Consider the following statements regarding the "Shamans": 1. They are strictly defined as political leaders without any religious role. 2. They are men and women who claim magical and healing powers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Option The correct option is 2 only Explanation In the context of ancient societies and early religious practices, Shamans are individuals believed to possess special powers that allow them to interact with the supernatural realm. This concept is often discussed in the study of tribal beliefs and the cultural background of early Indo-European or indigenous communities. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Incorrect: Shamans are men and women who claim to possess magical and healing powers. They are traditionally viewed as intermediaries who can communicate with the other world to cure sickness or perform rituals. - Statement 2 is Correct: Shamans are not strictly defined as political leaders. Their primary role is religious, spiritual, and ritualistic. While they may command respect within a tribe, their authority stems from their perceived connection to the divine or spirit world, not from a secular political office. Key Takeaway: Shamans are spiritual functionaries associated with healing, magic, and communication with the spirit world, rather than political administration.

NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 1: Bricks, Beads and Bones - The Harappan Civilisation

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Consider the following statements regarding the "Shamans":

They are strictly defined as political leaders without any religious role.
They are men and women who claim magical and healing powers.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

In the context of ancient societies and early religious practices, Shamans are individuals believed to possess special powers that allow them to interact with the supernatural realm. This concept is often discussed in the study of tribal beliefs and the cultural background of early Indo-European or indigenous communities.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect: Shamans are men and women who claim to possess magical and healing powers. They are traditionally viewed as intermediaries who can communicate with the other world to cure sickness or perform rituals.
Statement 2 is Correct: Shamans are not strictly defined as political leaders. Their primary role is religious, spiritual, and ritualistic. While they may command respect within a tribe, their authority stems from their perceived connection to the divine or spirit world, not from a secular political office.

Key Takeaway: Shamans are spiritual functionaries associated with healing, magic, and communication with the spirit world, rather than political administration.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Bricks, Beads and Bones - The Harappan Civilisation

In the context of Harappan domestic architecture at Mohenjodaro, which of the following is a distinctive feature of the residential buildings?

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The "Proto-Shiva" seal depicts a figure seated in a yogic posture surrounded by animals. Which of the following animals are typically associated with this depiction?

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With reference to the subsistence strategies of the Harappan Civilisation, consider the following statements: 1. Millets have been found at Harappan sites in Gujarat. 2. Rice was the most commonly consumed grain in the Harappan Civilisation. 3. Bones of wild species such as boar and gharial are found at Harappan sites. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the "Mother Goddess" figurines: 1. They are made of terracotta. 2. They are always depicted as plain figures without any jewellery. 3. They are found in large numbers at Mohenjodaro. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I (Site) | List II (Feature) A. Dholavira | 1. Craft production centre B. Kalibangan | 2. Evidence of ploughed field C. Chanhudaro | 3. Water reservoirs D. Lothal | 4. Dockyard

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Correct Option

The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect: Shamans are men and women who claim to possess magical and healing powers. They are traditionally viewed as intermediaries who can communicate with the other world to cure sickness or perform rituals.
Statement 2 is Correct: Shamans are not strictly defined as political leaders. Their primary role is religious, spiritual, and ritualistic. While they may command respect within a tribe, their authority stems from their perceived connection to the divine or spirit world, not from a secular political office.

Key Takeaway: Shamans are spiritual functionaries associated with healing, magic, and communication with the spirit world, rather than political administration.