History and Culture of India with focus on Andhra Pradesh
What this domain tests
This section tests ancient, medieval and modern Indian history with a strong Andhra Pradesh focus, plus art, architecture, dance, festivals and literary traditions. Expect questions on dynastic sequence, administrative terms, inscriptions, temple styles and the Andhra movement.
Core sequence and culture
- Satavahanas: Pratishthana and Dhanyakataka; Gautamiputra Satakarni; Prakrit inscriptions and Buddhist patronage.
- Ikshvakus: Nagarjunakonda; patronage of Buddhism and early temple activity.
- Eastern Chalukyas: Vengi; Telugu literary development. Kakatiyas: Orugallu/Warangal; tank irrigation and Ramappa temple.
- Vijayanagara: Hampi; Rayalaseema and coastal inscriptions. Qutb Shahis and Asaf Jahis: Golconda and Hyderabad.
- Culture: Kuchipudi dance, Kalamkari textile painting, Kondapalli toys, Etikoppaka lacquerware, Lepakshi temple murals and Amaravati stupa sculpture.
Worked example
Arrange Satavahana, Ikshvaku, Eastern Chalukya, Kakatiya and Vijayanagara in chronological order. Reasoning: the Satavahanas preceded the Ikshvakus in Andhra; the Eastern Chalukyas ruled Vengi from the 7th century; the Kakatiyas rose in the 12th; Vijayanagara from the 14th. Correct order: Satavahana, Ikshvaku, Eastern Chalukya, Kakatiya, Vijayanagara.
Traps that cost marks
Andhra State was formed in 1953 with Kurnool as capital; Andhra Pradesh was formed in 1956 by merging Telangana. Do not confuse Kuchipudi with folk forms, and remember Kalamkari has distinct Machilipatnam and Srikalahasti styles.