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Answer: Chennai
Kalakshetra Foundation was founded in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale in Chennai (Adyar). It pioneered the revival and institutionalization of Bharatanatyam, emphasizing purity of style, ethics, and holistic arts education.
Answer: reverse
Chikankari's shadow work (bakhiya) is embroidered on the fabric's reverse side, creating a shadow-like effect on the front. This delicate technique, using white thread on muslin/chiffon, requires exceptional skill and precision.
Answer: Uttarayan
Makar Sankranti (January 14) has regional names: Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Bihu (Assam), Uttarayan (Gujarat), Lohri (Punjab). Gujarat's Uttarayan is famous for kite flying, symbolizing the sun's northward journey.
Answer: Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam was among the first dance forms recognized as classical by Sangeet Natak Akademi in the 1950s, alongside Kathak and Kathakali. This recognition revived temple dance traditions and established institutional training.
Answer: Telangana
Bonalu is Telangana's major folk festival honoring Goddess Mahakali. Celebrated in Ashada month (July-August) with processions, animal sacrifices, and community feasts. Recognized for preserving tribal-folk traditions and women's participation.
Answer: Chanakya (Kautilya)
Arthashastra, attributed to Chanakya (Kautilya, 4th century BCE), is a comprehensive Sanskrit text on politics, economics, and military strategy. Rediscovered in 1905, it provides insights into Mauryan administration and ancient Indian polity.
Answer: swara (musical)
Melakarta ragas in Carnatic music are 72 parent scales classified by permutations of seven swaras (Sa, Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni). Each melakarta generates janya (derived) ragas, forming the theoretical foundation of Carnatic system.
Answer: Saqi Mustaid Khan
Saqi Mustaid Khan authored Futuhat-i-Alamgiri, documenting Aurangzeb's military campaigns and administration. Written in Persian, it is a key primary source for late Mughal history, though biased towards imperial perspective.
Answer: Kaccha
Odissi costume uses the kaccha drape (pleats tucked at waist) allowing freedom for intricate footwork and tribhanga poses. Made of Sambalpuri or Berhampuri silk with traditional jewelry like matha patti and kaan pasha.
Answer: Naga wrestling
Hornbill Festival showcases Naga cultural sports including traditional wrestling, archery, and spear throwing. These games reflect tribal martial skills and community bonding, attracting tourists and preserving indigenous practices.
Answer: costume/makeup
Aharya Abhinaya is one of four abhinaya types in Natya Shastra, focusing on costume, makeup, jewelry, and stage decor to enhance character portrayal. Essential for visual storytelling in classical performances.
Answer: Tarana
Tarana is a Hindustani vocal composition using rhythmic syllables (ter, na, nom) instead of lyrics. Developed by Amir Khusrau, it showcases vocal agility, layakari (rhythmic play), and is often performed in fast tempo.
Answer: West Bengal
Jatra is a folk theatre of West Bengal and Odisha, featuring mythological and social themes with live music, vibrant costumes, and open-air performances. Historically used for social reform and political messaging.
Answer: Kutch
Kutch embroidery from Gujarat's Kutch district features intricate patterns, mirror work (abhla), and vibrant threads. Practiced by Rabari, Ahir, and Mochi communities. Received GI tag for distinct styles like Soof, Kharek, and Paako.
Answer: Surya
Pongal festival: Day 1-Bhogi (discarding old), Day 2-Surya Pongal (sun worship, cooking rice), Day 3-Mattu Pongal (cattle honor), Day 4-Kaanum Pongal (family visits). Celebrates agricultural abundance and gratitude.
Answer: Baul
Ektara (one-string) is a drone instrument used by Baul mystics, wandering minstrels, and folk singers. Its simple design symbolizes spiritual focus on the divine. Also used in Qawwali and regional folk traditions.
Answer: Bansuri
Bansuri is a side-blown bamboo flute used in Hindustani music. Popularized globally by Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, it produces soulful melodies and is associated with Lord Krishna in Indian mythology.
Answer: Nachiyar Tirumozhi
Andal (8th-9th century), the sole female Alvar, composed Nachiyar Tirumozhi and Tiruppavai. Her works express intense devotion to Vishnu/Krishna and are recited in South Indian temples, especially during Margazhi festival.
Answer: clouds/forest/start
Pataka mudra (flag gesture) is a fundamental hasta in Indian classical dance. It represents clouds, forest, beginning of dance, or denial. Codified in Natya Shastra, it is used across Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, etc.
Answer: Sadya
Sadya is the traditional Onam feast of Kerala, served on plantain leaves with rice and 24+ vegetarian dishes. Includes avial, olan, thoran, and multiple payasams, reflecting Kerala's culinary heritage and hospitality.