Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1. The Harappan civilization was an advanced society with a rich artistic and cultural heritage, characterized by its geometric precision, sophistication, attention to detail, and abstract designs. Elaborate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
A seminar on ‘Art in the Indus Civilization’ was recently held in Chennai. Why art? Because the unverifiable readings of the Indus script are a major impediment, art becomes the most reliable source of information. This Bronze Age civilisation covered a vast area, from Balochistan in the west to Western UP in the east, from Afghanistan in the north to Gujarat in the south, the largest ‘empire’ of the ancient world.
Key Demand of the question:
To write Harapan architecture, urban planning and art of Harapan civilisation.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by context about Harappan architecture.
Body:
First, write about various remarkable features of Harappan architecture and town planning – urban planning, baked brick houses, elaborate drainage systems, water supply systems etc. Cite examples.
Next, write about the various features of Harappan art – Pottery, Metallurgy, Paintings and Religious symbols.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
