UPSC Mains Art & Culture PYQs, 2016-2026
26 Art & Culture questions from GS Paper 1, 2016-2026: ancient and medieval history, architecture, sculpture, literature. Newest year first, from the official UPSC papers. Practise them and get your answers checked with UPSC Mains answer evaluation.
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2026
- 1
Analyze the importance of Ashokan inscriptions for reconstructing Mauryan history.
150 words · 10 marks
- 11
Vijayanagara architecture exemplifies the amalgamation of past traditions with contemporary practices. Elucidate with examples.
250 words · 15 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2025
- 1
Discuss the salient features of the Harappan architecture.
150 words · 10 marks
- 2
Examine the main aspects of Akbar's religious syncretism.
150 words · 10 marks
- 3
The sculptors filled the Chandella artform with resilient vigour and breadth of life. Elucidate.
150 words · 10 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2024
- 1
Underline the changes in the field of economy and society from Rig Vedic to later Vedic period.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
- 2
Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of Art and literature of South Indla.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
- 11
“Though the great Cholas are no more, yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture.” Comment.
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2023
- 1
Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.
150 words · 10 marks
- 11
What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
- 12
What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?
250 words · 15 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2022
- 1
How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days?
150 words · 10 marks
- 12
Discuss. the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture.
250 words · 15 marks
- 13
Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.
250 words · 15 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2021
- 1
Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture.
150 words · 10 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2020
- 1
The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
- 2
Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate.
150 words · 10 marks
- 11
Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss.
250 words · 15 marks
- 12
Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.
250 words · 15 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2019
- 1
Highlight the Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in the Gandhara art.
150 words · 10 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2018
- 1
Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.
150 words · 10 marks
- 2
Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
150 words · 10 marks
- 11
The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.
250 words · 15 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2017
- 1
How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of the Gupta numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times?
150 words · 10 marks
Art & Culture questions in GS Paper 1 2016
- 1
Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
200 words · 12½ marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
- 2
Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.
200 words · 12½ marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
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