[Solved] Descent of Ganga Relief Sculpture | Mahabalipuram

Depiction of the descent of the river Ganga from heaven in the form of relief sculpture on rock is at

[CAPF 2018]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mahabalipuram is home to some of the world's most magnificent open-air bas-reliefs, where entire mythological narratives are carved onto massive granite boulders.

Authentic Source Evidence

The 'Descent of the Ganga' (also known as Arjuna's Penance) is a colossal relief at Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu. It depicts the sacred river descending from the heavens through Shiva's hair, flanked by life-sized animals, gods, and ascetics. This Pallava masterpiece measures roughly 27m by 9m.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The site is unique for its use of a natural fissure in the rock to represent the actual river Ganga during the monsoon rains.

Logic 2: While Ellora has grand sculptures, the specific 'Descent of Ganga' in this massive open-air relief format is the defining characteristic of Mahabalipuram.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is the alternative interpretation of this relief?"

Some scholars identify it as 'Arjuna's Penance', where the hero Arjuna performs austerities to obtain the Pasupata weapon from Shiva.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The relief illustrates the Pallava artists' ability to integrate natural landscape features into religious storytelling."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Bas-relief 2