Question
UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:
The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
- Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
- A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
- Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 1: 1 and 2 only
Detailed Solution
Explanation:
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- Shree Somnath is first among the twelve Aadi Jyotirlings of India. It has a strategic location on the western coast of India. Somnath temple is believed to be fist among the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. So, statement 1 is correct.
- Al Biruni, an 11th century Arab traveller described the temple and mentioned about its plunder and destruction. So, statement 2 is correct.
- Shree Somnath is first among the twelve Aadi Jyotirlings of India. It has a strategic location on the western coast of India. Somnath temple is believed to be fist among the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. So, statement 1 is correct.
- The Pran-Pratistha at the existing temple was done on 11th May 1951 by then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. So, statement 3 is not incorrect.
Therefore, option (1) is the correct answer.
Subject: History|Architecture and Sculptures
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