NCERT Class 6 Arts Kriti-I (Sanskrit): Chapter 1 — वस्तु स्थिरजीवन च
This chapter, "कलायाः षडङ्गानि" (The Six Limbs of Art) from NCERT Class 6 Arts Kriti-I, delves into the fundamental principles of visual art as described in the Vishnu Dharmottara Purana. It outlines the six essential components of a painting: rupabheda (form and appearance), pramana (proportion), bhava (expression of emotion), lavanyayojana (grace and charm), sadrsya (likeness), and varnikabhanga (artistic composition and brushwork). The chapter explains each of these six limbs, emphasizing their importance in creating a complete and aesthetically pleasing artwork. It also provides guidance for teachers on fostering creativity, providing resources, and organizing activities to enhance students' understanding and appreciation of art. This chapter aims to equip students with a foundational understanding of art principles, crucial for their CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 6 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti-I (Sanskrit) |
| Chapter | Chapter 1 — वस्तु स्थिरजीवन च |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 249 |
Learning outcomes
- Identify and understand the six limbs of art (षडङ्गानि).
- Explain the importance of proportion, expression, and likeness in art.
- Recognize the role of composition and color in visual art.
- Understand the guidance provided for teachers in art education.
- Appreciate the foundational principles of painting.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| रूपभेदः | Form and appearance |
| प्रमाणानि | Proportion |
| भावः | Emotion/Expression |
| लावण्यम् | Grace/Charm |
| सादृश्यम् | Likeness/Resemblance |
| वर्णिकाभङ्गः | Artistic composition/Brushwork |
| विष्णुधर्मोत्तरपुराणम् | Vishnudharmottara Purana (an ancient text) |
| परिमितिबोधः | Sense of proportion |
| उपस्थापनकौशलम् | Skill of presentation |
| उपकरणानां वर्णानाञ्च कुशलप्रयोगः | Skillful use of tools and colors |
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Practice questions
- कलायाः षडङ्गानि कानि सन्ति? Answer: कलायाः षडङ्गानि रूपभेदः, प्रमाणानि, भावः, लावण्यम्, सादृश्यम्, वर्णिकाभङ्गः च सन्ति।
- विष्णुधर्मोत्तरपुराणानुसारं चित्रकलायाः षडङ्गानि कानि? Answer: विष्णुधर्मोत्तरपुराणानुसारं चित्रकलायाः षडङ्गानि - रूपभेदः, प्रमाणानि, भावः, लावण्ययोजनम्, सादृश्यम्, वर्णिकाभङ्गः।
- चित्रकलायां 'सादृश्यम्' इत्यस्य अर्थः कः? Answer: चित्रकलायां 'सादृश्यम्' इत्यस्य अर्थः वस्तुतः यत् दृश्यते तत् चित्रं तादृशं भवति।
- अध्यापकान् प्रति छात्रान् कथं प्रोत्साहितं कर्तुं उक्तम्? Answer: अध्यापकान् प्रति छात्रान् स्वविचारान्, कल्पनाः, भावान्, जिज्ञासाश्च अभिव्यञ्जयितुं प्रोत्साहितं कर्तुं उक्तम्।
Frequently asked questions
What are the six limbs of art mentioned in the chapter?
The six limbs of art are Rupabheda (form and appearance), Pramana (proportion), Bhava (emotion), Lavanyayojana (grace), Sadrsya (likeness), and Varnikabhanga (artistic composition).
Which ancient text is referenced for the six limbs of art?
The chapter references the Vishnu Dharmottara Purana for the six limbs of art.
What does 'Sadrsya' mean in the context of painting?
'Sadrsya' means likeness or resemblance, implying that the painting should accurately represent the subject.
What is the role of 'Bhava' in art?
'Bhava' refers to the expression of emotions, which is crucial for conveying the intended feeling or mood in a painting.
What guidance is given to teachers in this chapter?
Teachers are advised to encourage students' self-expression, provide ample space and resources for activities, and organize field trips to enhance their understanding of art and culture.
What is 'Varnikabhanga'?
'Varnikabhanga' refers to the skillful use of brushwork and artistic composition in creating a painting.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 6 Arts — Kriti-I (Sanskrit) — Chapter 1 — वस्तु स्थिरजीवन च. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.