UPSC Art & Culture

Topic 1.1: Understanding Culture and Heritage

• Subtopic 1.1.1: Defining Culture, Civilization, and Heritage (Tangible, Intangible, Natural)
• Subtopic 1.1.2: Characteristics of Indian Culture (Unity in Diversity, Continuity and Change, Syncretism)
• Subtopic 1.1.3: Influence of Geography on Indian Culture and its Diversity
• Subtopic 1.1.4: Sources for Studying Indian Art and Culture (Archaeological, Literary, Foreign Accounts, Epigraphic, Numismatic)

Topic 2.1: Prehistoric & Proto-Historic Architecture

• Subtopic 2.1.1: Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic Dwellings (Evidence and Characteristics)
• Subtopic 2.1.2: Harappan Civilization Architecture (Indus Valley Civilization)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.1.2.1: Town Planning (Grid Pattern, Zoning – Citadel & Lower Town, Materials Used)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.1.2.2: Public Structures (Great Bath, Granaries, Assembly Halls, Dockyard at Lothal)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.1.2.3: Residential Buildings (Layout, Materials, Sanitation)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.1.2.4: Drainage System (Sophistication and Significance)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.1.2.5: Regional Variations and Decline (Architectural evidence)

Topic 2.2: Mauryan Architecture (State Patronage & Religious Influence)

• Subtopic 2.2.1: Palaces (e.g., Chandragupta Maurya's palace at Pataliputra - accounts of Megasthenes, archaeological evidence)
• Subtopic 2.2.2: Pillars (Monolithic, Polished Surface, Capitals - Sarnath Lion Capital; Inscriptions and their significance)
• Subtopic 2.2.3: Stupas (Origins, Structure – Anda, Harmika, Yashti, Chhatra, Medhi, Torana; Purpose; Sanchi, Sarnath)
• Subtopic 2.2.4: Cave Architecture (Viharas & Chaityas - Barabar Caves, Nagarjuni Caves; Ajivika sect association)
• Subtopic 2.2.5: Popular Art (Terracotta figures, Ring stones)

Topic 2.3: Post-Mauryan Architecture (Diversification & Regional Styles)

• Subtopic 2.3.1: Shunga, Kanva, Satavahana Period

  • Sub-subtopic 2.3.1.1: Stupa Elaboration (Bharhut, Sanchi - addition of Toranas, railings)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.3.1.2: Rock-Cut Caves (Chaityas: Karle, Bhaja, Kanheri; Viharas: Nasik, Junnar; Features like vaulted roofs, apsidal ends)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.3.1.3: Early Structural Temples (rudimentary forms)
• Subtopic 2.3.2: Kushana Period

  • Sub-subtopic 2.3.2.1: Influence of Gandhara and Mathura Schools on architectural elements.
  • Sub-subtopic 2.3.2.2: Stupa and Vihara construction in North-West India.
• Subtopic 2.3.3: Ikshvaku Period (Nagarjunakonda – Stupas, Chaityas, Viharas, Brahmanical temples)

Topic 2.4: Gupta Age Architecture ("Golden Age" - Crystallization of Temple Architecture)

• Subtopic 2.4.1: Evolution of Temple Architecture (Five Stages of Development)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.4.1.1: Stage 1: Flat roof, square temple, shallow pillared porch (e.g., Temple No. 17 at Sanchi)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.4.1.2: Stage 2: Addition of Pradakshinapatha
  • Sub-subtopic 2.4.1.3: Stage 3: Emergence of Shikhara (low and square)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.4.1.4: Stage 4: Rectangular temples, barrel-vaulted roofs
  • Sub-subtopic 2.4.1.5: Stage 5: Circular temples with shallow rectangular projections
• Subtopic 2.4.2: Key Features of Gupta Temples (Garbhagriha, Mandapa, Shikhara, Antarala, Jagati)
• Subtopic 2.4.3: Important Gupta Temples (Dashavatara Temple – Deogarh, Bhitargaon Brick Temple, Nachna Kuthara Parvati Temple, Udayagiri Cave Temples)
• Subtopic 2.4.4: Stupa and Cave Architecture during Guptas (Refinement, e.g., Dhamek Stupa; Ajanta & Ellora cave development continuation)

Topic 2.5: South Indian Temple Architecture (Post-Gupta to Vijayanagara)

• Subtopic 2.5.1: Pallava Period (Pioneers of Dravida Style)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.1.1: Rock-Cut Phase I (Mahendravarman I: Pillar Mandapas)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.1.2: Rock-Cut Phase II (Narasimhavarman I: Monolithic Rathas of Mahabalipuram, Mandapas)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.1.3: Structural Phase (Rajasimha: Shore Temple, Kailasanatha Temple Kanchi; Nandivarman: Vaikunta Perumal Temple)
• Subtopic 2.5.2: Chola Period (Apogee of Dravida Style)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.2.1: Key Features (Vimana, Gopuram, Mandapa, Intricate Sculptures, Prakara walls, Temple Tanks)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.2.2: Early Chola Temples (Nageswaraswamy Temple)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.2.3: Mature Chola Temples (Brihadeeswarar Temple Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram, Airavatesvara Temple Darasuram – "Great Living Chola Temples" UNESCO)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.2.4: Role of Temples in Chola Society (Economic, Social, Cultural Hubs)
• Subtopic 2.5.3: Pandya Style (Evolution of Gopurams – taller and more ornate)
• Subtopic 2.5.4: Vijayanagara Architecture (Synthesis and Elaboration)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.4.1: Key Features (Kalyana Mandapam, Amman Shrine, Pillared Halls with monolithic sculptures, Raya Gopurams)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.4.2: Secular Architecture (Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.5.4.3: Important Sites (Hampi – Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple – UNESCO Site)
• Subtopic 2.5.5: Nayaka Style (Madurai, Thanjavur, Gingee – Elaborate Prakarams, Hundred/Thousand Pillared Mandapas, Temple Tanks)

Topic 2.6: North Indian Temple Architecture (Post-Gupta to Rajput Period)

• Subtopic 2.6.1: Nagara Style - General Features (Shikhara – Rekha Prasad, Phamsana, Valabhi; Amalaka, Kalasha, Mandapa, Antarala, Jagati)
• Subtopic 2.6.2: Regional Schools of Nagara Style

  • Sub-subtopic 2.6.2.1: Odisha School (Kalinga Architecture - Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula, Khakhara Deula; e.g., Lingaraj Temple, Sun Temple Konark, Jagannath Temple Puri)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.6.2.2: Khajuraho School / Chandela School (Panchayatana style, Erotic Sculptures, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshmana Temple – UNESCO Site)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.6.2.3: Solanki School / Maru-Gurjara Style (Gujarat & Rajasthan - Intricate carvings, Step-wells/Baolis, Sun Temple Modhera, Dilwara Temples Mount Abu)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.6.2.4: Other Minor Schools (Gwalior, Central India)

Topic 2.7: Vesara Style (Hybrid/Chalukyan Architecture)

• Subtopic 2.7.1: Origin and Influences (Blend of Nagara and Dravida features)
• Subtopic 2.7.2: Early Chalukyas of Badami (Aihole, Badami, Pattadakal – UNESCO Site; experimentation with styles)
• Subtopic 2.7.3: Rashtrakuta Period (Kailasa Temple Ellora – Monolithic marvel)
• Subtopic 2.7.4: Later Chalukyas of Kalyani (Gadag style, ornate pillars)
• Subtopic 2.7.5: Hoysala Architecture (Karnataka - Star-shaped plans, intricate soapstone carvings, multiple shrines; e.g., Belur, Halebidu, Somanathapura – Recently added to UNESCO World Heritage List)

Topic 2.8: Other Regional Architectural Developments

• Subtopic 2.8.1: Kashmir Architecture (Greek, Roman, Gandhara influences; Martand Sun Temple)
• Subtopic 2.8.2: Bengal Architecture (Terracotta temples, Pala and Sena Dynasties, Islamic influence later)
• Subtopic 2.8.3: Kerala Architecture (Distinct style with gabled roofs, wood usage, influenced by climate)

Topic 2.9: Cave Architecture (Consolidated & Advanced Study)

• Subtopic 2.9.1: Buddhist Caves (Ajanta – Chaityas & Viharas, Paintings; Ellora – Buddhist group)
• Subtopic 2.9.2: Hindu Caves (Ellora – Brahmanical group, Elephanta Caves – Mahesamurti; Udayagiri-Khandagiri)
• Subtopic 2.9.3: Jaina Caves (Ellora – Jaina group; Sittanavasal)
• Subtopic 2.9.4: Techniques of Cave Excavation and Articulation

Topic 2.10: Indo-Islamic Architecture (Medieval Period)

• Subtopic 2.10.1: Arrival and Adaptation (Use of arch and dome, minarets, mortar as cementing agent, avoidance of human figures in religious structures, calligraphy, geometric patterns, Jaali work)
• Subtopic 2.10.2: Delhi Sultanate Period

  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.2.1: Imperial Style (Delhi) - Slave, Khilji, Tughlaq, Sayyid & Lodi Dynasties
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.2.2: Provincial Styles - Bengal, Jaunpur, Gujarat, Malwa, Deccan Styles (Bahmani, Bijapur, Golkonda)
• Subtopic 2.10.3: Mughal Architecture (Synthesis of Persian, Turkish, Indian Styles)

  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.1: Babur & Humayun (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.2: Akbar (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.3: Jahangir (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.4: Shah Jahan (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.5: Aurangzeb (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.6: Mughal Gardens (Charbagh style, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.10.3.7: Mughal Baolis (Step-wells)

Topic 2.11: Post-Mughal & Regional Styles

• Subtopic 2.11.1: Rajput Architecture (Forts, Palaces, Havelis – Amber, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer; influence of Mughal style but with regional adaptations)
• Subtopic 2.11.2: Sikh Architecture (Harmandir Sahib/Golden Temple – amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal styles, use of gold gilding, onion domes)
• Subtopic 2.11.3: Awadh Architecture (Lucknow – Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara; stucco work, unique arches)

Topic 2.12: Colonial Architecture and Modern Developments

• Subtopic 2.12.1: Portuguese Influence (Churches and convents in Goa – Iberian style, Baroque; e.g., Basilica of Bom Jesus – UNESCO Site)
• Subtopic 2.12.2: French Influence (Town planning and architecture in Pondicherry, Chandernagore)
• Subtopic 2.12.3: British Colonial Architecture

  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.3.1: Early Phase (Fort St. George, Fort William)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.3.2: Neo-Classical Style (Town Hall Kolkata, Raj Bhavan Kolkata, Metcalfe Hall)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.3.3: Gothic Revival / Neo-Gothic Style (Victoria Terminus/CST Mumbai – UNESCO Site, High Courts, University buildings)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.3.4: Indo-Saracenic Style (Amalgamation of Indian and European styles – Chepauk Palace, Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum Mumbai, Madras High Court)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.3.5: New Delhi – Lutyens' Delhi (Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, India Gate, Connaught Place – Imperial grandeur)
• Subtopic 2.12.4: Post-Independence Architecture

  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.4.1: Influence of Modernism (Le Corbusier – Chandigarh; Louis Kahn – IIM Ahmedabad)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.4.2: Search for Indian Identity (Charles Correa, B.V. Doshi – Pritzker Prize Winner, Raj Rewal; vernacular inspirations)
  • Sub-subtopic 2.12.4.3: Contemporary Trends (Sustainable architecture, green buildings, high-rises)

Topic 2.13: Current Developments & Conservation

• Subtopic 2.13.1: Recent Archaeological Discoveries in Architecture (e.g., new Harappan sites, temple remains)
• Subtopic 2.13.2: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (Architectural sites - recent additions like Hoysala Temples, Dholavira, Ramappa Temple, Shantiniketan; conservation efforts and challenges)
• Subtopic 2.13.3: Government Initiatives for Architectural Preservation (HRIDAY, PRASHAD, Adopt a Heritage Scheme, National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities)
• Subtopic 2.13.4: Debates on Urban Heritage vs. Development.
• Subtopic 2.13.5: Use of Technology in Architectural Conservation (3D mapping, digital reconstruction).

Topic 3.1: Prehistoric & Proto-Historic Sculpture

• Subtopic 3.1.1: Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic Figurines (materials, purpose)
• Subtopic 3.1.2: Harappan Sculptures

  • Sub-subtopic 3.1.2.1: Stone Sculptures (Bearded Priest – steatite, Male Torso – red sandstone)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.1.2.2: Bronze Casting (Lost-wax technique/Cire Perdue – Dancing Girl)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.1.2.3: Terracotta Figurines (Mother Goddess, toys, animal figures – characteristics, mass-produced)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.1.2.4: Seals (Steatite, Intaglio carving, Animal motifs, Pashupati Seal, Script – significance)

Topic 3.2: Mauryan Sculpture

• Subtopic 3.2.1: Pillar Capitals (Sarnath Lion Capital – National Emblem, Rampurva Bull, Lauriya Nandangarh) – Symbolism, Polish, Realism
• Subtopic 3.2.2: Monumental Animal Sculptures (Dhauli Elephant)
• Subtopic 3.2.3: Yaksha and Yakshi Figures (Didarganj Yakshi – polish, popular art influence)
• Subtopic 3.2.4: Terracotta Art (continuation, refinement)

Topic 3.3: Post-Mauryan Schools of Sculpture (Regional Flourishing)

• Subtopic 3.3.1: Shunga, Satavahana Period Sculptures (Bharhut, Sanchi, Bodh Gaya – Narrative panels, Jataka stories, less realism than Mauryan court art, development in relief carving)
• Subtopic 3.3.2: Gandhara School (North-West India, Kushana Patronage)

  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.2.1: Influences (Greco-Roman/Hellenistic, Parthian, Bactrian)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.2.2: Materials (Blue-grey schist, stucco)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.2.3: Themes (Primarily Buddhist – Life of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Jatakas)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.2.4: Stylistic Features (Realistic depiction of human form, anatomical details, drapery, wavy hair, serene expressions, Apollo-like Buddha face)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.2.5: Key Examples (Fasting Siddhartha, Kanishka's headless statue - though Mathura influence too)
• Subtopic 3.3.3: Mathura School (Indigenous Origins, Kushana Patronage)

  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.3.1: Influences (Indigenous folk art, Yaksha tradition)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.3.2: Materials (Spotted red sandstone)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.3.3: Themes (Buddhist – first images of Buddha, Bodhisattvas; Jaina – Tirthankaras, Ayagapattas; Brahmanical – Vishnu, Shiva, Kartikeya, other deities; Secular figures – Kanishka's headless statue)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.3.4: Stylistic Features (Robust and fleshy figures, less emphasis on anatomical precision initially, smiling face, shaven head or short curly hair for Buddha, transparent drapery, energetic poses)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.3.5: Key Examples (Seated Buddha from Katra mound, Standing Bodhisattvas)
• Subtopic 3.3.4: Amaravati School (Andhra Pradesh, Satavahana & Ikshvaku Patronage)

  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.4.1: Influences (Indigenous, some Roman contact evident in motifs)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.4.2: Materials (White-greenish marble/limestone)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.4.3: Themes (Primarily Buddhist – Jataka stories, life of Buddha; use of symbolic representation of Buddha initially)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.4.4: Stylistic Features (Dynamic movement, narrative richness, slender and elongated figures, complex compositions, intense emotions, three-dimensional effect in relief)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.4.5: Key Sites (Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda, Goli, Jaggayyapeta)
• Subtopic 3.3.5: Sarnath School (Flourished during Gupta Period, considered an offshoot/refinement of Mathura School)

  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.5.1: Stylistic Features (Smooth and translucent drapery, serene spiritual expression, refined forms, halo often plain or minimally decorated, downcast eyes)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.3.5.2: Key Examples (Seated Buddha in Dharmachakra Pravartana mudra, Standing Buddha figures)

Topic 3.4: Gupta Sculpture (Classical Phase)

• Subtopic 3.4.1: Characteristics (Balance, poise, grace, spiritual expression, refined iconography, idealized human form)
• Subtopic 3.4.2: Materials (Sandstone, Metal – Sultanganj Buddha)
• Subtopic 3.4.3: Buddhist Sculptures (Sarnath Buddha images, Ajanta cave sculptures)
• Subtopic 3.4.4: Hindu Sculptures (Dashavatara Temple Deogarh panels – Vishnu Anantashayana; Udayagiri Varaha image)
• Subtopic 3.4.5: Terracotta Art (refinement, large panels)

Topic 3.5: Medieval Sculptural Traditions

• Subtopic 3.5.1: Pallava Sculptures (Mahabalipuram – Arjuna's Penance/Descent of Ganga, Varaha Cave, Mahishasuramardini Cave; Kanchipuram temple sculptures – dynamism and elegance)
• Subtopic 3.5.2: Chola Sculptures

  • Sub-subtopic 3.5.2.1: Stone Sculptures (Integral to temple architecture, large dvarapalas, deities)
  • Sub-subtopic 3.5.2.2: Bronze Sculptures (Lost-wax technique, Nataraja – cosmic dance of Shiva, Somaskanda, Parvati, Alvars, Nayanars; unparalleled grace and symbolism)
• Subtopic 3.5.3: Rashtrakuta Sculptures (Ellora – Ravana shaking Mount Kailasa, Dashavatara panel, Marriage of Shiva and Parvati)
• Subtopic 3.5.4: Hoysala Sculptures (Intricate carvings in soapstone, jewellery-like ornamentation, figures on temple walls at Belur, Halebidu, Somanathapura)
• Subtopic 3.5.5: Chandela Sculptures (Khajuraho – Sensuous human forms, divine and secular themes, intricate details)
• Subtopic 3.5.6: Pala School Sculptures (Eastern India – Smooth finish, elegant forms, influence of Gupta art, stone and metal)
• Subtopic 3.5.7: Other Regional Styles (Chalukyan, Rajput, Kashmiri)

Topic 3.6: Modern Indian Sculpture

• Subtopic 3.6.1: Colonial Period (Influence of Western academic style, Company School sculptors)
• Subtopic 3.6.2: Early Modernists (Devi Prasad Roy Chowdhury, Ramkinkar Baij – Santal Family, Yaksha-Yakshi for RBI)
• Subtopic 3.6.3: Post-Independence Trends (Experimentation with materials and forms, abstract sculpture, installation art; prominent sculptors like Dhanraj Bhagat, Sankho Chaudhuri, Nagji Patel, contemporary artists)

Topic 3.7: Current Issues & Discoveries

• Subtopic 3.7.1: Illicit Trafficking of Sculptures and Repatriation Efforts (Current Affairs: Return of artifacts from foreign museums)
• Subtopic 3.7.2: Conservation and Preservation of Sculptures.
• Subtopic 3.7.3: New Sculptural Discoveries at Archaeological Sites.

Topic 4.1: Foundations of Indian Painting

• Subtopic 4.1.1: Antiquity and References (Literary sources like Vedas, Puranas, Buddhist texts, Shilpa Shastras like Vishnudharmottara Purana – concept of Sadanga or Six Limbs of Painting)
• Subtopic 4.1.2: Classification of Indian Paintings (Murals/Wall Paintings, Miniatures, Folk Paintings)
• Subtopic 4.1.3: Materials and Techniques (Natural pigments, binders, preparation of surfaces, brushes)

Topic 4.2: Prehistoric Paintings (Rock Art)

• Subtopic 4.2.1: Time Period and Distribution (Upper Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Chalcolithic; Key sites: Bhimbetka – UNESCO Site, Lakhudiyar, Jogimara, Kupgallu, Piklihal, Tekkalakota)
• Subtopic 4.2.2: Themes and Subjects (Hunting scenes, dancing, animals, daily life, geometric patterns, handprints)
• Subtopic 4.2.3: Styles and Techniques (Use of natural mineral pigments – ochre, white, green; simple silhouettes to more complex compositions; superimposition of paintings)
• Subtopic 4.2.4: Significance (Understanding early human life, beliefs, artistic expression)

Topic 4.3: Mural Paintings (Wall Paintings)

• Subtopic 4.3.1: Definition and Characteristics (Large-scale, executed on walls or ceilings of caves and temples, often narrative)
• Subtopic 4.3.2: Ajanta Caves Paintings (Maharashtra, Satavahana, Vakataka patronage – UNESCO Site)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.2.1: Time Period (2nd Century BCE to 5th Century CE)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.2.2: Techniques (Fresco-secco/Tempera on dry plaster)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.2.3: Themes (Jataka tales, life of Buddha, Bodhisattvas – Padmapani, Vajrapani; celestial beings, court scenes, flora and fauna)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.2.4: Stylistic Features (Linearity, vibrant colours, emotional expression, perspective, three-dimensionality, elaborate ornamentation)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.2.5: Significance (Peak of ancient Indian mural tradition, influence on Asian art)
• Subtopic 4.3.3: Ellora Caves Paintings (Maharashtra, Rashtrakuta patronage – UNESCO Site)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.3.1: Themes (Hindu – Shiva, Vishnu; Jaina – Tirthankaras; Buddhist – figures, mandalas)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.3.2: Stylistic Features (Compared to Ajanta – more dynamic, less refined in later phases)
• Subtopic 4.3.4: Bagh Caves Paintings (Madhya Pradesh, Gupta period influence)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.4.1: Themes (Secular scenes, Jataka tales, processions, musical performances)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.4.2: Stylistic Features (Similar to Ajanta but more earthly and human)
• Subtopic 4.3.5: Sittanavasal Caves Paintings (Tamil Nadu, Pandya patronage, 7th-9th Century CE)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.5.1: Themes (Jaina themes – Samavasarana, lotus pond, dancers)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.5.2: Stylistic Features (Fresco-secco, vibrant colours, rhythmic lines, influence of Ajanta but distinct southern style)
• Subtopic 4.3.6: Badami Caves Paintings (Karnataka, Chalukya patronage, 6th Century CE)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.6.1: Themes (Vaishnava themes – Palace scenes, Kirtivarman, Indra Sabha)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.6.2: Stylistic Features (Graceful figures, continuation of Vakataka-Gupta tradition)
• Subtopic 4.3.7: Lepakshi Temple Paintings (Andhra Pradesh, Vijayanagara Period, 16th Century CE)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.7.1: Themes (Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranic stories, life of Shiva, large Veerabhadra panel)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.3.7.2: Stylistic Features (Bold lines, vibrant colours, narrative panels, local costumes and features, decline in later phases)
• Subtopic 4.3.8: Other Mural Sites (Jogimara Caves – early evidence; Kailasanatha Temple Kanchi; Brihadeeswarar Temple Thanjavur – Chola murals; Mattancherry Palace Kochi – Kerala Murals)
• Subtopic 4.3.9: Kerala Mural Tradition (Distinct style, themes from epics and Puranas, natural pigments, found in temples and palaces)

Topic 4.4: Miniature Paintings (Small-scale, detailed works)

• Subtopic 4.4.1: Early Miniature Traditions (Pre-Mughal)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.1.1: Pala School (Eastern India – Bengal, Bihar, Nepal; 11th-12th Centuries)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.1.2: Apabhramsha School / Western Indian School (Gujarat, Rajasthan; 11th-15th Centuries)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.1.3: Sultanate Period Paintings (Mandu, Jaunpur, Delhi; 15th-16th Centuries)
• Subtopic 4.4.2: Mughal School of Painting (Synthesis of Persian and Indian traditions)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.1: Origins and Influences (Persian masters – Bihzad; indigenous traditions)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.2: Babur & Humayun (Introduction of Persian artists Mir Sayyid Ali and Abdus Samad; initial works like Tutinama, Hamzanama)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.3: Akbar (Establishment of imperial Karkhana/atelier; large-scale projects, dynamism, naturalism, focus on historical narratives, portraits)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.4: Jahangir (Zenith of Mughal painting; refinement, realism, focus on portraiture, nature studies – birds, animals, flowers; marginal decorations)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.5: Shah Jahan (Continued refinement, but more formal and static; lavish use of gold, court scenes, architectural depictions, decline in naturalism)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.6: Aurangzeb (Decline of imperial patronage, dispersal of artists to provincial courts)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.7: Later Mughals (Revival but lacking earlier grandeur, provincial Mughal styles)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.2.8: Characteristics of Mughal Painting: Fine brushwork, realism, rich colours, portraiture, court scenes, historical events, flora & fauna, calligraphy integration.
• Subtopic 4.4.3: Deccani Schools of Painting (Ahmednagar, Bijapur, Golconda, Hyderabad, Tanjore – 16th-19th Centuries)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.1: Influences (Persian, Turkish, Vijayanagara, Mughal, European)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.2: Ahmednagar School (Early phase, illustrated manuscripts like Tarif-i-Hussain Shahi; vibrant colours, sensuous figures)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.3: Bijapur School (Patronage of Ali Adil Shah I & Ibrahim Adil Shah II; lyrical and romantic, rich colours, use of gold; Nujum-ul-Ulum, portraits)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.4: Golconda School (Rich colours, portraiture, influence of Persian and European art; Lady with Myna Bird)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.5: Hyderabad School (Later phase, continuation of Deccani traditions with Mughal influence)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.6: Tanjore/Thanjavur School (Distinct style, characterized by use of gold foil, glass beads, semi-precious stones, iconic representation of deities on wooden planks – see also Folk Painting)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.3.7: Common Characteristics: Rich and brilliant colours, sensuous forms, romanticism, unique ethnic types, distinct costumes and landscapes.
• Subtopic 4.4.4: Rajasthani/Rajput Schools of Painting (Indigenous styles with Mughal influence; 16th-19th Centuries)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.1: General Characteristics: Vibrant colours, emotional themes, depiction of epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata), Puranas, Krishna Lila, Nayaka-Nayika Bheda, Ragas and Raginis (Ragamala paintings), Baramasa (seasons), court scenes, portraits.
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.2: Mewar School (Early and conservative, bold colours, directness of expression; Chawand Ragamala by Sahibdin)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.3: Bundi School (Rich colours, lush landscapes, detailed depiction of nature, hunting scenes; Bundi Ragamala)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.4: Kota School (Specialization in hunting scenes, dynamic and powerful depictions of animals and nature)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.5: Kishangarh School (Patronage of Savant Singh/Nagari Das; famous for Bani Thani by Nihal Chand – idealized female beauty, elongated figures, lyrical quality, themes of Radha-Krishna)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.6: Jaipur/Amber School (Strong Mughal influence, large paintings, court scenes, portraits)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.7: Bikaner School (Mughal influence due to artist connections, refined style, portraiture, desert landscapes)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.8: Marwar School (Jodhpur, Pali – bold style, folk elements, illustrated manuscripts)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.4.9: Malwa School (Simplified compositions, flat colour application, distinct from mainstream Rajasthani)
• Subtopic 4.4.5: Pahari Schools of Painting (Hill states of North-Western India; 17th-19th Centuries)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.1: General Characteristics: Lyrical and delicate, romantic themes, subtle colours, refined lines, influence of Mughal and Rajasthani styles but distinct regional flavour, depiction of landscapes. Themes include Krishna Lila, Gita Govinda, Bhagavata Purana, Nayika Bheda, portraits.
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.2: Basohli School (Early Pahari style, bold and intense colours, use of beetle-wing cases for iridescence, strong lines, expressive faces; Rasamanjari series)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.3: Guler School (Transition towards Kangra style, delicate lines, soft colours, naturalism, lyrical quality; "Guler-Kangra Kalam")
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.4: Kangra School (Zenith of Pahari painting, patronage of Raja Sansar Chand; delicate and refined, lyrical romanticism, harmonious colours, minute details, depiction of female beauty; themes from Gita Govinda, Bihari Satsai, Bhagavata Purana)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.5: Chamba School (Influence of Basohli and Guler-Kangra, distinct local features)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.6: Garhwal School (Molaram was a key artist; soft colours, lyrical themes, distinctive facial types)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.4.5.7: Mandi, Kulu, Bilaspur (Other minor Pahari centers with distinct characteristics)
• Subtopic 4.4.6: Other Regional Miniature Traditions (e.g., Oudh/Awadh, Sikh paintings under Maharaja Ranjit Singh)

Topic 4.5: Folk Paintings of India (Living traditions, community-based)

• Subtopic 4.5.1: Characteristics (Often anonymous, passed down through generations, ritualistic or narrative, use of local materials and vibrant colours, symbolic representations, directness of expression)
• Subtopic 4.5.2: Madhubani Painting / Mithila Painting (Bihar – Walls, floors, paper; themes from epics, deities, nature; intricate patterns, no empty spaces – bharni, kachni, tantrik, godna, kohbar styles; GI Tag)
• Subtopic 4.5.3: Warli Painting (Maharashtra, Thane district – Tribal art, painted on walls with rice paste; geometric shapes – triangle, circle, square; themes of daily life, rituals, nature; GI Tag)
• Subtopic 4.5.4: Kalamkari Painting (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana – Pen-drawn or block-printed on cloth; Srikalahasti style – freehand drawing with Kalam; Machilipatnam style – block printing; themes from epics, Puranas; GI Tag for both styles)
• Subtopic 4.5.5: Pattachitra (Odisha – Painting on cloth/Patta; themes of Jagannath, Vaishnava cult, epics; bold lines, vibrant colours, narrative scrolls; GI Tag) (Also in West Bengal - Bengal Pattachitra)
• Subtopic 4.5.6: Gond Painting (Madhya Pradesh – Tribal art, painted on walls and paper; intricate patterns of dots and lines, vibrant colours, themes of nature, animals, deities, folklore; GI Tag)
• Subtopic 4.5.7: Pithora Painting (Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh – Ritualistic paintings by Rathwa and Bhilala tribes on house walls; vibrant colours, depiction of deities, horses, nature)
• Subtopic 4.5.8: Phad Painting (Rajasthan – Narrative scroll paintings on cloth, depicting stories of folk deities like Pabuji and Devnarayan; accompanied by Bhopas – priest-singers)
• Subtopic 4.5.9: Kalighat Painting (West Bengal, Kolkata – Originated near Kalighat temple; satirical and social commentary, depiction of deities, daily life; bold lines, swift brushstrokes, watercolours on paper)
• Subtopic 4.5.10: Thangka/Thanka Painting (Himalayan region – Sikkim, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh; Buddhist themes, painted on cotton or silk appliqué, scroll paintings used for meditation and teaching)
• Subtopic 4.5.11: Manjusha Painting (Bihar, Bhagalpur region – Snake motifs, scroll paintings depicting stories of Bihula-Vishahri; GI Tag)
• Subtopic 4.5.12: Saura Painting (Odisha – Tribal art similar to Warli, ritualistic wall paintings by Saura tribe)
• Subtopic 4.5.13: Mysore Traditional Paintings (Karnataka – Similar to Tanjore but distinct in technique and materials, use of gesso paste, subtle colours; GI Tag)
• Subtopic 4.5.14: Cheriyal Scroll Painting (Telangana - Narrative folk art, painted in scrolls, depicts stories from Puranas and epics; GI Tag)

Topic 4.6: Modern Indian Painting (Colonial Influence and Post-Independence Developments)

• Subtopic 4.6.1: Company Paintings / Kampani Kalam (18th-19th Centuries – Paintings by Indian artists for European patrons, blending Indian and Western techniques; themes of Indian life, flora, fauna, portraits; Patna Kalam is a notable offshoot)
• Subtopic 4.6.2: Academic Realism / Early Western Influence (Raja Ravi Varma – famous for oil paintings of mythological and epic themes, blending Indian subjects with European academic style)
• Subtopic 4.6.3: Bengal School of Art (Early 20th Century – Reaction against Western academic style, revival of Indian traditional art forms; Abanindranath Tagore – founder, wash technique; Nandalal Bose, Asit Kumar Haldar, Jamini Roy – folk art influence; Kshitindranath Majumdar, M.A.R. Chughtai)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.3.1: Key Features: Swadeshi spirit, themes from Indian mythology, history, literature; subtle colours, lyrical quality, rejection of oil painting initially.
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.3.2: Institutions: Government College of Art Kolkata, Kala Bhavan Shantiniketan.
• Subtopic 4.6.4: Individualists and Modern Trends (Pre-Independence)

  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.4.1: Rabindranath Tagore (Unique, expressionistic style, late bloomer)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.4.2: Amrita Sher-Gil (Blended European modernism with Indian themes and aesthetics, "Indian Frida Kahlo")
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.4.3: Gaganendranath Tagore (Cubist experiments, satirical cartoons)
• Subtopic 4.6.5: Post-Independence Art Groups and Movements

  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.5.1: Calcutta Group (1943 – Precursor to Progressive Artists' Group)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.5.2: Progressive Artists' Group (PAG), Bombay (1947 – F.N. Souza, M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, K.H. Ara, H.A. Gade, S.K. Bakre; broke from Bengal School, embraced international modernism)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.5.3: Delhi Shilpi Chakra (1949 – B.C. Sanyal, Kanwal Krishna, K.S. Kulkarni)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.5.4: Group 1890 (J. Swaminathan – emphasis on indigenous abstraction)
  • Sub-subtopic 4.6.5.5: Cholamandal Artists' Village (Madras Art Movement – K.C.S. Paniker; sought an Indian modernism rooted in tradition)
• Subtopic 4.6.6: Prominent Modern and Contemporary Artists (Beyond groups – Tyeb Mehta, Ram Kumar, Akbar Padamsee, V.S. Gaitonde, Manjit Bawa, Anjolie Ela Menon, Arpita Singh, Bhupen Khakhar, Atul Dodiya, Subodh Gupta, and many others; trends like abstract art, figurative art, pop art, installation art, digital art)

Topic 4.7: Current Affairs in Indian Painting

• Subtopic 4.7.1: Revival and Promotion of Folk and Tribal Paintings (Government schemes, GI tags, artist support)
• Subtopic 4.7.2: Art Market Trends, Auctions, and Investments.
• Subtopic 4.7.3: Use of Technology in Art (Digital art, NFTs related to Indian art).
• Subtopic 4.7.4: Conservation and Restoration of Paintings (Challenges, projects).
• Subtopic 4.7.5: Exhibitions and Art Fairs (...).

Topic 5.1: Antiquity and Foundations of Indian Music

• Subtopic 5.1.1: Origins (Vedic period – Samaveda chanting, Udgata priests; evidence in ancient texts and sculptures)
• Subtopic 5.1.2: Key Ancient Texts on Music (Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni – chapters on music, Gandharva Veda; Dattilam; Brihaddeshi of Matanga – introduced Raga concept; Sangeeta Ratnakara of Sharangadeva – seminal text for both Hindustani and Carnatic)
• Subtopic 5.1.3: Fundamental Concepts in Indian Music

  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.1: Nada (Sound – Anahata: unstruck, Ahata: struck)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.2: Shruti (Microtones – 22 Shrutis in an octave, basis for Swaras)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.3: Swara (Musical notes – Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni; Shuddha and Vikrita Swaras)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.4: Saptak (Octave – Mandra, Madhya, Taar)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.5: Raga (Melodic framework – combination of Swaras in a specific sequence, with rules for ascent/Aroha and descent/Avaroha, Vadi, Samvadi, Pakad; evokes specific emotions/Rasas; associated with time of day/season – Samay Chakra)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.6: Tala (Rhythmic cycle – defined by a specific number of beats/Matras, with patterns of stress and unstress – Sam, Khali, Tali; various Talas like Teentaal, Ektaal, Dadra, Rupak, Jhaptaal, Adi Tala, etc.)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.7: Laya (Tempo – Vilambit: slow, Madhya: medium, Drut: fast)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.8: Alankar (Ornaments/Embellishments – Meend, Gamak, Kan, Murki, Khatka)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.9: Moorchhana (Scales derived by shifting the tonic within a Grama)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.10: Grama (Ancient parent scales – Shadja Grama, Madhyama Grama, Gandhara Grama - now obsolete)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.1.3.11: Thaat/Mela (Parent scales in Hindustani/Carnatic music respectively, from which Ragas are derived; e.g., Bilawal Thaat, Kafi Thaat; 72 Melakarta Ragas in Carnatic)
• Subtopic 5.1.4: The Two Major Systems: Bifurcation into Hindustani and Carnatic Music (Post 13th-14th Century, due to Persian/Islamic influence in North India)

Topic 5.2: Hindustani Classical Music (North Indian Tradition)

• Subtopic 5.2.1: Evolution and Influences (Vedic roots, folk traditions, Persian and Arabic influences, Bhakti movement, Sufism)
• Subtopic 5.2.2: Key Characteristics

  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.2.1: Emphasis on improvisation and melodic development.
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.2.2: Raga system (based on Thaats, Time theory of Ragas).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.2.3: Tala system (diverse and complex).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.2.4: Importance of Bandish (composition).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.2.5: Guru-Shishya Parampara and Gharana system.
• Subtopic 5.2.3: Major Vocal Forms/Styles (Gayan Shaili)

  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.1: Dhrupad
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.2: Dhamar
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.3: Khayal
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.4: Tarana
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.5: Thumri
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.6: Tappa
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.7: Dadra
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.8: Ghazal
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.9: Bhajan
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.10: Qawwali
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.3.11: Hori / Chaiti / Kajari
• Subtopic 5.2.4: Gharanas of Hindustani Music (Schools with distinct stylistic features, passed down through Guru-Shishya Parampara)

  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.4.1: Definition and Concept of Gharana.
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.4.2: Major Vocal Gharanas: Gwalior, Agra, Kirana, Jaipur-Atrauli, Patiala, Rampur-Sahaswan, Bhendibazaar, Mewati
  • Sub-subtopic 5.2.4.3: Major Instrumental Gharanas (e.g., Senia Gharana for Sitar and Sarod, specific styles for Tabla players like Delhi, Ajrara, Lucknow, Farrukhabad, Benaras, Punjab Gharanas)
• Subtopic 5.2.5: Prominent Hindustani Musicians (Historical and Contemporary – Tansen, Baiju Bawra, Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, Vishnu Digambar Paluskar, Faiyaz Khan, Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Amir Khan, Kumar Gandharva, Bhimsen Joshi, Mallikarjun Mansur, Kishori Amonkar, Jasraj, Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, Bismillah Khan, Zakir Hussain, Hariprasad Chaurasia, Shivkumar Sharma, etc.)

Topic 5.3: Carnatic Classical Music (South Indian Tradition)

• Subtopic 5.3.1: Evolution and Influences (Vedic roots, Sangam literature references, Tamil music traditions, Bhakti movement – Alvars and Nayanars)
• Subtopic 5.3.2: Key Characteristics

  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.2.1: More structured and compositional, less emphasis on improvisation compared to Hindustani (though improvisation exists in forms like Ragam-Tanam-Pallavi, Kalpanaswaram, Neraval).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.2.2: Raga system (based on 72 Melakarta ragas – Janaka Ragas, from which Janya Ragas are derived).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.2.3: Tala system (Structured, key Talas: Adi, Rupaka, Chapu).
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.2.4: Emphasis on Sahitya (lyrics), often devotional.
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.2.5: Gamakas (ornamentations) are integral to Raga structure.
• Subtopic 5.3.3: Major Vocal and Instrumental Forms/Compositions

  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.1: Varnam
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.2: Kriti/Kirtanam
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.3: Ragam-Tanam-Pallavi (RTP)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.4: Javali
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.5: Tillana
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.6: Padam
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.7: Slokam, Viruttam
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.3.8: Bhajan, Tevaram, Divya Prabandham
• Subtopic 5.3.4: Trinity of Carnatic Music and their Contributions

  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.4.1: Tyagaraja
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.4.2: Muthuswami Dikshitar
  • Sub-subtopic 5.3.4.3: Syama Sastri
• Subtopic 5.3.5: Other Important Composers (Purandaradasa – "Pitamaha" of Carnatic Music, Annamacharya, Kshetrayya, Swathi Thirunal, Papanasam Sivan, etc.)
• Subtopic 5.3.6: Prominent Carnatic Musicians (Historical and Contemporary – M.S. Subbulakshmi, D.K. Pattammal, M.L. Vasanthakumari, Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, G.N. Balasubramaniam, Ariyakudi Ramanuja Iyengar, Madurai Mani Iyer, Lalgudi Jayaraman, Balamuralikrishna, T.N. Krishnan, Umayalpuram K. Sivaraman, T.M. Krishna, Sanjay Subrahmanyan, Aruna Sairam, Bombay Jayashri, etc.)

Topic 5.4: Comparison between Hindustani and Carnatic Music

• [Table: Summarizing key differences]

Topic 5.5: Folk Music Traditions of India

• Subtopic 5.5.1: Characteristics (Community-based, reflects daily life, rituals, festivals, oral tradition, simple melodies and rhythms, use of local instruments)
• Subtopic 5.5.2: Regional Folk Music (State-wise prominent forms – brief description, occasion, associated instruments)

  • North India (...)
  • East India (...)
  • West India (...)
  • South India (...)
  • North-East India (...)

Topic 5.6: Devotional Music (Cutting across classical and folk)

• Subtopic 5.6.1: Bhajans (...)
• Subtopic 5.6.2: Kirtans/Sankirtan (...)
• Subtopic 5.6.3: Qawwali (...)
• Subtopic 5.6.4: Shabad Gurbani (...)
• Subtopic 5.6.5: Abhangas (...)

Topic 5.7: Musical Instruments of India (Vadya)

• Subtopic 5.7.1: Classification based on Natya Shastra (and modern ethnomusicology)

  • Sub-subtopic 5.7.1.1: Tata Vadya / Chordophones (Stringed Instruments)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.7.1.2: Sushira Vadya / Aerophones (Wind Instruments)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.7.1.3: Avanaddha Vadya / Membranophones (Percussion/Drums with stretched membrane)
  • Sub-subtopic 5.7.1.4: Ghana Vadya / Idiophones (Solid Instruments, self-sounding, struck or shaken)
• Subtopic 5.7.2: Role and Significance of Instruments in different musical forms.
• Subtopic 5.7.3: Craftsmanship and GI Tags for Musical Instruments (e.g., Maddalam of Palakkad, Thanjavur Veena).

Topic 5.8: Contemporary Trends in Indian Music

• Subtopic 5.8.1: Fusion Music (Blending Indian classical/folk with Western genres – Jazz, Rock, Pop; key artists and bands)
• Subtopic 5.8.2: Indian Pop Music and Indi-Pop
• Subtopic 5.8.3: Film Music (Bollywood, Kollywood, Tollywood etc. – evolution, influence, key composers and singers, role in popular culture)
• Subtopic 5.8.4: Rise of Independent Music Scene and Digital Platforms
• Subtopic 5.8.5: Efforts for Preservation and Promotion of Classical and Folk Music (Government initiatives, private organizations, festivals like Spic Macay, Dover Lane Music Conference, Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, Chennai Music Season/December Season)
• Subtopic 5.8.6: Music Therapy and its growing recognition.

Topic 5.9: Current Affairs in Indian Music

• Subtopic 5.9.1: Recognition of Musicians (Awards – Grammy, Padma Awards, Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards)
• Subtopic 5.9.2: UNESCO Recognition (e.g., Manipuri Sankirtana, Recently: Garba of Gujarat added to Intangible Cultural Heritage List)
• Subtopic 5.9.3: Debates on Gharana system, copyright issues, authenticity vs. innovation.
• Subtopic 5.9.4: Impact of Technology (...).

Topic 6.1: Foundations of Indian Dance

• Subtopic 6.1.1: Antiquity and Origins (Prehistoric evidence – Bhimbetka dancing figures; Harappan dancing girl; Vedic references; Epics and Puranas)
• Subtopic 6.1.2: Key Ancient Texts on Dance

  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.2.1: Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni (Comprehensive treatise on dramaturgy, including dance – Chapters on Angika Abhinaya, Karanas, Angaharas, Mandalas, Pindibandhas, Charis, Gatis; concept of Rasa)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.2.2: Abhinaya Darpana of Nandikeshvara (Focuses on Abhinaya – Angika, Vachika, Aharya, Sattvika; detailed description of head, neck, eye, hand gestures/Mudras/Hastas)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.2.3: Other texts like Sangeeta Ratnakara (includes Nartana Adhyaya), regional texts.
• Subtopic 6.1.3: Core Concepts and Terminologies in Indian Dance

  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.1: Nritta (Pure dance, rhythmic, abstract movements, devoid of specific meaning or emotion, focuses on beauty of form and movement)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.2: Nritya (Interpretive dance, conveys meaning and emotion/Rasa through gestures and facial expressions, based on a song or theme)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.3: Natya (Dramatic element, storytelling through dance and mime, incorporates Nritta and Nritya)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.4: Tandava and Lasya
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.5: Abhinaya (Art of expression)
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.6: Rasa and Bhava
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.7: Mudras/Hastas
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.8: Anga, Pratyanga, Upanga
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.9: Mandala, Chari, Karanas
  • Sub-subtopic 6.1.3.10: Laya and Tala
• Subtopic 6.1.4: Role of Guru-Shishya Parampara in Dance Traditions.

Topic 6.2: Classical Dances of India (Recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi)

• Subtopic 6.2.1: Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)
• Subtopic 6.2.2: Kathak (North India – Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan)
• Subtopic 6.2.3: Kathakali (Kerala)
• Subtopic 6.2.4: Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana)
• Subtopic 6.2.5: Manipuri (Manipur)
• Subtopic 6.2.6: Mohiniyattam (Kerala)
• Subtopic 6.2.7: Odissi (Odisha)
• Subtopic 6.2.8: Sattriya (Assam)
• Subtopic 6.2.9: Chhau Dance (Semi-Classical – recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi and Ministry of Culture; UNESCO Intangible Heritage)

Topic 6.3: Folk Dances of India

• Subtopic 6.3.1: Characteristics (Community-based, performed on social and religious occasions, festivals, harvests; simpler steps, vibrant costumes, use of local folk music and instruments, often participatory).
• Subtopic 6.3.2: Regional Folk Dances (State-wise significant examples – brief description, occasion, key features)

Topic 6.4: Martial Dance Forms (Often overlapping with folk or having classical roots)

• Subtopic 6.4.1: Kalaripayattu based dances (Kerala)
• Subtopic 6.4.2: Thang-Ta & Sarit Sarak based dances (Manipur)
• Subtopic 6.4.3: Gatka based dances (Punjab)
• Subtopic 6.4.4: Silambam based dances (Tamil Nadu)
• Subtopic 6.4.5: Paika Akhada (Odisha)
• Subtopic 6.4.6: Pari-Khanda (Bihar, Jharkhand)

Topic 6.5: Contemporary Dance in India

• Subtopic 6.5.1: Early Pioneers (Uday Shankar – blended Indian classical/folk with Western ballet and stagecraft)
• Subtopic 6.5.2: Post-Independence Developments (Experimentation with themes, techniques, fusion, breaking away from traditional structures)
• Subtopic 6.5.3: Key Choreographers and Institutions (e.g., Chandralekha, Astad Deboo, Shobana Jeyasingh, Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts)
• Subtopic 6.5.4: Bollywood Dance (Influence on popular dance culture, fusion of various styles)

Topic 6.6: Current Affairs in Indian Dance

• Subtopic 6.6.1: Recognition of Dancers (Awards – Padma Awards, Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards)
• Subtopic 6.6.2: UNESCO Recognition (e.g., Chhau, Kalbelia, Sankirtana of Manipur)
• Subtopic 6.6.3: Government Initiatives and Festivals for Promotion of Dance (Khajuraho Dance Festival, Konark Dance Festival, Mamallapuram Dance Festival, schemes by Ministry of Culture, CCRT)
• Subtopic 6.6.4: Debates on authenticity, innovation, preservation of traditional forms, role of dance in social messaging.
• Subtopic 6.6.5: Impact of Technology (...).

Topic 7.1: Indian Theatre – Origins and Classical Traditions

• Subtopic 7.1.1: Antiquity and Evolution (Vedic hymns with dramatic elements, references in epics, archaeological evidence like Sitabenga cave inscription)
• Subtopic 7.1.2: Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni as the Foundational Text

  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.2.1: Concept of Natya (Drama) – combination of dance, music, and acting.
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.2.2: Ten types of plays (Rupakas – e.g., Nataka, Prakarana) and Uparupakas.
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.2.3: Elements of Play Production (Purvaranga – preliminary rituals, stagecraft, acting styles, Rasa theory application).
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.2.4: Types of Theatres/Playhouses (Vikrishta, Chaturasra, Tryasra).
• Subtopic 7.1.3: Classical Sanskrit Theatre

  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.3.1: Golden Age (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.3.2: Major Playwrights and their Works (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.3.3: Characteristics of Sanskrit Plays (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.3.4: Decline of Sanskrit Theatre (...).
• Subtopic 7.1.4: Koodiyattam (Kerala – UNESCO Intangible Heritage)

  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.4.1: Oldest surviving form of Sanskrit theatre in India.
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.4.2: Elaborate acting, gestures (Mudras), stylized make-up, traditional costumes.
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.4.3: Performed in temple theatres (Koothambalams), lengthy performances.
  • Sub-subtopic 7.1.4.4: Role of Vidushaka (jester).

Topic 7.2: Traditional/Folk Theatre Forms of India

• Subtopic 7.2.1: Characteristics
• Subtopic 7.2.2: Major Regional Folk Theatre Forms (Bhand Pather, Swang, Nautanki, Ramlila, Raslila, Jatra, Bhavai, Tamasha, Dashavatar, Krishnattam, Mudiyettu, Theyyam, Yakshagana, Therukoothu, Karyala, Ankiya Naat/Bhaona, Maach, Naqal/Bhand, Powada, Burrakatha, Chavittu Nadakam, Villu Pattu)

Topic 7.3: Modern Indian Theatre

• Subtopic 7.3.1: Influence of Western Theatre
• Subtopic 7.3.2: Early Developments (Parsi Theatre)
• Subtopic 7.3.3: Nationalist Theatre
• Subtopic 7.3.4: Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA)
• Subtopic 7.3.5: Post-Independence Developments – Search for Indianness

  • Sub-subtopic 7.3.5.1: Key Playwrights (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 7.3.5.2: Trends (...).
• Subtopic 7.3.6: Key Theatre Groups and Institutions (National School of Drama – NSD New Delhi, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Prithvi Theatre Mumbai, Rangayana Mysore, Ninasam Karnataka).
• Subtopic 7.3.7: Contemporary Theatre Scene (...).

Topic 7.4: Indian Puppetry (Kathputli Kala)

• Subtopic 7.4.1: Antiquity and Significance (References in ancient texts, folk tradition, entertainment and educational tool).
• Subtopic 7.4.2: Types of Puppets

  • Sub-subtopic 7.4.2.1: String Puppets (Marionettes) - Kathputli, Kundhei, Gombeyatta, Bommalattam
  • Sub-subtopic 7.4.2.2: Shadow Puppets - Togalu Gombeyatta, Ravanachhaya, Tholpavakoothu, Chamadyache Bahulya, Tholu Bommalata
  • Sub-subtopic 7.4.2.3: Rod Puppets - Putul Nach, Yampuri, Kathputli Dance of West Bengal
  • Sub-subtopic 7.4.2.4: Glove Puppets (Hand Puppets) - Pava Koothu/Pava Kathakali, Beni Putul, Sakhi Kandhei Nata
• Subtopic 7.4.3: Themes and Stories in Indian Puppetry (...)
• Subtopic 7.4.4: Music and Narration in Puppet Shows.
• Subtopic 7.4.5: Decline and Revival Efforts (...).

Topic 7.5: Current Affairs in Indian Theatre and Puppetry

• Subtopic 7.5.1: Awards and Recognition for Theatre Personalities and Puppeteers.
• Subtopic 7.5.2: Government Schemes and Festivals for Promotion (e.g., Theatre Olympiads, puppetry festivals, grants).
• Subtopic 7.5.3: Use of Theatre and Puppetry for Social Awareness.
• Subtopic 7.5.4: Impact of COVID-19 (...).
• Subtopic 7.5.5: Revival of Dying Forms (...).

Topic 8.1: Overview of Indian Languages

• Subtopic 8.1.1: Linguistic Diversity of India ("Linguistic Museum")
• Subtopic 8.1.2: Major Language Families in India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.2.1: Indo-Aryan Family
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.2.2: Dravidian Family
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.2.3: Austro-Asiatic Family
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.2.4: Sino-Tibetan Family / Tibeto-Burman Family
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.2.5: Minor language families/isolates
• Subtopic 8.1.3: Scripts Used in India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.1: Brahmi Script
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.2: Derivatives of Brahmi (North & South Indian Scripts)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.3: Kharosthi Script
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.4: Perso-Arabic Script
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.5: Roman Script
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.3.6: Ol Chiki, others
• Subtopic 8.1.4: Official Language Policy of India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.4.1: Constitutional Provisions (Article 343-351, Part XVII)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.4.2: Official Languages Act, 1963.
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.4.3: Three-Language Formula.
• Subtopic 8.1.5: Scheduled Languages (Eighth Schedule of the Constitution)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.5.1: Criteria for inclusion (evolving).
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.5.2: List of 22 languages
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.5.3: Significance of inclusion. Demands for inclusion of more languages.
• Subtopic 8.1.6: Classical Languages of India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.6.1: Criteria for Conferment
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.6.2: List of Classical Languages
  • Sub-subtopic 8.1.6.3: Benefits and Significance.

Topic 8.2: Ancient Indian Literature

• Subtopic 8.2.1: Vedic Literature (c. 1500 BCE - 500 BCE, Sanskrit)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.1.1: Samhitas (Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.1.2: Brahmanas
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.1.3: Aranyakas
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.1.4: Upanishads
• Subtopic 8.2.2: Vedangas

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.2.1: Shiksha, Kalpa, Vyakarana, Nirukta, Chhanda, Jyotisha
• Subtopic 8.2.3: Sutra Literature
• Subtopic 8.2.4: Epic Literature (Sanskrit)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.4.1: Ramayana
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.4.2: Mahabharata (includes Bhagavad Gita)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.4.3: Influence on Indian culture and later literature.
• Subtopic 8.2.5: Puranas and Upapuranas (Sanskrit)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.5.1: Meaning and Number
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.5.2: Content (Panchalakshana)
• Subtopic 8.2.6: Classical Sanskrit Literature (Post-Vedic to c. 1200 CE)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.6.1: Poetry (Kavya - Mahakavyas, Lyric Poetry)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.6.2: Drama (Nataka)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.6.3: Prose (Gadya)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.6.4: Fables and Didactic Literature
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.6.5: Scientific and Technical Literature
• Subtopic 8.2.7: Prakrit Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.7.1: Different forms of Prakrit
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.7.2: Jaina Canonical texts (Agamas)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.7.3: Hala's Gathasaptasati
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.7.4: Gunadhya's Brihatkatha
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.7.5: Plays using Prakrit
• Subtopic 8.2.8: Pali Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.8.1: Language of Theravada Buddhism.
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.8.2: Tripitakas (Vinaya, Sutta, Abhidhamma Pitaka)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.8.3: Non-canonical texts
• Subtopic 8.2.9: Sangam Literature (Tamil) (c. 300 BCE - 300 CE)

  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.1: Oldest extant body of Dravidian literature.
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.2: Corpus (Ettuthogai, Pattupattu, Akam, Puram)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.3: Tolkappiyam
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.4: Pathinenkilkanakku (includes Tirukkural)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.5: Twin Epics (Silappadikaram, Manimekalai)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.2.9.6: Significance

Topic 8.3: Medieval Indian Literature (c. 700 CE - 1800 CE)

• Subtopic 8.3.1: Apabhramsha Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.1.1: Jaina writers
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.1.2: Doha-Kosha literature
• Subtopic 8.3.2: Persian Literature in India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.2.1: Court language, historical chronicles, poetry, Sufi literature
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.2.2: Key Writers and Works (Amir Khusrau, Barani, Abul Fazl, etc.)
• Subtopic 8.3.3: Development of Urdu Language and Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.3.1: Origins
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.3.2: Early centers in Deccan
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.3.3: Flourishing in North India (Mir, Ghalib, etc.)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.3.4: Major poetic forms
• Subtopic 8.3.4: Bhakti Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.1: Tamil Nadu (Alvars, Nayanars)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.2: Karnataka (Virashaiva Vachanas, Haridasas)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.3: Maharashtra (Varkari saints)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.4: North India (Kabir, Surdas, Tulsidas, Mirabai, Raidas)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.5: Bengal (Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Vaishnava Padavali)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.6: Punjab (Guru Nanak, Sikh Gurus)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.7: Gujarat (Narsinh Mehta)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.8: Assam (Srimanta Sankaradeva)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.4.9: Odisha (Panchasakhas)
• Subtopic 8.3.5: Sufi Literature

  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.5.1: Prem-Margi Sufi poetry (Malik Muhammad Jayasi)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.5.2: Sufi poetry in Punjabi (Baba Farid, Bulleh Shah, etc.)
  • Sub-subtopic 8.3.5.3: Sufi writings in other regions.
• Subtopic 8.3.6: Growth of Regional Languages and Literature

Topic 8.4: Modern Indian Literature (Post 1800 CE)

• Subtopic 8.4.1: Impact of Colonialism and English Education
• Subtopic 8.4.2: Early Phase – Social Reform and Nationalism

  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.2.1: Key figures and works across languages
• Subtopic 8.4.3: Gandhian Influence and Progressive Writers' Movement

  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.3.1: Key figures
• Subtopic 8.4.4: Post-Independence Trends

  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.4.1: Disillusionment, existentialism, modernism, experimentation
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.4.2: Rise of Dalit Literature
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.4.3: Women Writers and Feminist themes
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.4.4: Regionalism and Nativism.
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.4.5: Indian English Literature
• Subtopic 8.4.5: Major Literary Awards in India

  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.5.1: Jnanpith Award
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.5.2: Sahitya Akademi Award
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.5.3: Sahitya Akademi Fellowship.
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.5.4: Saraswati Samman, Vyas Samman, Bihari Puraskar
  • Sub-subtopic 8.4.5.5: State-level literary awards.
• Subtopic 8.4.6: Institutions for Promotion of Language and Literature

Topic 8.5: Current Affairs in Indian Languages and Literature

• Subtopic 8.5.1: Debates on Language Policy
• Subtopic 8.5.2: New Education Policy 2020 (...)
• Subtopic 8.5.3: Efforts for Promotion of Endangered Languages
• Subtopic 8.5.4: Digitalization of literature, E-books, Audiobooks.
• Subtopic 8.5.5: Translation initiatives (National Translation Mission).
• Subtopic 8.5.6: Literary Festivals (...).
• Subtopic 8.5.7: Recent literary awardees and significant publications/controversies.
• Subtopic 8.5.8: Current Affair Example (...)

Topic 9.1: Pre-Vedic and Indus Valley Religious Beliefs

• Subtopic 9.1.1: Paleolithic and Neolithic Religious Practices
• Subtopic 9.1.2: Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan) Religious Beliefs

  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.1: Worship of Mother Goddess
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.2: Worship of Male Deity (Proto-Shiva/Pashupati Mahadeva seal)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.3: Animal Worship
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.4: Tree Worship and Nature Worship
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.5: Phallic Worship
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.6: Belief in Amulets and Charms
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.7: Burial Practices
  • Sub-subtopic 9.1.2.8: Absence of monumental temple structures

Topic 9.2: Vedic Religion (c. 1500 BCE - 500 BCE)

• Subtopic 9.2.1: Early Vedic / Rigvedic Period (c. 1500 - 1000 BCE)

  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.1.1: Nature Worship (Personification of natural forces – Indra, Agni, Varuna, Surya, Soma, Ushas, Prithvi, Aditi)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.1.2: Henotheism/Kathenotheism
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.1.3: Rituals and Sacrifices (Yajnas)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.1.4: Absence of idol worship and temples.
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.1.5: Concept of Rta (cosmic order).
• Subtopic 9.2.2: Later Vedic Period (c. 1000 - 500 BCE)

  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.2.1: Changes in Pantheon (Rise of Prajapati, Vishnu, Rudra/Shiva)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.2.2: Elaboration of Rituals and Sacrifices
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.2.3: Emergence of Philosophical Thought (Upanishadic philosophy)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.2.2.4: Beginnings of Varna system and its religious sanction.

Topic 9.3: Heterodox Sects – Jainism and Buddhism (Rise around 6th Century BCE)

• Subtopic 9.3.1: Socio-Economic and Religious Context for their Rise
• Subtopic 9.3.2: Jainism

  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.1: Origins and Tirthankaras
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.2: Life and Teachings of Vardhamana Mahavira
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.3: Core Tenets (Ahimsa, Anekantavada, Syadvada, Triratnas, Pancha Mahavratas)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.4: Jain Councils
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.5: Major Sects (Digambara, Svetambara)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.6: Jain Literature
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.7: Spread and Patronage
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.8: Jain Art and Architecture
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.2.9: Influence of Jainism on Indian culture
• Subtopic 9.3.3: Buddhism

  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.1: Life of Siddhartha Gautama / Buddha
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.2: Core Teachings (Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Madhyama Marga, Nirvana, etc.)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.3: Buddhist Councils
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.4: Major Sects (Hinayana/Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, Navayana)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.5: Buddhist Literature
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.6: Spread and Patronage
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.7: Buddhist Art and Architecture
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.8: Decline of Buddhism in India
  • Sub-subtopic 9.3.3.9: Influence of Buddhism on Indian and World Culture

Topic 9.4: Hinduism – Evolution and Philosophical Systems

• Subtopic 9.4.1: Development from Vedic Religion
• Subtopic 9.4.2: Key Concepts in Hinduism

  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.1: Dharma
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.2: Karma
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.3: Samsara
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.4: Moksha/Mukti
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.5: Atman and Brahman
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.6: Purusharthas
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.7: Ashrama System
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.2.8: Concept of God (Trimurti)
• Subtopic 9.4.3: Major Sects/Traditions

  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.3.1: Vaishnavism
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.3.2: Shaivism
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.3.3: Shaktism
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.3.4: Smarta Tradition
  • Sub-subtopic 9.4.3.5: Ganapatya, Saura, Kaumara cults
• Subtopic 9.4.4: Six Schools of Hindu Philosophy (Astika/Orthodox Schools)
• Subtopic 9.4.5: Hindu Scriptures (Shruti, Smriti, Agamas)
• Subtopic 9.4.6: Reform Movements in Hinduism

Topic 9.5: Other Religions and Philosophical Traditions in India

• Subtopic 9.5.1: Sikhism

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.1.1: Origins and Ten Gurus
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.1.2: Core Beliefs
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.1.3: Sacred Scripture (Guru Granth Sahib)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.1.4: Khalsa Panth
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.1.5: Key Practices and Institutions
• Subtopic 9.5.2: Islam in India

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.2.1: Arrival and Spread
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.2.2: Core Tenets
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.2.3: Major Sects (Sunni, Shia)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.2.4: Sufism in India (Key Concepts, Major Silsilas)
• Subtopic 9.5.3: Christianity in India

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.3.1: Early History
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.3.2: Arrival of European Missionaries
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.3.3: Different Denominations
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.3.4: Influence on education, healthcare, social reform.
• Subtopic 9.5.4: Zoroastrianism (Parsis in India)

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.4.1: Origins in Persia
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.4.2: Migration to India
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.4.3: Core Beliefs
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.4.4: Contributions to Indian society.
• Subtopic 9.5.5: Judaism in India

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.5.1: Ancient communities
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.5.2: Beliefs and Practices.
• Subtopic 9.5.6: Nastika (Heterodox/Non-Vedic) Schools

  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.6.1: Charvaka / Lokayata
  • Sub-subtopic 9.5.6.2: Ajivika

Topic 9.6: Bhakti and Sufi Movements (Medieval Period – Detailed Interplay)

• Subtopic 9.6.1: Nature and Salient Features
• Subtopic 9.6.2: Bhakti Movement

  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.2.1: Origins in South India
  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.2.2: Spread to North India
  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.2.3: Two Streams (Saguna, Nirguna)
  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.2.4: Impact
• Subtopic 9.6.3: Sufi Movement

  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.3.1: Interaction with Hindu Yogic and Bhakti traditions.
  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.3.2: Role in promoting communal harmony and cultural synthesis.
  • Sub-subtopic 9.6.3.3: Influence on regional literature and music.
• Subtopic 9.6.4: Similarities and Differences between Bhakti and Sufi Movements.

Topic 9.7: Syncretic Religious Traditions

• Subtopic 9.7.1: Examples of religious syncretism in Indian history
• Subtopic 9.7.2: Shared sacred spaces and practices.

Topic 9.8: Current Affairs and Contemporary Issues in Religion & Philosophy

• Subtopic 9.8.1: Debates on Secularism in India.
• Subtopic 9.8.2: Religious Freedom and related constitutional provisions/controversies.
• Subtopic 9.8.3: Role of religion in politics and society.
• Subtopic 9.8.4: Interfaith dialogue and communal harmony initiatives.
• Subtopic 9.8.5: Revival of ancient philosophical traditions and their contemporary relevance
• Subtopic 9.8.6: Current Affair Example (...).

Topic 10.1: Introduction to Indian Fairs and Festivals

• Subtopic 10.1.1: Significance in Indian Life
• Subtopic 10.1.2: Classification of Festivals

  • Sub-subtopic 10.1.2.1: Religious Festivals
  • Sub-subtopic 10.1.2.2: Seasonal and Harvest Festivals
  • Sub-subtopic 10.1.2.3: National Festivals
  • Sub-subtopic 10.1.2.4: Regional and Local Festivals
  • Sub-subtopic 10.1.2.5: Tribal Festivals
• Subtopic 10.1.3: Common Elements
• Subtopic 10.1.4: Influence of Lunar and Solar Calendars on festival dates.

Topic 10.2: Major Hindu Festivals (Pan-Indian and Regional)

• Subtopic 10.2.1: Diwali/Deepavali
• Subtopic 10.2.2: Holi
• Subtopic 10.2.3: Dussehra/Vijayadashami
• Subtopic 10.2.4: Navaratri/Durga Puja
• Subtopic 10.2.5: Ganesh Chaturthi/Vinayaka Chavithi
• Subtopic 10.2.6: Janmashtami
• Subtopic 10.2.7: Ram Navami
• Subtopic 10.2.8: Maha Shivaratri
• Subtopic 10.2.9: Raksha Bandhan
• Subtopic 10.2.10: Makar Sankranti/Pongal/Lohri/Bihu/Uttarayan

  • Pongal (Tamil Nadu)
  • Lohri (Punjab, Haryana)
  • Magh Bihu/Bhogali Bihu (Assam)
  • Uttarayan (Gujarat)
• Subtopic 10.2.11: Onam
• Subtopic 10.2.12: Vishu
• Subtopic 10.2.13: Baisakhi/Vaisakhi
• Subtopic 10.2.14: Ugadi/Gudi Padwa/Cheti Chand/Navreh/Sajibu Cheiraoba
• Subtopic 10.2.15: Chhath Puja
• Subtopic 10.2.16: Rath Yatra
• Subtopic 10.2.17: Karva Chauth
• Subtopic 10.2.18: Teej
• Subtopic 10.2.19: Gangaur

Topic 10.3: Major Islamic Festivals

• Subtopic 10.3.1: Eid-ul-Fitr
• Subtopic 10.3.2: Eid-ul-Adha/Bakr-Eid
• Subtopic 10.3.3: Muharram
• Subtopic 10.3.4: Milad-un-Nabi/Eid-e-Milad
• Subtopic 10.3.5: Shab-e-Barat

Topic 10.4: Major Sikh Festivals

• Subtopic 10.4.1: Gurpurabs
• Subtopic 10.4.2: Vaisakhi
• Subtopic 10.4.3: Hola Mohalla
• Subtopic 10.4.4: Martyrdom Days
• Subtopic 10.4.5: Bandi Chhor Divas

Topic 10.5: Major Christian Festivals

• Subtopic 10.5.1: Christmas
• Subtopic 10.5.2: Easter
• Subtopic 10.5.3: Good Friday
• Subtopic 10.5.4: Regional Christian festivals

Topic 10.6: Major Buddhist Festivals

• Subtopic 10.6.1: Buddha Purnima/Vesak
• Subtopic 10.6.2: Losar
• Subtopic 10.6.3: Hemis Festival
• Subtopic 10.6.4: Saga Dawa
• Subtopic 10.6.5: Dhammachakra Pravartana Day

Topic 10.7: Major Jain Festivals

• Subtopic 10.7.1: Mahavir Jayanti
• Subtopic 10.7.2: Paryushana Parva
• Subtopic 10.7.3: Dasalakshana Parva
• Subtopic 10.7.4: Diwali (Mahavira's Nirvana)
• Subtopic 10.7.5: Jnana Panchami

Topic 10.8: Parsi Festivals

• Subtopic 10.8.1: Navroz/Nowruz
• Subtopic 10.8.2: Jamshedi Navroz
• Subtopic 10.8.3: Khordad Sal
• Subtopic 10.8.4: Pateti

Topic 10.9: Important Tribal Festivals of India

• Subtopic 10.9.1: Hornbill Festival
• Subtopic 10.9.2: Sarhul
• Subtopic 10.9.3: Bhagoria Haat Festival
• Subtopic 10.9.4: Madai Festival
• Subtopic 10.9.5: Karam Festival
• Subtopic 10.9.6: Lui Ngai Ni
• Subtopic 10.9.7: Moatsu Mong
• Subtopic 10.9.8: Sekrenyi
• Subtopic 10.9.9: Torgya Festival
• Subtopic 10.9.10: Shad Suk Mynsiem
• Subtopic 10.9.11: Baneshwar Fair

Topic 10.10: Major Fairs of India (Melas)

• Subtopic 10.10.1: Kumbh Mela
• Subtopic 10.10.2: Sonepur Cattle Fair
• Subtopic 10.10.3: Pushkar Fair
• Subtopic 10.10.4: Gangasagar Mela
• Subtopic 10.10.5: Surajkund International Crafts Mela
• Subtopic 10.10.6: Tarnetar Fair
• Subtopic 10.10.7: Ambubachi Mela
• Subtopic 10.10.8: Medaram Jathara / Sammakka Saralamma Jathara
• Subtopic 10.10.9: Chandrabhaga Mela
• Subtopic 10.10.10: Baneshwar Fair

Topic 10.11: Important Cultural Events and Festivals Promoted by Government/Institutions

• Subtopic 10.11.1: Khajuraho Dance Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.2: Konark Dance Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.3: Mamallapuram Dance Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.4: Elephanta Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.5: International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
• Subtopic 10.11.6: Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.7: India Art Fair
• Subtopic 10.11.8: Jaipur Literature Festival
• Subtopic 10.11.9: Bharat Rang Mahotsav
• Subtopic 10.11.10: Festivals organized by Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)
• Subtopic 10.11.11: Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav

Topic 10.12: Cultural Institutions and Bodies in India

• Subtopic 10.12.1: Ministry of Culture
• Subtopic 10.12.2: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
• Subtopic 10.12.3: Sangeet Natak Akademi
• Subtopic 10.12.4: Lalit Kala Akademi
• Subtopic 10.12.5: Sahitya Akademi
• Subtopic 10.12.6: National School of Drama (NSD)
• Subtopic 10.12.7: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)
• Subtopic 10.12.8: Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT)
• Subtopic 10.12.9: National Museum, NGMA
• Subtopic 10.12.10: Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)

Topic 10.13: Current Affairs related to Fairs, Festivals, and Cultural Events

• Subtopic 10.13.1: New additions to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List
• Subtopic 10.13.2: Government initiatives for cultural tourism around festivals.
• Subtopic 10.13.3: Impact of events like COVID-19 on festivals and fairs
• Subtopic 10.13.4: Debates on environmental impact
• Subtopic 10.13.5: Revival of lesser-known festivals

Topic 11.1: Introduction to Indian Handicrafts

• Subtopic 11.1.1: Definition and Significance
• Subtopic 11.1.2: Historical Evolution
• Subtopic 11.1.3: Classification of Handicrafts
• Subtopic 11.1.4: Role of Government and Non-Governmental Organizations in Promotion and Preservation

Topic 11.2: Major Indian Handicrafts (Material-wise and Region-wise)

• Subtopic 11.2.1: Pottery and Terracotta

  • Regional Specializations (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.2: Metalware

  • Regional Specializations (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.3: Woodwork and Wood Carving

  • Regional Specializations (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.4: Stoneware and Stone Carving

  • Regional Specializations (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.5: Jewellery

  • Traditional Styles (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.6: Basketry, Mat Weaving, and Fibre Crafts

  • Regional Specializations (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.7: Ivory Carving (Now Banned)
• Subtopic 11.2.8: Shell Craft
• Subtopic 11.2.9: Leather Craft
• Subtopic 11.2.10: Glassware

  • Types (...)
• Subtopic 11.2.11: Puppets as Handicrafts
• Subtopic 11.2.12: Mask Making

Topic 11.3: Traditional Indian Textiles

• Subtopic 11.3.1: Historical Overview
• Subtopic 11.3.2: Fibres Used
• Subtopic 11.3.3: Handloom Weaving Techniques and Types

  • Brocades (...)
  • Ikat (...)
  • Other Important Handloom Sarees/Fabrics (...)
• Subtopic 11.3.4: Dyeing and Printing Techniques

  • Tie-and-Dye (...)
  • Batik
  • Kalamkari (...)
  • Block Printing (...)
• Subtopic 11.3.5: Embroidery Styles

  • Various Styles (...)

Topic 11.4: Geographical Indications (GI Tags) related to Handicrafts and Textiles

• Subtopic 11.4.1: What is a GI Tag?
• Subtopic 11.4.2: Significance of GI Tags
• Subtopic 11.4.3: Process of GI Registration.
• Subtopic 11.4.4: Important GI Tagged Handicrafts and Textiles (...)
• Subtopic 11.4.5: Challenges in GI implementation (...).

Topic 11.5: Current Affairs and Issues in Handicrafts and Textiles Sector

• Subtopic 11.5.1: Government Schemes and Policies (...)
• Subtopic 11.5.2: Challenges faced by Artisans
• Subtopic 11.5.3: Role of E-commerce (...)
• Subtopic 11.5.4: Design Intervention (...)
• Subtopic 11.5.5: Sustainability and Eco-friendly practices
• Subtopic 11.5.6: Recent GI additions, GI Mahotsavs.
• Subtopic 11.5.7: Current Affair Example: ODOP initiative
• Subtopic 11.5.8: Issues of counterfeit products (...).

Topic 12.1: Overview and Significance of Indian Martial Arts

• Subtopic 12.1.1: Definition and Scope
• Subtopic 12.1.2: Historical Origins and Evolution
• Subtopic 12.1.3: Classification of Indian Martial Arts
• Subtopic 12.1.4: Cultural Significance
• Subtopic 12.1.5: Decline and Revival

Topic 12.2: Major Martial Art Forms of India (Region-wise)

• Subtopic 12.2.1: South India

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.1.1: Kalaripayattu (Kerala)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.1.2: Silambam (Tamil Nadu)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.1.3: Kuttu Varisai (Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.1.4: Varma Kalai / Marma Adi (Tamil Nadu, Kerala)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.1.5: Adithada (Kerala, Tamil Nadu)
• Subtopic 12.2.2: North India

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.2.1: Musti Yuddha (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.2.2: Pari-Khanda (Bihar, Jharkhand)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.2.3: Thoda (Himachal Pradesh)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.2.4: Shastar Vidya (Punjab)
• Subtopic 12.2.3: East India

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.3.1: Lathi Khela (West Bengal, Bangladesh)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.3.2: Paika Akhada (Odisha)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.3.3: Cheibi Gad-ga (Manipur)
• Subtopic 12.2.4: West India

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.4.1: Mardani Khel (Maharashtra)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.4.2: Sat Harki (Gujarat)
• Subtopic 12.2.5: North-East India

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.5.1: Thang-Ta & Sarit Sarak (Manipur)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.5.2: Inbuan Wrestling (Mizoram)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.5.3: Mukna (Manipur)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.5.4: Khomlainai (Nagaland)
• Subtopic 12.2.6: Other Notable Forms

  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.6.1: Gatka (Punjab)
  • Sub-subtopic 12.2.6.2: Sqay (Kashmir)

Topic 12.3: Connection between Martial Arts and Other Cultural Forms

• Subtopic 12.3.1: Influence on Dance Forms
• Subtopic 12.3.2: Role in Rituals and Festivals
• Subtopic 12.3.3: Philosophical and Spiritual Underpinnings

Topic 12.4: Revival, Promotion, and Current Status

• Subtopic 12.4.1: Efforts by Government and Private Organizations
• Subtopic 12.4.2: Inclusion in Sports Competitions
• Subtopic 12.4.3: Challenges
• Subtopic 12.4.4: Global Recognition and Spread

Topic 12.5: Current Affairs related to Indian Martial Arts

• Subtopic 12.5.1: New initiatives for promotion
• Subtopic 12.5.2: Recognition and awards for exponents.
• Subtopic 12.5.3: Efforts to get more martial arts recognized at national/international sports levels.
• Subtopic 12.5.4: Documentation and research (...).

Topic 13.1: Introduction to Ancient and Medieval Indian S&T

• Subtopic 13.1.1: Nature and Scope
• Subtopic 13.1.2: Sources of Information
• Subtopic 13.1.3: Periods of Development

Topic 13.2: Mathematics (Ganita)

• Subtopic 13.2.1: Harappan Period
• Subtopic 13.2.2: Vedic Period

  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.2.1: Sulbasutras
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.2.2: Large numbers and decimal system
• Subtopic 13.2.3: Post-Vedic and Classical Period

  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.1: Concept of Zero (Shunya)
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.2: Decimal Place Value System
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.3: Aryabhata I
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.4: Varahamihira
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.5: Brahmagupta
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.6: Mahaviracharya
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.7: Sridharacharya
  • Sub-subtopic 13.2.3.8: Bhaskaracharya II / Bhaskara II
• Subtopic 13.2.4: Kerala School of Astronomy and Mathematics
• Subtopic 13.2.5: Transmission of Indian Mathematics to other parts of the world

Topic 13.3: Astronomy (Khagola Shastra / Jyotisha)

• Subtopic 13.3.1: Harappan Period
• Subtopic 13.3.2: Vedic Period (Vedanga Jyotisha)
• Subtopic 13.3.3: Classical Period (Siddhantic Astronomy)

  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.3.1: Aryabhata I
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.3.2: Varahamihira
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.3.3: Brahmagupta
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.3.4: Bhaskaracharya II
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.3.5: Observational Astronomy
• Subtopic 13.3.4: Medieval Period

  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.4.1: Influence of Islamic Astronomy
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.4.2: Firoz Shah Tughlaq's observatories.
  • Sub-subtopic 13.3.4.3: Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (...)

Topic 13.4: Medicine and Surgery (Ayurveda and Shalya Tantra)

• Subtopic 13.4.1: Origins (Atharvaveda, Ayurveda)
• Subtopic 13.4.2: Core Concepts of Ayurveda

  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.2.1: Tridosha Theory
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.2.2: Saptadhatu
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.2.3: Panchamahabhuta Theory
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.2.4: Emphasis on holistic health
• Subtopic 13.4.3: Major Ayurvedic Treatises (Brihat Trayi)

  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.3.1: Charaka Samhita
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.3.2: Sushruta Samhita
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.3.3: Ashtanga Hridaya & Ashtanga Sangraha
• Subtopic 13.4.4: Other Medical Traditions

  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.4.1: Siddha System
  • Sub-subtopic 13.4.4.2: Unani System
• Subtopic 13.4.5: Veterinary Science
• Subtopic 13.4.6: Spread of Indian Medical Knowledge

Topic 13.5: Chemistry (Rasayana Shastra / Rasa Vidya)

• Subtopic 13.5.1: Harappan Period
• Subtopic 13.5.2: Classical and Medieval Period

  • Sub-subtopic 13.5.2.1: Development of alchemy
  • Sub-subtopic 13.5.2.2: Nagarjuna
  • Sub-subtopic 13.5.2.3: Knowledge of chemicals & processes
  • Sub-subtopic 13.5.2.4: Applications (...)
• Subtopic 13.5.3: Dyes and Pigments
• Subtopic 13.5.4: Perfumery

Topic 13.6: Metallurgy

• Subtopic 13.6.1: Harappan Period
• Subtopic 13.6.2: Iron Technology

  • Sub-subtopic 13.6.2.1: Iron Pillar of Delhi
  • Sub-subtopic 13.6.2.2: Wootz Steel / Ukku
• Subtopic 13.6.3: Zinc Distillation
• Subtopic 13.6.4: Coinage
• Subtopic 13.6.5: Bronze Casting

Topic 13.7: Physics and Mechanics

• Subtopic 13.7.1: Vaisheshika School's Atomic Theory
• Subtopic 13.7.2: Concepts of Motion, Force, Gravity
• Subtopic 13.7.3: Simple Machines and Mechanical Devices

Topic 13.8: Town Planning and Hydraulic Engineering

• Subtopic 13.8.1: Harappan Town Planning
• Subtopic 13.8.2: Mauryan and Gupta Period
• Subtopic 13.8.3: Water Management

  • Sub-subtopic 13.8.3.1: Dams, Canals, Reservoirs
  • Sub-subtopic 13.8.3.2: Step-wells (Baolis/Vavs)
  • Sub-subtopic 13.8.3.3: Irrigation systems

Topic 13.9: Shipbuilding and Navigation (Nau Shastra)

• Subtopic 13.9.1: Harappan Period
• Subtopic 13.9.2: Ancient and Medieval Seafaring
• Subtopic 13.9.3: Texts on Shipbuilding (Yuktikalpataru)
• Subtopic 13.9.4: Navigational Techniques

Topic 13.10: Agriculture and Botany

• Subtopic 13.10.1: Ancient Agricultural Practices
• Subtopic 13.10.2: Texts on Agriculture (Krishi Parashara, Brihat Samhita)
• Subtopic 13.10.3: Classification of Plants (Vrikshayurveda)

Topic 13.11: Other Areas of S&T

• Subtopic 13.11.1: Gemology (Ratna Pariksha)
• Subtopic 13.11.2: Sound and Acoustics
• Subtopic 13.11.3: Textile Technology

Topic 13.12: Decline and Continuity of Indian S&T Traditions

• Subtopic 13.12.1: Factors contributing to decline
• Subtopic 13.12.2: Survival of traditional knowledge systems
• Subtopic 13.12.3: Impact of introduction of Western S&T

Topic 13.13: Current Relevance and Revival Efforts

• Subtopic 13.13.1: Recognition of ancient contributions.
• Subtopic 13.13.2: Integrating traditional knowledge (...)
• Subtopic 13.13.3: Government initiatives (e.g., TKDL).

Topic 14.1: Introduction to UNESCO and its Mandate in Culture

• Subtopic 14.1.1: UNESCO – Aims and Objectives
• Subtopic 14.1.2: UNESCO's Role in Protection and Promotion of World Cultural and Natural Heritage.
• Subtopic 14.1.3: Key UNESCO Conventions and Programs related to Culture

  • Sub-subtopic 14.1.3.1: World Heritage Convention (1972)
  • Sub-subtopic 14.1.3.2: Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention (2003)
  • Sub-subtopic 14.1.3.3: Diversity of Cultural Expressions Convention (2005)
  • Sub-subtopic 14.1.3.4: Memory of the World Programme (1992)
  • Sub-subtopic 14.1.3.5: Creative Cities Network (UCCN) (2004)
• Subtopic 14.1.4: India's Engagement with UNESCO

Topic 14.2: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India

• Subtopic 14.2.1: Criteria for Inscription
• Subtopic 14.2.2: Process of Nomination and Inscription
• Subtopic 14.2.3: List of World Heritage Sites in India (Cultural, Natural, Mixed)
• Subtopic 14.2.4: Benefits of World Heritage Status
• Subtopic 14.2.5: Challenges in Managing World Heritage Sites (...)
• Subtopic 14.2.6: India's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites

Topic 14.3: UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity from India

• Subtopic 14.3.1: Definition of Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Subtopic 14.3.2: Domains of ICH
• Subtopic 14.3.3: List of ICH Elements from India
• Subtopic 14.3.4: Process of Nomination and Inscription for ICH.
• Subtopic 14.3.5: Significance of ICH Inscription
• Subtopic 14.3.6: National ICH List maintained by Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Topic 14.4: UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) from India

• Subtopic 14.4.1: Aim of UCCN
• Subtopic 14.4.2: Seven Creative Fields
• Subtopic 14.4.3: Indian Cities in UCCN
• Subtopic 14.4.4: Benefits of UCCN Membership

Topic 14.5: UNESCO Memory of the World Register from India

• Subtopic 14.5.1: Aim of MoW Programme
• Subtopic 14.5.2: Documentary Heritage from India inscribed on MoW Register
• Subtopic 14.5.3: Significance of MoW Inscription

Topic 14.6: Other UNESCO Initiatives related to Culture in India

• Subtopic 14.6.1: Support for cultural industries (...)
• Subtopic 14.6.2: Preservation of endangered languages.
• Subtopic 14.6.3: Promotion of intercultural dialogue.
• Subtopic 14.6.4: UNESCO Chairs (...).

Topic 14.7: Current Affairs related to UNESCO and Indian Culture

• Subtopic 14.7.1: New nominations from India
• Subtopic 14.7.2: Outcomes of WHC sessions
• Subtopic 14.7.3: Conservation status reports
• Subtopic 14.7.4: India's role in UNESCO (...)
• Subtopic 14.7.5: Current Affair Example (...).

Topic 15.1: Cultural Diplomacy and India's Soft Power

• Subtopic 15.1.1: Defining Soft Power (...)
• Subtopic 15.1.2: Elements of India's Cultural Soft Power
• Subtopic 15.1.3: Role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

  • Sub-subtopic 15.1.3.1: Objectives and Functions
  • Sub-subtopic 15.1.3.2: Key Initiatives
• Subtopic 15.1.4: International Day of Yoga
• Subtopic 15.1.5: Project Mausam
• Subtopic 15.1.6: Role of Diaspora in promoting Indian culture abroad.
• Subtopic 15.1.7: Challenges and Opportunities (...)

Topic 15.2: Role of Technology in Preservation and Promotion of Art & Culture

• Subtopic 15.2.1: Digitalization of Heritage

  • Sub-subtopic 15.2.1.1: Digital archives (...)
  • Sub-subtopic 15.2.1.2: Virtual Museums and Galleries
  • Sub-subtopic 15.2.1.3: 3D Scanning & Reconstruction
• Subtopic 15.2.2: Technology in Conservation and Restoration
• Subtopic 15.2.3: Technology in Performing Arts
• Subtopic 15.2.4: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
• Subtopic 15.2.5: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Art
• Subtopic 15.2.6: Blockchain and NFTs
• Subtopic 15.2.7: Challenges

Topic 15.3: Important Personalities in News related to Art & Culture

• Subtopic 15.3.1: Recent Awardees
• Subtopic 15.3.2: Anniversaries and Commemorations
• Subtopic 15.3.3: Contemporary Contributors
• Subtopic 15.3.4: Obituaries (...).

Topic 15.4: Government Schemes, Policies, and Initiatives for Art & Culture

• Subtopic 15.4.1: Ministry of Culture Schemes
• Subtopic 15.4.2: Ministry of Tourism Schemes with Cultural Component

  • PRASHAD Scheme
  • Swadesh Darshan Scheme
  • Adopt a Heritage
• Subtopic 15.4.3: Other Relevant Initiatives

  • Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
  • National Culture Fund
  • National Education Policy 2020
  • State-level cultural policies (...).

Topic 15.5: Recent Archaeological Discoveries and their Significance

• Subtopic 15.5.1: Sinauli
• Subtopic 15.5.2: Keezhadi
• Subtopic 15.5.3: Rakhigarhi
• Subtopic 15.5.4: Other significant finds
• Subtopic 15.5.5: Importance of these discoveries
• Subtopic 15.5.6: Role of ASI and State Archaeology Departments.

Topic 15.6: Debates, Issues, and Controversies related to Cultural Heritage

• Subtopic 15.6.1: Repatriation of Artifacts
• Subtopic 15.6.2: Conservation Challenges
• Subtopic 15.6.3: Communalization and Politicization (...)
• Subtopic 15.6.4: Protection of Monuments and Antiquities
• Subtopic 15.6.5: Illicit Trafficking of Antiquities.
• Subtopic 15.6.6: Authenticity and Copyright issues (...)
• Subtopic 15.6.7: Debates on historical narratives (...).

Topic 15.7: Indian Calendar Systems

• Subtopic 15.7.1: Vikram Samvat
• Subtopic 15.7.2: Saka Samvat
• Subtopic 15.7.3: Hijri Calendar
• Subtopic 15.7.4: Gregorian Calendar
• Subtopic 15.7.5: Other regional calendars
• Subtopic 15.7.6: Features of Indian calendars

Topic 15.8: Indian Cinema (Brief Overview – Art & Culture Angle)

• Subtopic 15.8.1: Early History
• Subtopic 15.8.2: Golden Age
• Subtopic 15.8.3: Parallel Cinema / New Wave Cinema
• Subtopic 15.8.4: Mainstream Bollywood
• Subtopic 15.8.5: Regional Cinema
• Subtopic 15.8.6: Impact of Cinema on Indian Society and Culture
• Subtopic 15.8.7: National Film Awards, Dada Saheb Phalke Award.

Topic 15.9: Indian Cuisine – A Cultural Mosaic

• Subtopic 15.9.1: Regional Diversity
• Subtopic 15.9.2: Influences on food habits
• Subtopic 15.9.3: Spices (...)
• Subtopic 15.9.4: Traditional Food Etiquette (...)
• Subtopic 15.9.5: Sweets and Desserts of India.
• Subtopic 15.9.6: Indian Street Food.
• Subtopic 15.9.7: Culinary Tourism and GI tagged food products.
• Subtopic 15.9.8: Current Affair (...).

Topic 15.10: Traditional Indian Dress and Ornaments

• Subtopic 15.10.1: Regional Variations in Traditional Attire
• Subtopic 15.10.2: Influences on clothing
• Subtopic 15.10.3: Traditional Ornaments
• Subtopic 15.10.4: Symbolism and Social Significance (...)
• Subtopic 15.10.5: Textiles used for traditional dress

Topic 15.11: India's Contribution to World Culture (Summary)

• Subtopic 15.11.1: Philosophical ideas
• Subtopic 15.11.2: Scientific concepts
• Subtopic 15.11.3: Artistic traditions
• Subtopic 15.11.4: Spread of religions (Buddhism).

Topic 15.12: Keeping Abreast with Current Affairs in Art & Culture

• Subtopic 15.12.1: Key sources
• Subtopic 15.12.2: Focus areas for UPSC
• Subtopic 15.12.3: Linking static knowledge (...).