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History

Previous Year Question Patterns

Indian Heritage: Fine Art, Performing Art, Architecture, Literature (Indus to British Era)

Paper I · Unit 1 Section 8 of 11 0 PYQs 32 min

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Previous Year Question Patterns

Year Marks Question Sub-topic
2023 10 Discuss the continuity of Indian civilization from ancient times to the present. Cultural continuity thesis
2023 10 Was Mauryan pillar art an indigenous development or foreign import? Discuss with evidence. Mauryan sculpture — indigenous vs Persepolis debate
2018 7 Discuss ancient Indian scientific literature and its significance. Gupta-era scientific texts
2018 5 Note on Natyashastra and its relevance to Indian performing arts. Bharata Muni / classical dance
2013 5 Explain the Ajanta-Ellora cave paintings and their artistic significance. Buddhist cave art

PYQ Patterns observed:

  • RPSC repeatedly tests the indigenous vs foreign influence debate in Indian art — the Mauryan pillar debate is a classic example.
  • "Continuity of Indian civilization" is a recurring theme — expect it in any year it hasn't appeared recently.
  • Performing arts (dance, music) and architecture are both tested; literature is underrepresented but growing.
  • Short notes on specific monuments (Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, Sanchi) are common 5-mark questions.