Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
The rock-cut caves in western India are located in-
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
Western India, particularly the Sahyadri range, is the primary hub for Indian rock-cut architecture due to the suitability of the basaltic terrain.Explanation
The most prominent cluster in Western India includes Nasik (Pandavleni), Ellora, and Ajanta. While sites like Bhaja and Pitalkhora are also in Western India, the combination in Option A represents the most famous and culturally significant spanning Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Nasik features 24 Buddhist caves (1st BC - 3rd CE).
Logic 2: Ajanta is exclusively Buddhist and famous for murals.
Logic 3: Ellora is a multi-faith complex (6th - 10th CE) featuring the monolithic Kailasa temple.