History · Society and Culture
UGC NET June 2025 History
Passage
Brown states that this temple, standing high on its base, has a porch on its western side accessible by stairs, and it is here that the designer reached his greatest heights. The traditional combination of mandapa and vimana has not been abandoned, but the way in which all the sharp outward-facing architectural elements such as cornices, niches and porticoes have been arranged in an orderly and artistic manner is a sign of great skill. The three-tiered vimana, prominently displaying its gabled front and crowned with a sculpted cupola, reaches a total height of 95 feet. Around the broad platform at the base of the vimana are five subsidiary shrines carved from rock, each a reduced reproduction of the main theme. The hall measures 70 feet by 62 feet, with 16 square cells in groups of four producing the effect of a diagonal central gallery of great dignity. On either side of Nandi stand two flagpoles 51 feet high, marking an important stage in the development of the Dravidian style. The depiction of Ravana shaking Mount Kailash is particularly noteworthy.
Which of the following statements is true?
AIn addition to the temple mentioned here, Buddhist and Jain structures were also located at this historical site ✓ Correct
BThe temple's sanctum houses a monolithic image of Shiva seated on Kailash
CThe temple's location near the seashore attracted maritime traders in ancient times
DThe reservoir in the temple courtyard was used for ritual purposes
Correct answer: (A) In addition to the temple mentioned here, Buddhist and Jain structures were also located at this historical site — The answer is that Buddhist and Jain structures were also located at this site.
Explanation
★The answer is that Buddhist and Jain structures were also located at this site.
★In addition to the Kailash Temple, the Ellora hill has Buddhist and Jain caves.
★The Buddhist caves numbered 1 to 12 contain chaityas or prayer halls and viharas or monasteries.
★The Hindu caves numbered 13 to 29 are carved out of single rock.
★The Jain caves numbered 30 to 40 belong to the Digambara tradition.
★Their closeness conveys a message of religious harmony, so this statement is true.
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