Regional Temple Geography

Match Famous Temples with States | UPSC Exam Prep

Vidyashankara temple is in Karnataka, Rajarani is in Odisha, Kandariya Mahadeo is in Madhya Pradesh, and Bhimesvara is in Andhra Pradesh.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List-IList-II
A. Vidyashankara temple1. Andhra Pradesh
B. Rajarani temple2. Karnataka
C. Kandariya Mahadeo temple3. Madhya Pradesh
D. Bhimesvara temple4. Orissa

[UPSC CSE Previous Year]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


India’s diverse temple styles are distributed across states, each reflecting regional dynastic histories like the Vijayanagara, Chandela, and Somavamsi.

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Vidyashankara (Karnataka): A 14th-century marvel in Sringeri blending Hoysala and Dravida styles.

  • Rajarani (Orissa/Odisha): An 11th-century temple in Bhubaneswar famous for its lack of a presiding deity and beautiful shalabhanjikas.

  • Kandariya Mahadeo (Madhya Pradesh): The largest and most ornate temple in the Khajuraho group, built by the Chandelas.

  • Bhimesvara (Andhra Pradesh): Located in Draksharama, it is one of the 'Pancharama Kshetrams'.
  • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Matching A-2 and C-3 is often the quickest way to solve this, as Khajuraho (C) is synonymous with Madhya Pradesh and Sringeri (A) with Karnataka.

  • Logic 2: D-1 (Bhimesvara) is a key Shiva shrine of the Eastern Chalukyas in Andhra.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is unique about the pillars in the Vidyashankara temple?"

    It has 12 zodiac pillars arranged such that the sun's rays fall on them according to the solar month.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "These temples serve as architectural repositories of the astronomical and artistic knowledge of their respective eras."

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