Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following statements about sculptures at Sanchi is/are correct? 1. In some sculptures there is representation of Shalabhanjika. 2. The figure of Shalabhanjika is represented by a woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants. 3. The Shalabhanjika motif was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
Early Buddhist art often incorporated pre-existing indigenous symbols and motifs, such as fertility spirits, to make the new faith more relatable to local populations.Explanation
Shalabhanjika is a motif showing a woman holding the branch of a tree (like a Sal tree). At Sanchi, these are found on the toranas (gateways). These figures represent fertility spirits and were included in the Buddhist site as decorative and auspicious symbols of the local folk tradition.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct; she is famously depicted on the gateways of Stupa 1.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is incorrect; Shalabhanjika is defined by the 'tree' pose. The woman surrounded by elephants is 'Gajalakshmi'.
Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct; the motif originated from folk beliefs about women causing trees to bloom with their touch, not from core Buddhist scriptures.