Short & Long Questions: Rise of Composite Cultures: Ramdevra and Pandharpur Wari | Footprints Class 7: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the significance of the Ramdevra Mela in Rajasthan?
Ans: The Ramdevra Mela is a celebration associated with Ramdevji, which unifies people across various boundaries such as caste, class, gender, and religion. It is a significant festival in Rajasthan.

Q2: How did Maharaja Ganga Singh contribute to the progress of Bikaner?
Ans: Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner established a High Court, introduced life insurance schemes for his employees, and made laws against child marriage, showcasing his progressive initiatives for the region's development.

Q3: What does 'unity in diversity' mean in the context of Indian society?
Ans: 'Unity in diversity' refers to the idea that India, with its diverse population living in different parts of the country, showcases unity despite differences in language, religion, clothing, art, and literature. It exemplifies how different lifestyles and faiths coexist harmoniously.

Q4: How did saints and philosophers contribute to the development of composite cultures?
Ans: Saints and philosophers from the 12th century onwards aimed to bridge societal gaps by incorporating elements of folk culture and local practices into religious teachings. They preached in simple language and promoted unity across religious divides.

Q5: What role did traders and travelers play in the rise of composite cultures in India?
Ans: Merchants, traders, travelers, and religious leaders interacting with diverse cultures led to the acceptance and blending of different cultural elements. This interaction fostered the growth of mixed cultures, contributing to the emergence of composite cultures in various regions of India.

Q6: Who is Ramdevji and why is he revered?
Ans: Ramdevji was a ruler known for his miraculous powers and compassion towards the disadvantaged in society. He is revered for uniting Hindus and Muslims, promoting peace, justice, and equality.

Q7: What is the significance of Ramdevra Mela?
Ans: Ramdevra Mela is a popular festival where devotees from various backgrounds gather at Mandir Shri Ram Dev Ji to offer prayers and offerings to Ramdevji. It reflects social inclusion and cultural unity.

Q8: Why are Ramdevji and other pirs considered local heroes in Rajasthan?
Ans: Ramdevji and other pirs are considered local heroes for their courage, heroism, and social reforms. They opposed the caste system, religious rituals, and promoted unity in the region.

Q9: What is the Pandharpur Wari festival known for?
Ans: Pandharpur Wari festival symbolizes the coming together of devotional tradition and folk culture. It is a pilgrimage where devotees undertake a journey on foot to the temple of Lord Vitthala.

Q10: Why is Pandharpur significant during the Bhakti Movement?
Ans: Pandharpur became significant during the Bhakti Movement as a symbol of social equality. It was a center of culture and spiritual learning with the presence of various Bhakti poets and saints advocating for social transformation.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: Explain the concept of composite culture and its emergence in India.
Ans:

• Composite culture in India refers to a blend of elements from various traditions and cultures found in a specific region.
• It involves tolerance towards different practices and traditions, fostering unity among diverse groups.
• From the 12th century CE onwards, saints and philosophers played a crucial role in promoting composite culture by bridging societal differences.
• Merchants, traders, and travellers also contributed to the rise of composite cultures by interacting with diverse cultures and incorporating elements from them.
• By the 15th century CE, regions like north India, Kashmir, Punjab, Sind, Bengal, Gujarat, and parts of the Deccan showcased a mixed culture, reflecting the essence of 'Indianness'.

Q2: Discuss the role of saints, philosophers, and social reformers in promoting unity and composite culture in India.
Ans:

• Saints and philosophers from the 12th century CE onwards aimed to bridge societal gaps by criticizing social hierarchies and religious injustices.
• They integrated elements of folk culture and everyday practices into religious rituals to make them accessible to the masses.
• These figures preached in local languages and promoted simple rituals to create a sense of belonging and unity among people from different backgrounds.
• By incorporating elements that everyone could relate to, they helped transcend religious boundaries and fostered a sense of unity.
• Their efforts were instrumental in cultivating a shared identity among diverse communities, contributing to the formation of a composite culture in India.

Q3: Discuss the significance of Ramdevji or Ram Shah Pir in the cultural and social context of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Ans:

• Ramdevji, also known as Ram Shah Pir, holds immense significance in the cultural and social fabric of Gujarat and Rajasthan due to his miraculous powers and role as a unifier.
• He is revered for his compassion towards the poor, outcasts, and disadvantaged sections of society, symbolizing social inclusivity and empathy.
• Ramdevji's ability to bring together Hindus and Muslims to promote peace, justice, and equality underscores his role as a bridge builder in a diverse society.
• The installation of his footprints in villages and the worship practices associated with Kamadia Panthis highlight the enduring folk traditions and devotional practices surrounding the deity.
• Through the Ramdevra Mela, a popular festival in the region, devotees from various backgrounds come together to offer their respects, showcasing the unifying power of faith and cultural traditions.

Q4: Explain the historical and cultural significance of the Ramdevra Mela in the context of social inclusion and cultural diversity.
Ans:

• The Ramdevra Mela, held in Runicha village, serves as a platform for devotees from diverse castes, creeds, and religions to congregate and celebrate unity.
• With over 50 lakh attendees, the festival reflects a massive gathering that transcends social barriers and promotes social harmony.
• Devotees offer various items such as rice, coconuts, and churma to Ramdevji as symbols of devotion and gratitude, showcasing the blend of cultural practices and traditions.
• The temple complex at Mandir Shri Ram Dev Ji stands as a testimony to social inclusion, welcoming people from all walks of life to participate in the festivities.
• This cultural event not only honors the deity but also exemplifies the shared histories and cultural connections that bind communities together across borders.

Q5: Analyze the role of Pandharpur Wari in promoting social equality and spiritual learning in the context of the Bhakti Movement.
Ans:

• Pandharpur Wari symbolizes a coming together of devotional tradition and folk culture, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual devotion among followers.
• The town's association with Lord Vitthala and Devi Rukmini dates back centuries, emphasizing the deep-rooted historical and cultural significance of the region.
• During the Bhakti Movement, Pandharpur emerged as a center of cultural and spiritual learning, attracting saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Nandeva, and Sant Tukaram who enriched the town's spiritual landscape.
• Warkaris, the pilgrims of Pandharpur, undertake a pilgrimage to the temple of Lord Vitthala, showcasing a tradition of devotion and humility that transcends social boundaries.
• The Warkari Panth's emphasis on inclusivity and social transformation challenges orthodox beliefs, fostering a culture of acceptance and spiritual growth among devotees of different castes and backgrounds.