Insights Static Quiz -267, 2019–Art and Culture

Solution: a)

The Vaisheshika school believes in the physicality of the Universe and is considered to be the realistic and objective philosophy that governs the universe. The Kanada is often considered the

founder of this school. They argue that everything in the universe was created by the five main elements: fire, air, water, earth and ether (sky).

As this school has a very scientific approach, they also developed the atomic theory, i.e. all material objects are made of atoms.

On the subject of god, even though they argue for scientific thinking, they believe in god and consider him the guiding principal.

Solution: d)

Mohiniattam is essentially a solo dance performance by women in the state of Kerala. Mohiniattam combines the grace and elegance of Bharatnatyam with the vigour of Kathakali. There is a marked absence of thumping of footsteps and the footwork is gentle.

Mohiniattam generally narrates the story of the feminine dance of Vishnu. The Lasya aspect (beauty, grace) of dance is dominant in a Mohiniattam recital. Hence, it is mainly performed by

female dancers.

Solution: d)

Bhand Pather: It is a folk theatre of Jammu and Kashmir. It involves contemporary social satire or even mythical stories. It is secular in outlook, although it is performed by Muslims. It has music, dance and drama.

Solution: c)

Udayagiri caves are famous for the Hathigumpha inscription which is carved out in Brahmi script.

Stupas became larger and more decorative in the post- Mauryan period. Stone was increasingly used in place of wood and brick. The Shunga dynasty introduced the idea of torans as beautifully decorated gateways to the stupas.

Solution: c)

The Ajanta caves were inscribed by the Buddhist monks, under the patronage of the Vakataka kings – Harishena being a prominent one.

The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting and demonstrate considerable naturalism. The colours were obtained from local vegetation and minerals. The outlines of the paintings were done in red colour and then the inside was painted. One of the striking features is the absence of blue colour in the paintings.

The paintings are generally themed around Buddhism – the life of Buddha and Jataka stories.