The UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025 has concluded, and candidates who opted for Kannada Literature as their optional subject can now download the official Paper-II question paper. The Kannada Literature Paper-II is a crucial part of the optional section, focusing on in-depth analysis of prescribed texts, poetry, prose, and modern literary movements. This paper tests not just factual knowledge but also the candidate’s ability to interpret and critically analyse Kannada literary works.
I’m writing about this because Kannada Literature has grown into one of the most respected and intellectually rewarding optional subjects in the UPSC Mains. However, aspirants often struggle to find authentic question papers for practice. By providing access to the official 2025 Kannada Literature Paper-II, this article aims to help candidates preparing for future attempts. Understanding the type and structure of questions asked by UPSC gives a strong edge in preparation and helps in planning concise yet analytical answers.
About Kannada Literature Paper-II in UPSC Mains
Kannada Literature is offered as one of the 48 optional subjects in the UPSC Mains Examination. Each optional subject consists of two papers – Paper-I and Paper-II, carrying 250 marks each, adding up to a total of 500 marks. While Paper-I deals with the history and development of the Kannada language and literature, Paper-II is entirely based on prescribed texts, literary appreciation, and criticism.
The Kannada Literature Paper-II mainly includes:
- Critical appreciation of classical and modern Kannada texts
- Analytical questions on poetry, prose, drama, and fiction
- Comparative study of themes, styles, and literary trends
- Interpretation of Kannada cultural and philosophical thought reflected in literature
It is a descriptive paper that requires in-depth understanding and clarity of literary expression in Kannada.
Paper Structure and Pattern
Here’s a quick overview of the Kannada Literature Paper-II pattern for 2025:
| Section | Type of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Section A | Questions based on classical Kannada texts, epics, and poetry | 125 |
| Section B | Questions based on modern prose, drama, and fiction | 125 |
| Total | Descriptive Answers (8–10 questions) | 250 Marks |
Candidates have to answer a specific number of questions from each section. The paper tests interpretation, literary analysis, and expression in Kannada rather than rote memorisation.
How to Download the Kannada Literature Paper-II (2025)
The official question paper of the Kannada Literature Paper-II (UPSC Mains 2025) is now available on the UPSC website. Candidates can download it by following these steps:
- Go to the official website of UPSC – https://www.upsc.gov.in
- Click on the “Examinations” tab.
- Select “Previous Question Papers.”
- Choose “Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025.”
- Scroll down to “Optional Subjects” and click on “Kannada Literature Paper-II.”
- Download the PDF file and save it for future reference.
N.B: If you want to download the question paper without any difficulty, you can easily download it by clicking here.
The question paper is available free of cost and can be viewed on any device.
