question_answer

Study carefully the picture given below and answer the questions that follow:

 

(a) How is Bharatmata visualised in this picture?

(b) What 'quality' is emphasised by her and how?

(c) Do you think this is a truly national symbol? Give reasons for your answer.

(d) Is it correct to represent her as a Hindu goddess in a country which has multireligious population?

 

Answer:

(a) Bharatmata is depicted as a mother figure, shown in the picture as dispensing learning, food and clothing.

(b) The mala or the string (rosary) in one hand emphasising ascetic quality.

(c) Since Bharatmata is depicted in similar way as Hindu goddess, it does not have immunities appeal to the people of all communities. Use of secular symbol would be a better way of representing Indian nation.

(d) In a multi religious society rosary or string of beads used by 'Sanyasis' or ascetic people, goddess like another figure might give a wrong message that the nation represents only the hindus. A commonly accepted secular symbol is preferable.