NCERT Class 8 Sanskrit Ruchira: Chapter 9 — नवमः पाठः – सप्तभगिन्यः
This chapter, 'सप्तभगिन्य:', introduces the northeastern states of India, collectively known as the 'Seven Sisters'. The chapter begins with a classroom discussion where students are curious about the number of states and union territories in India. The teacher then reveals the term 'सप्तभगिन्य:' and explains its symbolic meaning, referring to a group of seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura. Despite their smaller geographical size, these states are highlighted for their significant cultural heritage and historical independence. The term 'सप्तभगिन्य:' was reportedly coined in the 1970s during the reorganization of these states. The chapter emphasizes the unique cultural contributions of these 'sisters' to the diverse tapestry of India, encouraging students to learn more about their rich history and traditions.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Sanskrit |
| Book | Ruchira |
| Chapter | Chapter 9 — नवमः पाठः – सप्तभगिन्यः |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 261 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the collective name 'सप्तभगिन्य:' for seven northeastern states.
- Identify the seven states included in the 'सप्तभगिन्य:' group.
- Appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these states.
- Learn about the origin of the term 'सप्तभगिन्य:'.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| उपनाम | Nickname/Epithet |
| विलक्षण | Extraordinary/Unique |
| वैशिष्ट्य | Specialty/Characteristic |
| प्रथितोस्ति | Is famous/renowned |
| प्रतीकात्मक | Symbolic |
| साम्यात् | Due to similarity |
| क्षेत्रपरिमाणै: | By geographical area |
| गुणगौरवदृष्ट्या | In terms of quality and prestige |
| स्वाधीना: | Independent |
| स्वायत्तीकृता: | Brought under control/subjugated |
| महत्त्वाधायिनी | Contributing importance |
| उद्घाटनक्रमे | On the occasion of inauguration |
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Practice questions
- 'सप्तभगिनी' यह उपनाम किन राज्यों के लिए प्रयुक्त होता है? Answer: 'सप्तभगिनी' यह उपनाम उत्तर-पूर्वी भारत के सात राज्यों के लिए प्रयुक्त होता है।
- सप्तभगिनी समूह में कौन-कौन से राज्य सम्मिलित हैं? Answer: सप्तभगिनी समूह में अरुणाचल प्रदेश, असम, मणिपुर, मिजोरम, मेघालय, नगालैंड और त्रिपुरा सम्मिलित हैं।
- इन राज्यों को 'सप्तभगिनी' क्यों कहा जाता है? Answer: इन राज्यों को 'सप्तभगिनी' इसलिए कहा जाता है क्योंकि उनके सामाजिक-सांस्कृतिक परिदृश्यों की समानता के कारण यह उपाधि दी गई है।
- 'सप्तभगिनी' शब्द का प्रयोग सर्वप्रथम कब और किसके द्वारा किया गया? Answer: 'सप्तभगिनी' शब्द का प्रयोग सर्वप्रथम विगत शताब्दी के बहत्तरवें वर्ष (1972) में त्रिपुरा राज्य के उद्घाटन के अवसर पर किसी के द्वारा किया गया।
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of 'सप्तभगिनी'?
'सप्तभगिनी' is a collective name given to seven northeastern states of India, literally meaning 'Seven Sisters'.
Which states are known as 'सप्तभगिनी'?
The states known as 'सप्तभगिनी' are Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura.
Why are these states called 'Seven Sisters'?
They are called 'Seven Sisters' due to the similarity in their socio-cultural landscapes and perhaps their interconnectedness.
Are these states large in area?
Although these states are geographically smaller in size, they are considered significant in terms of their cultural prestige and heritage.
When was the term 'सप्तभगिनी' first used?
The term 'सप्तभगिनी' was reportedly first used in the 1970s, specifically in the year 1972, during the inauguration of Tripura state.
What is the cultural significance of the 'सप्तभगिनी' states?
These states hold significant cultural importance within India, contributing to its diverse cultural tapestry with their unique traditions and history.
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Sanskrit — Ruchira — Chapter 9 — नवमः पाठः – सप्तभगिन्यः. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.