The Ashrama system in Hinduism divides human life into four stages: Brahmacharya (studentship), Grihastha (householder), Vanaprastha (forest dweller/retirement), and Sannyasa (renunciation). Each stage has specific duties and goals.
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Cultural History of India covers the development of art, architecture, literature, music, dance, religion, and philosophy over thousands of years. It includes Vedic culture, Buddhist art, Mauryan and Gupta period art, medieval architecture (temples, mosques), Mughal culture, and Bhakti-Sufi movements. Cultural History is an important topic for UPSC Prelims and SSC CGL exams.
Major classical dance forms of India: Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (North India), Odissi (Odisha), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Manipuri (Manipur), Kathakali (Kerala), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), and Sattriya (Assam). These are recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi and are important for UPSC and SSC GK sections.
Major cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Qutb Minar (Delhi), Red Fort (Delhi), Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Hampi ruins, Mahabalipuram, Khajuraho temples, Konark Sun Temple, and many more. India has 40+ UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are frequently asked in competitive exams.
The Bhakti Movement (7th-17th century) was a religious and social reform movement that emphasized devotion to God without caste distinctions. Key saints: Kabir, Mirabai, Tulsidas, Surdas, Ramanuja, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It promoted social equality, vernacular literature, and opposition to rituals. The Bhakti Movement is important for UPSC, SSC, and State PSC exams.
Important folk arts and crafts of India: Madhubani painting (Bihar), Warli painting (Maharashtra), Pattachitra (Odisha), Tanjore painting (Tamil Nadu), Phulkari embroidery (Punjab), Chikankari (Lucknow), Pashmina (Kashmir), Dhokra metal craft (Chhattisgarh). These are important for UPSC, SSC CGL GK sections and state government exams.
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