September 14 is celebrated as Hindi Diwas, a day dedicated to marking the significance of Hindi as the official language of India. This observance honours the decision made by the Constituent Assembly of India to designate Hindi as the official language of the Union government.

2. Hindi Language

• Hindi is the fourth most spoken language in the world and is written in Devanagari script. The language got its name from the Persian word 'Hind' - meaning 'land of the Indus River', and is a descendant of Sanskrit.
• Turk invaders in the early 11^th century named the language of the region Hindi, 'language of the land of the Indus River'.
• It is the official language of India, English being the other official language.
• Hindi is also spoken in some countries outside India, such as in Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago and Nepal.
• Hindi in its present form emerged through different stages, during which it was known by other names. The earliest form of old Hindi was Apabhramsa. In 400 AD Kalidas wrote a romantic play in Apabhramsa called Vikramorvashiyam.
• The modern Devanagari script came into existence in the 11th century.

3. Debates in the Constituent Assembly

The Constituent Assembly debated the issue of the official language for three days in September 1949. There were many different views expressed, with some members arguing for Hindi, some for Hindustani, and some for English.

1. RV Dhulekar from Uttar Pradesh argued that Hindi should be the national language, not just the official language. He said that the nation was not ready to wait for 15 years to start reading the Vedas and the Upanishads, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, and Lilavati and other mathematical works in Hindi.
2. Frank Anthony from Central Provinces and Berar made a case for English. He said that English was one of the greatest assets that India possessed in the international field and that it should not be given up.
3. Pandit Lakshmi Kanta Maitra from Bengal argued that Sanskrit should be the national and official language. He said that Sanskrit was the revered grandmother of languages of the world and that it was still alive with full vigour and vitality.
4. Qazi Syed Karimuddin from Central Provinces and Berar argued that Hindustani should be the national language. He said that Mahatma Gandhi had championed Hindustani and that it was the only language in which both Hindus and Muslims could easily express themselves.
5. TA Ramalingam Chettiar from Madras said that they had agreed to Hindi simply because it was spoken by a large number of people in the country. He argued that Hindi could not be the national language, because it was no more national to them than English or any other language.

4. Munshi-Ayyangar Formula

• In the end, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Munshi-Ayyangar formula as a compromise solution.
• This formula said that Hindi would be the official language of the Union government, but English would continue to be used for all official purposes of the Union for 15 years.

6. Conclusion

• The debate on the official language of India was a long and heated one, with different members of the Constituent Assembly expressing different views.
• The Munshi-Ayyangar formula was eventually adopted as a compromise solution, making Hindi the official language of the Union government, but also allowing English to continue to be used for all official purposes for fifteen years. The debate over the official language of India continues to this day.

LAMBANI ART

• Lambani art refers to the traditional art and craft practices of the Lambani community, an indigenous group in India.
• The Lambani people, also known as the Banjara, have a rich cultural heritage that includes a distinctive style of art and embroidery.
• Lambani art has a long and rich history. It is believed to have originated in the 15th century, when the Lambani people migrated to India from Central Asia.
• Lambani art was originally used for practical purposes, such as decorating tents and clothing. However, it soon developed into a more sophisticated form of art, which was used to express the Lambani people's culture and beliefs.
• Lambani art is still practiced today by many Lambani communities. It is a vibrant and dynamic art form that continues to evolve and change

3. Key Features of the Art

Here are some key aspects of Lambani art:

1. Embroidery: Lambani art is perhaps best known for its intricate embroidery work. Lambani women are skilled embroiderers and create beautiful designs on textiles, including clothing, wall hangings, and other fabric items. The embroidery typically features vibrant colors, mirror work, and intricate patterns. This embroidery is often used to embellish garments and household items.

2. Mirror Work: Mirror work is a hallmark of Lambani embroidery. Small pieces of mirror are stitched onto the fabric in intricate patterns, creating a reflective and dazzling effect. These mirrors are usually surrounded by colorful threads and other embellishments.

3. Traditional Designs: Lambani embroidery often incorporates traditional designs and motifs that have been passed down through generations. These designs are symbolic and reflect the Lambani culture and heritage. Common motifs include peacocks, flowers, birds, and geometric patterns.

4. Use of Vibrant Colors: Lambani art is known for its use of vibrant and contrasting colors. Bright shades of red, blue, green, yellow, and orange are commonly used to create eye-catching designs.

5. Textile Art: While embroidery is a prominent feature of Lambani art, the community also engages in other textile-related crafts. This includes weaving, appliqué work, and the creation of beadwork and tassels that adorn clothing and accessories.

6. Cultural Significance: Lambani art is not just about aesthetics; it also holds cultural and social significance within the Lambani community. The art is often used to decorate traditional attire worn during special occasions and festivals.

7. Contemporary Adaptations: In recent years, Lambani art has also found its way into contemporary fashion and home decor. Designers and artisans have incorporated Lambani embroidery and motifs into modern clothing, accessories, and interior design.

The Lambani community, also known as the Banjara community, is an indigenous group primarily found in India. They have a rich cultural heritage, distinct traditions, and a unique way of life. Here are some key aspects of the Lambani community:

1. Origin and Migration: The Lambani people are believed to have originated from the Marwar region of Rajasthan in northwestern India. They are known for their historical nomadic lifestyle and extensive migrations. Over the centuries, they have dispersed across various parts of India.

2. Language: Lambani people often speak a language known as Lambadi or Lamani, which belongs to the Indo-Aryan language group. However, many Lambani individuals are also multilingual and may speak the regional languages of the areas they inhabit.

3. Nomadic Heritage: Historically, the Lambani community was nomadic, traveling with their cattle and goods in caravans. They were skilled traders, known for their ability to cover long distances. While some Lambani families still maintain semi-nomadic or itinerant lifestyles, many have settled in permanent communities.

4. Livelihood: The traditional livelihood of the Lambani community was centered around trading, particularly in textiles, cattle, and goods. They were known for their trading caravans that traversed the Indian subcontinent. Today, some Lambani people continue to be involved in trading and agriculture, while others have diversified into various professions and trades.

5. Art and Culture: The Lambani community is renowned for its vibrant art and culture. This includes Lambani art and embroidery, as mentioned in the previous response. Their traditional attire, adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror work, is a significant cultural symbol. Music, dance, and folk traditions also play an important role in their culture.

6. Religion: The Lambani community follows a variety of religious beliefs, including Hinduism and syncretic forms of worship. They often incorporate elements of nature worship and have their own unique religious practices and rituals.

7. Social Structure: The Lambani community has a distinct social structure with its own hierarchy and leadership. The community is typically organized into various clans or subgroups, each with its own leadership. Elders and community leaders play a significant role in decision-making.

8. Challenges: Like many indigenous communities, the Lambani people face various challenges, including economic and social disparities, access to education and healthcare, and issues related to land rights. Efforts have been made to address these challenges and improve the well-being of Lambani communities.

9. Recognition and Identity: In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the Lambani community's cultural and artistic contributions. Their unique art forms have gained appreciation not only in India but also internationally.

5. Way forward

Overall, the Lambani community is known for its colorful culture, rich traditions, and the resilience of its people in the face of changing times. While some Lambani individuals have embraced modern ways of life, they continue to cherish and preserve their cultural heritage

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1 Consider the following statements about G-20: (UPSC CSE 2023) The G20 group was originally established as a platform for finance ministers and central bank governors to discuss international economic and financial issues. Digital public infrastructure is one of India's G-20 priorities Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only  (c) Both 1 and 2  (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: c

 

Source: indianexpress

TELANGANA FORMATION DAY

1. Introduction

Telangana, India's 28th state, was officially established on June 2, 2014, marking a significant moment in Indian history. Chief Minister K Chandrasekar Rao emphasized the democratic process and the long struggle that led to the state's formation.

2. Early Struggles for Separation (1955-1972)

• The seeds of the Telangana statehood movement were sown as early as 1955 when the States Reorganisation Commission proposed keeping Hyderabad as a separate state, a suggestion that was ultimately ignored.
• Telangana was merged with Andhra Pradesh on November 1, 1956, creating a united state for Telugu-speaking people.
• However, political leaders from Telangana accused Andhra Pradesh of neglecting their region, resulting in land and job disputes.

3. The 1969 and 1972 Protests

• In 1969, Telangana witnessed a violent protest for a separate state, led by various social groups, student unions, and government employees.
• This movement prompted Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to formulate a six-point formula to address the region's development and employment concerns.

4. Political Support and Formation of TRS (1997-2001)

• The demand for a separate Telangana state gained political momentum when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) backed it in 1997.
• In 2001, K Chandrasekara Rao founded the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), further advancing the cause.
• Additionally, the formation of states like Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh inspired Telangana's demand for statehood.

5. KCR's Fast-Unto-Death (2009)

• During the 2004 Lok Sabha polls, Congress President Sonia Gandhi pledged to honour the sentiments of those demanding a separate Telangana state.
• The movement intensified in 2009 when K Chandrasekara Rao began a fast-unto-death in Karimnagar.
• This prompted the UPA government to announce the formation of Telangana on December 9, 2009, only to backtrack two weeks later, sparking protests.

6. Justice Srikrishna Committee and CWC Resolution (2010-2013)

• To find a permanent solution, a panel led by Justice (Retd.) B.N. Srikrishna was formed on February 3, 2010.
• Despite extensive consultations, the panel did not favour bifurcation.
• However, in July 2013, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) recommended Telangana's formation.
• The Union Cabinet approved this decision based on a report from a ministerial group in December 2013.
• The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill was introduced in Parliament and passed in 2014, leading to the official formation of Telangana. Hyderabad was envisioned as the common capital during the transition.

Image Source: Hyderabad News

7. Significance of Telangana Formation

• The establishment of Telangana on June 2, 2014, signifies the triumphant culmination of the Telangana Movement, which spanned over 57 years.
• This movement not only granted a distinct identity to the people of Telangana but also reshaped India's map by redefining state boundaries.

8. Conclusion

• Telangana Formation Day is a day to celebrate the culture, heritage, and achievements of the Telangana people.
• It is also a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by the Telangana martyrs and to reaffirm the commitment to building a better future for Telangana.

 

For Prelims: States Reorganisation Commission, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Justice Srikrishna Committee, Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill,  For Mains:  1. Explain the role of Hyderabad as the common capital during the transition period after Telangana's formation. What challenges and opportunities did this arrangement present for both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh? (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2021) A. Pingali Venkayya designed the tricolour Indian Nation Flag here. B. Pattabhi Sitaramaiah led the Quit India Movement of Andhra region from here. C. Rabindranath Tagore Translated the National Anthem from Bengali to English here. D. Madame Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott set up headquartes of Theosophical Society first here.   Answer: C   2. Match the following: (TS Panchayat Secretary 2018) A. Submission of Srikrishna Committee Report              i. 31st December, 2010 B. Appointment of Antony Committee                             ii. 6th August, 2013 C. Appointment of Sushil Kumar Shinde Committee      iii. 8th October, 2013 D. AP State's Reorganisation Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha                                                               iv. 13th February, 2014 A.   A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv B. A-iii, B-i, C-iv, D-ii C. A-ii, B-iv, C-i, D-iii D. A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i   Answer: A   3. Under which Section of the AP Reorganization Act, did the Central Government provide special financial support for the creation of essential facilities? ( APPSC Panchayat Secretary 2018) A. Section 6         B. Section 9      C.  Section 48         D.  Section 94 Answer: D   4. The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its (UPSC 2014) A. advisory jurisdiction B. appellate jurisdiction C. original jurisdiction D. writ jurisdiction Answer: C

 

 

Source: Financial Express