Textbook Solutions: Places of Eminence | Footprints Class 7: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

I. Tick (✓) the correct option.

1.
Ans: (b)

2.
Ans: (c)

3.
Ans: (c)

4.
Ans: (c)

5.
Ans: (b)

III. There are two statements given as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements to choose the correct option.

1.
Ans: (b)

2.
Ans: (a)

IV. Answer the following questions in brief.

1.
Ans: The three primary sources for studying history are:

• Literary Sources: Writings such as books, newspapers, letters, journals, and diaries.
• Archaeological Sources: Material remains like palaces, forts, temples, inscriptions, coins, and pottery.
• Oral Histories: Information passed down orally through stories, poems, songs, and legends.

2.
Ans: The Chand Baori at Abhaneri is a square structure in the form of an inverted pyramid. It has 13 storeys with 3,500 narrow steps forming a diamond-like pattern. The fourth side of the baori contains corridors, multi-storeyed pavilions, and several jharokhas (carved windows). There are also niches with images of deities like Ganesha and Durga.

3.
Ans: The terracotta tiles in Bishnupur's temples are important because they showcase the intricate craftsmanship of the local artisans. These tiles were used extensively due to the unavailability of stone in the region, making terracotta a practical and artistic choice for temple construction.

4.
Ans: According to legend, the Malla dynasty in Bishnupur was founded by Adi Malla, a prince abandoned by his father in a forest. He was raised by a local woman and grew up to be unmatched in wrestling, eventually founding the Malla dynasty that ruled the Bankura region for a thousand years.

5.
Ans: Literary sources like Bhakti Ratnakar and Prem Vilasa are valuable for understanding the history of Bishnupur and its temples because they provide detailed accounts of the religious and cultural activities of the time, including the conversion of the Malla kings to Vaishnavism and the construction of temples like Madan Mohan.

V. Answer the following questions in detail.

1.
Ans: The past refers to the time before the present. We study history to understand how events, people, and developments in the past have shaped the world we live in today.
The different sources used to study history include:

• Literary Sources: Writings such as the Arthashastra and Mudrarakshasa provide insights into governance and society.
• Archaeological Sources: Monuments like the Chand Baori and temples provide material evidence of historical events and lifestyles.
• Oral Histories: Legends and stories, such as the one about the Malla dynasty, offer cultural and historical context.

2.
Ans:

• Literary Sources provide written records of events, thoughts, and practices from the past, offering direct insight into the ideologies, governance, and daily life of people. For example, the Arthashastra provides guidelines on running a state.
• Archaeological Sources offer physical evidence of past civilizations, such as buildings, tools, and artifacts, helping to reconstruct the material culture and technological advancements of a society. For instance, the Chand Baori's structure reveals the architectural ingenuity of the time.
• Unique Insights: Literary sources offer direct narratives and instructions, while archaeological sources reveal the practical application of those narratives in physical structures and everyday life.

3.
Ans: The legend associated with the Chand Baori at Abhaneri tells of Raja Chandra, who, moved by the suffering of his people during a drought, resolved to build the baori overnight. This legend adds cultural significance to the site by highlighting the king's concern for his people and the miraculous nature of the baori's construction. It reflects the deep connection between rulers and their subjects, and the importance of water conservation in ancient India.

4.
Ans: Stepwells are significant in India's architectural and historical context as they represent a unique method of water conservation and management. Architecturally, they are marvels of engineering with intricate designs and carvings. Historically, they provided a reliable source of water in arid regions and were centers of social and cultural activities. Their construction ensured the preservation of water resources, making them vital to the survival of communities in dry areas.

5.
Ans: Oral sources in Bishnupur are significant for understanding the history of the Madan Mohan temple because they provide stories and legends that explain the cultural and religious context of the temple's construction. The legend of Bir Hambir's conversion to Vaishnavism and the subsequent building of the Madan Mohan temple highlights the religious and social changes in the region. These oral traditions complement the physical evidence and offer a fuller understanding of the temple's historical importance.