NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7 India’s Cultural Roots are designed to help students understand the deep spiritual and philosophical foundations of Indian civilisation.
This chapter introduces learners to key belief systems such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Buddhism, Jainism, and tribal traditions, which have shaped India’s cultural identity for thousands of years.
The chapter focuses on values like ahimsa (non-violence), dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation), while encouraging students to reflect on the ethical and social ideas that have influenced Indian society.
These solutions follow the latest CBSE Class 6 Social Science syllabus and CBSE exam guidelines, making them ideal for exam preparation, classroom learning, and homework support. Written in simple, student-friendly language, the answers help learners develop critical thinking and a deeper appreciation of India’s diverse cultural heritage.
NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7 Introduction
This chapter explores the early spiritual and philosophical traditions of India. It helps students understand how ancient ideas and values have shaped Indian society, beliefs, and way of life. The chapter focuses on the Vedas, Upanishads, and the teachings of Buddhism, Jainism, and tribal cultures.
The Vedas and Their Teachings:
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The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, written in Sanskrit.
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There are four Vedas: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda.
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They teach values like truthfulness, charity, respect for life, and the idea of unity between the individual soul (Atma) and the universal soul (Brahman).
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The Vedas promote spiritual growth while living a balanced, responsible life.
New Schools of Thought:
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During the 1st millennium BCE, ideas like Yoga and Vedanta grew from Vedic teachings.
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Vedanta, based on the Upanishads, teaches that the whole universe is one with the supreme being, Brahman.
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These thoughts became part of what we now know as Hindu philosophy.
Buddhism and Jainism:
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Both religions emerged around the same time and rejected the authority of the Vedas.
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Buddhism, founded by Gautama Buddha, focused on ending suffering through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
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Jainism, founded by Mahavira, emphasized ahimsa (non-violence), anekantavada (many-sided truth), and aparigraha (non-attachment).
Tribal and Folk Beliefs:
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Tribal communities worship nature, animals, rivers, and local deities.
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Many Hindu gods and goddesses have roots in tribal beliefs, such as Jagannath and the Mother Goddess.
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These beliefs show the rich diversity of Indian culture and the mutual respect between different traditions.
India’s Cultural Roots NCERT Class 6th SST Chapter 7 Question Answer
Below are the solutions to all the textbook questions from Chapter 7. These answers are designed to help Class 6 students understand the geographical and cultural identity of India.
The Big Questions (Page 105)
Question 1: What are the Vedas? What is their message?
Answer:
The Vedas are the oldest and most sacred books of Hinduism. They were written in Sanskrit and contain knowledge about prayers, rituals, and the way to live a good life. The word “Veda” means knowledge or wisdom.
There are four main Vedas:
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Rigveda – It has hymns that praise different gods.
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Samaveda – It includes songs and chants that are sung during prayers.
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Yajurveda – It has mantras used in rituals.
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Atharvaveda – It talks about healing, health, and magical chants.
The message of the Vedas is to live a life of truth, kindness, and balance. They teach us to do our duties, respect others, and grow both spiritually and in the real world. They say that the soul (Atma) is connected to the universal power (Brahma).
Question 2: What new schools of thought emerged in India in the 1st millennium BCE? What are their core principles?
Answer:
During the 1st millennium BCE, many new ways of thinking developed in India. Some of them were based on the Vedas, while others went beyond them.
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Yoga focused on self-control and awareness through meditation and physical practice.
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Vedanta came from the Upanishads. It taught that everything, including people and nature, is part of one supreme power called Brahman.
These ideas became the base of Hinduism.
Some other schools didn’t follow the Vedas:
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Buddhism, started by Gautama Buddha, taught non-violence (ahimsa) and self-discipline.
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Jainism also followed non-violence, along with the ideas of many-sided truth (anekantavada) and non-attachment (aparigraha)
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Charvaka believed only in what we see and touch. They did not believe in life after death. Over time, their ideas faded away.
Question 3: What is the contribution of folk and tribal traditions to Indian culture?
Answer:
Folk and tribal traditions have added a lot to Indian culture. These groups mostly share their beliefs through stories, songs, and rituals passed down by word of mouth. They worship nature — like rivers, mountains, trees, and animals.
Tribal people have their own gods and goddesses. Some famous deities like Jagannath and the Mother Goddess came from tribal beliefs.
These traditions also believe in a supreme power, just like Hinduism. The mixing of tribal and mainstream ideas has made Indian culture richer and more diverse. That’s why folk and tribal traditions are a very important part of India’s cultural heritage.
LET’S EXPLORE
Do you know the term for a society where people select their leaders? How do you think people can benefit from such a situation? What could happen if they live under leaders that they did not choose? (Hint: Think back to what you’re learning in the theme ‘Governance and Democracy’!) Write your thoughts in a paragraph of 100–150 words.
Answer:
A society where people select their leaders is called a democracy. In a democracy, citizens have the right to vote and choose their representatives.
This system gives people the power to hold leaders accountable and ensure that their needs and interests are considered. When people elect their leaders, they feel more involved and responsible for the country’s progress.
It also promotes equality and freedom of speech. On the other hand, if people live under leaders they did not choose, their voices may be ignored. Such leaders may misuse power, make unfair rules, or limit people’s rights. This can lead to frustration, protests, or even conflict. Therefore, choosing our leaders helps build a fair and just society where everyone has a say in how the country is run.
THINK ABOUT IT
Question 1. Have you heard or read any other story that conveyed an important message? What values did it teach you?
Answer:
Yes, I have read a famous story called “The Honest Woodcutter.” In this story, a poor woodcutter drops his axe into a river. A god appears and offers him a golden axe, but the woodcutter refuses, saying it is not his. He also refuses a silver axe and only accepts his own iron axe. Impressed by his honesty, the god rewards him with all three axes.
This story teaches us the value of honesty and truthfulness. It shows that being honest, even when no one is watching, brings respect and rewards in the long run. It also reminds us that wealth gained through dishonest means may not bring true happiness or peace.
LET’S EXPLORE
Question 1. Discuss the way the Buddha is depicted in the above panel.
Answer: In many panels or carvings, the Buddha is shown as calm and peaceful, often sitting in a meditation pose with closed eyes and a gentle smile. His hands are placed in different symbolic gestures, called mudras, like the Dharmachakra mudra (turning the wheel of dharma) or the Dhyana mudra (meditation). He is usually shown with a halo around his head, symbolizing enlightenment. These images highlight the Buddha’s wisdom, peace, and spiritual power.
Question 2. Can you name some states of India or some other countries where Buddhism is a major religion even today? Try to plot these on a world map.
Answer:
Yes! Here are some places:
In India:
Other Countries:
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Sri Lanka
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Thailand
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Myanmar (Burma)
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Bhutan
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Tibet (China)
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Japan
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Vietnam
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Cambodia
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Mongolia
LET’S EXPLORE
Observe the above panel (from a Jain temple in New Delhi). What is striking about it? What messages does it carry?
Answer:
Even without the image, Jain temple panels are often known for their detailed carvings, symmetry, and peaceful expressions on the faces of the Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). What’s striking is the fine artwork and the use of symbols like the lotus, swastika, and the hand with a wheel (symbol of ahimsa).
These panels usually carry important messages of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and simple living. They show that the Jain religion values self-discipline, compassion for all living beings, and freedom from material desires. The calm and serene faces in the panel reflect inner peace and spiritual awakening, inspiring people to follow the path of kindness, honesty, and self-control.
Such art also reminds us of India’s deep-rooted tradition of tolerance, respect for all life forms, and spiritual learning.
THINK ABOUT IT
Question 1. In both Buddhism and Jainism, ahimsa means much more than refraining from physical violence against a person or an animal. It also means refraining from violence in thought, such as having ill feelings towards anyone. If we observe ourselves carefully, we may notice such negative thoughts and learn to turn them into positive ones. Sometimes such negative thoughts are even directed at ourselves!
Answer:
Yes, both Buddhism and Jainism teach that ahimsa (non-violence) is not just about avoiding physical harm but also about controlling our thoughts and emotions. Negative thoughts like anger, jealousy, hatred, or even harsh self-criticism can also be a form of violence. These thoughts not only hurt others but also affect our own peace of mind.
By becoming more aware of our thoughts, we can slowly change them. For example, instead of being angry at someone, we can try to understand their point of view. If we feel bad about ourselves, we can remind ourselves of our strengths and try to be kind to our own mind.
Practicing ahimsa in this deeper way helps us live a more peaceful, kind, and balanced life — with others and with ourselves. It teaches us that real peace begins in the mind.
THINK ABOUT IT
Question 1. In English, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism are often labelled ‘religions’. You may notice that we have avoided this term, preferring ‘schools of thought’ and (later in this chapter) ‘belief systems’. This is because there are many aspects to those schools and systems, which we will explore gradually — a philosophical aspect, a spiritual aspect, a religious aspect, an ethical aspect, a social aspect, to name a few. Many scholars agree that the word ‘religion’ is too limiting in the context of the Indian civilisation.
Answer:
Yes, it’s true that calling Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism simply “religions” can feel limiting. These traditions are not just about worship or rituals — they include philosophy, ethics, lifestyle, culture, and ways of thinking. That’s why terms like “schools of thought” or “belief systems” are more suitable.
In Indian civilisation, these traditions developed over thousands of years and shaped how people live, behave, and understand the world. For example, Hinduism includes spiritual practices like yoga and meditation, social ideas like dharma (duty), and philosophical discussions on the soul and universe. Similarly, Buddhism and Jainism talk deeply about human suffering, non-violence, and inner peace.
Using broader terms helps us see the full richness and depth of these traditions — not just as religions, but as complete systems of living and thinking that continue to influence millions of people.
Questions, activities and projects
Question 1: If you were Nachiketa, what questions would you like to ask Yama?
Answer:
If I were Nachiketa and got a chance to meet Yama, the god of death, I would ask questions to understand life and what happens after death. I would ask: What is the soul, and how is it different from the body and mind? What is the truth behind life and death? Is there really a cycle of birth and rebirth?
How can someone be free from this cycle? How do our actions, or karma, affect our future? Is living a good and honest life the key to peace and freedom? Can knowledge alone help us reach moksha, or is love and devotion also needed? Lastly, I would ask how we can overcome the fear of death and live with peace in our hearts. These questions would help me understand the deeper meaning of life and guide me on the right path.
Question 2: Explain a few central ideas of Buddhism. Briefly comment upon them.
Answer:
Some main ideas of Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The Four Noble Truths teach us that life has suffering, there is a cause for suffering (desire or craving), it can end, and there is a way to end it.
That way is the Eightfold Path, which shows how to live a right and balanced life through right thoughts, actions, and mindfulness. Buddhism also teaches that our karma — the good or bad things we do — affects our future. These teachings help us live a life of kindness, self-control, and peace. They guide us to be mindful and avoid harming others.
Question 3: Discuss in class the quotation of the Buddha which begins with “Not by water is one made pure, though many people may bathe here [in sacred rivers]” to make sure that its meaning has been understood by all.
Answer:
The Buddha said that just taking a bath in sacred rivers doesn’t make a person pure. What truly matters is how we live our lives. Being kind, honest, and self-controlled is more important than just doing rituals. Real purity comes from our thoughts, actions, and intentions, not from outside things like water. This quote reminds us that inner goodness and self-discipline are the real path to spiritual growth, not just following religious customs.
Question 4: Explain a few central ideas of Jainism. Briefly comment upon them.
Answer:
Jainism is based on three main ideas: ahimsa, anekantavada, and aparigraha.
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Ahimsa means not hurting any living being, even the smallest insect. Jains believe all life is precious.
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Anekantavada means that truth can have many sides. We should listen to others and respect different opinions.
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Aparigraha means not getting too attached to things or wealth. Jains try to live a simple life without greed.
These ideas teach us to be kind, understanding, and not greedy. Jainism focuses on self-control, peaceful living, and respect for all living things.
Question 5: Consider and discuss in class Andre Beteille’s thought (see page 122).
Answer:
Andre Beteille is a well-known Indian sociologist. He said that Hinduism was shaped by the beliefs and traditions of many castes and tribes over time. Each group had its own customs and way of worship, and these got mixed into Hindu practices.
Similarly, tribal traditions were also influenced by Hinduism. His view tells us that Hinduism did not come from one single source but grew slowly through the mixing of many cultures and local traditions in India.
Question 6: Make a list of popular gods and goddesses in your region and the festivals they are associated with.
Answer:
Here’s a list of some popular gods and goddesses and their festivals:
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Lord Rama and Hanuman – Celebrated during Diwali, when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.
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Lord Ganesha – Worshipped during Ganesh Chaturthi, his birthday.
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Lord Shiva – Worshipped during Mahashivratri, which marks the day of his marriage to Goddess Parvati.
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Lord Krishna – Celebrated on Janmashtami, his birthday.
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Goddess Durga – Honored during Durga Puja or Navratri, marking her victory over the demon Mahishasura.
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Goddess Lakshmi – Worshipped on Diwali for wealth and prosperity.
Question 7: As a class activity, list two or three tribal groups from your region or State. Document some of their art and belief systems.
Answer:
Some tribal groups from India include the Gonds, Bhils, Santhals, Mundas, and the Great Andamanese.
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The Great Andamanese live in the Andaman Islands. They believe that all living things have a special power that can affect humans. Their traditions and beliefs are deeply connected to nature. Their art reflects their daily life and culture.
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The Bhils are known for their beautiful and colorful paintings. Bhil art is done on walls, floors, clothes, and even paper. It often shows animals, trees, and village life using bright colors and simple shapes.
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The Gonds also create traditional art, known as Gond painting, which is full of natural elements and folk stories.
True or False
1. The Vedic hymns were written on palm-leaf manuscripts.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Vedic hymns were passed down orally for many generations and were written down much later.
2. The Vedas are India’s oldest texts.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Vedas are considered the earliest known sacred texts of India, dating back to around 1500 BCE.
3. The Vedic statement ekam sat viprā bahudhā vadanti reflects a belief in the unity of cosmic powers.
Answer: True
Explanation: This means “Truth is one, but the wise call it by different names,” showing belief in one divine power expressed in many forms.
4. Buddhism is older than the Vedas.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Vedas came first. Buddhism began much later, around the 6th century BCE.
5. Jainism emerged as a branch of Buddhism.
Answer: False
Explanation: Jainism is a separate religion that developed independently around the same time as Buddhism.
6. Both Buddhism and Jainism advocated for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of harm to all living beings.
Answer: True
Explanation: Both religions taught the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence toward all living things.
7. Tribal belief systems are limited to belief in spirits and minor deities.
Answer: False
Explanation: Tribal beliefs are diverse and include nature worship, rituals, values, and traditions beyond just spirits and minor gods.
NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7 PDF Download
Students can download the NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7 India’s Cultural Roots in PDF format from the link provided below. These solutions are designed to help students understand the rich spiritual and philosophical traditions that form the foundation of Indian civilisation.
