India’s Cultural Roots Class 6 Question Answer Social Science Chapter 7
NCERT Class 6 Social Science SST Chapter 7 India’s Cultural Roots Questions and Answers Solutions
India’s Cultural Roots Class 6 Questions and Answers (In-Text)
The Big Questions (Page-105)
Question 1.
What are the Vedas? What is their message?
Answer:
The Vedas are the most ancient texts of India, and indeed among the most ancient in the world. They are the composition of hymns called sukta. These hymns are in praise of various gods and goddesses. The word ‘Veda’ comes from the Sanskrit vid which means ‘knowledge’, are four Vedas – the Rig Veda, the Yajur Veda, the SaIma Veda and the Atharva Veda.
Question 2.
What new schools of thought emerged in India in the 1st millennium BCE? What are their core principles?
Answer:
The Vedas gave rise to numerous further schools of thought early in the first millennium BCE.
Yoga: which created techniques meant to help one realize Brahman in their consciousness focused on disciplined life to attain spiritual enlightenment.
Vedanta: This school is based on the Upanishads, building upon Vedic concepts and introducing ideas such as rebirth and karma. Vedanta holds that everything is one divine essence called Brahman, and it emphasises the unity and interdependence of all beings.
Buddhism: Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), this school rejects the authority of the Vedas and teaches that ignorance and attachment are the sources of human suffering
Jainism: Jainism, founded by Mahavirra, rejects the Vedas and emphasises nonviolence (ahimsa), non-possession (aparigraha) and the multifaceted nature of truth (anekantavada). Jainism says that all living beings are inextricably linked and encourages ethical behaviour and spiritual purity.
‘Charvaka’ school: (‘Lokayata’), believed that this material world is the only thing that exists, and therefore, there can be no life after death. Together, these schools of thought became the foundations for what we call ‘Hinduism’ today.
Question 3.
What is the contribution of folk and tribal traditions to Indian culture?
Answer:
Folk and tribal traditions have significantly influenced Indian culture through oral traditions and rituals. These cultures frequently revere natural elements including mountains, rivers, trees, plants, and animals. Tribal cultures have unique deities, tales, and rituals, which have affected mainstream Hinduism. Some deities, such as Jagannath and the mother goddess, have tribal origins.
Tribal cultures, like Hinduism, believe in a higher deity or supreme entity. Interaction between tribal, folk, and mainstream Hindu ideas has resulted in mutual enrichment, making tribal and folk traditions a crucial element of India’s cultural heritage.
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Let’s Explore
Question 4.
Do you know the term for a society where people select their leaders? How do you think people can benefit from such a situation? What could happen if they live under leaders that they did not choose? (Hint: Think back to what you’re learning in the theme ‘Governance and Democracy’!) Write your thoughts in a paragraph of 100-150 words.
Answer:
A civilisation in which people choose their leaders is known as a ‘democracy.’ Democracy empowers citizens to elect leaders who align with their interests and ideals. This system promotes accountability, as leaders must address the interests and concerns of their citizens to maintain power.
Democracy encourages citizen participation and ownership, leading to increased engagement in the governance process. Unelected politicians can cause dissatisfaction and unrest among citizens. Leaders who fail to focus people’s well-being may create policies that do not align with public needs and wants. A democratic system encourages fairness and stability in society.
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Think About It
Question 5.
Have you heard or read any other story that conveyed an important message? What values did it teach you?
Answer:
Story | Moral |
The Boy Who Cried Wolf | Lying breaks Trust. We should always speak the truth. |
The Fox and the Grapes | Nothing comes easy, do not hate what you can’t have. Hardwork is the key to success. |
The Golden Egg | Think before you act. We should think twice before performing an action. |
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Let’s Explore
Question 6.
Discuss the way the Buddha is depicted in the above panel.
Answer:
A stone panel from approximately 1,800 years ago depicts the Buddha preaching. The image highlights his status as a teacher and spiritual advisor, surrounded by followers who value his teachings. This image depicts the Buddha’s tranquil and enlightened demeanour, representing wisdom, serenity, and compassion. The artwork depicts the Buddha’s teachings and his impact on his pupils, emphasizing the significance of sharing his message of enlightenment and inner peace.
Question 7.
Can you name some states of India or some other countries where Buddhism is a major religion even today? Try to plot these on a world map.
Answer:
- States in India
- Sikkim
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Ladakh (Union Territory)
- Maharashtra (regions like Nagpur)
- Himachal Pradesh (Dharamshala)
Countries
- Thailand
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Sri Lanka
- Bhutan
- Nepal
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Let’s Explore
Question 8.
Observe the above panel (from a Jain temple in New Delhi). What is striking about it? What messages does it carry?
Answer:
The Jain temple panel in New Delhi features exquisite and precise carvings, demonstrating the period’s high degree of craftsmanship. Jain spiritual gurus, known as Tirthankaras, are commonly shown in meditation poses surrounded by symbols such as lotus flowers and fortunate symbols. This panel’s messages emphasise meditation, nonviolence (ahimsa), and spiritual knowledge.
Jainism stresses a life of purity, renunciation, and compassion for all living things. The Jain concepts of inner serenity, discipline and inter connectivity are emphasised through elaborate iconography and tranquil faces in the figures. These visual representations serve as both religious symbols and educational tools, reminding devotees and viewers of Jainism’s essential beliefs.
Class 6 SST India’s Cultural Roots Question Answer (Exercise)
Question 1.
If you were Nachiketa, what questions would you like to ask Yama? Write them down in 100-150 words.
Answer:
If I were Nachiketa, I’d question Yama about the soul’s nature and journey beyond death. I would ask Yama, “What happens to the soul after it leaves the physical body?” Is there a paradise or hell, and does the soul go through rebirth? How can one break free from the cycle of birth and death?
How does karma influence our fate, and how can we overcome previous actions to achieve spiritual purity? Finally, what practices or disciplines can promote a calm and enlightened afterlife? These questions aim to explore the mysteries of life, death, and spiritual enlightenment.
Question 2.
Explain a few central ideas of Buddhism. Briefly comment upon them.
Answer:
Buddhism’s core concepts include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The Four Noble Truths describe suffering (dukkha), its origin (tanha or craving), its end (nirodha), and the way to it (magga).
The Eightfold Path is a practical path for ethical and mental development that aims to free individuals from attachments and delusions, resulting in understanding, enlightenment and the end of suffering. The notion of karma highlights the significance of one’s deeds and their impact on future lives. These teachings promote compassion, mindfulness, and ethical conduct.
Question 3.
Discuss in class the quotation of the Buddha which begins with “Not by water is one made pure, though many people may bathe here [in sacred rivers]” to make sure that its meaning has been understood by all.
Answer:
This quotation from the Buddha emphasises that true purity and spiritual cleanliness do not come from external rituals, such as bathing in sacred rivers, but from internal virtues and actions. It teaches that inner qualities like truthfulness, compassion, and ethical behaviour are what truly purify a person.
Discussing this in class can help students understand that spiritual practices should focus on personal growth and moral integrity rather than mere ritualistic activities.The quote encourages individuals to seek purity through self discipline, kindness, and understanding, reflecting the core values of Buddhism.
Question 4.
Explain a few central ideas of Jainism. Briefly comment upon them.
Ansswer:
Jainism emphasises three main principles: ahimsa (nonviolence), anekantavada (manysidedness), and aparigraha (non-attachment). Ahimsa advocates for complete nonviolence towards all living beings, reflecting deep respect for life.
Anekantavada teaches that truth and reality are complex and can be perceived from different perspectives, encouraging tolerance and understanding. Aparigraha promotes detachment from material possessions and desires, fostering a simple and content life.
These principles guide Jains towards ethical living, spiritual development, and harmonious coexistence with all forms of life, highlighting the religion’s commitment to compassion, humility and self-restraint.
Question 5.
Consider and discuss in class André Béteille’s thought (see page 122).
Ansswer:
Andre Beteille’s thought emphasises the long-standing interaction between India’s castes and tribes, highlighting their mutual influence on religious beliefs and practices. Discussing this in class can shed light on how Indian civilisation has been shaped by diverse cultural exchanges.
It underscores the idea that tribal religions have influenced mainstream Hinduism and vice versa, contributing to a rich, pluralistic tradition. This discussion can help students appreciate the complexity and inclusivity of Indian culture, promoting respect for different belief systems and an understanding of cultural synthesis.
Question 6.
Make a list of popular gods and goddesses in your region and the festivals they are associated with.
Answer:
- Lord Rama: Celebrated during Ram Navami, marking his birth, and Diwali, celebrating his return to Ayodhya.
- Lord Krishna: Celebrated during Janmashtami, marking his birth, and Holi, commemorating various legends associated with him.
- Goddess Durga: Worshipped during Navratri, a nine-day festival celebrating her different forms.
- Lord Shiva: Celebrated during Mahashivratri, dedicated to his worship.
- Goddess Saraswati: Celebrated during Vasant Panchami, marking the arrival of spring and honouring her as the goddess of knowledge
Question 7.
As a class activity, list two or three tribal groups from your region or state. Document some of their art and belief systems.
Answer:
Tharu
- Art: Known for intricate wall paintings and traditional jewellery.
- Belief Systems: Practice animism, worshiping nature spirits and deities.
Bhil
- Art: Famous for vibrant Pithora paintings depicting folklore and deities.
- Belief Systems: Worship ancestors and deities like Bhil Raja and Waghdeo.
Gond
- Art: Renowned for Gond paintings featuring animals, trees and deities.
- Belief Systems: Follow animistic traditions, worshiping clan gods and nature elements like trees and rivers.
- This activity can enhance understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of tribal communities.
True or false
1. The Vedic hymns were written on palm-leaf manuscripts. – False
The Vedic hymns were originally recited orally and passed down through generations before being written down.
2. The Vedas are India’s oldest texts. – True The Vedas are considered the oldest texts of India.
3. The Vedic statement ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti reflects a belief in the unity of cosmic powers. – True
This statement means “the Existent is one, but sages give it many names,” reflecting the unity of cosmic powers.
4. Buddhism is older than the Vedas. – False, The Vedas predate Buddhism.
5. Jainism emerged as a branch of Buddhism. – False Jainism and Buddhism are distinct traditions that emerged independently, although around the same period.
6. Both Buddhism and Jainism advocated for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of harm to all living beings. – True
Both religions emphasise nonviolence and peaceful coexistence.
7. Tribal belief systems are limited to belief in spirits and minor deities. – False
Tribal belief systems are diverse and can include complex deities, rituals, and philosophies, often including the worship of natural elements and a supreme deity.