CBSE Class 7 Social Science: The Making of Regional Cultures NCERT Solutions

Solution: The correct matches are:

Anantavarnam - Orissa (Likely referring to a ruler or artistic style associated with Orissa)

Jagannatha - Orissa (Refers to the famous Jagannatha temple and deity in Puri, Orissa)

Mahodayapurma - Kerala (Historical name for a region in Kerala, associated with the Chera dynasty)

Lilatilakam - Kerala (A commentary on grammar and poetics, written in Manipravalam, associated with Kerala)

Mangalakavya - Bengal (A genre of literature popular in Bengal)

Puri Miniature - Orissa (Refers to miniature paintings from the Puri region, though Kangra is also famous for miniatures, the context here links Puri to Orissa)

Solution: Manipravalam is a literary style or language that emerged in regions like Kerala. It is characterized by the intermingling of Sanskrit and local Dravidian languages, particularly Malayalam. The name itself suggests a 'ruby and coral' mix, symbolizing the blend of two distinct elements. A significant book written in the Manipravalam language is Lilatilakam, which is a work on grammar and poetics.

Solution: The Kathak dance form, known for its intricate footwork and storytelling, received significant patronage from the Mughal emperors. During the Mughal era, Kathak flourished in the courts, where dancers were supported and encouraged to develop the art form. While regional rulers also supported dance, the Mughals played a pivotal role in its development and popularization.

Solution: The temples of Bengal developed distinct architectural features, particularly from the late 15th century onwards. Key characteristics include:

• Roof Structure: Many temples adopted a double-roofed or four-roofed structure, which was inspired by the design of thatched huts common in the region. In the more complex four-roofed style, four triangular roofs met at a curved line or a point.
• Platform: Temples were typically constructed on a square platform, providing a stable and elevated base.
• Decoration: While the interior of the temples was usually kept relatively plain, the outer walls were often adorned with decorative elements such as paintings, ornamental tiles, or terracotta tablets, showcasing artistic craftsmanship.

Solution: Minstrels, also known as bards or storytellers, proclaimed the achievements of heroes by reciting poems and singing songs that narrated tales of bravery and heroic deeds. This practice served multiple purposes: it served as a form of entertainment, it inspired listeners to emulate the courage and virtues of these heroes, and it helped to preserve the memory of their accomplishments for future generations. For warrior communities like the Rajputs, these recitations reinforced their martial traditions and social values.

Solution: Our knowledge about the cultural practices of rulers is more extensive because their activities were often recorded, commissioned, and preserved in palaces and royal archives. Rulers commissioned artworks, built grand structures, and maintained records, all of which have survived over centuries. In contrast, the cultural practices of ordinary men and women, such as folk art, music, and daily rituals, were often transient and not systematically documented. While they created art on perishable materials like pots, walls, and cloth, these creations were less likely to endure the passage of time, leading to a greater historical record of elite culture compared to that of common people.

Solution: Conquerors sought to control the temple of Jagannatha at Puri because it was not just a religious site but also a significant centre of pilgrimage and possessed considerable social and political authority. By gaining control over such an important religious institution, rulers could enhance their own legitimacy and prestige in the eyes of the local population. It was believed that controlling the temple would help make their rule appear acceptable and even divinely sanctioned to the people of the region, thereby strengthening their political position.

Solution: Temple building in Bengal gained significant momentum from the late 15th century. Temples were constructed for several reasons:

• Demonstration of Power and Affluence: Individuals and groups built temples to display their wealth, status, and influence in society.
• Social Mobility: Some temples were built with the support of various social groups, including those who had recently gained economic advantages. As these groups improved their social and economic standing, particularly with the arrival of European trading companies, they built temples to assert their elevated status.
• Legitimization of Local Deities: Local deities, previously worshipped in simple thatched huts, began to receive recognition from Brahmins. This Brahmanical approval led to the construction of more permanent, brick-built temples for these deities, elevating their status within the established religious framework.

Solution: As a resident of Delhi, I observe a rich tapestry of culture shaped by its history as a capital city and a site of numerous invasions and settlements.

Buildings: Delhi boasts a remarkable architectural heritage reflecting diverse historical periods. We see magnificent structures from the Mughal era like the Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb, showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture with grand domes, minarets, and intricate carvings. Earlier periods are represented by monuments like the Qutub Minar and forts built by Rajput rulers. The city also features numerous temples, mosques, and other religious buildings constructed by various rulers and communities over centuries. The contrast between the historical architecture of Old Delhi and the planned structures of New Delhi highlights this layered cultural influence.

Performing Arts: Delhi has been a centre for various performing arts. Kathak, patronized by the Mughals, is widely performed. The city also hosts classical music concerts, folk performances, and theatre festivals, reflecting a blend of traditional and contemporary artistic expressions.

Painting: While not as famous for a specific regional style as some other parts of India, Delhi has been influenced by various painting traditions, including Mughal miniature painting. Contemporary art galleries in Delhi showcase a wide range of modern and traditional Indian art, including paintings that often draw inspiration from the city's diverse cultural landscape.

Solution: Yes, I use different languages for speaking, reading, and writing.

(a) Speaking: I primarily speak Hindi and Punjabi in my daily conversations.

(b) Reading: For reading, I use Hindi and English. I read books, newspapers, and online content in both languages.

(c) Writing: For writing, I use Hindi and English. This includes writing assignments, emails, and personal notes.

A Major Composition: One major composition that I find interesting is the epic poem 'Ramcharitmanas', written by Tulsidas in the Awadhi dialect of Hindi. I find it interesting because:

Narrative Power: It retells the story of Lord Rama in a deeply devotional and accessible manner, making complex philosophical ideas understandable through engaging narratives and relatable characters.

Linguistic Richness: The language used is beautiful and evocative, blending folk elements with classical traditions, which makes it a significant work in Hindi literature.

Cultural Significance: It has profoundly influenced the culture, values, and religious practices of millions of people across North India and beyond for centuries. Its verses are widely quoted and revered.

Solution: Here is a list of commonly consumed foods from one state in each region:

State (Region)

Commonly Consumed Foods

Punjab (North)

Makke di roti (maize flatbread), Sarson ka saag (mustard greens curry), Rajma-chawal (kidney beans with rice), Dal-chapatis (lentils with flatbread)

Gujarat (West)

Dhokla (steamed savoury cake), Thepla (fenugreek flatbread), Dal Baati Churma, Khandvi (rolled gram flour snack)

Kerala (South)

Rice and fish curry, Idli-Sambhar (steamed rice cakes with lentil stew), Dosa (rice crepe), Avial (mixed vegetable curry)

West Bengal (East)

Rice and fish curry, Luchi-Alur Dom (fried flatbread with potato curry), Sweets like Rasgulla and Sandesh

Madhya Pradesh (Central)

Dal-chapatis (lentils with flatbread), Dal Bafla (baked wheat cakes with lentil stew), Bhutte ki Kees (grated corn preparation)

Observations:

Similarities:

Rice and various forms of lentils (dal) are staple foods across most regions, especially in South and East India.

Flatbreads (like Chapati, Roti, Thepla) are common, though the type of flour and preparation may vary.

Fish is a significant part of the diet in coastal regions like Kerala and West Bengal.

Differences:

North India (Punjab) shows a preference for wheat and maize-based breads (Roti, Makke di roti) and hearty vegetable preparations (Sarson ka saag).

West India (Gujarat) has unique snacks and preparations like Dhokla and Thepla, often with a slightly sweet taste.

South India (Kerala) heavily relies on rice, coconut, and fish, with distinct breakfast items like Idli and Dosa.

East India (West Bengal) also features rice and fish prominently, alongside a rich tradition of sweets.

Central India (Madhya Pradesh) often combines elements, with dal and chapati being common, but also unique dishes like Dal Bafla.

Solution: Here is a list of clothes generally worn by men and women in a different set of five states:

State (Region)

Clothes worn by Men

Clothes worn by Women

Jammu & Kashmir (North)

Phiran (long, loose robe), Shalwar Kameez, Woollen caps

Phiran (long, loose robe, often embroidered), Shalwar Kameez, Headscarves

Rajasthan (West)

Dhoti, Kurta, Angarkha (long coat), Turban (Pagri)

Ghagra (long skirt), Choli (blouse), Odhni (scarf), colourful traditional attire

Tamil Nadu (South)

Veshti (dhoti), Shirt, Kurta

Saree, Half Saree (Langa Voni)

Odisha (East)

Dhoti, Kurta, Shirt

Sambalpuri Saree, Ikat Saree, Salwar Kameez

Chhattisgarh (Central)

Dhoti, Shirt, Kurta, Lungi

Sari (often cotton), Lugda (traditional sari), Polka (blouse)

Discussion of Findings:

Similarities:

The Saree is a common attire for women across many South and East Indian states (Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Chhattisgarh), reflecting a shared cultural heritage.

The Dhoti is a traditional garment for men in many parts of India, including Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.

Shirts and Kurtas are widely worn by men across different regions, often as a more contemporary or casual alternative to traditional wear.

Salwar Kameez is prevalent in North India (Jammu & Kashmir) and has also become popular in other regions as comfortable everyday wear.

Differences:

Headwear: The Turban (Pagri) is a distinctive feature of men's attire in Rajasthan, signifying regional identity.

Regional Robes: The Phiran is a unique, warm, and loose robe worn by both men and women in the cold climate of Jammu & Kashmir.

Traditional Skirts and Scarves: Rajasthan's traditional women's attire includes the Ghagra (skirt) and Odhni (scarf), which are distinct from the sarees of the South and East.

Textile Traditions: States like Odisha and Tamil Nadu are known for specific weaving techniques like Ikat and Kanjeevaram, respectively, which are reflected in their sarees.

Climate Influence: Lighter fabrics like cotton are common in warmer regions (South, East, Central), while woollens are essential in colder regions (North).