Rock-cut Architecture and Religious Sites
Besnagar, Bhaja, and Sittanavasal Cave Shrines | UPSC Art
Bhaja is a Buddhist cave shrine and Sittanavasal is a Jain cave shrine, while Besnagar is primarily known for its Vaishnavite Heliodorus Pillar. Thus, two pairs are correctly matched.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class XI - An Introduction to Indian Art
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2023
Evidence Source
Link ↗Consider the following pairs: Site Well known for
1. Besnagar: Shaivite cave shrine
2. Bhaja: Buddhist cave shrine
3. Sittanavasal: Jain cave shrineHow many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
[UPSC CSE Pre 2023]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
India's rock-cut architecture often reflects the diverse religious landscape of ancient times, including Vaishnavism, Buddhism, and Jainism across different geographical regions.
Authentic Source Evidence
According to standard historical records, the Besnagar (Vidisha) site features the Heliodorus Pillar dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Vaishnavism), not Shiva. Bhaja Caves in Maharashtra are a prominent 2nd-century BC Hinayana Buddhist complex. Sittanavasal in Tamil Nadu is an ancient Jain center featuring rock-cut dwellings used by monks for penance.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What does the Heliodorus Pillar signify regarding foreign relations in ancient India?"
It signifies the adoption of Indian religions (Vaishnavism) by Greeks, as Heliodorus was a Greek ambassador.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Cave shrines in India evolved as monastic retreats and centers of worship, often receiving patronage across different sectarian lines."
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