[Solved] Guntupalli Caves and Eastern Deccan Architecture

Consider the following statements:
1. The early chaityagrihas and viharas of Guntupalli in West Godavari district are rock cuts.
2. The chaityas and Viharas of Eastern Deccan are usually rock cut. Slect the correct answer using the code given below:

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

While Western Deccan (Maharashtra) is the primary center of cave architecture, the Eastern Deccan (Andhra) also hosts significant rock-cut sites influenced by Northern traditions.

Authentic Source Evidence

Guntupalli (Andhra Pradesh) features a circular rock-cut chaitya hall that mimics early wooden prototypes (like the Lomas Rishi cave). Generally, across the Eastern Deccan, rock-cut architecture was the standard for early monastic retreats, though structural brick stupas also became common later.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct; the Guntupalli complex is one of the oldest and most important rock-cut sites in the East.

Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct; rock-cutting was the preferred initial method for creating durable sacred spaces in these hilly terrains.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is unique about the Guntupalli chaitya design?"

It is a circular rock-cut hall with a stone stupa, resembling the architecture of the Mauryan Lomas Rishi cave.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The presence of rock-cut sites in Eastern Deccan proves the widespread nature of the cave-temple movement across the subcontinent."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Consider the following statements:1. The early chaityagrihas and viharas of Guntupalli in West Godavari district are rock cuts.2. The chaityas and Viharas of Eastern Deccan are usually rock cut. Slect the correct answer using the code given below: