UPSC Prelims 1995 · General Studies
Question 33: History and Culture
The Mughal School of Painting formed the spinal column of the various schools of Indian miniature art. Which one of the following painting styles was not affected by Mughal painting?
AnswerThe answer is (d).
Mughal painting influenced the Rajasthani, Pahari and Kangra schools, which grew up at Rajput and hill courts using Mughal methods of portraiture, fine detail and naturalism. Kalighat painting, from the temple area of 19th-century Calcutta, grew out of folk traditions of village scroll painters and was shaped by European styles, not by Mughal court art. Remember: Rajasthani, Pahari and Kangra owe a debt to the Mughals; Kalighat does not.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Pahari miniatures took on Mughal naturalism and portraiture.
- (b) Rajasthani schools such as Mewar and Bundi absorbed Mughal influence at Rajput courts.
- (c) Kangra, a late Pahari school, shows the Mughal inheritance.
- (d) Right: Kalighat grew out of folk scroll painting and the colonial city, not Mughal court art.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1995, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.