Temple Architecture — Set 2
Arts & Culture · मंदिर स्थापत्य · Questions 11–20 of 70
The star-shaped ground plan is a unique characteristic of which South Indian temple style?
Correct Answer: D. Hoysala
• **Hoysala temples feature** = Hoysala temples feature a stellate or star-shaped base made of multiple offsets. • **Feature** — This design provided more wall surface for the intricate soapstone carvings they are famous for. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
What is the circumambulatory path around the sanctum of a temple called?
Correct Answer: A. Pradakshina Patha
• **Pradakshina Patha** = Pradakshina Patha'. • **Context** — Devotees use this path to walk around the deity as a mark of respect. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The Modhera Sun Temple, known for its magnificent stepped tank, was built by which dynasty?
Correct Answer: C. Solankis
• **The Solankis were** = The Solankis were rulers of Gujarat who patronized the Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. • **Feature** — The Modhera temple features a large tank called the 'Surya Kund' decorated with numerous small shrines. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
In Dravida architecture, the entire structure from the base to the top of the main shrine is collectively called?
Correct Answer: D. Vimana
• **Vimana refers to** = Vimana refers to the pyramidal tower over the sanctum in South Indian temples. • **Context** — In the Nagara style, only the top part of the tower is called the Shikhara. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
Which temple complex is famous for its erotic sculptures and the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
Correct Answer: C. Khajuraho
• **Khajuraho was the** = Khajuraho was the capital of the Chandela Rajputs in Madhya Pradesh. • **Context** — These Nagara style temples are renowned for their highly decorative and detailed outer walls. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The Kailasa Temple at Ellora, carved out of a single mountain, was commissioned by which dynasty?
Correct Answer: C. Rashtrakuta
• **Rashtrakuta** = Rashtrakuta'. • **Context** — Commissioned by Krishna I, this monolithic temple is a marvel of rock-cut architecture. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The raised platform on which some Nagara temples are built is known as?
Correct Answer: C. Jagati
• **The Jagati is** = a high pedestal that provides a base for the entire temple structure. • **Context** — It often serves as an additional walkway for devotees. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The Dilwara Temples at Mount Abu are famous examples of architecture related to which religion?
Correct Answer: A. Jainism
• **Jainism** = Jainism'. • **Data** — They were built between the 11th and 13th centuries by Vimal Shah and the brothers Vastupal and Tejpal. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
Which temple architecture element refers to the 'vestibule' or connecting passage between the hall and the sanctum?
Correct Answer: D. Antarala
• **vestibule** = a small space that acts as a transition zone for the devotee approaching the deity. • **Context** — It is commonly found in matured Nagara style temples. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The massive monolithic bull statue at the Lepakshi Temple is a fine example of which style?
Correct Answer: B. Vijayanagara
• **The Vijayanagara style** = known for its massive pillars, ornate carvings, and monolithic sculptures. • **Context** — The Nandi at Lepakshi is one of the largest monolithic bulls in India. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].