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Dynastic Patronage of Art

Matching Dynasties and Temples | UPSC Art History

The Khajuraho temples were built by the Chandela dynasty. Other correctly matched pairs would include Mahabalipuram with the Pallavas.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XI - An Introduction to Indian Art

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Which of the following pairs is correctly matched?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2010]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Great temple sites in India were commissioned by specific regional dynasties that developed their own characteristic styles (e.g., Nagara, Dravida).

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Khajuraho: Built by the Chandela dynasty (10th-12th Century CE).

  • Ellora: Built by Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Yadavas (not Shakas).

  • Meenakshi: Built by Pandyas and later Nayakas (not Pallavas).

  • Mahabalipuram: Built by the Pallava dynasty (not Rashtrakutas).

    • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: The Chandela-Khajuraho link is one of the most stable facts in Indian architectural history.

  • Logic 2: Most other options swap the dynasties (e.g., Mahabalipuram should be Pallava, and Ellora should be Rashtrakuta).

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "To which modern state do the Khajuraho temples belong?"

    Madhya Pradesh.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Dynastic patronage was the primary driver of artistic evolution, with the Chandelas defining the peak of the Central Indian Nagara style."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Nagara Style 4Panchayatana 2
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