UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025, Syllabus, Pattern, Study Material, PYQs

UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 comprises two papers of 250 marks each. Covering Paper 1 and 2, the UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 evaluates classical to modern Hindi literature.

Ananya Gupta

June 10, 2025

UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025, Syllabus, Pattern, Study Material, PYQs

UPSC Hindi Optional Paper remains one of the preferred choices for candidates with a strong command of Hindi literature and language. It offers a distinctive opportunity for aspirants from Hindi-speaking backgrounds to demonstrate their expertise in a culturally rich and historically profound subject. The UPSC Hindi Optional is part of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination and comprises two papers—Paper I and Paper II—each carrying 250 marks, summing up to a total of 500 marks.

Interested candidates must read on to get a detailed overview of the UPSC Hindi Optional, covering the UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus, paper-wise analysis, suggested books, success rates, and key insights for 2025.

UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 Highlights

The UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 is ideal for candidates with a strong background or interest in Hindi literature and language. It comprises two papers of 250 marks each in the UPSC Mains, totalling 500 marks. Candidates opting for Hindi as their optional subject must have a detailed understanding of classical, medieval, and modern Hindi literature.

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UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 Highlights
Particulars Details
Exam Name UPSC Civil Services Exam
Optional Subject Hindi
Optional Papers 2 (Paper I & II)
Total Marks 500
Duration of Each Paper 3 Hours
Total Optional Subjects 48
Weightage 25% of UPSC Mains Marks

Candidates opting for the UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 should prepare thoroughly, focusing on the language’s evolution, literary forms, and major contributors. The optional subject plays a crucial role in determining one’s success in the mains stage.

UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus

The UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus is designed to evaluate a candidate’s understanding of the Hindi language, its historical evolution, various dialects, and major literary traditions. It is divided into two papers:

Paper I (Historical and Linguistic Development)

  • Focuses on the history of the Hindi language, the Nagari script, and the evolution from Sanskrit and Prakrit.
  • Explores Braj, Awadhi, and early Khari Boli as literary languages.
  • Covers medieval to modern developments, including prose, poetry, and drama.
  • Major writers include Tulsidas, Kabir, Jayasi, and Surdas.

Section A – Hindi Language History and Grammar

  • Evolution from Apabhransh to Modern Standard Hindi
  • Impact of the freedom movement and technical modernisation
  • Dialects and script reforms

Section B – Hindi Literature History

  • Adikal: Sidh, Nath, and Raso Sahitya
  • Bhaktikal: Sant, Sufi, Krishna, Ram Bhakti
  • Ritikal: Keshav, Bihari, Ghananand
  • Adhunik Kal: Bharatendu Mandal, Chhayavad, Pragativad, Nai Kavita
  • Novel & Short Story: Premchand, Renu, Yashpal
  • Drama & Theatre: Bharatendu to Mohan Rakesh
  • Criticism & Prose: Ramchandra Shukla, Ram Vilas Sharma

Paper II (Literary Criticism and Modern Literature)

  • Emphasises critical literary analysis and understanding of modern Hindi literature.
  • Detailed study of works by Premchand, Nirala, Agyeya, Nagarjun, and others.
  • Explores genres like short stories, novels, plays, and essays.

Section A – Poetry and Literary Texts

  • Kabir Granthawali, Bhramar Geetsar, Ramcharitmanas
  • Kamayani, Rag-Virag, Kurukshetra
  • Modern poets like Muktibodh, Nagarjun

Section B – Prose and Criticism

  • Godan, Maila Anchal, Divya, Mahabhoj
  • Critical works: Chintamani, Nibandh Nilaya
  • Essays and critiques by prominent Hindi writers

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UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus
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UPSC Hindi Optional Book List

A carefully selected UPSC Hindi Optional Book List enhances preparation and helps candidates build strong conceptual clarity:

  • Hindi Sahitya Ka Itihas – Acharya Ramchandra Shukla
  • Adhunik Hindi Sahitya Ki Pravritiyan – Dr. Nagendra
  • Kamayani – Jaishankar Prasad
  • Premchand Ki Sarvashreshth Kahaniyan – Ed. Amrit Rai
  • Bharat Durdasha – Bharatendu Harishchandra
  • Kurukshetra – Ramdhari Singh Dinkar
  • Ashadh Ka Ek Din – Mohan Rakesh

These books align closely with the UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus and offer comprehensive coverage of the required topics.

UPSC Hindi Optional PYQ Analysis

Studying UPSC Hindi Optional PYQ (Previous Year Questions) gives aspirants insight into the exam pattern, the kind of literary analysis required, and recurring themes. Candidates should attempt to solve the past 7 years’ UPSC Hindi Optional Question Papers to assess their readiness and refine answer-writing skills.

Success Rate of Hindi Optional in UPSC

The success rate of candidates choosing the UPSC Hindi Optional is moderately promising. The data below reflects the number of candidates who selected Hindi and their subsequent success:

Success Rate of Hindi Optional in UPSC
Year Candidates Appeared Selected Success Rate
2019 191 13 6.8%
2018 236 15 6.4%
2017 267 19 7.1%
2016 288 36 12.5%

The UPSC Hindi Optional Paper proves advantageous for those with a background in Hindi literature or academic training in the subject.

Advantages of Choosing Hindi Literature Optional

  • Scoring Subject: With the right preparation, candidates can score high due to the clear structure and limited scope.
  • Less Competition: Fewer candidates opt for Hindi, increasing the odds of standing out.
  • Linguistic Fluency: Native or fluent Hindi speakers have a natural advantage.
  • Defined Syllabus: The UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus is concise and well-documented.

Challenges in Hindi Optional

  • Subjective Nature: Interpretative answers require clarity and depth.
  • No Overlap with GS: Syllabus content does not support GS paper preparation.
  • Limited Resources: Quality coaching and test series are scarce compared to other popular optionals.

UPSC Hindi Optional PYQ & Preparation Strategy

Studying UPSC Hindi Optional PYQ (Previous Year Questions) is crucial. They help candidates understand exam trends, focus areas, and presentation techniques. Analyse past UPSC Hindi Optional Question Papers thoroughly to identify frequently asked themes and stylistic approaches.

  • Begin with language fundamentals and historical development.
  • Develop concise notes for each literary period.
  • Practice writing answers in standard Hindi using clear literary references.
  • Regularly review UPSC Hindi Optional PYQ and attempt mock tests.

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Conclusion

The UPSC Hindi Optional Paper demands in-depth literary understanding, disciplined preparation, and passion for Hindi literature. It can be a rewarding optional for those with a genuine interest in the language and its cultural heritage. With a well-planned study strategy and consistent practice, aspirants can master both Paper 1 and Paper 2 and leverage their performance to achieve a high rank in the Civil Services Examination. As the UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 approaches, begin early, choose your resources wisely, and stay consistent in your efforts.

Ready to boost your UPSC 2025 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

 

UPSC Hindi Optional Paper FAQs

The UPSC Hindi Optional Syllabus includes historical language development, classical literature, modern prose, poetry, and literary criticism.

UPSC Hindi Optional PYQs are crucial for understanding exam trends, important topics, and expected answer patterns for both papers.

The UPSC Hindi Optional Book List includes works by Ramchandra Shukla, Nagendra, and texts like Kamayani, Godan, and Premchand Ki Kahaniyan.

The UPSC Hindi Optional carries a total of 500 marks, divided into two papers of 250 marks each in the Mains examination.

Yes, the UPSC Hindi Optional Paper 2025 is ideal for candidates with a strong command of Hindi literature, especially those from a Hindi academic background.

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AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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