Question
Download Solution PDFComprehension
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on it:
When many cultures co-exist in a given geographical area, without one dominating the other, it is known as “cultural pluralism”. There is a common national culture in India, but at the same time the various communities have the freedom to maintain and develop their own cultural and religious traditions, so long as they are not detrimental to the unity and general welfare of the nation. This is cultural pluralism in the Indian context. Nehru (1946) described the “unity in diversity” within India when he said, “it is fascinating to find how the Bengalis, the Marathas, the Gujaratis, the Tamils, the Andhras, the Oriyas, the Assamese, the Canares, the Malayalis, the Sindhis, the Punjabis, the Pathans, the Kashmiris, the Rajputs and the great Central block of the Hindusthani speaking people, have retained their peculiar characteristics for hundreds of years.... have remained distinctively Indian. “Indian Culture is grand and unique and has fostered other cultures. We can call Gandhi the embodiment of Indian cultural Heritage. He was the one who highlighted India’s culture and spoke of its characteristics of magnanimity, flexibility and above all of its synthesis. The history of the country’s culture goes back to the ancient past or we can certainly line it up at least with the Dravidian era. Later on, many other cultures came in contact with the Indian Culture and easily merged themselves into it according to the circumstances and conditions that prevailed in India. In the same context, Gandhiji regarded the homogeneity of the Indian environment as the basis of this synthesis.
According to Gandhi ji, which of the following is a characteristic of Indian culture ?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe correct answer is - Magnanimity
Key Points
- Magnanimity
- According to Gandhi ji, one of the fundamental characteristics of Indian culture is its inherent magnanimity.
- Magnanimity refers to the quality of being generous, kind-hearted, and forgiving, which Gandhi ji believed was deeply embedded in the Indian ethos.
- This characteristic is reflected in India's long history of tolerance and acceptance of diverse cultures, religions, and ideas.
- Gandhi ji emphasized that this quality of magnanimity should be upheld to maintain harmony and peace within the society.
Additional Information
- Gandhi ji's Views on Indian Culture
- Gandhi ji often spoke about the importance of preserving the core values of Indian culture, including non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satya).
- He believed that Indian culture's strength lies in its ability to assimilate and integrate various influences while maintaining its unique identity.
- Gandhi ji also highlighted the significance of simplicity and self-sufficiency as key aspects of Indian culture.
- Other Characteristics of Indian Culture
- Spirituality
- Indian culture places a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and the quest for inner peace and enlightenment.
- Major religions originating in India, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, emphasize spiritual practices and ethical living.
- Communal Harmony
- India's diverse population has coexisted for centuries, fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
- Festivals, traditions, and communal activities often bring people from different backgrounds together, promoting social cohesion.
- Spirituality