1) Match the following:
Answer:
Anantavarman → Orissa
Jagannatha → Puri
Mahodayapuram → Kerala
Lilatilakam → Kerala
Mangalakavya → Bengal
Miniature → Kangra
2) What is Manipravalam? Name a book written in that language.
Answer: Manipravalam is a mixed language used in medieval literary works in South India, combining Malayalam and Sanskrit. An example of a book written in Manipravalam is ‘Lilatilakam.’
3) Who were the major patrons of Kathak?
Answer: Major patrons of Kathak were the Mughal emperors and their nobles, particularly in the courts of Rajasthan (Jaipur) and Lucknow. Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, also significantly patronized Kathak.
4) What are the important architectural features of the temples of Bengal?
Answer: Important architectural features of the temples of Bengal include double-roofed (dochala) or four-roofed (chauchala) structures resembling thatched huts. These temples often have a square platform, relatively plain interiors, and outer walls decorated with paintings, ornamental tiles, or terracotta tablets.
5) Why did minstrels proclaim the achievements of heroes?
Answer: Minstrels proclaimed the achievements of heroes to inspire others, preserve memories of heroism, and uphold the ideals of valor and bravery.
6) Why do we know much more about the cultural practices of rulers than about those of ordinary people?
Answer: We know more about the cultural practices of rulers than ordinary people because rulers documented their lifestyles and accomplishments extensively through inscriptions, art, and literature, unlike the oral traditions of common folk.
7) Why did conquerors try to control the temple of Jagannatha at Puri?
Answer: Conquerors tried to control the temple of Jagannatha at Puri as it was a major pilgrimage center. Controlling it helped them gain acceptance and legitimacy from the local population.
8) Why were temples built in Bengal?
Answer: Temples were built in Bengal by various social groups, including newly prosperous ones, to proclaim their status and piety. They were also built to house local deities that gained Brahmanical recognition. The temple building activity was a reflection of the social and cultural aspirations of these groups.