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UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Subject 2024

PWOnlyIAS April 12, 2024 06:12 444 0

Download the complete information for the UPSC Santhali Literature Optional subject for 2024.

UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Subject 2024

The Santhali Literature Optional is among the diverse choices offered within the 23 language options for the UPSC Mains Examination. It finds its place in the section of the UPSC Syllabus dedicated to “Literature of any of the following languages,” thus making Santhali literature a viable option for aspirants. This article endeavours to cover all aspects of Santhali literature, aiming to equip candidates with the knowledge required to excel in this subject. We will delve into the components of the Santhali literature syllabus, explore available resources, discuss preparation strategies, and provide tips to aid aspirants in securing high marks in this optional subject in the UPSC exam.

UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Subject

Santhali is a language primarily spoken by the Santhal tribe in India, spread across the regions of Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal, as well as in neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal. It belongs to the Austroasiatic language family and employs the Ol Chiki script for writing. Santhali literature encompasses a wide range of expressions, from the oral traditions and folk songs to contemporary novels, short stories, essays, and dramas

Santhali literature has a rich history that plays a crucial role in the cultural identity of the Santhal community.. Important cultural figures in Santhali literature, such as Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the creator of the Ol Chiki script, have significantly contributed to the preservation and propagation of the Santhali language and literature. Studying Santhali literature as an optional subject in the UPSC exam provides aspirants with an opportunity to explore this unique cultural and linguistic heritage.

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UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Subject Structure

In the UPSC Civil Services Examination format, candidates can choose optional subjects for the Mains stage, and Santhali Literature emerges as a distinctive selection among the available literature options. The Santhali Literature Optional requires a thorough study of various genres, significant literary figures, cultural movements, and the art of literary criticism. Aspirants selecting Santhali Literature must possess an in-depth understanding of the Santhali language and its rich literary heritage to excel in their examination.

UPSC Santhali Literature Exam Pattern 

Similar to other optional subjects in the UPSC optional subject list, Santhali Literature comprises two papers, Paper I and Paper II, with each paper carrying a total of 250 marks. Both papers are segmented into two sections. Each paper presents a total of eight questions, equally divided into four questions per section. Candidates are required to attempt five questions in total. Questions 1 and 5 are compulsory. From the remaining six questions, candidates must choose any three to attempt, ensuring at least one question is answered from each section. For Santhali, the question paper will be printed in Devanagari script; but candidates will be free to answer either in Devanagari script or in Olchiki.  

Particular Details
Total Papers Two papers, Paper I and Paper II
Total Marks 500 (250 Each)
Time allowed 3 Hours for each paper
Sections Section A and Section B
Questions total 8 questions with subparts
Compulsory Question Question Nos. 1 and 5
Marks Distribution 10, 15, and 20 marker questions
Writing Language Santhali
Writing Script Devnagari or Olchiki

UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Syllabus

As outlined in the official UPSC notification, the syllabus for this optional subject is divided into two papers, each designed to test the candidates’ understanding of Santhali literature’s depth, its cultural nuances, and its historical evolution. Candidates are expected to engage with a wide range of literary forms, from poetry and prose to drama and criticism, reflecting the vibrant literary traditions of the Santhali language. Answers must be written in Santhali, either in Devanagari script or in Olchiki.

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UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Syllabus For Paper I 

Santhali Literature Paper I covers ancient oral traditions to modern written works, and encompasses a diverse range of folk tales, songs, poetry, and prose. It reflects the resilience and creativity of the Santhali community, offering insights into their history, beliefs, and way of life. Their literature serves as a repository of stories and knowledge and also as an expression of identity and pride for the Santhali people.

Paper I Syllabus

Section A
  • Part I—History of Santhali Language 
    1. Main Austric Language family, population and distribution. 
    2. Grammatical structure of Santhali Language. 
    3. Important character of Santhali Language: Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, Translation, Lexicography. 
    4. Impact of other languages of Santhali. 
    5. Standardization of Santhali Language.
  • Part II—History of Santhali Literature  
    1. Literary trend of the following four periods of history of Santhali Literature. 
      1. Ancient Literature before 1854. 
      2. Missionary period Literature between 1855 to 1889 AD. 
      3. Medieval period: Literature between 1890 to 1946 AD. 
      4. Modern period : Literature from 1947 AD to till date. 
    2. Writing tradition in History of Santhali literature. 
Section B
  • Part I
    Folk Literature in Santhali—folk song, folk tale, phrase, idioms, puzzles, and Kudum.  
  • Part II
    Modern literature in Santhali 
  1. Development of poetry and prominent poets. 
  2. Development of prose and prominent writers. 
    1. Novels and prominent Novelists. 
    2. Stories and prominent story writers. 
    3. Drama and Prominent Dramatist. 
    4. Criticism and prominent critics. 
    5. Essay, sketches, memoirs, travelogues and prominent writers. 
  • Santhali writers
    Shyam Sundar Hembram, Pandit Raghunath Murmu, Barha Beshra, Sadhu Ramchand Murmu, Narayan Soren ‘Toresutam’, Sarda Prasad Kisku, Raghunath Tudu, Kalipada Soren, Sakla Soren, Digamber Hansda, Aditya Mitra ‘Santhali’, Babulal Murmu ‘Adivasi’, Jadumani Beshra, Arjun Hembram, Krishna Chandra Tudu, Rupchand Hansda, Kalendra Nath Mandi, Mahadev, Hansda, Gour Chandra Murmu, Thakur Prasad Murmu, Hara Prasad Murmu, Uday Nath Majhi, Parimal Hembram, Dhirendra Nath Baske, Shyam Charan Hembram, Damayanti Beshra, T.K. Rapaj, Boyha Biswanath Tudu.
  • Part III
    Cultural Heritage of Santhali tradition, customs, festival and rituals (birth, marriage and death).

UPSC Santhali Literature Optional Syllabus For Paper II 

Santhali Literature Paper II covers a wide range of genres and styles, from traditional prose like “Kherwal Bonso Dhorom Puthi” by Majhi Ramdas Tudu to contemporary poetry like “Onto Baha Mala” by Aditya Mitra. With notable works spanning from ancient narratives to modern novels and dramas, Santhali literature celebrates the essence of Santhali identity and tradition, offering insights into their beliefs, struggles, and aspirations.

This paper will require in-depth reading of the following texts and the questions will be designed to test the candidates’ critical ability

Paper II Syllabus

Section A: Ancient Literature
  • Prose 
    1. Kherwal Bonso Dhorom Puthi—Majhi Ramdas Tudu “Rasika”. 
    2. Mare Hapramko Reyak Katha—L.O. Scrafsrud. 
    3. Jomsim Binti Lita—Mangal Chandra Turkulumang Soren. 
    4. Marang Buru Binti—Kanailal Tudu. 
  • Poetry 
    1. Karam Sereng—Nunku Soren. 
    2. Devi Dasain Sereng—Manindra Hansda. 
    3. Horh Sereng—W.G. Archer. 
    4. Baha Sereng—Balaram Tudu. 
    5. Dong Sereng—Padmashri Bhagwat Murmu ‘Thakur’. 
    6. Hor Sereng—Raghunath Murmu. 
    7. Soros Sereng—Babulal Murmu “Adivasi”. 
    8. More Sin More Ndia—Rup Chand Hansda. 
    9. Judasi Madwa Latar—Tez Narayan Murmu. 
Section B: Modern Literature
  • Part I—Poetry 
    1. Onorhen Baha Dhalwak—Paul Jujhar Soren. 
    2. Asar Binti—Narayan Soren “Tore Sutam”. 
    3. Chand Mala—Gora Chand Tudu. 
    4. Onto Baha Mala—Aditya Mitra “Santhali”. 
    5. Tiryo Tetang—Hari Har Hansda. 
    6. Sisirjon Rar—Thakur Prasad Murmu. 
  • Part II—Novels 
    1. Harmawak Ato—R.Karstiars (Translator—R.K. Kisku Rapaz). 
    2. Manu Mati—Chandra Mohan Hansda. 
    3. Ato Orak—Doman Hansdak. 
    4. Ojoy Gada Dhiph re—Nathenial Murmu. 
  • Part III—Stories 
    1. (a) Jiyon Gada—Rup Chand Hansda and Jadumani Beshra.
    2. (b) Mayajaal—Doman Sahu ‘Samir’ and Padmashri Bhagwat Murmu ‘Thakur’. 
  • Part IV—Drama 
    1. Kherwar Bir—Pandit Raghunath Murmu. 
    2. Juri Khatir—Dr. K.C. Tudu. 
    3. Birsa Bir—Ravi Lal Tudu. 
  • Part V—Biography 
    1. Santal Ko Ren Mayam Gohako—Dr. Biswanath Hansda.  

Selecting appropriate resources is essential for candidates opting for Santhali Literature as their optional subject in the UPSC exam. Santhali Literature spans from traditional oral narratives to contemporary literary works, covering poetry, prose, drama, and critiques. Here is a list of essential books for Santhali Literature Optional Paper I and Paper II to assist candidates in their studies.

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Santhali Literature Optional Books For Paper I

Book: Author
  1. Sidhu-Kanhu Dahar: Raghunath Murmu
  2. Darege Dhan: Salkhan Murmu
  3. Baha Sadan Kowaw Akan Go Aana: Lako Bodra
  4. Adivasiyon Ki Khoj Mein: Dr. Ram Dayal Munda and Dr. A.K. Kiro
  5. Santhali Lokkathayen: Dr. Kishore Jadav
  6. Adi Dharam: Dr. Kherwal Soren
  7. Santhal Hul (1855-56 Ki Kranti): Mahadev Mahato

Santhali Literature Optional Books For Paper II

Books: Author(s)
  1. Maya K’ra: Rupchand Hansdah
  2. Johar Sahiya: Chandramohan Kisku
  3. Marang Buru: Aditya Kumar Mandi
  4. Akhra: Sibu Soren
  5. Kherwal Bir: Raghunath Murmu
  6. Gaate Gelinj: Dr. Doman Sahu
  7. Sari Dharam: Pandit Raghunath Murmu
  8. Binti: Dr. Sanatan Hansda
  9. Hor Sombad: Nirmal Minz
  10. Santhali Sahitya Akhra: Various Authors
  11. Other literature are mentioned in the syllabus

How to Prepare for Santhali Literature Optional?

Preparing for the Santhali Literature optional in the UPSC exam necessitates a focused and methodical approach to understand the depth of Santhali literary culture. Here are some key strategies for effective preparation for this optional subject:

  • Understand the Syllabus: Start by thoroughly reviewing the Santhali Literature syllabus to identify key areas of focus.
  • Formulate a Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan that dedicates sufficient time to each part of the syllabus, ensuring a well-rounded preparation.
  • Take Notes Diligently: While studying various texts, make detailed notes on important themes, characters, stylistic features, and memorable quotes for easy reference later on.
  • Practice Answer Writing: Set aside time daily for writing practice in Santhali, working on improving your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely.
  • Read Original Works: Immerse yourself in original Santhali works to better understand the nuances of the language and the unique styles of different authors.
  • Draw Literary Comparisons: Whenever applicable, compare Santhali literature with works from other languages or cultures to add depth to your answers.
  • Cultivate Analytical Skills: Developing a critical and analytical perspective is crucial for literature subjects, allowing you to offer deeper insights into the texts you discuss.
  • Engage with Previous Year Papers: Review questions from previous years to get a sense of the exam pattern, highlight recurring themes, and tailor your preparation accordingly.

Advantages and Disadvantages Of UPSC Santhali Literature Optional

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Lower Competition: Fewer candidates choose Santhali Literature, which may benefit those with strong knowledge and interest in Santhali works. 
  • Cultural Depth: Provides insight into Santhali culture, history, and society through literature, enriching candidates’ understanding. 
  • Enhances Language Skills: Improves essay writing, comprehension, and analytical skills crucial for the UPSC exam. 
  • Consistent Syllabus: The syllabus changes little over time, allowing for long-term use of study materials.
  • Subjectivity in Evaluation: Like other literature subjects, evaluations can be subjective, affecting scores based on interpretation. 
  • Fewer Resources: There are fewer study materials and coaching options specifically for Santhali Literature. 
  • Limited GS Overlap: Offers little overlap with General Studies, requiring more dedicated study time for literature.
  • Language Barrier: For candidates not fluent in Santhali or unfamiliar with the Ol Chiki script, there can be an additional challenge of mastering the language for the exam.

Previous Year Question Papers for Santhali Literature Optional 

The table below contains the direct PDF links of the Previous Year Question Papers of Santhali Optional Paper I and Paper II:

UPSC CSE Santhali Optional PYQ 2016
UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper I (2016) UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper II (2016)
UPSC CSE Santhali Optional PYQ 2015
UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper I (2015) UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper II (2015)
UPSC CSE Santhali Optional PYQ 2014
UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper I (2014) UPSC CSE Santhali Optional Paper II (2014)

 

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IAS Santhali Literature Optional Toppers’ Answer Sheets  

Examining the answer sheets of toppers who have selected Santhali Literature Optional can significantly benefit aspirants aiming for high scores in this part of the UPSC exam. These answer sheets reveal the essential elements of a successful writing approach that aligns with UPSC criteria. Topper answer copies are often shared through various blogs and telegram channels, providing a vital resource for candidates to analyse and adapt their own writing techniques.

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Santhali literature can be a strong optional subject for UPSC candidates who are proficient in Santhali or have a deep interest in its literature. It provides a chance to showcase their understanding and appreciation of Santhali literary works.

Yes, the UPSC essay paper can be written in Santhali or any other scheduled language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, provided the candidate has indicated this choice in their UPSC application.

No, Santhali Paper 1 refers to the optional paper focusing on Santhali literature, while Santhali Compulsory Papers are part of the language qualifying papers in the UPSC exam, testing proficiency in the Santhali language.

The difficulty of Santhali literature as an optional subject varies with the candidate's background in Santhali literature. It may be advantageous for those well-versed in Santhali literary traditions but challenging for those new to the subject.

When selecting a literature subject as an optional for the UPSC exam, consider your academic background, interest, and prior knowledge in the literature of that language. A strong personal connection and enthusiasm for the subject will help in navigating the comprehensive syllabus and extensive reading required.

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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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
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