NCERT Solutions class 6 Social-Science Chapter 7. India`s Cultural Roots Extra Questions With Solutions

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Very Short Answer Questions (1–2 Marks)

Q1. What does the word “Veda” mean?
Answer: It means “knowledge.”

Q2. Name the four Vedas.
Answer: Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva.

Q3. Who founded Buddhism?
Answer: Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha.

Q4. What is the core principle of Jainism?
Answer: Ahimsa (non-violence).

Q5. What does anekantavada mean?
Answer: The belief that truth has many sides.

Q6. What does the Upanishadic idea of “ātman” mean?
Answer: The inner self or soul.

Q7. Name any one tribal belief mentioned in the chapter.
Answer: Belief in sacred forces of nature.

Q8. What heritage did UNESCO recognise from India?
Answer: Vedic chanting.

Short Answer Questions (3–4 Marks)

Q1. What were the main teachings of the Buddha?
Answer: The Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths: life involves suffering, desire causes suffering, suffering can end, and the Eightfold Path leads to liberation. He emphasised compassion, right conduct, mental discipline and avoiding harm to all living beings.

Q2. Explain the concept of karma in the Upanishads.
Answer: Karma means that every action has consequences. Good actions lead to positive outcomes while harmful actions result in suffering. One’s karma shapes future experiences, including rebirth. This idea encourages responsible and moral living.

Q3. How did Jainism encourage harmony in society?
Answer: Jainism emphasised ahimsa, truth, simplicity and respect for all life forms. Its ideas discourage anger, greed and violence. Anekantavada teaches tolerance by accepting multiple viewpoints, helping create peaceful coexistence.

Q4. What are some features of India’s tribal cultures?
Answer: Tribal cultures value a close relationship with nature, honouring rivers, mountains, forests and animals. Their traditions include unique art forms, songs, dances, festivals and belief in a guiding spiritual power. They preserve ancient knowledge through oral traditions.

Long Answer Questions (5–6 Marks)

Q1. Describe the major cultural roots of India as explained in the chapter.
Answer: India’s cultural roots come from Vedic traditions, Upanishadic ideas, Buddhism, Jainism and folk–tribal cultures. The Vedas introduced hymns, rituals and ideas of cosmic order. The Upanishads taught self-realisation, karma, rebirth and the unity of all beings. Buddhism contributed values of compassion, moderation and mindfulness. Jainism taught non-violence, many-sided truth and simplicity. Tribal cultures added deep respect for nature, community bonding and rich artistic traditions. Together, these roots shaped a civilisation known for diversity, tolerance and spiritual depth.

Q2. Explain how Buddhism and Jainism challenged the older traditions and enriched Indian culture.
Answer: Buddhism and Jainism questioned rigid rituals and emphasised inner purity, ethical behaviour and self-discipline. They taught kindness, non-violence and equality, challenging social divisions. Both encouraged people to think independently rather than rely on rituals. Their teachings spread simple living, respect for life and compassion. By promoting dialogue, tolerance and peaceful conduct, they greatly enriched India’s spiritual and moral heritage.

Q3. How do India’s folk and tribal traditions contribute to our cultural identity?
Answer: Folk and tribal traditions preserve ancient stories, local customs, arts and music that form the foundation of India’s cultural diversity. They celebrate nature through rituals, festivals, dances and songs. Their belief in sacred landscapes connects people to the environment. Tribal art, craft and symbols continue to influence modern Indian culture. These traditions emphasise community life, cooperation and harmony with nature, making them vital parts of India’s shared identity.