HISTORY & CULTURE OPEN SECRET 2025
LECTURE - 7
Dated - 05-April-2025
These are 27 month's current affairs ( 1 June 2023 to Mains 2025 ) of History & Culture
from 4 best newspapers, 4 top websites & 2 magazines, these current affairs are for
both prelims and mains 2025
Selective current affairs or contemporary affairs of last 4-5 years are also covered
Retrospected from NCERTs and standard books, Multiple newspapers, websites &
internet
1- Who was Andal ?
Andal, also known as Kodhai or Nachiyar, was a revered 9th-century Tamil saint and poetess in the
Vaishnavite tradition of Hinduism. She is one of the twelve Alvars, the saint-poets who are celebrated for
their devotion to Lord Vishnu. Andal is especially known for her works, "Tiruppavai" and "Nachiyar
Tirumozhi," which are collections of devotional hymns expressing her deep love and devotion to Lord
Vishnu. According to legend, she is considered an incarnation of Bhudevi (the Earth goddess).
2- What kind of dance form kuchipudi is :
Kuchipudi dance form originated from a village in Andhra Pradesh, with which it shares its name. It
developed as a religious art form that was taken by traveling artists from temple to temple. The earliest
descriptions of it can be found in the Natya Shastra, a Sanskrit treatise on the performing arts.
3- What was the house of Birju Maharaj :
Birju Maharaj hailed from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, and was a renowned exponent of the Kathak
dance form. He belonged to the Kalka-Bindadin gharana of Lucknow, known for its expressive and
intricate style of Kathak.
4- What does Odissi narrates:
The dance form Odissi, originating from the state of Odisha on India's eastern coast. Predominantly
performed by women, Odissi uses expressive gestures and motifs called bhangas to narrate stories from
Hindu mythology.
5- What kind of dance Kathakali is :
a traditional dance form native to Kerala, characterized by its elaborate make-up, vibrant costumes, and
exaggerated facial expressions. Almost exclusively performed by men, Kathakali enacts stories from Hindu
epics and mythology through a combination of dance, drama, and music, emphasizing expressive gestures
and powerful movements.
6- Who was Sri Vedantha Desika : Vedantha Desika, also known as Swami Vedanta Desikan, was a prominent
13th-century Sri Vaishnavite philosopher, poet, and logician, who lived from 1268 to 1369 CE. He was a key
proponent of the Vishishtadvaita school of Vedanta, following the teachings of Ramanuja. Desika's notable
works include "Sri Paduka Sahasram," a thousand-verse poem in praise of Lord Ranganatha's sandals,
"Rahasya Traya Saram," a treatise on the three fundamental secrets of Sri Vaishnavism, and "Satadushani," a
critical work against rival philosophies.
7- Who was william Hodges - was an 18th-century British painter and traveler who is notable for his
landscape paintings of India. He accompanied Captain James Cook on his second voyage and later
documented various Indian landscapes and monuments, providing a visual record of the subcontinent
during his travels with the British East India Company.
8- What was the timer period of Warren Hastings : He was the first Governor-General of India, serving from
1773 to 1785. Notable for his administrative reforms, he established the framework for British rule in India,
restructured the revenue system, and codified laws. He also founded the Calcutta Madrasa to promote
Islamic studies and supported translations of Indian legal texts into English. Hastings faced impeachment
upon his return to England, charged with corruption and abuse of power, but was ultimately acquitted.
9- When was the Khalsa formed : In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh formed the institution of the Khalsa. The order
of the Khalsa was an egalitarian one. His pluralistic philosophy encompassed the acceptance of diverse
religious identities, advocating religious harmony.
10- International Translation Day : is celebrated annually on September 30th. It was established by the
International Federation of Translators (FIT) to honor the work of translators and promote the importance of
translation in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps. The date coincides with the feast day of St. Jerome, the
patron saint of translators, who is known for translating the Bible into Latin.
11- Where is Thirunelli Temple : located in Wayanad district of Kerala, India, is an ancient temple
dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Nestled amidst the lush Brahmagiri hills, the temple is also famous for its
sacred Papanasini river, believed to wash away sins.
12- Where is Kamakhya Temple : located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam, is one of the oldest
and most revered Hindu temples dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, an incarnation of Shakti. It is a
major pilgrimage site, especially known for its annual Ambubachi Mela, which celebrates the goddess's
menstrual cycle. The temple complex consists of multiple shrines and is renowned for its unique
tantric rituals and beliefs associated with fertility and power.
13- What is Dokra art : Dokra art is a traditional form of metal casting that belongs to the indigenous
tribes of India, particularly in the states of West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. This
ancient craft, known for its intricate designs and use of the lost-wax casting technique, has been
practiced for over 4,000 years and continues to produce unique and artistic metal objects, often
depicting tribal deities, animals, and everyday scenes.
14- What is Margazhi Dance : often associated with the Margazhi Festival, belongs to the state of Tamil
Nadu, India. This festival, celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January), is a
significant cultural event showcasing classical music and dance, particularly Bharatanatyam.
15- Ajanta caves as retreat for monks : this heritage site is a group of 29 rock-cut Buddhist monuments
found in Maharashtra, which date back more than 2000 years. They are celebrated examples of
ancient Indian art found in the recesses of rocks, thought to have been monsoon retreats for monks.
16- What is the worship in Garba : celebrated for nine days during the festival of Navaratri. The festival
is dedicated to the worship of the feminine energy or Shakti.
17- What is Gamosa : a traditional handwoven cloth from Assam, India, typically made of white cotton
with red woven patterns. It is a symbol of Assamese culture and is used in various rituals, as a mark of
respect, and as a functional item in daily life.
18- Where the Hornbill Festival belongs to : an annual cultural festival held in Nagaland, India,
typically from December 1 to 10. Celebrated in Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, the festival
showcases the rich heritage of the Naga tribes through traditional music, dance, crafts, and cuisine. It
is a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists, promoting unity and cultural
preservation among the Naga people.
19- The importance of Kanchipuram
Kachchi (Kanchi) of the Sangam texts evolved into the renowned temple city and Pallava capital of
Kanchipuram. Historically, it was a center of learning, known as the ghatikasthanam, and was
significant for Jainism and Buddhism between the 1st and 5th centuries.
Important Buddhist centers included Kanchipuram, Mrigashikhavana in Bengal, Valabhi and
Devnimori in Gujarat, Ajanta in western India, Sanchi in central India, Amaravati, and
Nagarjunakonda in Andhra.
The Virupaksha Temple, built by queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate her husband
Vikramaditya II's conquest of Kanchipuram, is particularly notable.
Simhavishnu's successor, Mahendravarman I (590–630), a patron of the arts, saw conflict with the
Western Chalukyas, with Pulakeshin II annexing northern parts of Kanchipuram.
However, during Narasimhavarman I Mahamalla's reign (630–68), the Pallavas defeated the
Chalukyas with the help of Manavarma, a Sri Lankan prince.
Kanchipuram has been ruled by the Pallavas, Medieval Cholas, Later Cholas, Later Pandyas,
Vijayanagara Empire, Carnatic kingdom, and the British, who called it "Conjeeveram." The city's
notable monuments include the Kailasanathar Temple and Vaikunta Perumal Temple.
20- What is Pichwai, is it a place ?
Pichwai is a traditional Indian art form of intricate painted textiles, primarily depicting the
life and tales of Lord Krishna. Originating from the town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan,
Pichwai paintings are typically used to adorn the walls of temples and homes, especially in
the context of the Pushtimarg sect of Hinduism. These artworks are known for their detailed
and vibrant depictions, often featuring rich colors and intricate designs.
21- When did the National Museum in Delhi founded ?
Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation stone of the National Museum in Delhi in 1955, and it
subsequently opened in 1960.
This was the first museum built by Indians after independence, and symbolised the
importance of focusing on the country’s cultural heritage in the idealistic first decade of our
freedom.
In successive years, special interiors were designed to host international and Indian
exhibitions, including Shah Jahan’s Padshahnama (Book of Emperors), a manuscript
containing some of the finest Mughal miniatures.
22- What are miniature paintings and when did they evolve ?
Miniature paintings are small, detailed artworks created with meticulous brushwork, often
on paper or cloth. In India, the tradition dates back to the 9th-12th centuries, flourishing
under the patronage of the Mughal emperors in the 16th-17th centuries.
The Mughal style blended Persian, Indian, and Islamic influences, depicting court scenes,
battles, and royal portraits. This art form also thrived in the Rajput, Pahari, and Deccan
schools, each with its distinctive styles and themes, often focusing on Hindu mythology,
nature, and daily life.
23- What was the relation of Mahatma Gandhi with young India ?
"Young India" was a weekly journal published by Mahatma Gandhi, who served as its editor
and founder. Launched in 1919, it played a crucial role in the Indian independence
movement by disseminating Gandhi's ideas on non-violence, civil disobedience, and social
reforms. The journal provided a platform for Gandhi to communicate with the masses,
criticize colonial policies, and inspire nationalist sentiments. It significantly influenced
public opinion and mobilized support for the struggle against British rule.
24- Is World Monuments Fund (WMF) a government body : No, its a private, non-profit
organization dedicated to the preservation of historic architecture and cultural heritage sites
worldwide. Founded in 1965, it operates under the umbrella of cultural and heritage
conservation efforts. The WMF identifies and raises awareness about endangered sites through
its biennial World Monuments Watch program, mobilizes resources for their restoration, and
collaborates with local communities to ensure sustainable conservation practices.
25- What was Tranquebar, why it is important ?
Tharangambadi, formerly known as Tranquebar, is a coastal town in the present-day
Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, India. It was the seat of the Danish East India
Company, which established a trading post there in 1620 with permission from Maharaja
Raghunatha Nayak of Thanjavur. The Danish built Fort Dansborg, the second largest Danish
fort in the world, and conducted flourishing trade with China and other countries for over
two centuries. In 1845, the fort and territory were sold to the British, ending Danish rule.
26- Who was Muhammed Ali Khan Wallajah?
Muhammed Ali Khan Wallajah, who became the Nawab of the Carnatic from 1749 to 1795,
sought to make Madras his capital to stay close to the British. Initially, he planned to
reside within Fort St. George, but due to space constraints, he was advised to build near
Marina Beach, resulting in the construction of Chepauk Palace. With the annexation of the
Carnatic and the death of the last male heir in 1855, the British applied the Doctrine of
Lapse.
27- When did Marco Polo visited India ?
Marco Polo, the renowned Venetian explorer, visited India in the late 13th century during
the rule of the Pandya dynasty. His travels to India were part of his larger journey along
the Silk Road, which he documented in his book "The Travels of Marco Polo." During his
visit, he traveled through the southern part of India, specifically the Tamil Nadu region,
and described the city of Kanchipuram and its impressive temples and wealth. Polo also
visited the Malabar Coast, noting the region's thriving trade in spices, gems, and textiles.
28- World Photography Day
World Photography Day is celebrated annually on August 19th to honor the art, craft,
science, and history of photography. This date was chosen to commemorate the
invention of the daguerreotype, an early photographic process developed by Louis
Daguerre, which was announced by the French government on August 19, 1839.
29- When did All India Radio (AIR) start ?
All India Radio (AIR), also known as Akashvani, is India's national public radio broadcaster.
Established in 1936, it initially started as a private entity called the Indian Broadcasting
Company (IBC) in 1927 before being taken over by the government.
30- These were the colonies of French East India Company in India
By the time of the mid-18th century, the French East India Company had established a
significant commercial presence in India with colonies in Pondicherry, Mahe,
Chandannagar, Karaikal, and Yanam.
31- Who conducts World Poetry Day ?
World Poetry Day, declared by UNESCO in 1999, is celebrated on March 21 each year.
This day aims to promote the reading, writing, and appreciation of poetry across the
globe, recognizing its unique ability to capture the creative spirit of the human mind and
foster cultural dialogue.
32- Who was Avalokiteshvara ?
Avalokiteshvara is a revered bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying the
compassion of all Buddhas. Known as the "Lord who looks down with compassion,"
Avalokiteshvara is often depicted with multiple arms and heads, symbolizing his ability to
aid numerous beings simultaneously.
He is a central figure in various Buddhist traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism, where
he is also known as Chenrezig. Avalokiteshvara is associated with the mantra "Om Mani
Padme Hum," which is chanted to invoke his blessings and compassion. His iconography
and teachings emphasize the importance of compassion and altruism in the path to
enlightenment.
33- Kabir was a contemporary of whom ?
The 15th-century mystic poet Kabir was a contemporary of several significant figures in Indian
history, most notably the Bhakti saint Ramananda, who is believed to be Kabir's spiritual guru.
Kabir's era also overlaps with the reign of Sikandar Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi, and the early
period of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. These contemporaries shaped the religious and
cultural landscape of India during Kabir's lifetime, influencing and being influenced by the
broader Bhakti and Sufi movements.
34- Hoysalas and their associations with the temple designs.
The Hoysalas ruled much of Karnataka during the 12th and 13th centuries, a period marked by
extensive temple construction and significant achievements in architecture and sculpture.
Most Hoysala temples follow the ekakuta (single shrine), dvikuta (double shrine), or trikuta
(triple shrine) patterns. However, only two examples of Panchakuta (five-shrine) temples exist:
one near the Keshava Temple at Somanathapur, and the Panchalingeshwara Temple at
Govindanahalli.
Notable temples from this era include the Mallikarjuna Temple at Basaralu and the
Saumyakeshava Temple, reflecting the artistic and architectural excellence of the Hoysala
dynasty.
35- Relevance of the Keeladi site
Keeladi, located southeast of Madurai on the banks of the Vaigai river. Excavations here
revealed artifacts dating from 6 BCE to 1 BCE, indicating a highly advanced civilization. These
findings have pushed back the Sangam age by 300 years, suggesting that the second
urbanization seen in the Gangetic valley also occurred in Tamil Nadu during this period.
36- The History of Purana Qila
The Purana Qila, built by Sher Shah Suri and Mughal emperor Humayun, is believed by many to
be the site of Indraprastha, as mentioned in the Mahabharat.
Excavations have revealed nine cultural levels, representing different historical periods,
including pre-Mauryan, Mauryan, Sunga, Kushana, Gupta, post-Gupta, Rajput, Sultanate, and
Mughal.
37- Inclusion of Indian literary works in UNESCO’s Memory of the World
Three Indian literary works, Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayaloka-Locana, were
added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register during the tenth
meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP).
The inclusion of the three works in the register highlights the significance of preserving and
celebrating diverse narratives and artistic expressions that shape our shared humanity.
The Panchatantra fables were zeroed in owing to their universal moral values. The 15th-century
Sahṛdayaloka-Locana, by Kashmiri scholars Acharya Anandvardhan and Abhinavagupta, was
chosen because of its aesthetics.
This is the first time since the MOWCAP was formed in 1992 that India has sent any
nominations, and all three sent by the country have been accepted.
38- What is the Memory of the World (MOW) register?
UNESCO’s MOW programme is an international cooperation strategy aimed at safeguarding,
protecting, and facilitating access to and the use of documentary heritage, especially heritage
that is rare and endangered. According to its charter, UNESCO launched the initiative in 1992
“to guard against collective amnesia” by calling upon the preservation of invaluable archive
holdings and library collections all over the world and ensuring their wide dissemination.
The programme recognises documentary heritage of international, regional and national
significance, maintains registers of it, and awards a logo to identified collections.
39- The three important places in the history of south India
Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram):
Historic coastal town in Tamil Nadu, important during the Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries.
Known for its rock-cut temples, cave sanctuaries, and monolithic rathas; UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Significant port city for maritime trade, cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia, showcasing Pallava
maritime prowess and artistic patronage.
Notable sites include, the Shore Temple, with its intricate carvings, and the giant open-air bas-relief,
Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna's Penance).
Kancheepuram:
Important inland capital and religious center during both Pallava and later Chola periods.
Renowned for its temples and scholarly institutions.
Initially connected to the port of Nirppeyyarru on the Palar river, later associated with Mamallapuram as
its major port.
Nagapattinam:
Gained prominence during the Chola period, eclipsing Kaveripattinam as a major port from the 11th
century.
Served as a critical hub for both domestic and international trade during the Chola dynasty.
Architectural Heritage:
Pallava period architecture primarily found in Mamallapuram and Kancheepuram.
The Shore Temple in Mamallapuram, attributed to the reign of Rajasimha with possible later additions.
