  • Evolution of regional cultures
  • Role of language in cultural identity
  • Regional religious traditions
  • Kathak dance and its historical development
  • Miniature painting traditions
  • Temple architecture in India
  • Integration of local practices with external influences

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the historical development of regional cultures in India.
  • Recognize the impact of language and religion on regional identities.
  • Identify the influence of external cultures on local traditions.
  • Analyze the evolution and significance of regional art forms.
  • Explore the architectural diversity of Indian temples.
  • Appreciate the role of historical patronage in shaping cultural practices.

Questions in Chapter

Match the following: Anantavarman with Kerala, Jagannatha with Bengal, Mahodayapuram with Orissa, Kangra with Puri, Mangalakavya with Kerala.

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What is Manipravalam? Name a book written in that language.

Answer: Manipravalam refers to a style of writing that mixes two languages, typically Sanskrit and Malayalam. A well-known book written in Manipravalam is 'Lilatilakam'.

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Who were the major patrons of Kathak?

Answer: The major patrons of Kathak were the Mughal emperors and their nobles, especially Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh.

Page 92

What are the important architectural features of the temples of Bengal?

Answer: The important architectural features of the temples of Bengal include the use of terracotta tiles, double or quadruple roofs, and a square platform with intricate external decorations.

Page 92

Why did minstrels proclaim the achievements of heroes?

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Why do we know much more about the cultural practices of rulers than about those of ordinary people?

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Why did conquerors try to control the temple of Jagannatha at Puri?

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Why were temples built in Bengal?

Page 93

Additional Practice Questions

Explain how the regional cultures in India have emerged over time.

easy

Answer: Regional cultures in India have emerged over time through the blending of local traditions with external influences, driven by factors such as trade, conquest, and migration. This has resulted in diverse languages, religions, and cultural practices unique to each region.

Discuss the role of language in shaping regional identities in India.

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Answer: Language plays a crucial role in shaping regional identities in India by serving as a marker of cultural and ethnic identity. Languages like Bengali and Malayalam evolved and adapted over time, reflecting both local and external influences, and have become integral to regional culture and heritage.

How did the Bhakti movement influence regional art forms in India?

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Answer: The Bhakti movement influenced regional art forms by promoting devotional themes in music, dance, and literature, encouraging the depiction of emotive stories and figures like Radha and Krishna. This cultural shift influenced styles and formats, leading to the evolution of distinct art forms like Kathak.

Analyze the impact of Mughal patronage on Indian art and culture.

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Answer: Mughal patronage had a profound impact on Indian art and culture, fostering the development of sophisticated art forms such as miniature painting and Kathak dance. Their support led to the refinement and preservation of cultural practices, promoting exchanges between different regional traditions.

What were some key differences between temple architectures in different Indian regions?

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Answer: Key differences in temple architectures across Indian regions include variations in roofing styles, ornamentation, materials used, and layout. For instance, Bengal temples are known for their terracotta decorations and distinctive roof styles, while South Indian temples often feature towering gopurams and intricate carvings.

The Making of Regional Cultures - History Class 7 NCERT PDF | I❤️NCERT