UPSC Art and Culture

Dhundiraj Govind ‘Dadasaheb’ Phalke: Father of Indian Cinema

Dadasaheb Phalke, regarded as the Father of Indian Cinema, is remembered on his death anniversary on February 16 for pioneering India’s film industry with the country’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913). Over his lifetime, he produced around 125 films and laid the technical and creative foundations of Indian filmmaking. In his honour, the Government of India instituted the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1969, the highest recognition for lifetime contribution to Indian cinema, symbolizing his enduring legacy in India’s cultural and creative landscape.

LAKKUNDI AS ACENTRE OF REIGIOUS PLURALISM & TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE IN MEDIEVA DECCAN

Lakkundi in Karnataka is an important medieval heritage town known for its rich cultural, religious, and architectural legacy. Flourishing under the Western Chalukyas and Hoysalas, it became famous as the “village of a hundred temples and wells.” The site reflects religious pluralism, with strong associations with Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Jainism, and the Virashaiva Bhakti movement.

Its beautifully carved temples and stepwells, built in the distinctive Kalyana Chalukya style, highlight both artistic excellence and sacred utility. Recent archaeological excavations, including evidence of much earlier habitation, have strengthened efforts to include Lakkundi in UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list, underscoring its enduring historical significance.

PAITHANI SAREES

Paithani Sarees, often known as the 'Mahavastra of Maharashtra,' are traditional silk sarees famous for their intricate zari work, peacock designs, and brilliant hues.