Caves & Stupas — Set 5
Arts & Culture · गुफाएं और स्तूप · Questions 41–50 of 50
Which cave site is the most important for ancient Buddhist paintings?
Correct Answer: D. Ajanta
Ajanta is globally famous for its frescos depicting Jataka tales and the life of Buddha. The artists used mineral colors that have stayed vibrant for over a thousand years. It is considered the finest example of ancient Indian painting.
Where is the Great Stupa of Sanchi located?
Correct Answer: D. Madhya Pradesh
Sanchi is located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It is home to several Buddhist monuments, the most famous being the Great Stupa. The site was rediscovered in 1818 by General Taylor.
Which cave is famous for containing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples?
Correct Answer: D. Ellora
Ellora features 34 caves representing three different religions. It shows the religious harmony and tolerance of ancient India. The most spectacular is the Hindu Kailasa temple.
What is the primary material used for the construction of early stupas like Sanchi?
Correct Answer: B. Brick and Stone
Early stupas were often brick mounds that were later covered with stone slabs. Stone provided durability and a better surface for intricate carvings. Sanchi uses local sandstone for its famous gateways and railings.
Which cave is known as the 'Carpenter's Cave'?
Correct Answer: B. Ellora Cave 10
Ellora Cave 10 is called the Vishvakarma Cave because its carvings look like wood-work. It is a large Buddhist prayer hall with a vaulted roof. The stone ribs in the ceiling imitate wooden rafters.
Who was the primary patron of the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves in Odisha?
Correct Answer: A. King Kharavela
King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty patronized these caves for Jain monks. The caves are famous for their Hathigumpha inscriptions. They are located on two adjacent hills near Bhubaneswar.
What do the four gateways (Toranas) of the Sanchi Stupa represent?
Correct Answer: A. Four cardinal directions
The correct answer is 'Four cardinal directions'. The Toranas face North, South, East, and West around the stupa. They are the most decorative parts of the Sanchi complex. They depict stories from the previous lives of Buddha.
Which rock-cut cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located on an island?
Correct Answer: C. Elephanta
The Elephanta Caves are located on Gharapuri Island in Mumbai harbor. They are a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to Lord Shiva. The 'Trimurti' Shiva is the most iconic sculpture there.
Which site is considered the birthplace of the rock-cut cave tradition in India?
Correct Answer: D. Barabar Hills
The Barabar Caves in Bihar are the oldest rock-cut caves in India. They were constructed during the Mauryan period in the 3rd century BCE. They were initially used by the Ajivika sect.
What is the square railing on top of the stupa called?
Correct Answer: C. Harmika
The Harmika represents the heavenly abode of the gods on top of the stupa mound. It holds the shaft that supports the ceremonial umbrellas. It is one of the essential architectural components of a stupa.