CBSE Class 6 Social Science History Chapter 12: Buildings, Paintings and Books NCERT Solutions

Solution: The monkey king from the story shares several similarities with the kings discussed in Chapters 6 and 11. Like those kings, the monkey king commanded a large army. He demonstrated wisdom, diplomatic skills, and bravery. A key virtue he possessed was the ability to discern and act at the opportune moment. When faced with the threat of the king's men attacking his community, he quickly devised a plan to protect his subjects. He ensured all his followers crossed the river safely. As the last one to cross, he became tired and exhausted, ultimately sacrificing his life by falling down, which appeared as death. This act of self-sacrifice for the safety of his kingdom is a supreme virtue, making him comparable to the ideal human kings.

Solution: Our ancient epics, such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana, are rich with inspiring stories that offer guidance and teach life's ideals. Here is a story from the Mahabharata:

During the conflict between the Kauravas and Pandavas, both sides sought alliances. Lord Krishna, who was related to both parties and revered for his divine qualities, was approached by both Duryodhana (the eldest Kaurava) and Arjuna (one of the Pandavas). Duryodhana, known for his arrogance, arrived first and sat at the head of Krishna, who was asleep. Arjuna, a humble individual, arrived later and respectfully sat at Krishna's feet, gently massaging them. When Krishna awoke, he saw Arjuna first. Krishna had previously promised to support the side of the person who approached him first. Although Duryodhana had arrived first, Krishna declared his support for Arjuna because he had seen him first. Krishna explained that humility and courtesy are essential when seeking help. Duryodhana's arrogance led him to lose Krishna's support. This story teaches us the importance of humility and politeness when asking for favors or support from others.

Solution:

1. The iron Pillar is situated at..... (b) Mehrauli
2. The height of the Iron Pillar is ................. (a) 7.2 m
3. The small box placed at the centre or heart of the stupa is known as a...... (a) Relic casket
4. The puranas contained stories about ..... (d) Gods and goddesses.
5. Sanskrit Ramayana is written by ...... (a) Valmiki

Solution:

1. The Durga temple at Aihole was built about 1400 years ago.
2. The small box placed at the centre of the stupa contains bodily remains of the Buddha and his followers.
3. The Vedas were recited in temples by priests and people came to listen to them.
4. Both the Puranas and the Mahabharata are supposed to have been composed by Vyasa.
5. Aryabhatta developed a scientific explanation for eclipses.

Solution:

1. Most temples of this period had a hall like structure known as the mandapa. (T)
2. Mahabalipuram and Aihole are known for the finest stone temples. (T)
3. Merchant and farmers usually decided to build stupas and temples during this period. (F) (Wealthy patrons, including merchants, often funded these constructions.)
4. The Tamil epic the Silappadikaram was composed by a poet named Ilango. (T)
5. Meghaduta is a famous poem composed by Tulsidas. (F) (Meghaduta was composed by Kalidasa.)
6. Women and Shudras could hear the stories of the Puranas. (T) (While not always permitted to read, they could often listen to recitations.)
7. It was Ravana who abducted Rama's wife Sita. (T)
8. The Jatakas and the Panchatantra are collections of stories told by birds and animals. (F) (While Panchatantra stories often feature animals, Jatakas are primarily tales about the Buddha's previous lives.)
9. Aryabhatta was a famous story-teller. (F) (Aryabhatta was a renowned mathematician and astronomer.)
10. The Bhagavad Gita is a part of the Ramayana. (F) (The Bhagavad Gita is part of the Mahabharata.)