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In the context of Pallavas history, what was Dakshinachitra?
  • a)
    A compendium of temples 
  • b)
    A spiritual treatise on Pallava practices 
  • c)
    An autobiography of a Pallava ruler 
  • d)
    An instruction manual for painters
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
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In the context of Pallavas history, what was Dakshinachitra?a)A compen...
  • Mahendravarman, one of the greatest of the Pallava dynasty rulers, was fond of painting and is said to have commissioned a scholar at his court to pen down an instruction manual for painters, which is a treatise on South Indian paintings called Dakshinachitra.
  • Unfortunately, it has been lost over time.
  • Mahendravarman I gave himself the title of ‘Vchitrachitta’ (the man with new ideas).
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In the context of Pallavas history, what was Dakshinachitra?a)A compen...


Dakshinachitra is an important text in the context of Pallavas history. It is an instruction manual for painters, providing valuable insights into the techniques and styles of painting during the Pallava period.

1. Historical Background:
The Pallavas were a powerful dynasty that ruled over parts of southern India from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. They were known for their patronage of art, architecture, and literature. The Pallava period witnessed the development of distinct artistic styles, including painting, sculpture, and architecture.

2. Significance of Dakshinachitra:
Dakshinachitra, which translates to "painting of the southern region," is a treatise that provides detailed instructions and guidelines for painters. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the artistic traditions and techniques of the Pallava period. The text covers various aspects of painting, including brushwork, color mixing, composition, and depiction of figures and landscapes.

3. Contents and Structure:
The manual is organized into chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of painting. It begins with an introduction to the materials and tools used in painting, such as brushes, pigments, and surfaces. The subsequent chapters delve into the techniques of painting, including the use of different brushstrokes, shading, and blending colors.

4. Depiction of Subjects:
Dakshinachitra also provides guidance on the depiction of various subjects commonly found in Pallava paintings. These include deities, mythological scenes, portraits, animals, birds, and nature. The text emphasizes the importance of capturing the essence and symbolism associated with each subject.

5. Influence and Legacy:
The techniques and styles described in Dakshinachitra had a significant impact on the development of painting during the Pallava period. The manual served as a guide for artists and contributed to the preservation and dissemination of artistic knowledge. The Pallava style of painting, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate details, and graceful figures, continues to inspire artists even today.

In conclusion, Dakshinachitra is an instruction manual for painters during the Pallava period. It provides insights into the techniques, styles, and subjects of painting, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the artistic traditions of the time.
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A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of a vanished age, and finds consolation in visions of past greatness. That is a foolish and dangerous pastime in which many of us indulge. An equally questionable practice for us in India is to imagine that we are still spiritually great though we have come down, in the world in other respects. Spiritual or any other greatness cannot be founded on lack of freedom and opportunity, or on starvation and misery. Many western writers have encouraged that notion that Indians are other-worldly. I suppose the poor andunfortunate in every country become to some extent other-worldly, unless they become revolutionaries, for this world is evidently not meant for them. So also subject peoples.As a man grows to maturity he is not entirely engrossed in, or satisfied with, the external objective world. He seeks also some inner meaning, some psychological and physical satisfactions. So also with peoples and civilizations as they mature and grow adult. Every civilization and every people exhibit these parallel streams of an external life and an internal life. Where they meet or keep close to each other, there is an equilibrium and stability. When they diverge conflict arises and the crises that torture the mind and spirit.Q. Consider the following assumptions :1. A country under foreign domination cannot indulge in spiritual pursuit. 2. Poverty is an impediment in the spiritual pursuit. 3. Subject peoples may become other-wordly.With reference to the passage, which of the above assumptions is/are valid ?

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In the context of Pallavas history, what was Dakshinachitra?a)A compendium of templesb)A spiritual treatise on Pallava practicesc)An autobiography of a Pallava rulerd)An instruction manual for paintersCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
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