UPSC Prelims 2019 Question:

Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

Explanation:

• Vijayanagara Empire was established in 1336 by the brothers Harihara and Bukka Raya of the Sangama Dynasty. Kalyana Mandapa or pavilions is part of temple architecture in the Vijayanagara Empire. It was constructed to celebrate divine weddings.
  
  
• E.g. Vitthala Temple of the Vijayanagara period has a number of structures inside a rectangular court. The Kalyana Mandapa (an open pavilion) was used for ceremonies involving the symbolic marriage of the temple's divinity to his consort. Its interior, surrounded by impressive columns, contains a platform in the center for the performance of sacred dances. Massive pillars, decorated with soldiers riding yalis, carry the large brackets and roof beams.
  
  

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer.

Subject: History | Architecture and Sculptures