The Making of Regional Cultures

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 History Chapter 7

The chapter The Making of Regional Cultures delves into the fascinating process of how regional cultures in India evolved over time. Here are the key points you’ll learn:

1. Building Blocks of Culture:

• You’ll explore the foundational elements that contribute to a region’s unique cultural identity, such as:
  • Language: How regional languages developed and diversified from Sanskrit or other sources.
  • Literature: The emergence of regional literature reflecting local stories, traditions, and perspectives.
  • Art and Architecture: The distinct styles of art, music, dance, and architecture that emerged in different regions.
  • Food Habits: How regional cuisines developed based on locally available ingredients and cooking practices.
  • Customs and Traditions: The unique festivals, rituals, and social practices that define a region’s cultural landscape.

2. The Power of Exchange:

• The chapter emphasizes that regional cultures weren’t isolated entities. They interacted and influenced each other:
  • Trade Routes: Movement of goods facilitated the exchange of ideas, cultural practices, and artistic styles.
  • Migrations: People moving from one region to another brought their traditions, enriching the cultural mix.
  • Conquests and Empires: Rulers and empires might have introduced new cultural elements to the regions they controlled.

3. A Historical Perspective:

• You’ll explore how historical events and developments shaped regional cultures:
  • Rise of Kingdoms: The establishment of powerful kingdoms in different parts of India fostered distinct cultural identities.
  • Religious Movements: The spread of religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Jainism had a profound impact on regional cultures.
  • Local Heroes and Legends: Stories of regional heroes and legendary figures become woven into the cultural fabric.

4. A Dynamic Process:

• The chapter emphasizes that regional cultures are not static. They continue to evolve:
  • Modernization: The impact of modern technology, communication, and global influences on regional cultures.
  • Importance of Preservation: Recognizing the value of preserving and celebrating the unique traditions of each region.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 History Chapter 7 – The Making of Regional Cultures

Exercises

Let’s Recall

Match the following (ncert solutions for class 7 history chapter 7)

Column I	Column II
Anantavarman	Kerala
Jagannatha	Bengal
Mahodayapuram	Orissa
Lilatilakam	Kangra
Mangalakavya	Puri
Miniature	Kerala

Ans : 

Column I	Column II
Anantavarman	Orrisa
Jagannatha	Kangra
Mahodayapuram	Kerala
Lilatilakam	Kerala
Mangalakavya	Bengal
Miniature	Puri

2. What is Manipravalam? Name abook written in that language.

Ans : Manipravalam is not exactly a language, but rather a literary style that combines elements of two languages:

• Sanskrit: The ancient Indian language associated with Hindu scriptures and classical literature.
• A regional language: This could vary depending on the location, but in South India, it often referred to Malayalam.

One of the most well-known texts written in Manipravalam is Lilatilakam. This is a 14th-century treatise on grammar and poetics composed by a scholar named Cennas Nazhir.

3. Who were the major patrons of Kathak?

Ans : The major patrons of Kathak were the Mughal emperors and their nobles, the courtiers of Rajasthan (especially Jaipur), and Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh. Their support provided a platform for Kathak to develop and flourish.

4. What are the Important architectural features of the temples of Bengal?

Ans : 

Roof Styles:

• Do-Chala: This means “two roofs” and refers to a temple with a hut-like structure featuring two sloping roofs on either side.
• Char-Chala: This translates to “four roofs” and describes a temple with a square base and four triangular roofs meeting at a point or curved line.
• Ek-Chala: This means “one roof” and signifies a simpler temple with a single, curved roof.

Ratna Temples: These temples feature one or more tower-like structures called “ratnas” (meaning “jewel”) on the roof. The number of ratnas can vary, with the simplest having a single central tower and more complex ones having up to 25.

Building Material: Bricks were the primary material used for constructing these temples.

Terracotta Decoration: Many temples in Bengal are adorned with intricate terracotta panels depicting religious figures, geometric patterns, or scenes from mythology. Vishnupur in West Bengal is particularly famous for its terracotta temples.

Square Platform: Temples were often built on a raised square platform, adding to their monumentality.

Interior Design: While the exteriors might be ornate, the interiors of many Bengali temples are relatively plain, focusing on the central deity.

Let’s Discuss (ncert solutions for class 7 history chapter 7)

5. Why did minstrels proclaim the achievements of heroes?

Ans : Minstrels spread tales of heroes to:

• Remember past glories
• Inspire future generations
• Promote rulers (sometimes)
• Entertain the public

6. Why do we know much more about the cultural practices of rulers than about those of ordinary people?

Ans : We know more about rulers’ cultures because:

• Records focused on elites.
• Rulers used durable materials (stone, metal) for records.
• Rulers built grand monuments for display.
• Ordinary people’s traditions were mostly oral.

7. Why did conquerors try to control the temple of Jagannatha at Puri?

Ans : The Jagannatha Temple represented a confluence of religious prestige, economic wealth, social influence, and strategic location, making it a prize many conquerors desired to control.

8. Why were temples built in Bengal?

Ans : 

Rise of Religious Faith: Growing devotion and the increasing importance of Hinduism in Bengal fueled temple construction.

Influence of Brahmins: As Brahminical influence grew, local deities previously worshipped in huts gained recognition, leading to the building of more permanent structures.

Display of Power and Piety: Rulers and wealthy individuals built temples to showcase their power, social status, and devotion to their faith.

Social Participation: The construction of some temples also involved contributions from various social groups, reflecting a sense of community participation.

New Economic Opportunities: The arrival of European trading companies led to new economic opportunities for some social groups who then used their wealth to build temples.

Let’s Do 

9. Describe the most important features of the culture of your region, focussing on buildings, performing arts, and painting.

Ans : Delhi is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, woven together over centuries. From its earliest days, it has been a crossroads for empires and a melting pot of traditions.

Throughout history, Delhi has witnessed a series of foreign rulers, some transient conquerors, others who established themselves more permanently. Each of these groups left their mark on the city, influencing its language, religion, social structures, and artistic expressions.

Today, Delhi proudly displays this rich heritage. Mughal emperors, Slave dynasties, Rajput rulers, and countless others have all contributed to the city’s architectural landscape. Magnificent buildings and monuments stand as testaments to these diverse influences. Temples, mosques, and other places of worship reflect the city’s religious pluralism.

Even within the city itself, the echoes of these cultural encounters can be felt. Old Delhi, with its narrow lanes and historic structures, offers a glimpse into the past, while New Delhi showcases a more modern face.

This blend of the old and the new, the traditional and the contemporary, is what defines the unique cultural identity of Delhi.

10. Do you use different languages for (a) speaking, (b) reading, (c) writing? Find out about one major composition in language that you use and discuss why you find it interesting.

Ans : Hindi and Punjabi are my go-to languages for everyday conversations. When it comes to reading, I enjoy exploring both Hindi and English texts. This flexibility allows me to write in either language as well, depending on the situation. So yes, you’re right, different languages come in handy for different purposes in my world.

11. Choose one state each from north, west, south, east and central India. For each of these, prepare a list of foods that are commonly consumed, highlighting any differences and similarities that you notice.

Ans : 

North India (Punjab):

• Similarities: The liberal use of wheat, lentils (dal), and spices like turmeric, coriander, and garam masala is common across North India.
• Dishes: Butter chicken, tandoori chicken, naan, chole bhature (chickpea curry with fried bread), rajma chawal (kidney beans with rice), lassi (yogurt-based drink).

West India (Gujarat):

• Differences: Gujarati cuisine is known for its vegetarian options and emphasis on sweet and savory flavors.
• Dishes: Dhokla (steamed lentil cakes), Daal Baati (lentil curry with wheat balls), Thepla (flatbread), Panki (sweet rice cake), Sev Khamani (thin fried gram noodles in sweet and tangy sauce).

South India (Tamil Nadu):

• Differences: South Indian cuisine relies heavily on rice, lentils, and coconut. Dishes tend to be spicier and tangier compared to the North.
• Dishes: Dosa (fermented crepe), Idli (steamed rice cakes), Sambar (lentil stew), Vada (savory lentil fritters), Rasam (tangy tomato-based lentil soup), Upma (semolina porridge).

East India (West Bengal):

• Similarities: Like the North, West Bengal uses mustard, cumin, and chilies prominently. However, the use of fish is more common here.
• Dishes: Machher Jhol (fish curry), Shondesh (sweet made with condensed milk), Mishti Doi (sweet yogurt), Roshogolla (cheese balls dipped in sugar syrup), Luchi (deep-fried flatbread).

Central India (Madhya Pradesh):

• Similarities: Shares some dishes with North India like dal and roti. However, Madhya Pradesh cuisine also features tribal influences and a wider variety of regional specialties.
• Dishes: Poha (flattened rice dish), Dal Bafle (lentil curry with deep-fried lentil balls), Malpua (pancakes dipped in syrup), Bhuna Ghost (mutton curry), Sabudana Khichdi (tapioca pearls and potato dish).

12. Choose another set of five states from each these regions and prepare a list of clothes that are generally worn by women and men in each. Discuss your findings.

Ans : 

North India:

• Himachal Pradesh:
  • Women: Long skirts (Ghagra), blouses (Kurti), woolen shawls (Chhador) in colder regions.
  • Men: Dhoti or Churidar pajamas, Kurta, headgear (Topi) in some areas.
• Rajasthan:
  • Women: Ghagra Cholis with vibrant colors and embroidery, Lehenga sets for special occasions.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, colorful turbans (Pagri), Angarkha (long coat) for men of higher classes.
• Uttar Pradesh:
  • Women: Sarees in various styles (Banarasi, Chikankari), Salwar Kameez for daily wear.
  • Men: Dhoti-Kurta combination, pajamas with Kurta.
• Jammu & Kashmir:
  • Women: Phेरन (Pheran) – a long loose gown, Salwar Kameez.
  • Men: Kurta Pajama, woolen cloak (Pheran) in winters.
• Punjab:
  • Women: Salwar Kameez with Patiala salwar (loose-fitting trousers), colorful dupattas (scarves).
  • Men: Kurta Pajama, colorful turbans.

West India:

• Maharashtra:
  • Women: Nauvari saree (nine-yard saree), Paithani silk sarees for special occasions.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, Pheta (headgear) for men from Marathi families.
• Gujarat:
  • Women: Chaniya Choli (skirt and blouse), Ghagra for festivals.
  • Men: Dhoti-Kurta, kediyu (a short coat) for some communities.
• Goa:
  • Women: Saree, Salwar Kameez influenced by Portuguese styles.
  • Men: Dhoti-Kurta, western wear like shirts and trousers are also common.
• Sindh:
  • Women: Sindhi Ajrakh sarees with block prints, Kameez with Sindhi embroidery.
  • Men: Dhoti-Kurta, Ajrakh printed headwear.
• Daman & Diu:
  • Women: Sarees, Salwar Kameez with influences from Gujarat and Maharashtra.
  • Men: Dhoti-Kurta, western wear is also popular.

South India:

• Tamil Nadu:
  • Women: Sarees in cotton or silk, worn in a unique style with one end tucked into the petticoat.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, lungi (sarong) for casual wear.
• Kerala:
  • Women: Saree worn in a unique style with the mundu (dhoti) folded at the knee.
  • Men: Mundu (dhoti), Shirt for upper body clothing.
• Karnataka:
  • Women: Saree in cotton or silk, worn in a style similar to Tamil Nadu.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, lungi for casual wear.
• Andhra Pradesh:
  • Women: Saree in cotton or silk, worn in various styles depending on the region.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, lungi for casual wear.
• Telangana:
  • Women: Saree in cotton or silk, worn in a style similar to Andhra Pradesh.
  • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, lungi for casual wear.

ncert solutions for class 7 history chapter 7

FAQ’s

What does Class 7 History Chapter 7, “The Making of Regional Cultures,” focus on?

Class 7 History Chapter The Making of Regional Cultures explores the rich tapestry of regional cultures that flourished across India, highlighting the diverse traditions, languages, art forms, and lifestyles that evolved over time.

How do NCERT Solutions for Class 7 History Chapter 7 help in understanding regional cultures?

NCERT Solutions provide detailed explanations and insights into the historical context, social dynamics, and cultural practices depicted in Chapter The Making of Regional Cultures. They enhance understanding by elucidating key concepts and events related to regional cultures.

What are some key themes covered in “The Making of Regional Cultures” in Class 7 History?

Class 7 History Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures explores themes such as the emergence of regional kingdoms, patronage of art and literature, development of languages and scripts, architectural styles, religious diversity, and interactions between different cultural groups.

How does Chapter 7 contribute to understanding India’s cultural diversity?

Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures provides insights into the multifaceted nature of India’s cultural heritage by showcasing the distinctive traditions, beliefs, and practices that shaped regional identities. It highlights the coexistence and interaction of diverse cultural elements.

Can studying Class 7 History Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures deepen appreciation for India’s cultural heritage?

Absolutely! Chapter 7 The Making of Regional Cultures offers a fascinating journey through India’s history, revealing the vibrancy and resilience of its regional cultures. By studying this chapter and its solutions, students gain a deeper appreciation for India’s rich cultural tapestry and the forces that shaped it.