Temple Architecture — Set 5
Arts & Culture · मंदिर स्थापत्य · Questions 41–50 of 70
The 'Nagara' style is mainly found in North India. What is its southern counterpart called?
Correct Answer: D. Dravida
• **Nagara** = the classical style of South Indian temples. • **Context** — It is distinguished by its pyramidal towers called Vimanas. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
What is the primary material used in the construction of the Khajuraho temples?
Correct Answer: D. Sandstone
• **The Chandelas used** = The Chandelas used fine-grained buff, pink, or yellow sandstone for these monuments. • **Feature** — Sandstone was easy to carve into the detailed sculptures the site is famous for. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The 'Vesara' style of architecture was patronized most significantly by which dynasty?
Correct Answer: D. Chalukya
• **Vesara** = The Chalukyas of Badami initiated the Vesara style in the Deccan region. • **Context** — It is a mix of the North Indian Nagara and South Indian Dravida styles. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
Which temple is famous for its 'Ratha' or chariot shape and is carved out of rock?
Correct Answer: C. Mahabalipuram Rathas
• **Ratha** = The Five Rathas at Mahabalipuram are monolithic structures named after the Pandavas. • **Context** — They represent different architectural forms practiced during the Pallava period. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The massive gateway of a South Indian temple is known as a?
Correct Answer: C. Gopuram
• **Gopurams are the** = Gopurams are the most striking feature of large Dravidian temple complexes. • **Context** — They are multi-storied and highly decorated with colorful statues. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
Where is the famous 'Shore Temple' located?
Correct Answer: C. Mahabalipuram
• **Shore Temple** = Mahabalipuram'. • **Context** — The Shore Temple is a structural stone temple built overlooking the Bay of Bengal. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
What is the 'Garbhagriha' in a Hindu temple?
Correct Answer: D. Inner sanctum
• **Garbhagriha** = the innermost chamber where the idol of the deity is kept. • **Context** — Devotees are usually not allowed inside this sacred space. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur was built by which Chola ruler?
Correct Answer: A. Raja Raja Chola I
• **Raja Raja Chola** = Raja Raja Chola I built this massive granite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in 1010 AD. • **Context** — Its Vimana is one of the tallest in South India. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
Which temple is known as the 'Black Pagoda'?
Correct Answer: C. Konark Sun Temple
• **Black Pagoda** = The Sun Temple at Konark was called the Black Pagoda by European sailors because of its dark color. • **Context** — In contrast, the Jagannath Temple at Puri was called the White Pagoda. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].
The Kailasa Temple at Ellora is a masterpiece of which architectural type?
Correct Answer: B. Rock-cut monolithic
• **The entire Kailasa** = The entire Kailasa Temple was carved out of a single piece of live rock. • **Context** — It was built by the Rashtrakuta King Krishna I in the 8th century. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Option A]: [why wrong]; [Option B]: [why wrong]; [Option C]: [why wrong].