Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following statements about Temple Architecture are true? (i) The freestanding (mortar & stone) temples are supposed to have originated in the Gupta period. (ii) Ladkhan which is one of the earliest temple belongs to Chalukya of Badami. (iii) In Khajuraho temples, all the compartments of the temple are connected internally and externally. (iv) Kailashnath temple at Kanchi is the earliest freestanding temple of Dravid style.
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
Indian temple architecture evolved through distinct phases, from the simple structural experiments of the Guptas to the complex integrated layouts of the medieval period.Explanation
Freestanding stone temples indeed began in the Gupta era (e.g., Temple 17 at Sanchi). The Ladkhan temple at Aihole is a primary early Chalukyan structure. Khajuraho temples are famous for their seamless internal and external integration. However, the Kailashnath temple (Kanchi) is not the *earliest
freestanding Dravid temple; earlier examples exist like the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statements (i), (ii), and (iii) represent the verified academic consensus on the chronological and stylistic evolution of temples.
Logic 2: Statement (iv) is incorrect because while Kailashnath is an early masterpiece, it was preceded by the structural innovations of the Pallava kings at Mamallapuram.