U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017

Mauryan Rock-cut Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following is not true about the Barabar hill caves?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Barabar caves represent the earliest examples of rock-cut architecture in India, reflecting Mauryan patronage of non-Buddhist sects.

Explanation There are four caves (Lomas Rishi, Sudama, Karan Chaupar, Visvakarma). Ashoka inscribed three of them to dedicate them to the Ajivika sect. However, they date to the 3rd century BCE (Mauryan period), not the 6th century BCE.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statements A, B, and C accurately describe the site's layout and dedicatory nature.
Logic 2: Statement D is false because the 6th century BCE was the time of the Mahajanapadas/Early Buddhism, while these caves were excavated by Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.

Active Recall

Question

Which of the Barabar caves is famous for its ornate entrance?

Answer

The Lomas Rishi Cave, which features an arched facade depicting a row of elephants.

Core Insight

The high polish of the granite interior in Barabar caves showcases the technical mastery achieved by Mauryan stonemasons.