Class 7 - Social Science - History - CBSE - NCERT
Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures
Summary of "The Making of Regional Cultures" with NCERT Solution
Every region in India has its own unique culture, which includes language, food, clothing, dance, music, and traditions. However, these cultures did not exist in the same way from the beginning. They developed over time due to historical events, mixing of traditions, and influences from different groups.
Language and Regional Identity
One of the main ways people identify with a region is through language. For example, in Kerala, the Malayalam language developed due to the rule of the Chera kingdom in the 9th century. The rulers introduced Malayalam in inscriptions and combined it with Sanskrit traditions. Similarly, in Bengal, Bengali became a distinct language over centuries by mixing local and Sanskritic influences.
Religion and Regional Culture
Many regional cultures grew around religious traditions. A great example is the Jagannatha cult in Puri, Odisha. The temple of Lord Jagannatha (a form of Vishnu) was built by King Anantavarman of the Ganga dynasty. Over time, different rulers, including the Mughals and British, wanted control over this temple to gain local people's support.
In Bengal, the rise of Islam and Sufi saints (called Pirs) also shaped the culture. These saints were respected by both Hindus and Muslims and helped in spreading religious ideas. Many small temples were also built by local communities, showing how religious traditions were connected to the lives of ordinary people.
Rajputs and the Tradition of Heroism
The Rajputs, who ruled most parts of Rajasthan, created a strong cultural identity based on heroism. Stories of brave Rajput kings, like Prithviraj Chauhan, were told in songs and poems by minstrels (traveling singers). These stories encouraged people to be loyal, courageous, and honorable. Some also included women, who were shown as sacrificing their lives for their husbands through sati (the practice of widows burning themselves on their husband's funeral pyre).
Dance and Performing Arts
Different regions developed their own dance styles. Kathak is an example of a dance form that started in North Indian temples, where storytellers (called Kathakars) narrated religious stories through dance. Later, under Mughal rulers, Kathak became a court performance with graceful movements and fancy costumes. Today, it is one of India’s six classical dance forms.
Similarly, South India developed Bharatanatyam in Tamil Nadu, Kathakali in Kerala, and other regions had their own styles. These dances reflected local traditions and histories.
Miniature Paintings and Regional Art
Painting was also influenced by different regions. The Mughal emperors encouraged miniature paintings, which were small, detailed paintings showing court scenes, battles, and nature. After the decline of the Mughals, this art spread to places like Rajasthan and the Himalayan foothills, where it developed into unique styles like the Kangra school of painting, known for its soft colors and beautiful themes.
Architecture and Temples in Bengal
In Bengal, temples were built in a unique double-roofed (do-chala) and four-roofed (chauchala) style, which copied the design of local huts. These temples were often decorated with terracotta art. Many temples were built by "low caste" groups who had gained wealth, showing how social status was connected to temple construction.
Food and Local Traditions
Food habits were influenced by local geography. In Bengal, rice and fish became staple foods due to the region’s many rivers. Even though Brahmins (priests) traditionally avoided non-vegetarian food, Bengali Brahmins were allowed to eat fish because it was an important part of their diet.
Conclusion
Regional cultures in India have developed through the mixing of different traditions over time. Language, religion, art, architecture, dance, and even food habits show how unique each region is. However, these cultures were never completely separate; they always influenced and borrowed from each other. This rich diversity is what makes India’s heritage so special!
~~The END~~
Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures
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