[Solved] Kailasa Temple Ellora: Monolithic Rock-cut Masterpiece

Which of the following temples is an example of rock-cut architecture?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Rock-cut architecture involves carving a structure directly into living rock, as opposed to 'structural' architecture where stones are piled to form a building.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a monolithic wonder. Built in the 8th century by Rashtrakuta King Krishna I, it was excavated from top to bottom out of a single volcanic basalt cliff. In contrast, the Shore Temple and others listed are structural temples built of individual blocks.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Kailasa is a 'negative' architectural form, created by removing rock rather than adding material.

Logic 2: The Shore Temple (Pallava), Rajarajeshwara (Chola), and Jagannatha (Ganga) are all structural masonry buildings.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How long did it take to build the Kailasa temple?"

It took approximately 150 years and involved the removal of over 200,000 tons of rock.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Kailasa represents the transition where rock-cut architecture reached such complexity that it successfully mimicked a multi-storied structural temple."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Rashtrakutas 2Basalt Rock 4