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Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture. (UPSC CSE Mains 2022 - General Studies Paper 1)

The Gupta and Chola periods are considered to be two of the most significant eras in Indian history, spanning over centuries and leaving an indelible mark on Indian heritage and culture. These periods were marked by numerous achievements and innovations, including art, architecture, literature, religion, and science.    

The Gupta Period  

The Gupta period is known as the Golden Age of India. The period saw the rise of a centralized state, with strong rulers like Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, and Chandragupta II. The period was marked by numerous achievements in various fields, including art, literature, science, and religion.  

1. Art and Architecture: The Gupta period saw the development of the Gupta style of architecture, which is characterized by its elegant and intricate designs. The most notable examples of Gupta architecture are the caves at Ajanta and Ellora. These caves are adorned with exquisite paintings and sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology.

2. Literature: The Gupta period saw the development of several literary works in various languages, including Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Pali. The most notable literary works of the period include the plays of Kalidasa, the poetry of Bhartrihari, and the Buddhist texts of Ashvaghosha.

3. Science and Mathematics: The most notable contribution of the period was the development of the decimal system, which is still used in modern mathematics. The period also saw the development of the concept of zero and the invention of the decimal place value system. The Gupta period was also marked by significant progress in medicine and astronomy.

The Chola Period  

The Chola period is considered to be one of the most significant periods in South Indian history. The period saw the rise of the Chola dynasty, which ruled over a vast territory in South India. The Chola period was marked by numerous achievements in various fields, including art, architecture, literature, and religion.  

1. Art and Architecture: The Chola period saw the development of the Dravidian style of architecture, which is characterized by its intricate designs and richly ornamented sculptures. The most notable examples of Chola architecture are the Brihadeshwara Temple and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

2. Literature: The Chola period saw the development of several literary works in the Tamil language, including the works of the Tamil poets Thiruvalluvar and Kambar. The most notable literary work of the period is the Thirukkural, a collection of 1,330 couplets that deal with various aspects of human life.

3. Religion: The Chola period saw significant developments in religion, particularly in the Shaivism tradition. The period saw the construction of several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, including the Brihadeshwara Temple and the Chidambaram Temple. The period also saw the rise of the Bhakti movement, which emphasized the importance of devotion to God over rituals and ceremonies.







POSTED ON 07-05-2023 BY ADMIN
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