Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012

Evolution of Funerary Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Match the following monuments with their concerned ruler: | List-I | List-II | | :--- | :--- | | A. Double Dome | 1. Sher Shah | | B. Octagonal Tomb | 2. Muhammad Adil Shah | | C. True arch Tomb | 3. Balban | | D. Gol Gumbad | 4. Sikandar Lodi |

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The evolution of the tomb architecture in India progressed from early experimental arches to massive masonry domes and octagonal fortress-like structures.

Explanation
Double Dome (A-4): First introduced in the tomb of Sikandar Lodi, providing a ceiling inside and a tall external profile.
Octagonal Tomb (B-1): Reached its peak in Sher Shah Suri's tomb at Sasaram.
True arch Tomb (C-3): Balban's tomb in Mehrauli introduced the first true scientific arch in India.
Gol Gumbad (D-2): The 17th-century tomb of Muhammad Adil Shah in Bijapur, famous for its massive unsupported dome.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: A-4 and D-2 are the most distinctive links; the Lodi dynasty pioneered the double dome, and the Adil Shahis built the world's largest unsupported dome.
Logic 2: Balban's tomb (C-3) is critical for its technological milestone of the scientific arch.

Active Recall

Question

What is the purpose of a Double Dome in architecture?

Answer

It allows the building to have a lofty height externally for visual grandeur while maintaining a lower, more intimate ceiling height for the interior space.

Core Insight

These monuments represent specific 'technological signatures' of the dynasties that ruled medieval India.