BHIC 103
HISTORY OF INDIA II
BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment January 2023
Assignment – I
1) Who were the Kushanas? Write a note on the assimilation of foreigners into the Indian mainstream.
Ans. The Kushanas were a powerful Central Asian dynasty that ruled over a vast empire spanning from northern India to Central Asia and parts of China from the 1st to the 3rd century CE.
They were one of the few foreign dynasties to have a significant impact on Indian history, leaving behind a legacy of art, architecture, and religious syncretism.
The origins of the Kushanas are shrouded in mystery, but most scholars agree that they were of Scythian or Yuezhi origin.
The Yuezhi were a nomadic people who had been displaced from their homeland in western China by the Xiongnu, a powerful confederation of nomads.
The Yuezhi migrated westward and eventually settled in the region of Bactria, which is located in present-day Afghanistan and Uzbekistan.
The Kushanas emerged as a powerful dynasty in the 1st century CE under the leadership of Kujula Kadphises, who united various tribes and kingdoms in Central Asia under his banner.
Kujula’s successors, including Kanishka, Huvishka, and Vasudeva, expanded the empire further, conquering large parts of northern India and parts of China.
The Kushanas were known for their military prowess, their patronage of art and culture, and their religious tolerance.
The Kushanas played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism in India and Central Asia. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Kanishka, in particular, was a great patron of Buddhism and convened the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir, which is believed to have compiled and codified the Buddhist scriptures.
The Kushanas also built numerous stupas, monasteries, and other Buddhist structures, many of which still survive today.
In addition to Buddhism, the Kushanas also patronized other religions, including Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, and the cult of Mithra.
They were also known for their syncretic approach to religion, blending elements of various faiths to create a unique religious culture.
This is evident in the Gandharan art style, which is characterized by a blend of Greek, Roman, Indian, and Central Asian motifs.
The Kushanas were eventually overthrown by the Sassanids, a Persian dynasty, in the early 3rd century CE.
However, their legacy lived on, and their influence can be seen in the art, architecture, and culture of India and Central Asia for centuries to come.
One of the most remarkable features of Indian history is its ability to assimilate and absorb foreign cultures and traditions into its own.
This process of assimilation has been going on for centuries, and has helped to shape the unique cultural mosaic that is India today.
The assimilation of foreigners into the Indian mainstream began with the arrival of the Aryans in the 2nd millennium BCE.
The Aryans, who were originally from Central Asia, brought with them a new language, religion, and culture, which gradually blended with the indigenous Dravidian cultures of India to create a unique Indo-Aryan culture.
Over the centuries, India has been invaded and colonized by numerous foreign powers, including the Greeks, the Mauryans, the Kushanas, the Mughals, and the British. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Each of these foreign powers left behind a lasting imprint on Indian culture, in the form of art, architecture, literature, language, and religion.
One of the key factors that allowed India to assimilate foreign cultures so successfully was its openness and tolerance towards other cultures and traditions.
India has a long tradition of religious tolerance, and has been home to people of different faiths for centuries.
This openness and tolerance allowed foreign cultures to be absorbed into the Indian mainstream without causing too much disruption or conflict.
Another factor that contributed to India’s ability to assimilate foreign cultures was the presence of a strong indigenous culture that was able to adapt and incorporate new ideas and traditions.
Indian culture has always been characterized by a spirit of synthesis and eclecticism, where different ideas and traditions are blended together to create something new and unique.
This spirit of synthesis is evident in India’s art, literature, music, and cuisine, which are all a blend of different cultures and traditions.
The assimilation of foreigners into the Indian mainstream was not always smooth or seamless. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
There were times when foreign cultures were resisted or rejected by the indigenous population, and there were also times when foreign cultures imposed their own traditions and practices on India, leading to conflict and resistance.
However, despite these challenges, the assimilation of foreigners into the Indian mainstream has been a remarkable success story.
India has managed to preserve its own cultural identity, while at the same time absorbing and adapting foreign cultures to create something new and unique.
This process of assimilation has enriched Indian culture and contributed to its diversity and vibrancy.
Today, India is a truly cosmopolitan society, where people of different cultures, religions, and traditions coexist peacefully.
This is a testament to India’s openness, tolerance, and spirit of synthesis, which have allowed it to embrace the world and make it a part of its own cultural identity.
The Kushanas were just one of many foreign cultures that were assimilated into the Indian mainstream, and their legacy continues to be felt in India and Central Asia today.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Q 2) Discuss the economic, political and social organization of Tamilakam.
Ans. Tamilakam, also known as the Tamil country, was a region located in the southern part of India, encompassing the modern-day states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
It was a land of great cultural richness and diversity, and had a distinct economic, political, and social organization.
Economic Organization:
Tamilakam was a region that was rich in natural resources, such as spices, gems, and textiles, which made it an important center of trade and commerce.
The Tamils were renowned for their expertise in weaving, and their textiles were in high demand across the ancient world.
The port city of Kaveripattinam was a major center of trade, and merchants from all over the world came to trade in goods such as pepper, ivory, and silk.
The Tamils had a sophisticated system of agriculture, with a wide range of crops grown including rice, millet, and sugarcane.
The region was also known for its expertise in irrigation and water management, with sophisticated systems of canals and tanks built to capture and store water.
The Tamils were organized into different economic classes, including the ruling class, the landowners, the merchants, and the peasants.
The rulers were known as the Velirs and were a warrior class who controlled the state and the economy. The landowners were known as the Vellalars and were the largest landowning group in Tamil society. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The merchants were known as the Nagarathars and were a highly influential group, involved in trade and commerce.
The peasants were known as the Adi-Dravidars and were the largest group in Tamil society, working as laborers on the land.
Political Organization:
Tamilakam was ruled by a series of dynasties, including the Cheras, the Cholas, and the Pandyas. The rulers were known as Velirs and were a warrior class that controlled the state and the economy.
They were responsible for maintaining law and order, protecting the people, and promoting trade and commerce.
The political system was highly decentralized, with power vested in local assemblies known as the Sabhas.
The Sabhas were responsible for administering justice, collecting taxes, and maintaining law and order. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
They were made up of representatives from different villages and were presided over by elected officials known as the Pattakkarars.
The Tamilakam political system was notable for its emphasis on democratic governance and popular participation.
The Sabhas were open to all members of the community, regardless of their social status, and decisions were made through a process of consensus-building and deliberation.
Social Organization:
Tamilakam was a highly stratified society, with a complex system of social hierarchy based on caste and class.
The society was divided into four main caste groups: the Brahmins, the Kshatriyas, the Vaishyas, and the Shudras.
The Brahmins were the highest caste group and were responsible for religious rituals and learning.
The Kshatriyas were the warrior caste, while the Vaishyas were the merchant caste. The Shudras were the lowest caste and were responsible for menial labor and service.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Tamilakam was also home to a large number of non-caste groups, including the hill tribes and the coastal communities. These communities were often marginalized and faced discrimination and exploitation.
The social organization of Tamilakam was characterized by a patriarchal system, with men occupying positions of power and authority.
Women were generally confined to the domestic sphere and had limited access to education or political power.
However, Tamilakam was also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant tradition of music, dance, and literature.
The Tamil language, one of the oldest languages in the world, was a vehicle for the expression of Tamil culture and identity.
Tamil literature, such as the Sangam literature, celebrated the beauty of the land and its people, and portrayed the virtues of love, bravery, and compassion.
Religion also played an important role in Tamil society, with a rich tradition of Hinduism and Jainism.
The temples were centers of social and cultural life, and the rituals and festivals brought people together in celebration and community.
In conclusion, Tamilakam was a region with a distinct economic, political, and social organization. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The Tamils had a sophisticated system of agriculture and trade, and were organized into different economic classes.
The political system was highly decentralized, with power vested in local assemblies, and the society was highly stratified, with a complex system of social hierarchy based on caste and class.
Tamilakam was also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant tradition of music, dance, literature, and religion.
Assignment – II
Q 3) Write a note on the craft production in North India, explain its organizational nature.
Ans. Craft production has been a significant aspect of the economic and social life of North India for centuries.
The region has a rich tradition of craftsmanship and skilled artisans, who have been producing high-quality goods for local and international markets.
The organizational nature of craft production in North India is primarily based on the guild system. The guilds were associations of craftsmen who worked together to regulate the trade and ensure the quality of the products.
The guilds were hierarchical in nature, with a master craftsman at the top, followed by journeymen and apprentices.
The guilds provided various services to their members, including training, access to tools and raw materials, and protection from competition.
They also regulated the prices of goods and the standards of quality, and resolved disputes among members. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The guilds were self-governing and were run democratically, with members electing leaders and making decisions through a consensus-building process.
The craft production in North India was organized along a system of production centers or clusters. These centers were based on specific crafts, such as weaving, pottery, metalwork, and embroidery.
The clusters were made up of several small-scale production units, each specializing in a particular aspect of the craft.
The production units were often family-based, with multiple generations of artisans working together.
The cluster system allowed for the efficient utilization of resources and the sharing of knowledge and expertise.
The craftsmen in the clusters would share information about new techniques, designs, and markets, and would collaborate on large-scale projects.
The craft production in North India was not limited to the production of finished goods but also included the production of raw materials.
The production of raw materials, such as cotton, silk, and metal, was organized in a similar manner to the production of finished goods, with guilds regulating the trade and ensuring quality.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The craft production in North India was highly specialized and was based on the skill and expertise of individual craftsmen.
The craftsmen were known for their attention to detail and their ability to produce high-quality goods. The goods produced were highly valued and were in demand both locally and internationally.
In conclusion, craft production has been an integral part of the economic and social life of North India for centuries.
The organizational nature of craft production is primarily based on the guild system, with guilds regulating the trade and ensuring quality.
The craft production is organized along a system of production centers or clusters, allowing for efficient utilization of resources and sharing of knowledge and expertise.
The craftsmen in North India are highly skilled and produce goods of high quality that are valued both locally and internationally.
Q 4) Describe the salient features of Pallava temple architecture.
Ans. The Pallava dynasty, which ruled over parts of South India from the 3rd to the 9th century AD, was renowned for its temple architecture.
The Pallava style of architecture is characterized by its distinctive features, which include the following:BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Rock-cut temples: The Pallavas were pioneers in the creation of rock-cut temples. These temples were hewn out of solid rock and were typically decorated with elaborate carvings and sculptures.
The most famous examples of rock-cut temples from the Pallava era are the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram and the Mandagapattu cave temples.
Dravidian style: The Pallava style of temple architecture is a precursor to the Dravidian style that would later dominate South Indian temple architecture.
The Dravidian style is characterized by its pyramidal tower (called a gopuram), which rises above the temple entrance.
The Pallava temples were the first to feature this tower, albeit in a more modest form than later Dravidian temples.
Mandapa: The Pallava temples typically featured a mandapa, or pillared hall, which was used for various purposes such as religious ceremonies and community gatherings. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The mandapa was typically open on all sides and was supported by pillars carved with intricate designs.
Carvings and sculptures: The Pallava temples are renowned for their exquisite carvings and sculptures.
The carvings typically depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the dancing Shiva or the battle between Rama and Ravana.
The sculptures were often highly detailed and were sometimes painted to enhance their beauty.
Frescoes: The Pallavas were also known for their frescoes, which adorned the walls of their temples. These frescoes typically depicted scenes from Hindu mythology or everyday life and were often brightly colored.
Vimana: The vimana, or main shrine of the temple, was typically a small, square structure with a pyramidal roof. The vimana was usually located at the center of the temple complex and was the focus of worship.
Bas-reliefs: The Pallava temples also feature bas-reliefs, which are carvings that are only slightly raised from the surface of the stone.
The bas-reliefs typically depict scenes from Hindu mythology or everyday life and were often used to tell a story.
The Pallava temple architecture is a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the Pallava dynasty.
Their temples were not only religious centers but also cultural hubs, showcasing the beauty and creativity of South Indian art and architecture.
The Pallavas’ use of rock-cut temples and their incorporation of Dravidian style elements set the stage for the development of South Indian temple architecture.
The intricate carvings and sculptures on the temples’ walls and pillars are a reflection of the Pallavas’ dedication to art and their deep understanding of Hindu mythology.
The frescoes and bas-reliefs that adorn the temples’ walls add to the beauty and grandeur of these structures. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The Pallava temples are not just architectural marvels but also cultural and historical treasures that provide a glimpse into South India’s rich past.
Today, many of these temples have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites and continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
The Pallava temple architecture remains an inspiration to architects and artists who seek to create works of beauty and grandeur that reflect the rich cultural heritage of South India.
Q 5) What do you understand by the revival of commerce and trade in the early medieval period? Discuss.
Ans. The early medieval period in India saw a revival of commerce and trade, which had been in decline during the previous centuries.
This revival was driven by various factors such as the expansion of agriculture, the growth of urban centers, and the emergence of new trading routes.
This period witnessed the emergence of powerful trading communities, the growth of markets, and the development of new modes of transportation.
One of the key drivers of the revival of commerce and trade was the expansion of agriculture. The increased agricultural production led to the growth of surplus food, which could be traded in markets. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
This surplus food was used to support the growth of urban centers, which emerged as important trading hubs.
These urban centers attracted traders and merchants from far and wide, leading to the growth of markets and the development of new trading networks.
Another factor that contributed to the revival of commerce and trade was the emergence of new trading routes.
The Arab traders, who had long been engaged in maritime trade with India, played a crucial role in the establishment of new trading networks.
They introduced new commodities such as spices, perfumes, and textiles to the Indian market, which were in high demand in Europe and other parts of the world.
This led to the establishment of new trade routes that connected India with the rest of the world.
The growth of urban centers also played a significant role in the revival of commerce and trade. The urban centers provided a favorable environment for the growth of markets and the development of trade.
These markets were often located at strategic points along major trade routes, which allowed traders to exchange goods and commodities easily.
The markets also provided a platform for the exchange of ideas, culture, and technology, which helped to stimulate trade and commerce.
The revival of commerce and trade was also supported by the emergence of powerful trading communities. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
These communities were often based in urban centers and played a crucial role in the organization and regulation of trade.
They established rules and regulations that governed trade and resolved disputes between traders.
They also provided a range of services such as banking, warehousing, and transportation, which were crucial for the smooth functioning of trade.
The development of new modes of transportation was another important factor that contributed to the revival of commerce and trade.
The Arab traders introduced new technologies such as the lateen sail, which improved the efficiency of maritime trade.
This led to the establishment of new trade routes that connected India with the rest of the world.
The development of roads and waterways also played a significant role in the growth of trade. The construction of roads and canals facilitated the movement of goods and commodities between different parts of the country.
The revival of commerce and trade had a significant impact on Indian society and economy. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
It led to the growth of urban centers, the emergence of new trading communities, and the development of new modes of transportation.
The expansion of trade also had a significant impact on the economy, leading to the growth of industries such as textiles, metalworking, and shipbuilding.
The growth of trade also led to the establishment of banking and financial institutions, which supported the growth of commerce and trade.
Assignment – III
6) Indo-Greeks
Ans. The Indo-Greeks were a group of Greek-speaking kingdoms that ruled parts of northern India from the 2nd century BCE to the 1st century CE.
They were descended from the Greek generals of Alexander the Great, who had conquered the region in the 4th century BCE.
The Indo-Greeks were known for their Hellenistic culture and their efforts to integrate themselves into Indian society.
The Indo-Greeks were initially welcomed by the Indian rulers as allies against the powerful Mauryan Empire. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
They established their rule in the region, adopting many Indian customs and traditions while retaining their own Greek language and culture.
They introduced the Greek art style to India, which influenced the development of Indian art.
The Indo-Greeks were primarily focused on trade and commerce, and they established many new trading routes between India and the West.
They exported Indian goods such as spices, textiles, and precious stones to the Mediterranean world, and imported Greek goods such as wine, olive oil, and luxury items to India.
This trade was facilitated by the Indo-Greeks’ mastery of maritime and land routes, as well as their establishment of new trading ports and cities.
The Indo-Greeks were also known for their religious and cultural tolerance. They supported the spread of Buddhism in the region and patronized many Buddhist monasteries and universities.
They also supported other religions such as Hinduism and Zoroastrianism, and many of their coins depict Indian deities alongside Greek gods and goddesses.
The Indo-Greeks ruled over a diverse population, which included Greeks, Bactrians, and Indians. They established a hybrid culture that incorporated elements from both Greek and Indian traditions. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
They also issued bilingual coins, which featured Greek inscriptions on one side and an Indian script on the other, to promote their integration into Indian society.
The Indo-Greek rule in India was not without its challenges. They faced constant threats from local Indian rulers, as well as invasions from other foreign powers such as the Scythians and the Parthians.
The Indo-Greeks also faced internal conflicts, which weakened their rule and ultimately led to their downfall.
7) Puranic Hinduism
Ans. Puranic Hinduism refers to a set of religious beliefs and practices that are based on the Puranas, which are a collection of ancient texts in Hinduism that describe the mythology, cosmology, and history of the Hindu universe.
Puranic Hinduism emerged during the medieval period in India and is characterized by a strong emphasis on devotion, ritual worship, and the cults of the gods and goddesses.
Puranic Hinduism places great importance on the worship of deities, including the three major gods – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva – as well as their various incarnations, such as Krishna and Rama. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The Puranas describe the stories of these deities, their attributes, and their relationships with humans.
In Puranic Hinduism, devotees seek to establish a personal relationship with these deities through various rituals and practices, such as puja (worship), mantra recitation, and devotional singing.
Puranic Hinduism also places a strong emphasis on the concept of karma, which holds that every action has consequences, both in this life and the next.
It is believed that by performing good deeds and engaging in spiritual practices, one can accumulate positive karma, which will lead to a better future life.
Conversely, negative actions can result in negative consequences in the future.
Another important aspect of Puranic Hinduism is the idea of dharma, which refers to one’s duty or moral obligation in life.
Dharma is believed to be an essential part of Hinduism, and it is considered to be the foundation of all moral and social order.
The Puranas provide guidance on how to lead a righteous and virtuous life in accordance with dharma.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Puranic Hinduism also places great importance on the role of the guru, or spiritual teacher.
It is believed that a guru can guide the disciple on the path of spiritual enlightenment, and that a close relationship with a guru is essential for spiritual growth.
The guru is often seen as a living embodiment of the divine, and is revered and respected by devotees.
Overall, Puranic Hinduism is a complex and multifaceted religious tradition that places great importance on devotion, ritual worship, and the worship of the deities.
It is a rich and diverse tradition that has evolved over thousands of years, and continues to be an important part of Hinduism today.
8) Prakrit and Pali
Ans. Prakrit and Pali are two ancient Indian languages that are closely associated with Buddhism and Jainism. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
While both languages share many similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of their grammar, vocabulary, and usage.
Prakrit is a group of related Indo-Aryan languages that emerged during the early centuries BCE in India.
It was used as a vernacular language by the common people, and was also used in literature and inscriptions.
Prakrit was heavily influenced by Sanskrit, the classical language of ancient India, but it also had its own unique features and characteristics.
Pali, on the other hand, is a language that is closely associated with Buddhism. It is believed to have originated in the ancient kingdom of Magadha, and was the language in which the Buddhist scriptures, known as the Tripitaka, were originally recorded.
Pali was also used as a literary language, and many Buddhist texts were composed in this language.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
One of the key differences between Prakrit and Pali is their usage. While Prakrit was used as a vernacular language by the common people, Pali was primarily used in a religious and scholarly context.
The Buddhist scriptures were written in Pali, and this language was also used for philosophical and literary works.
Another key difference between the two languages is their grammar and vocabulary. While both languages are closely related to Sanskrit, Pali has a simpler grammar and a smaller vocabulary than Prakrit.
This makes it easier for beginners to learn, and also makes it easier to translate Buddhist texts into other languages.
Despite these differences, both Prakrit and Pali played important roles in the development of Buddhism and Jainism in India.
These languages helped to spread the teachings of these religions to the common people, and also allowed scholars and philosophers to explore and expound upon these teachings in greater depth.
Today, both languages continue to be studied and appreciated for their cultural and historical significance.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
9) Ports
Ans. Ports have played an important role in the history and development of India, serving as gateways for trade and cultural exchange with other regions of the world.
From ancient times to the present day, ports have been vital to the economic and social growth of India, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and ideas.
One of the most famous ports in India is the port of Muziris, which was located in present-day Kerala and was one of the busiest ports in the ancient world.
Muziris served as a center for the trade of spices, textiles, and other goods between India and the Roman Empire, as well as other regions of the ancient world.
The port was also a hub for cultural exchange, as merchants, scholars, and travelers from different parts of the world came to Muziris to trade and learn about Indian culture and civilization.BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Another important port in India is the port of Surat, which was located on the west coast of India and served as a major center for trade and commerce during the medieval period.
Surat was a hub for the export of textiles, as well as other goods such as spices, opium, and diamonds.
The port was also an important center for the exchange of ideas and culture, as traders and travelers from different parts of India and the world came to Surat to trade and learn about each other’s cultures.
In modern times, the port of Mumbai has become one of the busiest and most important ports in India. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Located on the west coast of India, Mumbai serves as a major center for the import and export of goods, as well as a hub for industrial and commercial activity.
The port of Mumbai handles a large volume of cargo each year, including petroleum products, chemicals, machinery, and textiles, among others.
10) Urban Process
Ans. Urbanization is the process by which people migrate from rural areas to urban areas, leading to the growth and development of cities and towns.
In India, urbanization has been a continuous process throughout history, with cities and towns emerging and evolving in response to economic, social, and cultural changes.
The earliest urban centers in India were located along the banks of the Indus River, in what is now Pakistan.
These cities, such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, were characterized by well-planned layouts, advanced sanitation systems, and a high level of social organization.
They were centers of trade and commerce, and were connected to other regions of the ancient world through a network of trade routes.
After the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization, urbanization continued to evolve in different parts of India. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
During the Mauryan Empire (321-185 BCE), the capital city of Pataliputra emerged as a major urban center, with a population of over 400,000 people.
The city was well-planned, with a grid-like layout and advanced infrastructure, including a system of water supply and drainage.
During the medieval period, cities such as Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur emerged as centers of political power and cultural exchange.
These cities were characterized by a mix of Islamic and Hindu architecture, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the time.
They were also centers of trade and commerce, with markets and bazaars selling a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to precious metals and gemstones.
In modern times, urbanization in India has accelerated rapidly, with cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore becoming centers of economic and technological growth.
These cities are characterized by high-rise buildings, modern infrastructure, and a diverse mix of people and cultures.
However, rapid urbanization has also brought with it a range of social and environmental challenges, including poverty, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure.
The process of urbanization in India has been shaped by a range of factors, including economic growth, technological innovation, social and cultural change, and political power. BHIC 103 Solved Free Assignment 2023
While cities and towns have played an important role in the development of India, they have also been shaped by the forces of history and culture, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of Indian society.