Indian Art and Culture serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of Indian culture, heritage, and knowledge that it seeks to encapsulate. This book is dedicated to provide an all-encompassing resource for aspirants preparing for various competitive examinations. This extensive guide is meticulously organized into eight units, each dedicated to exploring distinct facets of India's cultural and intellectual landscape.
Unit I provides an introduction to art and culture, exploring topics like culture and civilization, Indian culture, and the intricate interplay of cultural identity, religion, region, and ethnicity. It also delves into the fascinating realm of art and the global spread of Indian culture. Unit II delves deep into the diverse spectrum of Indian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism, while also examining the various religious reform movements in India. Unit III sheds light on the rich tapestry of Indian languages and literature, spanning ancient, medieval, and modern India. Unit IV focuses on Indian customs, rituals, and society, unraveling their roles, types, and significance across the life cycle. It also celebrates the vibrant fairs, festivals, and culinary heritage of India. Unit V explores Indian calendars and delves into the realms of science, technology, and martial arts in India. Unit VI takes us on a visual journey through Indian architecture, sculpture, painting, and handicrafts, tracing their captivating evolution. Unit VII is a celebration of Indian performing arts, including music, dance, theatre, and puppetry, showcasing both classical and folk traditions. Finally, Unit VIII covers awards, constitutional and legal provisions, and cultural institutions such as Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. It also delves into the conservation, promotion, and preservation of Indian heritage and its connection with UNESCO. Additionally, the included appendix serves as a valuable resource, featuring famous historical temples, stupas, ashrams, caves, forts, palaces, gardens, and more, offering a comprehensive understanding of India's rich cultural heritage and intellectual achievements.