U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2007

Medieval Religious Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Kumaradevi, a queen of Govind Chandra Gahadavala, constructed Dharma-Chakra-Jaina Vihara at-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept In the 12th century, religious patronage by the Gahadavala royalty supported multiple faiths. Kumaradevi, being a devout Buddhist herself, made significant contributions to the holy site of Sarnath.

Explanation Archaeological ruins at Sarnath identify the Dharma-Chakra-Jaina Vihara as a 12th-century monastery built by Kumaradevi. The site features courtyards and gateways typical of late medieval Buddhist architecture.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Sarnath was the location where Buddha delivered his first sermon; thus, it was the logical site for a monastery named 'Dharma-Chakra' (Wheel of Dharma).
Logic 2: This construction serves as evidence of the continued flourishing of Buddhist architecture in the Gangetic plains just before the Turkish invasions.

Active Recall

Question

Who was the husband of Queen Kumaradevi?

Answer

She was the queen of Govindachandra Gahadavala, one of the most powerful rulers of the Gahadavala dynasty of Kannauj.

Core Insight

Kumaradevi's vihara is a crucial architectural link that demonstrates the hybridity of late Gupta and early medieval Indian design.