UPSC Mains 2022 GS Paper 1 Q12: model answer

The Guptas (4th–6th century) in the north and the Cholas (9th–13th century) in the south shaped two classical phases of Indian culture.

Gupta contributions

• Architecture: early structural temples such as the Dashavatara temple at Deogarh and Temple 17 at Sanchi.
• Sculpture: the Sarnath Buddha and the refined Mathura school.
• Literature: Kalidasa's Abhijnanashakuntalam and Meghaduta; the Puranas took shape.
• Science: Aryabhata's Aryabhatiya and Varahamihira; use of the decimal place-value system.
• Nalanda was founded under Kumaragupta I.

Chola contributions

• Architecture: the Brihadeeswara temple (Thanjavur), Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram, the UNESCO Great Living Chola Temples.
• Chola bronzes such as Nataraja, cast by the lost-wax method.
• Literature: Kamban's Ramayanam; Tevaram hymns compiled; Sekkizhar's Periya Puranam.
• Institutions: village assemblies recorded in the Uttaramerur inscriptions of Parantaka I.
• Maritime reach: Rajendra I's expedition to Srivijaya and links with Southeast Asia.

Gupta: the classical age

• The Iron Pillar at Mehrauli shows advanced metallurgy; it has not rusted for over 1,600 years.
• Ajanta paintings of caves 1 and 2 belong broadly to the Vakataka period, closely linked with the Guptas.

Chola: the Tamil classical age

• Temples became banks, schools and hospitals; inscriptions record endowments for lamps, music and feeding.
• Kudavolai, the pot-ballot system of Uttaramerur, is often cited as an early form of local democracy.

Comparison

• The Guptas excelled in literature and science; the Cholas in temple architecture, bronze and administration, and in carrying Indian culture across the Bay of Bengal.

Conclusion

The Guptas gave India its classical forms in art, literature and science; the Cholas carried temple art, bronze and local self-government to new heights. Together they form the backbone of India's heritage.