What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram?
- Both were built in the same period.
- Both belong to the same religious denomination.
- Both have rock-cut monuments.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — 3 only
❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: Ajanta caves were built between 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE (primarily under Vakataka and Gupta periods), while Mahabalipuram monuments were constructed in 7th-8th centuries CE under the Pallava dynasty. They belong to different periods separated by at least a century.
❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: Ajanta caves are Buddhist monuments serving as monasteries and prayer halls (chaityas and viharas), whereas Mahabalipuram monuments are predominantly Hindu, dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu with structures like Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Both sites feature rock-cut architecture. Ajanta has 30 rock-cut cave temples carved into basalt cliffs, while Mahabalipuram showcases rock-cut monuments including rathas, mandapas, and relief sculptures carved from granite monoliths.
Question 5 of 10 Architecture in Ancient India
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