Question

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on it:

‘Bharat Ek Khoj’

'Bharat Ek Khoj', a serial telecasted by Doordarshan has a special place in the history of Indian television serials. It was based on'Discovery of India', a book written by Pandith Jawaharlal Nehru. It was directed by Shyam Benegal. This serial presented the history of India from the ancient to the modern period, throwing light on social, cultural and political history of respective periods.
It effectively portrayed many aspects of Indian history like Harappan Civilisation, Vedic history, interpretation of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Mauryan period, Turk-Afghan invasions, Mughal period and the contributions of Mughal emperors Bhakti movement, Role of Chhatrapti shivaji Maharaja, Movements of social reform and Indian struggle for independence, etc.
Roshan Seth, the actor who played Pandit Nehru's role in this serial also appeared as a narrator, introducing and explaining various parts of the story by dramatising them, using folklore and informative speeches. The serial was admired in all parts of India because of the comprehensive historical perspective of Pandit Nehru and its equally comprehensive visual presentation.

(1) On which book is a series ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ based on?
(2) Who directed the serial ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’?
(3) Which factors/aspects, according to you, made the serial ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ popular?

Answer 1

1. The serial ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ is based on a famous book titled ‘Discovery of India’ written by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
2. It was directed by Shyam Benegal.
3. This serial covered India's history from the ancient to the modern eras, shedding light on the social, cultural, and political history of each era. It effectively portrayed many aspects of Indian history, such as the Harappan civilisation, Vedic history, and many social reforms and independence movements in India. The serial was admired throughout India due to Pandit Nehru's comprehensive historical perspective as well as its equally comprehensive visual presentation.