UPSC CSE Pre 2017

Buddhist Mural Traditions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Ajanta murals represent the highest achievement of Indian classical art, specifically focusing on Buddhist themes and Jataka stories.

Explanation The Bodhisattva Padmapani (the lotus holder) is a mural found in Cave 1 of the Ajanta monastery. It depicts the Bodhisattva with a serene expression, wearing a jeweled crown and holding a blue lotus, symbolizing compassion.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Ajanta is globally renowned for its high-quality Buddhist murals. Padmapani is the most iconic among them.
Logic 2: While Bagh and Ellora also have paintings, the specific 'Padmapani' figure is synonymous with Ajanta's Cave 1.

Active Recall

Question

What does the 'Lotus' in Padmapani's hand symbolize?

Answer

It symbolizes the purity of the enlightened mind rising above the 'mud' of the material world.

Core Insight

The Ajanta murals demonstrate a sophisticated mastery of line, color, and emotional expression that influenced art across Asia.