UPSC CSE Prelims 2002

Indian Art & Architecture

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following statements is not correct?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept This question covers a range of cultural and religious architecture across Medieval India. Identifying inaccurate statements requires specific knowledge of iconography and patronage.

Explanation The Gomateshwara statue in Karnataka represents Lord Bahubali, the son of the *first
Tirthankara (Rishabhanatha), not the last (Mahavira).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement A is incorrect because Bahubali is not a Tirthankara, though he is highly revered in Jainism for reaching enlightenment.
Logic 2: Statement B is correct (Tawang Monastery). Statement C is correct (Chandelas built Khajuraho). Statement D is correct (Hoyseleswara is a Shiva temple at Halebidu).

Active Recall

Question

Who commissioned the Gomateshwara statue?

Answer

It was commissioned by Chavundaraya, a minister of the Western Ganga Dynasty, around 983 CE.

Core Insight

Sravanabelagola is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites and serves as a prime example of monolithic stone sculpture in India.