AIR 8 · CSE 2024 · GS1 · 54 pages

Raj Krishna Jha: GS1 answer copy

20 answers by Raj Krishna Jha, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 218 words written

Dogra architecture is a unique blend of regional styles and cultural influences. Substantiate with examples. (10M)

Opening

Dogra architecture represents the unique architecture found in the regions of Kashmir valley. These have gained prominence predominantly after 8th-10th century due to the influence of Dogra rulers.

Body · points

Dogra architecture: a unique blend of regional style and cultural influence

  1. Pagoda style of Architecture ↳ Sloping roofs of temples → reflect the unique aspect of climate of the region.

  2. Devoid of strong bricks & concretes. ↳ Use of locally available material like wood predominates.

  3. Mostly devoted to Vaishnavite tradition but Shaivite influence also exists.

  4. Large elaborate boundary walls & water tanks are missing. ↳ based on influence of topography of region.

  5. Influence of cultures of both the Gangetic plains & upper-Indus region. ↳ place of intersectionality

  6. later Dogra architecture ↳ has influence of Islamic architecture. ↳ Eg: Hazratbal shrine of Kashmir could be seen as extension of architecture.

  7. Elaborate carvings on walls: ↳ are missing & there is mostly Panchayatana style of temple architecture.

  8. Influence of local mountain-based traditions on architecture

Close · a way forward

↳ architecture represents an intermix of the climatic condition and associated life-style with sparsely dense architectural buildings.

The recent times have seen decline in the structural integrity of Dogra architecture; there is a need for enhanced protection by the Archaeological Survey of India to ensure our past is preserved.