Question : Mahabalipuram monuments were built in__________ dynasty architecture.
Option 1: Chandela
Option 2: Pallava
Option 3: Pali
Option 4: Gupta
Correct Answer: Pallava
Solution : The correct answer is Pallava.
The Hindu Group of Monuments in Mahabalipuram, sometimes called Mamallapuram, are especially prominent landmarks because they are both artistic and technological marvels and a remarkable testament to the Pallava monarchs' architectural legacy. In the context of classical Indian architecture, the group of monuments at Mahabalipuram holds a unique place.
Question : Which of the following architecture is a memorial of Aurangzeb's wife, Dilras Banu Begum?
Option 1: Jama Masjid
Option 2: Bibi Ka Maqbara
Option 3: Shah Begum's Tomb
Option 4: Taj Mahal
Correct Answer: Bibi Ka Maqbara
Solution : The correct answer is Bibi Ka Maqbara.
The Bibi Ka Maqbara is a memorial located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, and it is often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan" because of its architectural similarity to the Taj Mahal. The Bibi Ka Maqbara was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, Dilras Banu Begum. Dilras Banu Begum was also known as Rabia-ud-Durrani.
Question : Khajuraho temple in Madhya Pradesh is an example of ____________ style of temple architecture.
Option 1: Dravida
Option 2: Vesara
Option 3: Nagara
Option 4: Hoysala
Correct Answer: Nagara
Solution : The correct answer is Nagara.
The Chandela dynasty, which peaked between 950 and 1050, is when the temples of Khajuraho were constructed. The Khajuraho temple in Madhya Pradesh is an example of the Nagara style of temple architecture. With a sanctum, a small antechamber, additional halls (ardha mandapa), a mandapa or nave, and an ambulatory corridor (Pradakshina-path) lighted by large windows, the temples of Khajuraho are outstanding examples of Nagara temple design.
Question : Concerning Buddhist architecture, what does chaitya mean?
Option 1: Buddha relics
Option 2: Temple entrance
Option 3: Prayer hall
Option 4: Residence/monastery
Correct Answer: Prayer hall
Solution : The correct option is a Prayer hall.
A "chaitya" refers to a mound-like or hemispherical structure containing Buddhist relics. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word "chaitya", which means a place of worship or a shrine.
This prayer hall is divided into three parts, The Chaitya hall, The Vihara and The Stupa. They play a crucial role in Buddhist religious practices and are considered sacred sites for pilgrimage and meditation.
Question : Bahmani Monuments at Gulbarga, Karnataka represent the _________ style of architecture.
Option 1: Mamluk
Option 2: Sikh
Option 3: Deccan
Option 4: Nagara
Correct Answer: Deccan
Solution : The correct answer is Deccan.
Most of the Bahmani structures in Gulbarga, Karnataka, are examples of Deccan architecture. During the Bahmani Sultanate, which ruled the Deccan from 1347 until 1527, the Deccan style gained prominence. The Haft Gumbad complex, which has seven tombs safeguarded by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Gulbarga Fort and Great Mosque, both located in Karnataka State, are the main components of Bahmani structures at Gulbarga.
Question : How did the discovery of the Harappan civilization challenge previous notions of ancient Indian history?
Option 1: By proving the existence of an advanced urban culture
Option 2: By disproving the theory of the Aryan supremacy
Option 3: By revealing the use of iron in ancient India
Option 4: By showing the influence of Greek architecture in ancient India
Correct Answer: By proving the existence of an advanced urban culture
Solution : The discovery of the Harappan civilization challenged previous notions of ancient Indian history by proving the existence of an advanced urban culture, which was previously unknown and altered our understanding of the region's historical timeline.
Question : The Ravana Phadi cave in_____ is an example of the early Chalukya style architecture, which is known for its distinct sculptural style.
Option 1: Tamil Nadu
Option 2: Kerala
Option 3: Andhra Pradesh
Option 4: Karnataka
Correct Answer: Karnataka
Solution : The correct option is Karnataka.
The Ravana Phadi cave in Aihole, Karnataka, is a prime example of early Chalukya-style architecture, renowned for its unique sculptural style. Carved in the 6th century, the cave features intricate carvings depicting various deities, animals, and mythological scenes. The distinctive blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural elements showcases the artistic brilliance of the Chalukyan period.
Question : What is the stone-like disc seen at the top of the temple in Odisha and the nearby district's Temple architecture called?
Option 1: Kalasha
Option 2: Antarala
Option 3: Amalaka
Option 4: Jagati
Correct Answer: Amalaka
Solution : The correct answer is Amalaka.
The Amalaka is a distinctive stone disc atop the Hindu temple shikhara or main towers. Typically segmented with ridges on the rim, it holds symbolic significance. Some view it as a lotus, representing the deity's symbolic seat below. Alternatively, it is seen as a representation of the sun, serving as a gateway to the celestial realm.
Question : "Gopuram" or temple entrance is a feature of which temple architecture?
Option 1: South Indian temple architecture
Option 2: Buddhist architecture
Option 3: Jain architecture
Option 4: North Indian temple architecture
Correct Answer: South Indian temple architecture
Solution : The correct option is South Indian temple architecture.
" Gopuram" describes the huge doorway or entrance tower in South Indian temple architecture. It is a characteristic that sets the Dravidian style of temple architecture apart and is usually quite noticeable. The primary entrance to the temple complex is marked by intricately adorned and ornate gopurams.