art and culture

Thangka Paintings, History, Features and Significance

The term "Thangka," derived from Classical Tibetan, eloquently translates to "thing that one unrolls." These intricate works of art, also known as tangkas, thankas, or tankas, hold profound significance in the realm of Tibetan Buddhism. Typically crafted on cotton or...

Types of Vedas, Vedangas and Upavedas

Types of Vedas- The Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda constitute the four distinct categories of Vedas, regarded as the oldest and most sacred texts in Hinduism. These scriptures are believed to be divine revelations received by ancient sages and transmitted through...

Puppet Forms of India, Origin of Indian Puppetry and Challenges 

Puppetry is a form of theater that involves manipulating puppets, which are inanimate objects that resemble human or animal figures. Puppetry is believed to have originated in India more than 500 years before Christ. Puppetry has been an important part...

Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism

Buddhism and Hinduism are two of the oldest and most complex religious traditions in the world. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences. Here are some key points of Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism. We're...

Garba Dance Enters UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

UNESCO defines intangible cultural heritage as encompassing practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that form an integral part of a particular place's cultural heritage. Often referred to as living cultural heritage, it finds expression in various forms, including oral traditions,...

Madras School of Art, Evolution, Features and Legacy

The Madras School of Art, now recognized as the Government College of Fine Arts, stands as one of India's oldest art institutes. Originally founded as a private institution by surgeon Alexander Hunter in 1850, it underwent several name changes as...

Bengal School of Art, Founder, Themes and Legacy

The Bengal School of Art, also known as the "Calcutta School of Art," was a prominent art movement that emerged in the early 20th century in Bengal, India. The school played a crucial role in the Renaissance of Indian art...

Theatre Forms of India, Evolution Features and Various Schools

Indian theatre originated as a narrative art form that seamlessly integrated music, dance, and acting into its performances. Theatrical presentations encompassed recitation, dance movements, and musical elements. According to Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra, Lord Brahma crafted the Natya Veda for...

Tribal Paintings of India, Evolution and Famous Schools

Tribal Paintings of India is a tapestry of diverse expressions. Warli painting, rooted in Maharashtra, captures daily life through simple geometric shapes. Gond art from Madhya Pradesh intricately weaves mythological narratives. Bihar's Madhubani paintings, rich in bold patterns, depict nature...

Modern Indian Paintings, Evolution and Schools

Modern Indian paintings, influenced by a rich artistic heritage, showcase a diverse tapestry of styles and themes.  By the late 19th century, Indian painting, an extension of miniature traditions, faced decline, finding limited expression in 'Bazaar' and 'Company' styles. Raja...