UPSC CSE Prelims 1997

Dynastic Architecture of India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer: | List-I | List-II | | :--- | :--- | | A. Gupta | 1. Badami | | B. Chandela | 2. Panamalai | | C. Chalukya | 3. Khajuraho | | D. Pallava | 4. Deogarh |

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Each major Indian dynasty is associated with specific architectural styles and spiritual centers. Identifying these connections is vital for understanding Indian cultural history.

Explanation Guptas built the Dashavatara temple at Deogarh. Chandelas are synonymous with Khajuraho. The Early Chalukyas ruled from Badami, and the Pallavas built the Thalagirisvara temple at Panamalai.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Deogarh (UP) represents the pinnacle of Gupta stone temple architecture.
Logic 2: Khajuraho is the signature contribution of the Chandelas to the Nagara style.
Logic 3: Badami caves and temples define the Early Chalukyan art, while Panamalai features early Pallava fresco paintings.

Active Recall

Question

What is unique about the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh?

Answer

It is one of the earliest standing stone temples in India, featuring a shikhara and elaborate carvings of Vishnu's incarnations.

Core Insight

Dynastic identity in India was often expressed through the monumental scale and artistic unique of the temples they patronized.