UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 16 June 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – Art and Culture : 16 June 2025 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more.We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question With reference to the Sattriya dance form, consider the following statements: It originated in the monasteries of Tamil Nadu as a form of temple ritual. The dance form is characterized by its exclusive focus on Tandava aspects, with no Lasya elements. It was officially recognized as a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in the 18th century. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: d) Statement 1 is incorrect. Sattriya dance originated in the *Sattras* (Vaishnavite monasteries) of Assam, not Tamil Nadu. It was developed by the 15th-century Assamese saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva as a medium for religious and spiritual expression, primarily based on stories of Vishnu and Krishna. Statement 2 is incorrect. Sattriya dance is characterized by a balance of both Tandava (masculine, forceful) and Lasya (feminine, graceful) elements. While there are vigorous aspects, particularly in male character portrayals, the dance form also incorporates delicate and expressive movements. It is not exclusively focused on Tandava. Statement 3 is incorrect. Sattriya dance was granted the status of a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi much later, in the year 2000, not in the 18th century. Incorrect Solution: d) Statement 1 is incorrect. Sattriya dance originated in the *Sattras* (Vaishnavite monasteries) of Assam, not Tamil Nadu. It was developed by the 15th-century Assamese saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva as a medium for religious and spiritual expression, primarily based on stories of Vishnu and Krishna. Statement 2 is incorrect. Sattriya dance is characterized by a balance of both Tandava (masculine, forceful) and Lasya (feminine, graceful) elements. While there are vigorous aspects, particularly in male character portrayals, the dance form also incorporates delicate and expressive movements. It is not exclusively focused on Tandava. Statement 3 is incorrect. Sattriya dance was granted the status of a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi much later, in the year 2000, not in the 18th century.

#### 1. Question

With reference to the Sattriya dance form, consider the following statements:

• It originated in the monasteries of Tamil Nadu as a form of temple ritual.

• The dance form is characterized by its exclusive focus on Tandava aspects, with no Lasya elements.

• It was officially recognized as a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in the 18th century.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: d)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Sattriya dance originated in the *Sattras* (Vaishnavite monasteries) of Assam, not Tamil Nadu. It was developed by the 15th-century Assamese saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva as a medium for religious and spiritual expression, primarily based on stories of Vishnu and Krishna.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. Sattriya dance is characterized by a balance of both Tandava (masculine, forceful) and Lasya (feminine, graceful) elements. While there are vigorous aspects, particularly in male character portrayals, the dance form also incorporates delicate and expressive movements. It is not exclusively focused on Tandava.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. Sattriya dance was granted the status of a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi much later, in the year 2000, not in the 18th century.

Solution: d)

• Statement 3 is incorrect. Sattriya dance was granted the status of a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi much later, in the year 2000, not in the 18th century.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements about the characteristics of Mathura School of Art: It exclusively used imported white marble for its sculptures. The primary patrons of this school were the Kushana rulers, with no evidence of patronage from other religious communities. The depiction of Buddha in Mathura art was heavily influenced by Greco-Roman styles, showing him with a muscular physique and toga-like robes. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: d) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Mathura School of Art primarily used locally available mottled red sandstone, often with white spots. While some other materials might have been used occasionally, imported white marble was not its exclusive or even primary medium. White marble was more characteristic of later periods or different regions. Statement 2 is incorrect. While the Kushana rulers were significant patrons of the Mathura School, it also received patronage from followers of Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahmanical Hinduism. Sculptures related to all three faiths were produced at Mathura, indicating a diverse patronage base and a vibrant religious environment. Statement 3 is incorrect. The depiction of Buddha in Mathura art is characterized by indigenous Indian features and aesthetics, often drawing from earlier Yaksha imagery. The Buddha images from Mathura typically show a shaven head or snail-shell curls (not wavy Hellenistic hair), a smiling countenance, a less muscular and more fleshy physique compared to Gandhara, and robes that are often depicted as thinner and clinging to the body, revealing its form, rather than the heavy, toga-like drapery of the Gandhara school. The Greco-Roman influence was characteristic of the Gandhara School, not Mathura. Incorrect Solution: d) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Mathura School of Art primarily used locally available mottled red sandstone, often with white spots. While some other materials might have been used occasionally, imported white marble was not its exclusive or even primary medium. White marble was more characteristic of later periods or different regions. Statement 2 is incorrect. While the Kushana rulers were significant patrons of the Mathura School, it also received patronage from followers of Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahmanical Hinduism. Sculptures related to all three faiths were produced at Mathura, indicating a diverse patronage base and a vibrant religious environment. Statement 3 is incorrect. The depiction of Buddha in Mathura art is characterized by indigenous Indian features and aesthetics, often drawing from earlier Yaksha imagery. The Buddha images from Mathura typically show a shaven head or snail-shell curls (not wavy Hellenistic hair), a smiling countenance, a less muscular and more fleshy physique compared to Gandhara, and robes that are often depicted as thinner and clinging to the body, revealing its form, rather than the heavy, toga-like drapery of the Gandhara school. The Greco-Roman influence was characteristic of the Gandhara School, not Mathura.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements about the characteristics of Mathura School of Art:

• It exclusively used imported white marble for its sculptures.

• The primary patrons of this school were the Kushana rulers, with no evidence of patronage from other religious communities.

• The depiction of Buddha in Mathura art was heavily influenced by Greco-Roman styles, showing him with a muscular physique and toga-like robes.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: d)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Mathura School of Art primarily used locally available mottled red sandstone, often with white spots. While some other materials might have been used occasionally, imported white marble was not its exclusive or even primary medium. White marble was more characteristic of later periods or different regions.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. While the Kushana rulers were significant patrons of the Mathura School, it also received patronage from followers of Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahmanical Hinduism. Sculptures related to all three faiths were produced at Mathura, indicating a diverse patronage base and a vibrant religious environment.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The depiction of Buddha in Mathura art is characterized by indigenous Indian features and aesthetics, often drawing from earlier Yaksha imagery. The Buddha images from Mathura typically show a shaven head or snail-shell curls (not wavy Hellenistic hair), a smiling countenance, a less muscular and more fleshy physique compared to Gandhara, and robes that are often depicted as thinner and clinging to the body, revealing its form, rather than the heavy, toga-like drapery of the Gandhara school. The Greco-Roman influence was characteristic of the Gandhara School, not Mathura.

Solution: d)

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur: It was built by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victorious expedition to the Gangetic plains. The temple is primarily constructed from granite and is an exemplary model of Nagara architectural style. The main vimana of the temple is one of the tallest of its kind in South India and is crowned by a monolithic shikhara. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple (or Rajarajesvaram Temple) at Thanjavur was built by the Chola emperor Rajaraja Chola I, not Rajendra Chola I. It was completed around 1010 CE. Rajendra Chola I built another grand temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, to commemorate his Gangetic expedition. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple is primarily constructed from granite, which is correct. However, it is a quintessential example of Dravidian temple architecture, not Nagara style. Key Dravidian features include the towering vimana, gopurams (gateways), and pillared halls. Nagara style is prevalent in North India. Statement 3 is correct. The main vimana of the Brihadeeswarar Temple is a colossal structure, approximately 66 meters (216 feet) high, making it one of the tallest in South India from its period. It is crowned by a massive monolithic capstone (often referred to as the *shikhara* or *griva-shikhara* in this context, though *stupi* is also used for the finial part) weighing about 80 tons. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple (or Rajarajesvaram Temple) at Thanjavur was built by the Chola emperor Rajaraja Chola I, not Rajendra Chola I. It was completed around 1010 CE. Rajendra Chola I built another grand temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, to commemorate his Gangetic expedition. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple is primarily constructed from granite, which is correct. However, it is a quintessential example of Dravidian temple architecture, not Nagara style. Key Dravidian features include the towering vimana, gopurams (gateways), and pillared halls. Nagara style is prevalent in North India. Statement 3 is correct. The main vimana of the Brihadeeswarar Temple is a colossal structure, approximately 66 meters (216 feet) high, making it one of the tallest in South India from its period. It is crowned by a massive monolithic capstone (often referred to as the *shikhara* or *griva-shikhara* in this context, though *stupi* is also used for the finial part) weighing about 80 tons.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur:

• It was built by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victorious expedition to the Gangetic plains.

• The temple is primarily constructed from granite and is an exemplary model of Nagara architectural style.

• The main vimana of the temple is one of the tallest of its kind in South India and is crowned by a monolithic shikhara.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple (or Rajarajesvaram Temple) at Thanjavur was built by the Chola emperor Rajaraja Chola I, not Rajendra Chola I. It was completed around 1010 CE. Rajendra Chola I built another grand temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, to commemorate his Gangetic expedition.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The Brihadeeswarar Temple is primarily constructed from granite, which is correct. However, it is a quintessential example of Dravidian temple architecture, not Nagara style. Key Dravidian features include the towering vimana, gopurams (gateways), and pillared halls. Nagara style is prevalent in North India.

• Statement 3 is correct. The main vimana of the Brihadeeswarar Temple is a colossal structure, approximately 66 meters (216 feet) high, making it one of the tallest in South India from its period. It is crowned by a massive monolithic capstone (often referred to as the *shikhara* or *griva-shikhara* in this context, though *stupi* is also used for the finial part) weighing about 80 tons.

Solution: a)

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements about the traditional theatre form ‘Yakshagana’: It is a folk theatre form exclusively found in the state of Tamil Nadu, with themes drawn from local folklore. The performance is characterized by the complete absence of spoken dialogues, relying solely on music and dance. Performers wear elaborate costumes, large headgear, and vibrant makeup, with stories often derived from Puranic and epic narratives. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form primarily associated with the coastal districts and Malenadu region of Karnataka, not Tamil Nadu. While it incorporates folk elements, it is a sophisticated art form with classical influences. Themes are predominantly drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and from the Puranas. Statement 2 is incorrect. Yakshagana performances are a rich blend of music, dance, and spoken dialogues. The Bhagavata (chief narrator and singer) sings the narrative, which is then enacted by the performers through dance and improvised dialogues. Dialogues are a crucial component of the performance, adding depth and dramatic impact. Statement 3 is correct. A distinctive feature of Yakshagana is its elaborate and colourful costumes (*aaharya*), large and ornate headgear (*kirita* or *pagade*), and striking facial makeup (*mukhavarnike*). These elements help define the characters, who are often heroic or demonic figures from Puranic and epic tales. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form primarily associated with the coastal districts and Malenadu region of Karnataka, not Tamil Nadu. While it incorporates folk elements, it is a sophisticated art form with classical influences. Themes are predominantly drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and from the Puranas. Statement 2 is incorrect. Yakshagana performances are a rich blend of music, dance, and spoken dialogues. The Bhagavata (chief narrator and singer) sings the narrative, which is then enacted by the performers through dance and improvised dialogues. Dialogues are a crucial component of the performance, adding depth and dramatic impact. Statement 3 is correct. A distinctive feature of Yakshagana is its elaborate and colourful costumes (*aaharya*), large and ornate headgear (*kirita* or *pagade*), and striking facial makeup (*mukhavarnike*). These elements help define the characters, who are often heroic or demonic figures from Puranic and epic tales.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements about the traditional theatre form ‘Yakshagana’:

• It is a folk theatre form exclusively found in the state of Tamil Nadu, with themes drawn from local folklore.

• The performance is characterized by the complete absence of spoken dialogues, relying solely on music and dance.

• Performers wear elaborate costumes, large headgear, and vibrant makeup, with stories often derived from Puranic and epic narratives.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form primarily associated with the coastal districts and Malenadu region of Karnataka, not Tamil Nadu. While it incorporates folk elements, it is a sophisticated art form with classical influences. Themes are predominantly drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and from the Puranas.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. Yakshagana performances are a rich blend of music, dance, and spoken dialogues. The Bhagavata (chief narrator and singer) sings the narrative, which is then enacted by the performers through dance and improvised dialogues. Dialogues are a crucial component of the performance, adding depth and dramatic impact.

• Statement 3 is correct. A distinctive feature of Yakshagana is its elaborate and colourful costumes (*aaharya*), large and ornate headgear (*kirita* or *pagade*), and striking facial makeup (*mukhavarnike*). These elements help define the characters, who are often heroic or demonic figures from Puranic and epic tales.

Solution: a)

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Match List-I (Ancient Text) with List-II (Primary Theme/Content) and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists: List-I (Ancient Text) List-II (Primary Theme/Content) A. Arthashastra 1. Tamil Grammar and Poetics B. Charaka Samhita 2. Principles of Statecraft and Economy C. Natyashastra 3. Compendium on Indian Medicine D. Tolkappiyam 4. Treatise on Dramaturgy and Arts Select the correct answer Code: (a) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1 (b) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4 (c) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1 (d) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3 Correct Solution: c) *Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. Thus, A matches with 2. Charaka Samhita is a foundational text of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. It is a comprehensive compendium on various aspects of medicine, including diseases, diagnostics, and treatments. Thus, B matches with 3. Natyashastra, attributed to Bharata Muni, is an ancient Indian encyclopedic treatise on the performing arts. It covers all aspects of dramaturgy, including stage design, music, dance, acting, and aesthetic theory (Rasa theory). Thus, C matches with 4. Tolkappiyam is the oldest extant work of Tamil literature and is primarily a treatise on Tamil grammar (orthography, etymology, syntax) and poetics (rules for literary composition). Thus, D matches with 1. Incorrect Solution: c) Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. Thus, A matches with 2. Charaka Samhita is a foundational text of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. It is a comprehensive compendium on various aspects of medicine, including diseases, diagnostics, and treatments. Thus, B matches with 3. Natyashastra, attributed to Bharata Muni, is an ancient Indian encyclopedic treatise on the performing arts. It covers all aspects of dramaturgy, including stage design, music, dance, acting, and aesthetic theory (Rasa theory). Thus, C matches with 4. Tolkappiyam is the oldest extant work of Tamil literature and is primarily a treatise on Tamil grammar (orthography, etymology, syntax) and poetics (rules for literary composition)*. Thus, D matches with 1.

#### 5. Question

Match List-I (Ancient Text) with List-II (Primary Theme/Content) and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists:

List-I (Ancient Text) | List-II (Primary Theme/Content)

A. Arthashastra | 1. Tamil Grammar and Poetics

B. Charaka Samhita | 2. Principles of Statecraft and Economy

C. Natyashastra | 3. Compendium on Indian Medicine

D. Tolkappiyam | 4. Treatise on Dramaturgy and Arts

Select the correct answer Code:

• (a) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1

• (b) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4

• (c) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1

• (d) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3

Solution: c)

• *Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy*. Thus, A matches with 2.

• *Charaka Samhita is a foundational text of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. It is a comprehensive compendium on various aspects of medicine, including diseases, diagnostics, and treatments*. Thus, B matches with 3.

• *Natyashastra, attributed to Bharata Muni, is an ancient Indian encyclopedic treatise on the performing arts. It covers all aspects of dramaturgy, including stage design, music, dance, acting, and aesthetic theory (Rasa theory)*. Thus, C matches with 4.

• *Tolkappiyam is the oldest extant work of Tamil literature and is primarily a treatise on Tamil grammar (orthography, etymology, syntax) and poetics (rules for literary composition)*. Thus, D matches with 1.

Solution: c)

• *Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy*. Thus, A matches with 2.

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