Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
To which period do the sites of Ellora and Elephenta belong?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
The Rashtrakuta period (8th-10th century CE) represents a golden age of rock-cut architecture in the Deccan, characterized by unprecedented scale and religious pluralism.Explanation
The Rashtrakuta rulers were the primary patrons of the monumental phases at Ellora (including the Kailasa Temple under Krishna I) and the Shaivite cave sanctuaries at Elephanta. They utilized the local basalt rock to carve these intricate religious complexes.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The stylistic features of the heavy, powerful figures in both Ellora and Elephanta are characteristic of the Rashtrakuta 'Imperial' school of sculpture.
Logic 2: While the Chalukyas laid the groundwork at sites like Badami, it was the Rashtrakutas who achieved the monumental scale seen at Ellora.