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
Dravida architecture is the classical style of South Indian temples. It is distinguished by its pyramidal towers called Vimanas. Nagara style is characterized by its beehive-shaped towers called Shikharas.
What is the primary material used in the construction of the Khajuraho temples?
Correct Answer: D. Sandstone
The Chandelas used fine-grained buff, pink, or yellow sandstone for these monuments. Sandstone was easy to carve into the detailed sculptures the site is famous for. Most of these temples are located in Madhya Pradesh.
The 'Vesara' style of architecture was patronized most significantly by which dynasty?
Correct Answer: D. Chalukya
The Chalukyas of Badami initiated the Vesara style in the Deccan region. It is a mix of the North Indian Nagara and South Indian Dravida styles. This style flourished in parts of modern-day Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Which temple is famous for its 'Ratha' or chariot shape and is carved out of rock?
Correct Answer: C. Mahabalipuram Rathas
The Five Rathas at Mahabalipuram are monolithic structures named after the Pandavas. They represent different architectural forms practiced during the Pallava period. These are carved from a single ridge of granite.
The massive gateway of a South Indian temple is known as a?
Correct Answer: C. Gopuram
Gopurams are the most striking feature of large Dravidian temple complexes. They are multi-storied and highly decorated with colorful statues. Over time, these gateways became even larger than the main temple tower.
Where is the famous 'Shore Temple' located?
Correct Answer: C. Mahabalipuram
The correct answer is 'Mahabalipuram'. The Shore Temple is a structural stone temple built overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It was constructed under the Pallava King Narasimhavarman II. It is one of the earliest structural temples in South India.
What is the 'Garbhagriha' in a Hindu temple?
Correct Answer: D. Inner sanctum
The Garbhagriha is the innermost chamber where the idol of the deity is kept. Devotees are usually not allowed inside this sacred space. In most temples, it is a small, dark room designed to focus the mind.
The Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur was built by which Chola ruler?
Correct Answer: A. Raja Raja Chola I
Raja Raja Chola I built this massive granite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in 1010 AD. Its Vimana is one of the tallest in South India. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site today.
Which temple is known as the 'Black Pagoda'?
Correct Answer: C. Konark Sun Temple
The Sun Temple at Konark was called the Black Pagoda by European sailors because of its dark color. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple at Puri was called the White Pagoda. It is built in the shape of a massive chariot with 24 wheels.
The Kailasa Temple at Ellora is a masterpiece of which architectural type?
Correct Answer: B. Rock-cut monolithic
The entire Kailasa Temple was carved out of a single piece of live rock. It was built by the Rashtrakuta King Krishna I in the 8th century. It is the largest monolithic rock-cut monument in the world.