Jharkhand PCS Mains 2016

Medieval Temple Restoration

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

After the attack of Mahmud Ghazni, who among the following reconstructed the Somnath temple?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The Somnath temple in Gujarat was a target of Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025-26 CE. Its subsequent restoration by local Hindu dynasties became a symbol of cultural resilience.

Explanation Historical records of the Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty confirm that Bhimraja-I (Bhimdev I) rebuilt the temple in stone shortly after Mahmud's departure. Later, it was further embellished by Kumarapala and Jayasimha Siddharaja.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option A is the correct historical figure responsible for the immediate post-raid reconstruction.
Logic 2: Mahmud had destroyed the previous wooden structure; Bhimraja I ensured the new structure was a grander stone monument.

Active Recall

Question

In which state is the Somnath temple located?

Answer

The Somnath temple is located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat.

Core Insight

The repeated reconstruction of Somnath illustrates the deep religious and political significance the site held for the regional powers of Western India.