Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following places is famous for Buddhist Cave Temples?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Indian rock-cut architecture reached its aesthetic peak in the secluded Buddhist monastic retreats where monks combined architecture, sculpture, and painting.Explanation
Ajanta (Maharashtra) contains 29 rock-cut caves exclusively dedicated to Buddhism. These caves, dating from 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE, house the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian mural painting and sculpture depicting Jataka stories.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Elephanta is primarily Shaivite (Hindu); Khajuraho is Hindu and Jain; Nalanda is a structural university rather than a 'cave temple'.
Logic 2: Ajanta is the definitive site for 'Buddhist Cave Temples', uniquely spanning both the Hinayana and Mahayana phases of art.