U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1993

Rock-cut Cave Geography

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The caves of Ajanta and Ellora are in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Maharashtra is home to the most significant concentration of rock-cut cave architecture in India, with Ajanta and Ellora representing the zenith of this tradition.

Explanation Both sites are situated near Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Ajanta consists of 29 exclusively Buddhist caves (2nd BCE to 6th CE). Ellora contains 34 caves (6th to 11th CE) representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Maharashtra's basaltic terrain was ideal for carving deep, durable caves.
Logic 2: These sites were strategically located near ancient trade routes passing through the Deccan region.

Active Recall

Question

Which of these sites is exclusively Buddhist?

Answer

Ajanta is exclusively Buddhist, while Ellora represents three major Indian religions.

Core Insight

While Ajanta is famous for its murals, Ellora is renowned for its architectural scale, particularly the monolithic Kailasa Temple.