Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Maldives | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Bangladesh 
 
 
Exploring the Richness of Bengali Language, Literature, Renaissance, and Tagore 
Page 2


Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Bangladesh 
 
 
Exploring the Richness of Bengali Language, Literature, Renaissance, and Tagore 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Introduction 
Bangladesh, a country with a rich cultural heritage, has a fascinating history 
intertwined with the development of Bengali language, literature, and arts. From 
the establishment of Bengali literature in the 11th century to the renowned 
Bengali Renaissance of the 19th century, Bangladesh has nurtured a vibrant 
artistic tradition. This article delves into the profound influence of Bengali 
language and literature, the captivating world of music, dance, and theatre, the 
unique visual art and architecture, and the country's passion for sports and 
recreation. Moreover, it highlights the role of media and publishing in shaping the 
intellectual landscape of Bangladesh. 
Bengali Language and Literature: A Journey Through Time 
The Bengali language began to evolve into its distinct form during the 7th century 
CE. By the 11th century, a rich tradition of Bengali literature had taken root in the 
region. Initially, literateurs received patronage from the Pala kings and early 
Muslim rulers. However, under the Senas and Mughals, support for Bengali 
language and literature waned. Nonetheless, outside the royal courts, various 
traditions of music and poetry thrived, laying the foundation for the Bengali 
Renaissance of the 19th century. This cultural awakening, spearheaded by 
luminaries like Ram Mohan Roy and Rabindranath Tagore, championed Western 
education and liberalism, primarily within the Hindu community. Rabindranath 
Tagore, the iconic poet and writer, not only composed the national anthems of 
India and Bangladesh but also received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. 
The Enchanting World of Music, Dance, and Theatre 
Bangladesh boasts a rich musical heritage, encompassing classical, devotional, 
and popular genres. Classical music in Bangladesh has diverse forms, such as 
dhrupad and khayal. Devotional music finds expression through genres like 
qawwali and kirtana, which are part of the subcontinent's musical legacy. 
However, it is the nonclassical popular music forms like bhatiali, bhawaiya, jari, 
sari, marfati, and baul that define the country's musical landscape uniquely. These 
vibrant genres, characterized by their spontaneous style, have few equivalents 
Page 3


Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Bangladesh 
 
 
Exploring the Richness of Bengali Language, Literature, Renaissance, and Tagore 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Introduction 
Bangladesh, a country with a rich cultural heritage, has a fascinating history 
intertwined with the development of Bengali language, literature, and arts. From 
the establishment of Bengali literature in the 11th century to the renowned 
Bengali Renaissance of the 19th century, Bangladesh has nurtured a vibrant 
artistic tradition. This article delves into the profound influence of Bengali 
language and literature, the captivating world of music, dance, and theatre, the 
unique visual art and architecture, and the country's passion for sports and 
recreation. Moreover, it highlights the role of media and publishing in shaping the 
intellectual landscape of Bangladesh. 
Bengali Language and Literature: A Journey Through Time 
The Bengali language began to evolve into its distinct form during the 7th century 
CE. By the 11th century, a rich tradition of Bengali literature had taken root in the 
region. Initially, literateurs received patronage from the Pala kings and early 
Muslim rulers. However, under the Senas and Mughals, support for Bengali 
language and literature waned. Nonetheless, outside the royal courts, various 
traditions of music and poetry thrived, laying the foundation for the Bengali 
Renaissance of the 19th century. This cultural awakening, spearheaded by 
luminaries like Ram Mohan Roy and Rabindranath Tagore, championed Western 
education and liberalism, primarily within the Hindu community. Rabindranath 
Tagore, the iconic poet and writer, not only composed the national anthems of 
India and Bangladesh but also received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. 
The Enchanting World of Music, Dance, and Theatre 
Bangladesh boasts a rich musical heritage, encompassing classical, devotional, 
and popular genres. Classical music in Bangladesh has diverse forms, such as 
dhrupad and khayal. Devotional music finds expression through genres like 
qawwali and kirtana, which are part of the subcontinent's musical legacy. 
However, it is the nonclassical popular music forms like bhatiali, bhawaiya, jari, 
sari, marfati, and baul that define the country's musical landscape uniquely. These 
vibrant genres, characterized by their spontaneous style, have few equivalents 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
beyond Bangladesh. The country also embraces a variety of dances, including 
indigenous forms like dhali, baul, manipuri, and snake dances. Each dance form 
encapsulates a specific aspect of communal life and is performed on special 
occasions. Although improvisation has been integral to both classical and 
nonclassical music and dance, the increasing commercialization of the arts has 
diminished its prominence. Noteworthy academies like the Bulbul Academy for 
Fine Arts and the Nazrul Academy in Dhaka play a vital role in formal music and 
dance education. 
Visual Art and Architecture: Where Creativity Meets Tradition 
Painting as an independent art form gained prominence in Bangladesh relatively 
recently. Zainul Abedin, a leading figure in the art movement, captured attention 
with his sketches depicting the Bengal famine of 1943. Over time, a group of 
artists emerged, exploring orthodox and innovative forms. The Islamic 
architectural heritage of Bangladesh is evident in its numerous mosques, 
mausoleums, forts, and gateways from the Mughal period. These structures, 
featuring pointed arches, domes, and minarets, reflect the influence of Muslim 
architecture in the subcontinent. Notably, the 77-dome mosque at Bagerhat 
stands as an exceptional example of this style. Additionally, the ruins of Lalbagh 
Fort in Dhaka provide a glimpse into older Islamic architectural traditions. 
Bangladesh has also introduced a unique innovation by translating the sloping 
four-sided thatched roofs found in rural areas into brick and mortar structures. 
The country's rich cultural tapestry is further adorned by remnants of pre-Muslim 
Buddhist architecture, discovered at Paharpur, Mahasthan, and Maynamati. 
These ancient Buddhist monasteries, dating back to the 8th century, exhibit the 
characteristic circular stupa pattern prevalent in India. 
Sports and Recreation: Uniting Through Play 
Football (soccer) has emerged as the preeminent sport in Bangladesh during the 
20th century. Alongside football, field hockey, cricket, tennis, badminton, and 
wrestling also enjoy significant popularity. Bangladesh made its Olympic debut in 
1984 at the Summer Games in Los Angeles, marking a milestone for the country's 
Page 4


Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Bangladesh 
 
 
Exploring the Richness of Bengali Language, Literature, Renaissance, and Tagore 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Introduction 
Bangladesh, a country with a rich cultural heritage, has a fascinating history 
intertwined with the development of Bengali language, literature, and arts. From 
the establishment of Bengali literature in the 11th century to the renowned 
Bengali Renaissance of the 19th century, Bangladesh has nurtured a vibrant 
artistic tradition. This article delves into the profound influence of Bengali 
language and literature, the captivating world of music, dance, and theatre, the 
unique visual art and architecture, and the country's passion for sports and 
recreation. Moreover, it highlights the role of media and publishing in shaping the 
intellectual landscape of Bangladesh. 
Bengali Language and Literature: A Journey Through Time 
The Bengali language began to evolve into its distinct form during the 7th century 
CE. By the 11th century, a rich tradition of Bengali literature had taken root in the 
region. Initially, literateurs received patronage from the Pala kings and early 
Muslim rulers. However, under the Senas and Mughals, support for Bengali 
language and literature waned. Nonetheless, outside the royal courts, various 
traditions of music and poetry thrived, laying the foundation for the Bengali 
Renaissance of the 19th century. This cultural awakening, spearheaded by 
luminaries like Ram Mohan Roy and Rabindranath Tagore, championed Western 
education and liberalism, primarily within the Hindu community. Rabindranath 
Tagore, the iconic poet and writer, not only composed the national anthems of 
India and Bangladesh but also received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. 
The Enchanting World of Music, Dance, and Theatre 
Bangladesh boasts a rich musical heritage, encompassing classical, devotional, 
and popular genres. Classical music in Bangladesh has diverse forms, such as 
dhrupad and khayal. Devotional music finds expression through genres like 
qawwali and kirtana, which are part of the subcontinent's musical legacy. 
However, it is the nonclassical popular music forms like bhatiali, bhawaiya, jari, 
sari, marfati, and baul that define the country's musical landscape uniquely. These 
vibrant genres, characterized by their spontaneous style, have few equivalents 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
beyond Bangladesh. The country also embraces a variety of dances, including 
indigenous forms like dhali, baul, manipuri, and snake dances. Each dance form 
encapsulates a specific aspect of communal life and is performed on special 
occasions. Although improvisation has been integral to both classical and 
nonclassical music and dance, the increasing commercialization of the arts has 
diminished its prominence. Noteworthy academies like the Bulbul Academy for 
Fine Arts and the Nazrul Academy in Dhaka play a vital role in formal music and 
dance education. 
Visual Art and Architecture: Where Creativity Meets Tradition 
Painting as an independent art form gained prominence in Bangladesh relatively 
recently. Zainul Abedin, a leading figure in the art movement, captured attention 
with his sketches depicting the Bengal famine of 1943. Over time, a group of 
artists emerged, exploring orthodox and innovative forms. The Islamic 
architectural heritage of Bangladesh is evident in its numerous mosques, 
mausoleums, forts, and gateways from the Mughal period. These structures, 
featuring pointed arches, domes, and minarets, reflect the influence of Muslim 
architecture in the subcontinent. Notably, the 77-dome mosque at Bagerhat 
stands as an exceptional example of this style. Additionally, the ruins of Lalbagh 
Fort in Dhaka provide a glimpse into older Islamic architectural traditions. 
Bangladesh has also introduced a unique innovation by translating the sloping 
four-sided thatched roofs found in rural areas into brick and mortar structures. 
The country's rich cultural tapestry is further adorned by remnants of pre-Muslim 
Buddhist architecture, discovered at Paharpur, Mahasthan, and Maynamati. 
These ancient Buddhist monasteries, dating back to the 8th century, exhibit the 
characteristic circular stupa pattern prevalent in India. 
Sports and Recreation: Uniting Through Play 
Football (soccer) has emerged as the preeminent sport in Bangladesh during the 
20th century. Alongside football, field hockey, cricket, tennis, badminton, and 
wrestling also enjoy significant popularity. Bangladesh made its Olympic debut in 
1984 at the Summer Games in Los Angeles, marking a milestone for the country's 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
athletic endeavors. Additionally, indigenous games like kabadi, which involves 
raiding the opponent's territory, and kite flying continue to captivate both 
children and adults. Kite making, in particular, has evolved into a distinctive form 
of visual art, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the people of 
Bangladesh. 
Media and Publishing: Shaping the Intellectual Landscape 
Radio and television in Bangladesh broadcast programs in both English and 
Bengali, and news is relayed in Urdu, Hindi, Burmese, and Arabic. While the 
government controls radio and television, the majority of newspapers are 
privately owned, with freedom of the press protected by the constitution. Bengali 
newspapers, although having smaller circulations due to low literacy levels, 
significantly impact public discourse. Nonreaders engage with the press by 
participating in group readings. English dailies, with their educated readership, 
wield considerable influence. Prominent Bengali newspapers include the Daily 
Prothom Alo, Dainik Ittefaq, and Dainik Jugantor, while notable English dailies 
include The Daily Star, New Age, and The New Nation. 
Conclusion 
Bangladesh's cultural heritage, rooted in the development of the Bengali 
language, literature, and arts, holds immense significance. From the early 
establishment of Bengali literature to the Bengali Renaissance led by visionaries 
like Rabindranath Tagore, the country's artistic journey has been remarkable. The 
captivating music, dance, and theatre traditions, complemented by the unique 
visual art and architecture, showcase the creativity and diverse cultural 
expressions of Bangladesh. Furthermore, sports and recreation activities, along 
with the role of media and publishing, contribute to the nation's collective 
identity and intellectual landscape. Bangladesh continues to cherish and celebrate 
its rich cultural tapestry while embracing the dynamics of the modern world. 
 
Page 5


Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Bangladesh 
 
 
Exploring the Richness of Bengali Language, Literature, Renaissance, and Tagore 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Introduction 
Bangladesh, a country with a rich cultural heritage, has a fascinating history 
intertwined with the development of Bengali language, literature, and arts. From 
the establishment of Bengali literature in the 11th century to the renowned 
Bengali Renaissance of the 19th century, Bangladesh has nurtured a vibrant 
artistic tradition. This article delves into the profound influence of Bengali 
language and literature, the captivating world of music, dance, and theatre, the 
unique visual art and architecture, and the country's passion for sports and 
recreation. Moreover, it highlights the role of media and publishing in shaping the 
intellectual landscape of Bangladesh. 
Bengali Language and Literature: A Journey Through Time 
The Bengali language began to evolve into its distinct form during the 7th century 
CE. By the 11th century, a rich tradition of Bengali literature had taken root in the 
region. Initially, literateurs received patronage from the Pala kings and early 
Muslim rulers. However, under the Senas and Mughals, support for Bengali 
language and literature waned. Nonetheless, outside the royal courts, various 
traditions of music and poetry thrived, laying the foundation for the Bengali 
Renaissance of the 19th century. This cultural awakening, spearheaded by 
luminaries like Ram Mohan Roy and Rabindranath Tagore, championed Western 
education and liberalism, primarily within the Hindu community. Rabindranath 
Tagore, the iconic poet and writer, not only composed the national anthems of 
India and Bangladesh but also received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. 
The Enchanting World of Music, Dance, and Theatre 
Bangladesh boasts a rich musical heritage, encompassing classical, devotional, 
and popular genres. Classical music in Bangladesh has diverse forms, such as 
dhrupad and khayal. Devotional music finds expression through genres like 
qawwali and kirtana, which are part of the subcontinent's musical legacy. 
However, it is the nonclassical popular music forms like bhatiali, bhawaiya, jari, 
sari, marfati, and baul that define the country's musical landscape uniquely. These 
vibrant genres, characterized by their spontaneous style, have few equivalents 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
beyond Bangladesh. The country also embraces a variety of dances, including 
indigenous forms like dhali, baul, manipuri, and snake dances. Each dance form 
encapsulates a specific aspect of communal life and is performed on special 
occasions. Although improvisation has been integral to both classical and 
nonclassical music and dance, the increasing commercialization of the arts has 
diminished its prominence. Noteworthy academies like the Bulbul Academy for 
Fine Arts and the Nazrul Academy in Dhaka play a vital role in formal music and 
dance education. 
Visual Art and Architecture: Where Creativity Meets Tradition 
Painting as an independent art form gained prominence in Bangladesh relatively 
recently. Zainul Abedin, a leading figure in the art movement, captured attention 
with his sketches depicting the Bengal famine of 1943. Over time, a group of 
artists emerged, exploring orthodox and innovative forms. The Islamic 
architectural heritage of Bangladesh is evident in its numerous mosques, 
mausoleums, forts, and gateways from the Mughal period. These structures, 
featuring pointed arches, domes, and minarets, reflect the influence of Muslim 
architecture in the subcontinent. Notably, the 77-dome mosque at Bagerhat 
stands as an exceptional example of this style. Additionally, the ruins of Lalbagh 
Fort in Dhaka provide a glimpse into older Islamic architectural traditions. 
Bangladesh has also introduced a unique innovation by translating the sloping 
four-sided thatched roofs found in rural areas into brick and mortar structures. 
The country's rich cultural tapestry is further adorned by remnants of pre-Muslim 
Buddhist architecture, discovered at Paharpur, Mahasthan, and Maynamati. 
These ancient Buddhist monasteries, dating back to the 8th century, exhibit the 
characteristic circular stupa pattern prevalent in India. 
Sports and Recreation: Uniting Through Play 
Football (soccer) has emerged as the preeminent sport in Bangladesh during the 
20th century. Alongside football, field hockey, cricket, tennis, badminton, and 
wrestling also enjoy significant popularity. Bangladesh made its Olympic debut in 
1984 at the Summer Games in Los Angeles, marking a milestone for the country's 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
athletic endeavors. Additionally, indigenous games like kabadi, which involves 
raiding the opponent's territory, and kite flying continue to captivate both 
children and adults. Kite making, in particular, has evolved into a distinctive form 
of visual art, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the people of 
Bangladesh. 
Media and Publishing: Shaping the Intellectual Landscape 
Radio and television in Bangladesh broadcast programs in both English and 
Bengali, and news is relayed in Urdu, Hindi, Burmese, and Arabic. While the 
government controls radio and television, the majority of newspapers are 
privately owned, with freedom of the press protected by the constitution. Bengali 
newspapers, although having smaller circulations due to low literacy levels, 
significantly impact public discourse. Nonreaders engage with the press by 
participating in group readings. English dailies, with their educated readership, 
wield considerable influence. Prominent Bengali newspapers include the Daily 
Prothom Alo, Dainik Ittefaq, and Dainik Jugantor, while notable English dailies 
include The Daily Star, New Age, and The New Nation. 
Conclusion 
Bangladesh's cultural heritage, rooted in the development of the Bengali 
language, literature, and arts, holds immense significance. From the early 
establishment of Bengali literature to the Bengali Renaissance led by visionaries 
like Rabindranath Tagore, the country's artistic journey has been remarkable. The 
captivating music, dance, and theatre traditions, complemented by the unique 
visual art and architecture, showcase the creativity and diverse cultural 
expressions of Bangladesh. Furthermore, sports and recreation activities, along 
with the role of media and publishing, contribute to the nation's collective 
identity and intellectual landscape. Bangladesh continues to cherish and celebrate 
its rich cultural tapestry while embracing the dynamics of the modern world. 
 
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and 
Maldives 
 
 
Srilanka 
 
MAP: Srilanka 
Introduction 
Sri Lanka, formerly known as the country of Ceylon, is a captivating island nation 
located off the southern coast of India. Steeped in a rich history that spans 
thousands of years, Sri Lanka boasts a unique blend of cultures, influenced by 
various civilizations and shaped by significant events. In this article, we will 
explore the fascinating history of Sri Lanka, its type of government, languages 
spoken, and other interesting facts about this enchanting land.