Question
UPSC Prelims 2016 Question:
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Explanation:
- The caves at Ajanta are excavated out of a vertical cliff above the left bank of the river Waghora in the hills of Ajanta. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a historic city, center of art, architecture and literature and UNESCO World Heritage site in Tamil Nadu, India.
- Differences between Ajanta and Mahabalipuram:
|
Parameter |
Ajanta |
Mahabalipuram |
Comment |
|
Construction Period |
The caves were built in two phases: 1) the first started around the 2nd century BC. 2) the second occurring from 4th Century AD to 7th Century AD. |
During the reign of the Pallava dynasty, between the 3rd century AD and 7th century AD |
Hence, both were built in different periods. So, statement 1 is not correct. |
|
Religious Denomination |
The paintings and sculptures of Ajanta are considered as masterpieces of Buddhist religious art |
Related to Hindu Group of Monuments such as the Descent of the Ganges, and the Shore Temple dedicated to Shiva. |
Thus, both belong to different religious denominations. So, statement 2 is not correct. |
- Similarities between Ajanta and Mahabalipuram:
1) Both have rock-cut monuments. So, statement 3 is correct.
Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.
Subject: History| Architecture and Sculptures
Last updated on January, 2026
