The Mauryan period (322 BCE – 185 BCE) marks a significant phase in Indian art. It includes contributions in stone, architecture, and sculpture. This art primarily reflects state power and Buddhist influence. It also shows royal patronage. This makes it important for exams like UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other competitive exams. 1. Features of […]
Category: Art and Culture
Categories
Sangam Literature
Early Tamil literature is one of the oldest literary traditions in India and is an essential topic for UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other competitive exams. It provides insights into ancient Tamil society, culture, politics, and religion. 1. Sangam Literature The earliest Tamil literature is known as Sangam Literature (சங்க இலக்கியம்), composed between 300 BCE […]
Buddhism is one of the most influential religions in India and the world. It was founded by Gautama Buddha and emphasizes non-violence, meditation, and the Middle Path. It played a crucial role in India’s history, society, and culture. Understanding Buddhism is essential for UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other competitive exams. 1. Founder of Buddhism […]
Categories
Jainism
Jainism is one of the oldest religions in India, emphasizing non-violence (Ahimsa), truth, and asceticism. It played a crucial role in India’s religious and philosophical history. Understanding Jainism is essential for UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other competitive exams. 1. Origin and Founder of Jainism 2. Core Teachings of Jainism Three Jewels (Triratna) Five Vows […]
Arthashastra is an important text for UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other history-based competitive exams. It provides deep insights into ancient Indian political, economic, and military strategies. 1. About Kautilya and the Arthashastra 2. Structure of Arthashastra The Arthashastra consists of 15 books (Adhikaranas) covering state governance, law, economy, military, and diplomacy. A. Books on […]
Categories
Jain Literature
Jain literature is an important topic for competitive exams like UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and other history-based examinations. It provides insights into Jain philosophy, history, and religious teachings. 1. Jain Literature Classification Jain literature is broadly classified into two traditions: A. Śvetāmbara Literature B. Digambara Literature 2. Śvetāmbara Jain Literature A. The Twelve Angas (Canonical […]
1. Introduction 2. Timeline of Buddhist Texts Period Buddhist Texts Key Features 5th Century BCE Oral Teachings of Buddha Early discourses (Suttas) memorized by monks. 3rd Century BCE Tripitaka (Pali Canon) First written Buddhist scriptures, compiled during Third Buddhist Council (Ashoka’s reign). 1st Century BCE Jataka Tales Stories of Buddha’s past lives with moral teachings. […]
Categories
Buddhist Literature
Buddhism has a rich literary tradition with scriptures written in Pali and Sanskrit. These texts provide insights into Buddhist philosophy, ethics, history, and monastic rules. 1. Classification of Buddhist Texts Buddhist literature is mainly divided into: Category Description Language Tripitaka (Three Baskets) Oldest Buddhist scriptures Pali Jatakas Stories of Buddha’s previous births Pali Mahavastu Early […]
Ancient India made significant contributions to science, mathematics, medicine, astronomy, metallurgy, and engineering. Many concepts discovered by Indian scholars laid the foundation for modern scientific advancements. 1. Mathematics Ancient Indian mathematicians contributed significantly to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Key Contributions Mathematician Contributions Aryabhata (476 CE) Concept of zero (0), value of pi (π), trigonometry, […]
Categories
Vedic Literature –
Vedic Literature is the oldest and most significant source of knowledge about the Vedic Age (1500 BCE – 600 BCE). It consists of religious hymns, rituals, philosophy, and historical insights. Classification of Vedic Literature Vedic Literature is broadly divided into two categories: The four main texts of Shruti are: 1. The Four Vedas Veda Main […]