History • Ancient IndiaHard
Analyze the structural evolution and iconographic features of early Indian rock-cut architecture: 1. The Barabar caves located in Bihar were excavated during the reign of Ashoka and his grandson Dasharatha primarily for the ascetic members of the Ajivika sect. 2. The Bhaja and Karla caves in the Western Ghats feature magnificent apsidal prayer halls known as chaityas with elaborate wooden ribbing. 3. The Ellora cave complex contains exclusive Buddhist architectural monuments, with no structural or stylistic representation of Hindu or Jain traditions. Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only✓ Correct Answer
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
💡 Solution & Explanation
Statements 1 and 2 are correct because the Barabar cave inscriptions confirm their dedication to Ajivikas, and Karla as well as Bhaja represent prime examples of rock-cut Hinayana Buddhist chaitya halls with polished interior walls and wooden facade elements. Statement 3 is incorrect because Ellora is globally renowned for its harmonious integration of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples, spanning several centuries of continuous patronage. The Kailash Temple at Ellora is a monolithic rock-cut marvel carved from a single basalt cliff during the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
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