Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Consider the following statements: 1. The early chaityagrihas and viharas of Guntupalli in West Godavari district are rock cuts. 2. The chaityas and Viharas of Eastern Deccan are usually rock cut. Slect the correct answer using the code given below:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
While Western Deccan (Maharashtra) is the primary center of cave architecture, the Eastern Deccan (Andhra) also hosts significant rock-cut sites influenced by Northern traditions.Explanation
Guntupalli (Andhra Pradesh) features a circular rock-cut chaitya hall that mimics early wooden prototypes (like the Lomas Rishi cave). Generally, across the Eastern Deccan, rock-cut architecture was the standard for early monastic retreats, though structural brick stupas also became common later.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct; the Guntupalli complex is one of the oldest and most important rock-cut sites in the East.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct; rock-cutting was the preferred initial method for creating durable sacred spaces in these hilly terrains.