Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following temples is an example of rock-cut architecture?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Rock-cut architecture involves carving a structure directly into living rock, as opposed to 'structural' architecture where stones are piled to form a building.Explanation
The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a monolithic wonder. Built in the 8th century by Rashtrakuta King Krishna I, it was excavated from top to bottom out of a single volcanic basalt cliff. In contrast, the Shore Temple and others listed are structural temples built of individual blocks.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Kailasa is a 'negative' architectural form, created by removing rock rather than adding material.
Logic 2: The Shore Temple (Pallava), Rajarajeshwara (Chola), and Jagannatha (Ganga) are all structural masonry buildings.