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SANKALP 2024
Weekly Test - Prelims (Art and Culture) Test - 45

1. Consider the following pairs: How many of the above saints can be classified
Regional Theatre State as ‘Sagun Saints’ of the Bhakti Movement?
1. Ojapali : Manipur (a) Only two (b) Only three
2. Daskathia : Madhya Pradesh (c) Only four (d) All five
3. Shumang leela : Bihar
How many of the above pairs are correctly 5. With reference to Bhaona, consider the
matched? following statements:
(a) Only one (b) Only two 1. It is a traditional form of entertainment
(c) All three (d) None prevalent in Assam.
2. The plays of bhaona are popularly known
2. With reference to Sufism, which among the as Ankiya Nat.
following is the correct description of the term Which of the statements given above is/are
‘Wahdat al-wujud’? correct?
(a) Earning through legitimate ways (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) Charismatic personality (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Unity of Existence
(d) Type of sufi dance form 6. With reference to the Classical Dance of India,
consider the following statements:
3. With reference to Bhakti Saints, consider 1. Tarangam is performed by Kuchipudi
following statements: dancers.
1. Nimbarkacharya was the chief proponent 2. Mohiniattyam is performed both by men
of the theology of Dvaitadvaita (dvaita– and women.
advaita). Which of the statements given above is/are
2. Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu founded the correct?
Krishna-centered PushtiMarg sect of (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Vaishnavism.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
3. Surdas was known for his works written in
praise of Krishna.
7. With reference to Nataraja Sculpture, consider
How many of the above statements are correct?
following statements:
(a) Only one (b) Only two
1. Upper right hand of the Shiva holds the
(c) All three (d) None eternal fire.
2. Upper left hand holds the drum which
4. Consider the following: signifies the sound of creation.
1. Mirabai 3. A snake twisted around the neck of the
2. Ramanuja Shiva symbolises the Kundalini power.
3. Guru Nanak How many of the above statements are correct?
4. Adi Shankaracharya (a) Only one (b) Only two
5. Kabir (c) All three (d) None
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8. Consider the following statements : 12. The new Naval insignia of India is inspired by
1. 'Bijak' is a composition of the teachings of which of the following Kings?
Saint Dadu Dayal. (a) The Maratha King Shivaji
2. The Philosophy of PushtiMarg was (b) The Rajput King Prithviraj Chauhan
propounded by Madhvacharya. (c) The Chalukyan King Bhima I
Which of the statements given above is/are (d) None of the above
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 13. With reference to Shadow Puppetry, consider
the following statements:
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. Shadow Puppets are flat figures cut out of
leather.
9. Which one of the following books of ancient 2. It is prevalent in states like Karnataka and
India has the love story of the son of the Kerala.
founder of the Shunga dynasty? Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) Swapnavasavadatta correct?
(b) Malavikagnimitra (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Meghadoota (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) Ratnavali
14. Consider the following pairs:
Temple Place
10. With reference to the art and archaeological
1. Doddabasappa Temple Dambal
history of India, which one among the
following was made earliest? 2. Mahadev Temple Itagi
3. Trikuteshwara Temple Gadag
(a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
How many of the above pairs are correctly
(b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
matched?
(c) Rock-cut Monuments Mahabalipuram
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri (c) All three (d) None

11. With reference to Ancient India, consider the 15. “Yoga Vasistha” was translated into Persian by
following statements: Nizamuddin Panipati during the reign of:
1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin. (a) Akbar (b) Humayun
2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics. (c) Shahjahan (d) Aurangzeb
3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative
structure in Buddhist tradition.
How many of the statements given above are 16. Consider the following pairs:
correct? Folk Dance State of Origin

(a) Only one (b) Only two 1. Gaur Muria Chhattisgarh

2. Kalbelia Andhra Pradesh
(c) All three (d) None
3. Paika West Bengal
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How many of the above pairs are correctly 19. The national motto of India, ‘Satyameva Jayate’
matched? inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken
(a) Only one (b) Only two from: (2014)
(c) All three (d) None (a) Katha Upanishad
(b) Chandogya Upanishad
17. Consider the following pairs: (c) Aitareya Upanishad
Folk Music State (d) Mundaka Upanishad
1. Pandavani Chhattisgarh
2. Wanawan Jammu and Kashmir
20. With reference to the history of philosophical
3. Jhoori Madhya Pradesh
thought in India, consider the following
How many of the above pairs are correctly
statements regarding Sankhya school:
matched?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (2013)
(c) All three (d) None 1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of
rebirth or transmigration of the soul.
18. With reference to Bharatnatyam, consider the 2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-knowledge
following statements: that leads to liberation and not any exterior
1. It is the oldest dancing tradition of India. influence or agent.
2. It is generally performed by women. Which of the statements given above is/are
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer
1. (d) 6. (a) 11. (b) 16. (a)
2. (c) 7. (d) 12. (a) 17. (b)
3. (c) 8. (d) 13. (c) 18. (c)
4. (b) 9. (b) 14. (c) 19. (d)
5. (c) 10. (b) 15. (a) 20. (b)

Hints and Solutions
1. Answer: (d)
Option (d) is correct:
Regional Theatre in the East:
Jatra It is from Bengal and is
related to Chaitanya. It is
generally related to music.
It is known for stylised
delivery and oration.
Shumang It is from Manipur. It is
Leela performed by men dressed
as ladies. It is normally
referred to as courtyard
play. (Hence, pair 3 is not
correctly matched)
Ankia-nat It is from Assam. It was
(Bhoana) popularized by
Shankardev. The plays
usually combine live
instruments and singers,
dance and elaborate
costumes in production.
Ojapali It is also from Assam. The
repertoire of this
performance consists of
songs, dialogues, gestures,
improvised acting and
dramatization etc. (Hence,
pair 1 is not correctly
matched)
Daskathia It is from Odisha. Prahlad
Natak is famous in Odisha.
In the performance, the
performers use a pair of
wooden instruments to
create music. (Hence, pair
2 is not correctly
matched)
5
2. Answer: (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Wahdat al-wujud literally means "the
Unity of Existence" or "the Unity of
Being." Wujūd, meaning "existence" or
"presence", here refers to God.
 The mystical thinker and theologian Abu
Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi discussed
this concept in his book called Tohfa
Mursala. An Andalusian Sufi saint Ibn
Sabin is also known to employ this term in
his writings.
3. Answer: (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Nimbarkacharya
was the chief proponent of the theology of
Dvaitadvaita (dvaita–advaita) or
dualistic–non-dualistic. He was born in
Tamil Nadu in a Telugu Brahmin family.
He worked in the Telangana region. He
was a Vaishnavite saint.
 Statement 2 is correct: Vallabhacharya
Mahaprabhu founded the Krishna-
centered Pushti Marg sect of
Vaishnavism in the Braj(Vraj) region of
India, and the Vedanta philosophy of
Shuddha Advaita (Pure Non-dualism).
 Statement 3 is correct: Surdas was a
16th-century blind Hindu devotional poet
and singer, who was known for his works
written in praise of Krishna, the
supreme lord. He was a disciple of
Vallabhacharya and he popularized
Krishna bhakti in North India.

4. Answer: (b)
Option (b) is correct
About Bhakti Movement:
 The development of the Bhakti movement
took place in Tamil Nadu between the
seventh and tenth century.
 The Bhakti movement of Hinduism saw
two ways of imaging the nature of the
divine (Brahman): Nirguna and Saguna.
 Nirguna Brahman: It was the
concept of the ultimate reality being
formless, without attributes or quality.
 Saguna Brahman: In contrast,
ultimate reality was envisioned and
developed with form, attributes and
quality.
 Saguna Saints:
 Adi Shankaracharya: His work
presents a harmonizing reading of the
shastras, with liberating knowledge of
the self at its core, synthesizing the
Advaita Vedanta teachings of his
time.
 Ramanuja: He was the chief
proponent of Vishishtadvaita, a
subschool of Vedanta. Ramanuja was
born into a Tamil Brahmin
community, in a village called
Sriperumbudur (present-day Tamil
Nadu) under the Chola Empire. His
theories assert that there exists a
plurality and distinction between
Atman (soul) and Brahman
(metaphysical, ultimate reality),
while he also affirmed that there is
unity of all souls and that the
individual soul has the potential to
realize identity with the Brahman.
 Mirabai: She was another Bhakti
Saint who worshiped, composed and
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sang songs in praise of Lord Krishna.
She would go into a trance in her love
for God.
 The Nirguna Saints:
 Kabir: He emphasized on communal
harmony between Hindus and
Muslims. He questioned what he
regarded to be the meaningless and
unethical practices of all religions,
primarily what he considered to be the
wrong practices in the Hindu and
Muslim religions.
 Guru Nanak: Guru Nanak was the
founder of Sikhism and is the first of
the ten Sikh Gurus. Three basic
elements of his teachings: Guru-
Charismatic personality, Shabad-
Ideology of Guru, Sangat -
Organization.
5. Answer: (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Bhaona:
 It is a traditional form of entertainment,
with religious messages, prevalent in
Assam, India. (Hence, statement 1 is
correct)
 It is a creation of Mahapurusha Srimanta
Sankardeva, written in the early sixteenth
century.
 The plays of bhaona are popularly known
as Ankiya Nat and their staging is known
as Bhaona. (Hence, statement 2 is
correct)
 It is influenced by Sanskrit theater and
performed as one-act play.
6. Answer: (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Kuchipudi is one

of the eight principal classical dances of
India. It comes from the Andhra Pradesh
state of India, specifically the village of
Kuchipudi. Tarangam is performed by
Kuchipudi dancers.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Mohiniyattam,
also written mohiniattam or mohiniyattam,
is a semiclassical dance style that
originated in Kerala, a state in southwest
India. Its name means "dance of the
enchantress" in Malayalam. The Hindu
god Vishnu, who takes the form of the
enchantress Mohini, is honoured by the
dance, which is performed only by
8.
women.
7. Answer: (d)
Option (d) is correct:
Features of the Nataraja Sculpture:
 Upper right hand holds the drum:
Signifies the sound of creation. All
creations spring from the great sound of
the Damru. (Hence, statement 1 is not
correct)
 Upper left hand holds the eternal fire:
Represents destruction. (Hence,
Statement 2 is not correct)
 Lower right hand: Gesture of Abhaya
Mudra.
 Lower left hand: Points towardis the
upraised foot and indicates the path of
salvation.
 Ardhanarishwar: one ear of Shiva has a
male earring while the other has female
which represents the fusion of male and
female and is referred as Ardhanarishvara.
 A snake twisted around the arm of Shiva
symbolises the Kundalini power, which
resides in the human spine in a dormant
7
stage. So, the snake is not twisted in the
neck. (Hence, Statement 3 is not correct)
Answer: (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: Bijak is the
collection of ideas and teachings of Kabir.
Kabir was a 15th-century Indian mystic
poet and saint, whose writings influenced
Hinduism is Bhakti movement and his
verses are found in Sikhism’s scripture
Guru Granth Sahib. He was a disciple of
Ramananda. He began a strong campaign
against the superficial religious rituals of
both Muslims and Hindus.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Pushti Marg is
a Vaishnavite tradition within Hinduism
that was founded by the 16th-century saint
and philosopher Vallabhacharya, not
Madhvacharya. He was also known as
‘Achinitabhadra’. He was the first to
advocate for Krishna Bhakti using the
Maha Bhagavata Purana as a foundation.
Madhvacharya:
 Madhvacharya, on the other hand, was a
prominent theologian and philosopher who
founded the Dvaita Vedanta school of
thought within Hindu philosophy. His
teachings emphasized the strict dualism

between the individual soul (jivatma) and
the Supreme Reality (Brahman), as well as
a strong devotion to Lord Vishnu.
9. Answer: (b)
Option (b) is correct:
About Malavikagnimitra:
 The love story of the son of the founder of
the Shunga dynasty is found in the book
"Malavikagnimitra".
 The Malavikagnimitra is a Sanskrit play
by Kalidas.
 The play tells the love story of Agnimitra
the son Of Pushyamitra Shunga- the
founder of the Shunga dynasty.
 He falls in love with the picture of an
exiled servant girl named Malavika.
10. Answer: (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 The rock-cut elephant situated in Dhauli
was constructed during the reign of
Ashoka, who ruled from 272-231 BCE. On
the other hand, the Lingaraj Temple was
built in the 11th century AD, while the
rock-cut monuments in Mahabalipuram
were constructed during the 7th and 8th
centuries AD. Additionally, the Varaha
Image was built in the 5th century AD.
 The rock-cut elephant at Dhauli was built
during the reign of Ashoka (272-231 BCE).
 Lingaraj temple in Bhubaneshwar: The
largest temple in the city of Bhubaneswar
(Odisha), Lingaraj Temple, was
constructed in the 11th century AD and
dedicated to Lord Shiva.
 Mahabalipuram: The rock-cut
monuments at Mahabalipuram were
built by the Pallava king Narasimha in the
7th and 8th centuries.
 Varaha Image at Udayagiri was built in
the 5th century AD. This image was
8
engraved by Chandragupta on the hill of
Udayagiri to commemorate the victory
over the foreign Shaka kings.
11. Answer: (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: The practice
of preserving the remains of an important
personality below accumulated earth was
long in existence. Buddhist art adopted this
practice and the structure built over such a
site was known as Stupa. Hence, the
concept of Stupa was not Buddhist in
origin.
 Statement 2 is correct: According to
Buddhist sources, the remains of the
Buddha's body were divided into eight
parts and placed under the Stupas.
These during the time of Asoka, were dug
out and redistributed which led to the
construction of other Stupas - the sacred
places of Buddhism. The worship of
Stupas led to their ornamentation and a
specific type of architecture developed for
their construction.
 Statement 3 is correct: Stupa is a
Buddhist commemorative monument
usually housing sacred relics associated
with the Buddha or other saintly persons.
The hemispherical form of the stupa
appears to have derived from pre-Buddhist
burial mounds in India.
12. Answer: (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About the New Naval insignia of India:
 In August 2022, the Prime Minister's
Office announced that the naval ensign
featuring the St. George's Cross would
be irrevocably disposed of, in favor of a

newer design that would "do away with the
colonial past" and befit the "rich Indian
maritime heritage".
 The revised ensign, which happened to be
its fourth alteration since 1950, was
unveiled for the first time by prime
minister Narendra Modi on 2 September
2022, at the commissioning ceremony of
aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Prior to its
unveiling, the ensign's revised design,
along with the patterns of its distinguishing
rank flags, car flags, and masthead pennant
was accorded presidential approval.
 In continuity with the versions introduced
after the country's independence, the
current ensign features the national flag of
India in the canton on a white field. It
includes a navy blue-gold octagon on the
fly. The octagon is an emulation of a
rajmudra (royal seal) formerly used by
Shivaji I - a 17th-century Maratha
warrior king, who was instrumental in
establishing the Maratha Navy, one of the
first Indian-origin naval forces of the
modern era.
13. Answer: (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Shadow Puppetry:
 They are flat figures cut out of leather,
treated to make it translucent. (Hence,
statement 1 is correct)
 They are pressed against the screen with
a strong source of light behind them.
 The manipulation between the light and the
screen makes silhouettes or colorful
shadows, as the case may be, for the
viewers who sit in front of the screen.
 It is prevalent in Orissa, Kerala, Andhra
Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and
9
Tamil Nadu. (Hence, statement 2 is
correct)
14. Answer: (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Pair 1 is correct: The Doddabasappa
Temple in Dambal, Karnataka state, is a
Western Chalukyan architectural marvel
from the 12th century. Dambal is located
around 20 km southeast of Gadag and 24
km southwest of Ittagi. The presiding deity,
God Shiva, is represented by a Shiva linga,
which is found in the sanctum.
 Pair 2 is correct: The Mahadeva Temple
is found in the Indian state of Karnataka's
Koppal District, near the Yelburga Taluk
town of Itagi. Lakkundi is 20 km away
from this temple.
 Pair 3 is correct: A Hindu temple
honouring Shiva is called Trikuteshwara
Temple. The carved temple is located in
the Karnataka town of Gadag which is 50
kilometers southeast of Hubli-Dharwad.
There are three lingas set on the same
stone, and it is Shiva-related. In this temple,
there is a shrine for Saraswathi that
features carved columns.
15. Answer: (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About Yoga Vasistha:
 The "Yoga Vasistha" was translated into
Persian by Nizamuddin Panipati during the
reign of Akbar.
 Akbar had commissioned the translation
of many Sanskrit works into the Persian
language.
 A Maktab Khana (translation bureau)
 10

was also established at Fatehpur Sikri for

Panihari,  These are from
this purpose.
Maand Rajasthan.

16. Answer: (a) Wanawan  It is sung in Jammu

Option (a) is correct: and Kashmir. (Hence,
 The Gaur Maria dance is performed on the pair 2 is correctly
plateau of Bastar in Chhattisgarh. It is matched)
performed on the occasion of marriage and
it is believed that it is performed with more Alha and  It is from Madhya
joy than other dances. (Hence, pair 1 is Udal Pradesh.
correctly matched)
 Kalbelia dance is a folk dance of Jhoori  It is from Himachal
Rajasthan state of India. (Hence, pair 2 is Pradesh. (Hence, pair
not correctly matched) 3 is not correctly
matched)
 Paika is the Martial folk dance performed
in the Southern parts of Odisha. (Hence,
Lavani, Ovi,  Lavani, Ovi, Powda are
pair 3 is not correctly matched)
Powda from Maharashtra.

17. Answer: (b)

Dollu  It is from Karnataka.
Option (b) is correct: Kunita
Examples of Folk Music:

Pandavani  It is sung in 18. Answer: (c)

Chhattisgarh. Well Option (c) is correct:
known artist of this Bharatnatyam (Tamil Nadu):
music is Teejanbai.
 It is the oldest dancing tradition of India.
(Hence, pair 1 is (Hence, statement 1 is correct)
correctly matched)  It is considered a devotional dance.
 It is generally performed by women.
Sohar  It is from Bihar. North
(Hence, statement 2 is correct)
India has a strong
 This dance is called Sadir because it is a
tradition of singing
solo dance.
Sohar songs on the
 It is also called Dasiattam because the
occasion of a son’s birth Devadasi system was used in the temple
in the family. dancing.
 It is also called a fire dance because it is
Baul  It is from Bengal. Well
suggested that it is the manifestation of
known artist of this
fire in the human body.
music is Thakur Baul.
 It is mainly Lasya type but some features
of Tandava also can be seen.
 11

 It is also called Tanjore Natyam because c. The third part further builds on the
four Thanjavur teachers contributed to the previous two parts and attempts to
evolution of this dance. They were describe the state of knowing Brahman,
Chinnayya, Ponnayya, Sivanandam and
which is one of bliss and fearlessness.
Vadivelu.
19. Answer: (d)
Option (d) is correct: 20. Answer: (b)
 Statement 1 is incorrect: Samkhya
 Satyameva Jayate means “Truth alone
philosophy believes in the theory of
Triumphs”. It is taken from Mundaka
rebirth. Samkhya is an Orthodox Indian
Upanishad. Mundaka
philosophical system. Orthodox Indian
 Upanishad is listed as no. 5 in the list of
philosophical system believes in soul and
108 Upanishads of Hinduism. Satyameva
karma theory. For Karma theory to hold,
Jayate means “Truth alone Triumphs”. It is
the soul has to undergo rebirth or
taken from Mundaka Upanishad.
transmigration. Therefore, without
Mundaka Upanishad is listed as no. 5 in
liberation, no soul can be free from the
the list of 108 Upanishads of Hinduism.
cycle of rebirth or transmigration.
 The Mundaka Upanishad is a collection of
 Statement 2 is correct: Samkhya
philosophical poems used to teach
Philosophy is dualistic and not monistic
meditation and spiritual knowledge
because it has two entities, Purush (spirit)
regarding the true nature of Brahma and
and Prakriti (nature). Samkhya
the Self (Atman).
emphasises the attainment of knowledge
 It is composed of the three main parts of the self by means of concentration and
(Mundaka): meditation. It believes that after you have
a. The first part expounds on the science ‘died’ in this life you will go through a
of higher and lower knowledge. process of rebirth where depending on
b. The second part describes the true your actions in your former life your status
nature of the Self (Atman) and will be decided.
Brahman.



PW Web/App: https://smart.link/7wwosivoicgd4
 1

SANKALP 2024
Weekly Test - Prelims (Art & Culture) Test - 44

1. With reference to Hindustani Music forms, 4. With reference to the Carnatic Music of India,
consider the following statements: which one of the following is the correct
1. Thumri is a semi-classical vocal form description of the term the Trinity?
begun in the court of Nawab Wajid Ali (a) Trio of composer musicians
Shah. (b) Three Ragas
2. Tappa originated from the folk songs of (c) Three Gharanas
the camel riders of Punjab. (d) Three instruments
3. The Ghazal genre is characterized by its 5. With reference to Ujjain, consider the following
romance and its discourses on the various statements:
shades of love. 1. Ujjain is situated on the bank of river
How many of the above statements are correct? Shipra.
(a) Only one (b) Only two 2. According to Surya Siddhanta, at Ujjain,
(c) All three (d) None Ancient zero meridian Longitude and the
Tropic of Cancer intersect each other.
2. With reference to Tanjore painting, consider the Which of the statements given above is/are
following statements: correct?
1. The painting uses Muck powder. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
2. Mythological themes are dominant in these (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
paintings.
6. With reference to the Cultural History of India,
Which of the statements given above is/are which one of the following is the correct
correct? description of the term ‘Amalaka’?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) Disc-like structure at the top of Temple
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) Spiritual and mystic movement in Islam
3. With reference to Mughal Paintings, consider (c) Type of folk music
the following statements: (d) Type of dance
1. The Mughal style was heavily influenced 7. With reference to Deccani Painting, consider
by Persian miniatures. the following statements:
2. Humayun brought two accomplished 1. Mysore painting is known for Hindu gods
Greek artists Abdul Samad and Mir Sayyid and goddess.
Ali with him. 2. Tanjore painting is painted on glass.
Which of the statements given above is/are Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
 2

8. With reference to Saura Painting, consider the

11. How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and
following statements:
Bharatanatyam dances?
1. It is essentially a ceremonial wall mural
1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues
painting.
are found in Kuchipudi dance but not in
2. The Saura wall murals are primarily Bharatnatyam.
devoted to Shiva.
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the
Which of the statements given above is/are feet on its edges is a feature of
correct? Bharatnatyam but Kuchipudi dance does
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only not have such a form of movements.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (e) Neither 1 nor 2 Select the correct answer using the code given
9. With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major below:
traditions of India that has been kept alive for (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
centuries, Consider the following: (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2
1. It originated and developed in the Rajput 12. The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one
kingdoms during the Mughal period of the most famous for illustrated paintings at:
2. It is primarily a devotional and spiritual (a) Ajanta (b) Badami
music (c) Bagh (d) Ellora
3. In the Dhrupad Alap, the singer uses
13. Kalamkari painting refers to:
Sanskrit syllables from Mantras to create a
meditative and introspective mood. (a) A hand-painted cotton textile in South
India
How many of the above statements are correct?
(b) A handmade drawing on bamboo
(a) Only one (b) Only two
handicrafts in NorthEast India
(c) All three (d) None
(c) A block-painted woollen cloth in the
10. With reference to the famous Sattriya Dance, Western Himalayan region of India
consider the following statements : (d) A hand-painted decorative silk cloth in
1. It is a combination of music, dance and North-Western India
drama.
14. Consider the following pairs:
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of
Dance Form State
Vaishnavites of Assam.
1. Garba Gujarat
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of
devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, 2. Mohiniattam Odisha
Kabir and Mirabai. 3. Yakshagana Karnataka
How many of the above statements are correct? How many of the above pairs are correctly
(a) Only one (b) Only two matched?

(c) Only three (d) All four (a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None
 3

(c) Movements of body, face and hands are

15. With reference to the Cultural History of India,
used to express oneself or to tell a story
consider the following statements:
(d) A little smile, slightly curved waist and
1. Most of the Tyagaraja Kritis are devotional
certain hand gestures are emphasized to
songs in praise of Lord Krishna.
express the feelings of love or eroticism.
2. Tyagaraja created several new ragas.
3. Annamacharya and Tyagaraja are 18. With reference to India's culture and tradition,
contemporaries. what is 'Kalaripayattu'?
4. Annamacharya Keertanas are devotional (a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still
songs in praise of Lord Venkateshwara. prevalent in some parts of South India.
How many of the above statements are correct? (b) It is an ancient style bronze and brass work
(a) Only one (b) Only two still found in the southern part of the
Coromandel area.
(c) Only three (d) All four
(c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a
16. With reference to the history of India, consider living tradition in the northern part of
the following pairs: (2020) Malabar.
Famous Place Present State (d) It is an ancient martial art and a living
1. Bhilsa Madhya Pradesh tradition in some parts of South India.
2. Dwarasamudra Maharashtra
19. With reference to the Kathakali classical dance
3. Girinagar Gujarat of India, which one of the following is the
4. Sthanesvara Uttar Pradesh correct description of the term Natyam?
How many of the above pairs are correctly (a) Expression
matched? (b) Dance
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Enactment
(c) Only three (d) All four (d) Instrument
17. In the context of the cultural history of India, a 20. Consider the following pairs:
pose in dance and dramatics called ‘Tribhanga’
Style of folk dance States
has been a favourite of Indian artists from
1. Burrakatha Andhra Pradesh
ancient times till today. Which one of the
following statements best describes this pose? 2. Ghoomar Rajasthan
(a) One leg is bent and the body is slightly but 3. Dalkhai Odisha
oppositely curved at the waist and neck How many of the above pairs are correctly
(b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and matched?
make-up are combined to symbolize (a) Only one (b) Only two
certain epic or historic characters (c) All three (d) None four
 4

Answer
1. (c) 6. (a) 11. (a) 16. (b)
2. (c) 7. (c) 12. (a) 17. (a)
3. (a) 8. (a) 13. (a) 18. (d)
4. (a) 9. (b) 14. (b) 19. (a)
5. (c) 10. (b) 15. (b) 20. (c)

Hints and Solutions
1. Ans. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Thumri is a
semi-classical vocal form said to have
begun in Uttar Pradesh with the court of
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, (r. 1847–1856).
There are three types of thumri: Poorab
ang, Lucknavi, and Punjabi thumri. The
lyrics are primarily in older, more rural
Hindi dialects such as Brij Bhasha,
Awadhi, and Bhojpuri.
 Statement 2 is correct: Tappa is a form of
Indian semi-classical vocal music whose
specialty is its rolling pace based on fast,
subtle, knotty construction. It originated
from the folk songs of the camel riders
of Punjab and was developed as a form of
classical music by Mian Ghulam Nabi
Shori or Shori Mian, a court singer for
Asaf-Ud-Dowlah, the Nawab of Awadh.
 Statement 3 is correct: In the Indian sub-
continent during the Mughal rule, the
Persian Ghazal became the most common
poetic form in the Urdu language and was
popularized by classical poets like Mir
Taqi Mir, Ghalib, Daagh, Zauq, and Sauda
amongst the North Indian literary elite.
The Ghazal genre is characterized by its
romance and its discourses on the
various shades of love.
2. Ans. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Muck powder is
used in Tanjore painting. Muck Powders
are sandals in color diluted with Arabic
gum in loose form and used for making
base coating on jaipur stones with a brush.
After getting dried these same muck
powders with Arabic gum in the thick form
5
are used to make intricate work.
Embossing is achieved well in muck
powder
 Statement 2 is correct: The themes for
most of these paintings are Hindu Gods
and Goddesses and scenes from Hindu
mythology. Thus, mythological themes
dominate the Tanjore painting.
3. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The Mughal style
was heavily influenced by Persian
miniatures, and in turn influenced several
Indian styles, including the Rajput, Pahari
and Deccan styles of painting and Islamic
style. Safavid paintings also influenced the
Mughal paintings.
 Statement 2 is not correct: When
Humayun returned from Persia to India,
he brought two accomplished Persian
artists Abdul Samad and Mir Sayyid Ali
with him.
4. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About the Trinity of Carnatic music:
 The Three Jewels of Carnatic music, refer
to the outstanding trio of composer-
musicians of Carnatic music in the 18th
century.
 These are Syama Sastri(1762–1827),
Tyagaraja(1767–1847) and Muthuswami
Dikshitar(1775–1835).
5. Ans. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Ujjain is situated
on the bank of the river Shipra. It is a
city in the Ujjain district of the Indian state

of Madhya Pradesh. It is the fifth-largest
city in Madhya Pradesh by population and
is the administrative center of the Ujjain
district and Ujjain division. It is one of the
Hindu pilgrimage centers of Sapta Puri
famous for the Kumbh Mela held there
every 12 years.
 Statement 2 is correct: According to
Surya Siddhanta, at Ujjain Ancient zero
meridian Longitude and the Tropic of
Cancer intersect each other. The famous
temple of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is
located in the center of the city. The city
has been one of the most prominent trade
and political centres of the Indian
Subcontinent from the time of Ancient
Mahajanapadas up until the British
Colonization of India.
6. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About Amalaka:
 Amalaka or Kalash which is installed on
Shikhara is a characteristic feature of the
Nagara Style of temple style.
 It is a stone disc-like structure at the top of
the temple.
 Shikhara are the mountains like the spire
of a free-standing temple.
7. Ans. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
Deccani Painting:
 Examples for this in Deccani style are
painting of Ahmad nagar, painting of
Golkonda and painting of Bijapur.
 Painting of Hindola Rag was continued
here.
 Tanjore painting is painted on glass.
Smiling Krishna is one theme of this
painting. Some events of life are also
6
painted here. (Hence, statement 1 is
correct)
 In south India, Mysore painting is known
for Hindu gods and goddess. (Hence,
statement 2 is correct)
8. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
Saura Painting, Odisha:
 It is also a tribal painting.
 It is similar to Warli painting.
 It is like a prehistoric painting.
 Stick-like creatures are seen in this
painting.
 It is essentially a ceremonial wall mural
painting. (Hence, statement 1 is correct)
 The Saura wall murals are primarily
devoted to Idital, the Sauras’ chief god.
(Hence, Statement 2 is not correct)
9. Ans. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: Dhrupad
traces its origin to the chanting of Vedic
hymns and mantras (Samveda).
 Statement 2 is correct: It is a form of
devotional music and spiritual music
that emphasises the purity of ragas.
 Statement 3 is correct: Dhrupad music
evolved with Sanskrit language scripts in
itself. Dhrupad emphasizes a slow,
meditative rendition of the alap using
sacred Sanskrit syllables derived from
Sanskrit mantras.
10. Ans. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: This dance form is
a combination of music, dance and
drama. Sattriya dance tradition is
governed by strictly laid down principles

in respect of hasta mudras, footwork,
aharyas, music etc.
 Statement 2 is correct: The Sattriya dance
form was introduced in the 15th century
A.D by the great Vaishnava saint and
reformer of Assam, Mahapurusha
Sankaradeva as a powerful medium for
the propagation of the Vaishnava faith.
 Statement 3 is not correct: It is based on
the songs composed by Sankaradeva and
Madhvadeva.
11. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Dancers speak
dialogue in between in Kuchipudi but in
Bharatnatyam dancers do not speak
dialogues.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Dancing on
the brass plate by keeping the feet on its
edges is a feature of Tarangam-a solo
performance of Kuchipudi. Sometimes
dancers also balance a pot of water on their
heads. But Bharatnatyam dance does not
have such a form of movements.
12. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani
is in Ajanta cave no 1, which dates back
to the 5th century AD.
 Other paintings of Bodhisattvas include
Vajrapani (protector and guide, a symbol
of Buddha’s power) and Manjusri
(manifestation of Buddha’s wisdom).
 In this painting, Bodhisattva is holding a
lotus in his hand in a tribhanga pose.
13. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
Kalamkari:
 This particular cotton textile is made in
7
Andhra Pradesh and is either hand-
painted or block-printed.
 In this style, the kalam(pen) is used for
freehand drawing of the subject and
filling in the colours and is entirely done
by hand.
 The present states of Telangana and
Andhra Pradesh are where kalamkari first
appeared.
 Kalamkari was first used to depict scenes
from sacred texts such as the Mahabharata,
Ramayana and Bhagavatam.
14. Ans. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Pair 1 is correctly matched: Garba is a
famous dance form of Gujarat, performed
in October to honour the Hindu Deity of
Divinity, Goddess Durga. It is a sacred
practice in Gujarat to perform this joyful
folk dance on practically all important
occasions.
 Pair 2 is not correctly matched:
Mohiniattam is a classical dance form of
Kerala. It belongs to the Lasya type,
which presents a more elegant, soft, and
feminine manner of dancing, despite
having roots in the ancient Sanskrit Hindu
scripture on performing arts known as
"Natya Shastra".
 Pair 3 is correctly matched: Yakshagana
is a musical dance theatre form of
Karnataka. The dance form includes
players dressed in costumes with vivid
colours and shapes, singing, drumming,
and dancing, as well as players who
interpret words with gestures.
15. Ans. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: Rama- an

incarnation of Lord Visnu, was the focus
and main theme of most of the songs of
Tyagaraja.
 Statement 2 is correct: Tyagaraja
innovated the technique of structural
variations of musical lines within the
performance.
 Statement 3 is not correct:
Annamacharya belonged to the 15th
century whereas Tyagaraja belonged to
the 18th century.
 Statement 4 is correct: Annamacharya
was a 15th-century Hindu saint who
composed songs called Sankeertanas in
praise of Lord Venkateswara, a form of
Vishnu.
16. Ans. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Pair 1 is correct: Bhilsa is the medieval
name of the modern day Vidisha city of
Madhya Pradesh. Vidisha was also
known as Besnagar in ancient times. This
city lies east of the Betwa river and was
renamed Vidisha in 1956. King Ashoka of
the Mauryan dynasty served as the
Governor of Vidisha during his father’s
regime.
 Pair 2 is not correct: Dwarasamudra
was the capital of the Hoysala kingdom in
the 11th century. Today it is known as
Halebidu - a town located in Hassan
district in Karnataka.
 Pair 3 is correct : Girinagar also known
as Girnar or Revatak Parvat is a group of
mountains in the Junagadh district of
Gujarat. Temples situated on Mount
Girnar are sacred to both Digambar and
Swetambars branches of Jainism.
 Pair 4 is not correct: Thanesar
8
( Thaneshwar) is an old Hindu pilgrimage
town of Haryana that was famous as
Sthanesvara in ancient times. Thaneshwar
was ruled by the great King Harsha of the
Vardhan dynasty.
17. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 The Tri-bent pose, also known as
Tribhanga, is a standing position where the
body is bent in three parts, creating three
curves at the neck, waist, and knee. This
results in a gentle "S" shape, with the body
oppositely curved at the waist and neck.
 Tribhanga, literally meaning three parts
break, where the body bends in one
direction at the knees, the other direction
at the hips and then the other again at the
shoulders and neck.
18. Ans. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Kalaripayattu, which originated in
present-day Kerala, is a form of Indian
martial arts known as Kalari. It has a rich
history and is considered to be the oldest
surviving martial art in India.
 The art also bases medical treatments
upon concepts found in the ancient Indian
medical text, the Ayurveda.
19. Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About Kathakali:
 It is performed in the Kerala region of
South India.
 It is performed on Carnatic music.
 Five important elements of Kathakali
 Natyam means expression.
 Nritham means dance.
 Nrithyam means enactment.
 9

 Gitam means vocal.

 Vadyam means instrument.

20. Ans. (c)

Option (c) is correct:
Various Folk dances and States:
Dance forms States
Dandiya Gujarat
Garba Gujarat
Burrakatha Andhra Pradesh
Bihu Assam
Ghoomar Rajasthan
Bhangra Punjab
Gidda Punjab
Namagen Himachal Pradesh
Dalkhai Odisha
Chhau West Bengal
Kummi Tamil Nadu
Yakshagana Karnataka
Karakattam Tamil Nadu
Padayani Kerala
Thiruvantakali Kerala


PW Web/App: https://smart.link/7wwosivoicgd4
 1

SANKALP 2024
Weekly Test - Prelims (Art & Culture) Test - 43

1. With reference to the Temple Architecture 4. With reference to the Madhubani Painting,
of Chalukya Period, consider the following consider the following statements:
statements: 1. Mithila painting is popularly known as
1. The mantapa has two types of roof, Madhubani art.
domical ceilings or square ceilings. 2. Artists create these paintings only by using
2. Kalleshwara temple is one of the examples their hands.
of this temple architecture. 3. It has been given a GI tag for its
Which of the statements given above is/are uniqueness.
correct? How many of the above statements are
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only correct?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None
2. Consider the following pairs:
Style of Shikhara Examples of temple 5. Consider the following statements:
1. Phamsana style : Konark Temple 1. Temple worship was prominent during the
Vedic period.
2. Valabhi style : Teli Ka Mandir
2. Early temples in India were simple in
3. Bhumija style : Udayeshwar Temple
structure.
How many of the above pairs are correctly
Which of the statements given above is/are
matched?
correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) All three (d) None
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

3. With reference to the Sun temple at

6. With reference to the Rashtrakuta’s Art and
Modhera, consider the following
Architecture, consider the following
statements:
statements:
1. It is on the bank of the river Pushpavati.
1. They constructed the famous sculpture
2. It was constructed by the Chandelas rulers.
Kailash temple at Ajanta.
3. The Solanki style has influenced this 2. The cave shrine in Elephanta is the
temple.
impressive Rashtrakuta’s structure.
How many of the above statements are 3. The most developed and imposing temple
correct? built by the Rashtrakutas is the
(a) Only one (b) Only two Brihadisvara temple in Thanjavur.
(c) Only three (d) All four
 2

How many of the above statements are 10. With reference to the Indian Architecture,
correct? consider the following statements:
(a) Only one (b) Only two 1. The parliament building was designed by
(c) All three (d) None Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens in New
Delhi.
7. With reference to the history of Indian rock 2. Vittalaswami and Hazara Ramaswamy
-cut architecture, consider the following temples were built by Krishna Devaraya.
statements: 3. The city of Parihaspora was founded by
Lalitaditya.
1. The caves at Badami are the oldest
surviving rock-cut caves in India. How many of the above statements are not
correct?
2. The Barabar rock-cut caves were
(a) Only one (b) Only two
originally made for Ajivikas by
Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. (c) All three (d) None

3. At Ellora, caves were made for

11. Makaratorana is found in the temples of:
different faiths.
(a) Chandellas (b) Pratiharas
How many of the above statements are
(c) Kalachuris (d) Mughals
correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
12. With reference to Somnath Temple,
(c) All three (d) None
consider the following temple:
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga
8. The well-known painting "Bani Thani"
shrines.
belongs to the:
2. A description of Somnath Temple was
(a) Bundi school (b) Jaipur school given by Al-Biruni.
(c) Kangra school (d) Kishangarh school 3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple
(installation of the present day temple) was
9. With reference to the Sculptures of India, done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are
1. The noteworthy sculptures of the western correct?
school in the Buddhist tradition are the (a) Only one (b) Only two
Dilwara temples at Mount Abu. (c) All three (d) None
2. Arjuna’s penance was constructed by
Chandelas in Mahabalipuram.
13. Consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are
1. Pietra Dura technique was introduced by
correct? Jahangir.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. Grand Trunk Road was constructed by
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Sher Shah Suri.
 3

Which of the statements given above is/are

correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
17. Consider the following pairs:
14. With reference to Medieval Architectural Mural Paintings Region
Style, consider the following statements: 1. Jogimara Cave Painting : Odisha
1. Hanging balcony called Jharokha is the 2. Sittanavasal Cave Painting : Kerala
unique feature of Rajput style. 3. Ravan Chaya Rock shelter : Chattisgarh
2. Pari Mahal and Chattar Manzil are the
How many of the above pairs are correctly
prominent architects of Kashmir style.
matched?
Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) Only one (b) Only two
correct?
(c) All three (d) None
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
18. Consider the following historical places:
1. Ajanta Caves
15. With reference to Pre-historic Painting,
2. Lepakshi Temple
consider the following temple:
3. Sanchi Stupa
1. Walls of the rock shelter caves were made
How many of the above places are known
of quartzite during the Upper Paleolithic
period. for mural paintings?
2. The Mesolithic Period mainly saw the use (a) Only only (b) Only two
of red color. (c) All three (d) None
3. Paintings during the Chalcolithic period
concentrate on depicting battle scenes. 19. Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was:
How many of the above statements are (a) The mosque for the use of Royal Family
correct? (b) Akbar's private prayer chamber.
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) The hall in which Akbar held discussions
(c) All three (d) None with scholars of various religions.
(d) The room in which the nobles belonging to
16. With reference to Cave paintings, consider different religions gathered to discuss
the following statements: religious affairs.
1. Ellora Cave paintings are newer as
compared to Ajanta Cave paintings. 20. Building ‘Kalyana Mandapam’ was a
2. Bagh cave paintings were patronised by notable feature in the temple construction in
Satavahanas. the kingdom of (2019)
Which of the statements given above is/are (a) Chalukya (b) Chandela
correct? (c) Rashtrakuta (d) Vijayanagara
 4

Answer

1. (c) 11. (a)

2. (c) 12. (b)

3. (b) 13. (b)

4. (b) 14. (a)

5. (b) 15. (c)

6. (b) 16. (c)

7. (a) 17. (d)

8. (d) 18. (b)

9. (d) 19. (c)

10. (d) 20. (d)


Hints and Solutions
1. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The mantapa has
two types of roof – domical ceilings
(the dome-like ceilings standing on
four pillars are very attractive) or
Square ceilings (these are vigorously
ornamented with mythological pictures)
in the Chalukya temples of temple
architecture.
 Statement 2 is correct: The miniature
decorative pillars of Chalukya temples
stand with their own artistic value.
Famous temples built with this style
include Kalleshwara temple, Kukkanur;
Ramalingesvara temple, Gudur;
Mahadeva temple, Itagi; Kasivisvesvara
temple, etc.
2. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
Classification of Nagara style of Temple
Architecture based on the Style of Shikhara:
 Phamsana:
 They are shorter but have broader
structures consisting of roofs with
numerous slabs that rise upwards in
a gentle slope on a straight incline
like a pyramid meeting at a single
point over the midpoint of the
building.
 The Jagmohan of Konark Temple
is constructed in the Phamsana mode.
(Hence, pair 1 is correct)
 Valabhi:
 This style of temples are
rectangular in shape consisting of
barrel-vaulted roofs.
 The vaulted chamber roof has
5
earned them the moniker wagon
vaulted buildings/structures.
 Teli Ka Mandir, a 9th Century
temple at Gwalior has been built in
this style. (Hence, pair 2 is correct)
 Bhumija:
 Another type of Nagara temple that
evolved from the Latina style was
the Bhumija architecture
developed in Malwa under the
Paramara dynasty.
 These temples have a flat upward
tapering projection consisting of a
central Latina spire and miniature
spires on the quadrant formed by the
tapering tower.
 These mini Shikaras are carved out
both horizontally as well as
vertically.
 The Udayeshwar Temple in MP is
built in this style. (Hence, pair 3 is
correct)
3. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
About Sun temple at Modhera:
 The Sun Temple of Modhera is a Hindu
temple dedicated to the solar deity Surya
located at Modhera village of Mehsana
district, Gujarat, India.
 It is situated on the bank of the river
Pushpavati. (Hence, Statement 1 is
correct)
 It was built after 1026-27 CE during the
reign of Bhima I of the Chalukya
dynasty. (Hence, Statement 2 is not
correct)
 The Solanki style has influenced this
temple. (Hence, Statement 3 is correct)

 The temple complex has three
components: Gudda Mandapa, the shrine
hall. Sabha Mandapa, the assembly hall;
and Kunda, the reservoir. The halls have
intricately carved exterior and pillars.
 The reservoir has steps to reach the
bottom and numerous small shrines.
4. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Mithila
painting, popularly known as
Madhubani art is from the district of the
same name in Bihar and is now well-
known all over the world.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Artists
create these paintings using a variety of
mediums, including their own fingers,
or twigs, brushes, nib-pens, and
matchsticks. The paintings are also done
to reflect auspicious moments such as
birth, marriage, and festivals. Flowers,
trees, animals, and other objects are
utilized to fill in any gaps in the picture.
 Statement 3 is correct: It has been
given a GI tag for its uniqueness.
5. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: In the early
part of the Vedic era, there is no clear
mention of temples. All worship and
rituals were carried out before the holy
fire, called the ‘yajnas’. However, in the
later period of the Vedas, along with the
ceremonial fire, idol worship also began
to be practiced. These idols were housed
in very elementary dwellings.
 Statement 2 is correct: Some of the
important temple sites of this period
are Deogarh in Uttar Pradesh, Eran,
Nachna-Kuthara, and Udayagiri near
6
Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh. These
temples are simple structures
consisting of a veranda, a hall, and a
shrine at the rear.
6. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: One of the 32
cave temples and monasteries that make
up the magnificent Ellora Caves, the
Kailash Temple is located in the
sixteenth chamber. It was constructed
between the years 756 and 773 AD by
the Rashtrakuta King Krishna I in the
eighth century, according to historical
accounts.
 Statement 2 is correct: The magnificent
Rashtrakuta structure is the cave shrine
in Elephanta, which houses the
illustrious Mahishamurti. A group of
cave temples mostly dedicated to the
Hindu god Shiva make up the Elephanta
Caves, which have been recognised by
UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
 Statement 3 is not correct: Brihadisvara
Temple, sometimes referred to as the Big
Temple, was constructed in Thanjavur
in 1010 CE by Chola emperor
Rajaraja I. Its 1,000th anniversary was
celebrated in September 2010.
7. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: Badami
caves were constructed in the 6th century
by the Chalukya dynasty, in their
capital Badami, which was earlier
known as Vatapinagar. Barabar caves
are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves
in India.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Barabar
caves were constructed by Emperor

Ashoka. These are located in Jehanabad
district, Bihar. Four caverns in Barabar
were originally built for the Ajivika sect
during the reign of Ashoka (273-232 BC)
and his grandson Dasaratha.
 Statement 3 is correct: Ellora caves are
a complex of Hindu( Caves 13-29),
Buddhist( Caves 1-12) and Jain( Caves
30-34) monuments. These were built
during the Rashtrakuta dynasty. It was
designated as a World heritage site By
UNESCO.
8. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
About Bani Thani painting:
 It belongs to the Kishangarh school of
paintings.
 It was painted by an artist named Nihal
Chand.
 Bani Thani was a singer and a poetess
in the court of Raja Samant Singh (1748-
1764).
 It is frequently said that the small portrait
is as beautiful as the Mona Lisa.
9. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: The best
examples of the Jain tradition's western
school can be found in Mount Abu's
Dilwara temples. They are not
architectural structures, but rather
magnificent works of sculpture that have
been stacked one on top of the other to
create one of the seven wonders of the
world of sculpture. Particularly, the
Dilwara temple's ceiling is a masterwork
of complex sculptural embellishments.
 Statement 2 is not correct: The Arjun
Penance was constructed by
Narasimha Varma, a Pallava king. He
7
was known as the Ocean of the Arts in
the seventh century. Arjuna's Penance,
located in Mahabalipuram, is currently
regarded as one of the best stone
constructions created from granite rock
boulders of all the rock monuments that
have been excavated.
10. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The parliament
building was created between 1912 and
1913 by British architects Sir Edwin
Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker, and it
was finished in 1927. HRH Prince Arthur,
Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, laid
the cornerstone in February 1921. The
building took five years to finish.
 Statement 2 is correct: Krishna Deva
Raya constructed some beautiful stone
temples. The most well-known of them
are found in Vijayanagar in the
Vittalaswami and Hazara Ramaswamy
temples. Additionally, he repaired
numerous temples and erected
spectacular gopurams, or gates, to
numerous significant South Indian
temples.
 Statement 3 is correct: Lalitaditya
Muktapida (724–760 CE) established
the city of Parihaspora on a plateau
above the Jhelum River, and it functioned
as Kashmir's capital throughout his rule.
The settlement is located near Baramulla
district's very end.
11. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Makaratorana is found in the temples

of Chandellas. The 11th century saw
a resurgence of Makara torana
representations in Gujarat and Central
India. The Sun Temple in Modhera
and the Kandariya Mahadev Temple
in Khajuraho offer the best examples
of it.
12. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Somnath Temple
is one of the most sacred pilgrimage
sites for the Hindus. They believe it to
be the first among the twelve
Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is located
in Prabhas Patan, Veraval in Gujarat,
India.
 Statement 2 is correct: A description of
the temple by Al-Biruni, an Arab
traveler, was so glowing that it prompted
a visit in 1024 by Mahmud of Ghazni.
 Statement 3 is not correct: The
contemporary Somnath temple's
reconstruction was started under the
orders of the first Home Minister of India
Vallabhbhai Patel and completed in
May 1951 after his death. Then President
of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, did the
Pran-Pratistha at the existing temple on
11 May 1951.
13. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: Shah Jahan
developed the intricate architectural
method known as Pietra Dura. The Taj
Mahal, the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and
Shalimar Bagh are just a few of the
magnificent structures that were
constructed during his reign, which is
regarded as the Golden Age of Mughal
Architecture.
8
 Statement 2 is correct: Sher Shah Suri
rebuilt the Royal Road that Chandragupta
Maurya had constructed in the sixteenth
century, giving rise to the present-day
Grand Trunk Road. At Sonargaon and
Rohtas, he changed the Grand Trunk
Road's path. He extended the road's
width. Along the route, he also planted
fruit trees and shady plants.
14. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The Jharokha is
a stone window that protrudes from a
building's wall face in an upper story and
looks out onto a street, market, court, or
other open area. Hanging balcony called
Jharokha is the unique feature of
Rajput style.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Pari Mahal
is the prominent architecture of Kashmir
style but Chattar Manzil is the
prominent architect of Avadh style. In
Chattar Manzil, Main attractions are the
underground rooms and a beautiful dome
surrounded by a gilt umbrella
15. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
There are three major phases of prehistoric
paintings:
Upper Paleolithic Period:
 Walls of the rock shelter caves were
made of quartzite and so they used
minerals for pigments. (Hence,
Statement 1 is correct)
 Most common mineral: Ochre or Geru
mixed with lime and water.
 Colours: red, white, yellow and green.
 Animals: bison, elephant, rhino, tigers.
 Red: For the human figurines.
Mesolithic Period:

 Period mainly saw the use of red colour.
(Hence, Statement 2 is correct)
 Size of the paintings also became
smaller.
 Most common scene depicted in these
paintings is of group hunting.
Chalcolithic Period:
 Increase in the number of paintings using
the green and yellow colour.
 Paintings concentrate on depicting battle
scenes. (Hence, Statement 3 is correct)
 Paintings to show skins of spotted deer
left for drying that provides credence to
the theory that the art of tanning skins
was perfected by man.
16. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Construction of
the Ajanta caves took place between 200
B.C. and 650 A.D. Ajanta Caves and
Ellora Caves are both in Maharashtra's
Aurangabad district, about 100
kilometres apart. The Ellora Caves,
which were constructed between the fifth
and eleventh centuries A.D. Several
guilds from Vidarbha, Karnataka, and
Tamil Nadu, are more recent than the
Ajanta Caves.
 Statement 2 is correct: Buddhist caves
in Bagh that were hewn out of the rock
during the Satvahana era (5-7th
century). The caverns were carved out of
a sandstone hill on the southern slopes of
the Vindhyas, and they are situated on
the opposite side of the Bhagini River,
accessible via a broad, 200-meter-long
path. Hence Bagh cave paintings were
patronised by Satavahanas.
17. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Pair 1 is not correct: Region of
9
Jogimara cave painting is in
Chhattisgarh. It was painted around
1000-300 BC. Theme of the Paintings are
of dancing couples, animals like
elephants and fish. A few paintings and
inscriptions of a love story are present in
Brahmi script.
 Pair 2 is not correct: Region of
Sittanavasal Cave Painting is Tamil
Nadu. Theme of this painting is Jain
Samavasarana - audience hall where
Tirthankaras delivered sermons after they
reached realisation (kevala-jnana). These
murals have close resemblance to Bagh
and Ajanta paintings.
 Pair 3 is not correct: Region of Ravan
Chhaya Rock shelter is in Odisha. It
Features ancient fresco paintings on a
rock shelter in the shape of a half-opened
umbrella. Most noticeable painting is that
of a royal procession that dates back to
the 7th century AD.
18. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Option 1 is correct: The paintings on the
caves of Ajanta, Ellora and Elephanta
are truly magnificent. Ajanta Caves are
known for mural paintings.
 Option 2 is correct: Lepakshi temple is
in Andhra Pradesh. It is a good
repository of mural paintings of the
Vijayanagar kings. A tableau on
Lepakshi temple has been selected for the
Republic Day parade to be held in New
Delhi, representing Andhra Pradesh. The
tableau showcases the rich, monolithic
rock architecture of the Lepakshi
temple.
 Option 3 is not correct: Sanchi is
known for sculptures whose designs are
similarly painted in Ajanta. Sanchi Stupa

is one of the oldest Buddhist
monuments in India. So it is not known
for Mural paintings.
19. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Ibadat Khana:
 It was used for discussions with various
spiritual leaders of different religious
grounds and to conduct a discussion on
teachings of various religious leaders.
Also known as the Hall of prayer.
 It was a meeting house built by Akbar at
Fatehpur Sikri in 1575 AD.

PW Web/App: https://smart.link/7wwosivoicgd4
10
 The emperor increasingly indulged in
intellectual pursuits and came in contact
with ascetics and disciples of Sufi saint
Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti.
20. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
About Vijayanagar empire:
 A prominent aspect of the Vijayanagara
kingdom's temple construction was the
construction of "Kalyana Mandapas."
 In 1336 AD, Harihara and Bukka
established the Vijayanagar Empire.
 1

SANKALP 2024
Weekly Test - Prelims (Art & Culture) Test - 42

1. With reference to the Indian Architecture of the How many of the above statements are correct?
Harappan Civilization, consider the following (a) Only one (b) Only two
statements: (c) All three (d) None
1. The cities had a rectangular grid pattern
layout. 4. With reference to the cultural history of India,
2. It lacked town planning. which one of the following is the correct
3. There is evidence also of defensive walls description of the term ‘Sangharama’?
enclosing the walled cities. (a) The orthodox schools of Indian philosophy
How many of the above statements are correct? (b) Monastery or Temple
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) A type of music
(c) All three (d) None (d) A form of dance

2. With reference to Mauryan Architecture, 5. With reference to the Dravida Style of Temple
consider the following statements: Architecture, consider the following statements:
1. During the reign of Ashoka, many 1. This style of temple architecture of South
monolithic stone pillars were erected on India was pioneered by the Cholas.
which teachings of ‘Dhamma’ were 2. This style of the temple is enclosed within
inscribed. a compound wall.
2. Popular terracotta objects of various sizes 3. The shape of the main temple tower is
have been found at Mauryan sites. known as Shikhara in Tamil Nadu.
Which of the statements given above is/are How many of the above statements are correct?
correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) All three (d) None
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

6. Consider the following statements:

3. With reference to Stupas, consider the
Caves Features/Location
following statements:
1. Karle Cave : The largest Buddhist
1. Originally the stupa was made of bricks
chaitya griha
and surrounded by a wooden railing.
2. Kanheri Caves : Cave located in
2. The dome of the Stupas symbolizes the
Mumbai
dome of heaven enclosing the earth.
3. Bhaja Caves : Belongs to the
3. The relief sculpture of the Stupas depicts
Hinayana faith of
the events of the Buddha’s life.
Buddhism
 2

How many of the above pairs are correctly (a) Only one (b) Only two
matched? (c) All three (d) None
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None 10. Consider the following statements:
1. Vihara was a Buddhist monastery for
7. With reference to the Nagara Style, consider the Buddhist renunciates.
following statements: 2. A chaitya refers to a shrine or temple in the
1. Rekha-Prasad or Latina temples are Indian religion.
characterized by a simple Shikara . Which of the statements given above is/are not
2. Phamsana-style temples are shorter but correct?
broader structures consisting of roofs with (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
numerous slabs. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
3. Valabhi-style temples are rectangular in
shape consisting of barrel-vaulted roofs.
11. With reference to Harappan Sculpture, consider
How many of the above statements are correct? the following statements:
(a) Only one (b) Only two 1. The bronze statues were made using lost
(c) All three (d) None wax technique.
2. The bronze Dancing Girl in Tribhanga
8. With reference to Khajuraho or Chandela posture was discovered at Lothal.
School of Architecture, consider the following Which of the statements given above is/are
statements: correct?
1. The Lakshmana temple dedicated to (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Vishnu is an example of this type of (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
architecture.
2. These temples are conceived as a single
12. With reference to Amaravati School of Art,
unit.
consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are
1. This school of Art was promoted by
correct?
Kushana rulers.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
2. Use of white marbles in Stupas is an
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 important feature of this school.
3. Sculptures of this period depict the jataka
9. Consider the following pairs: stories of Buddhism.
Part of Stupa Description How many of the above statements are correct?
1. Medhi : A circular terrace (a) Only one (b) Only two
2. Vedika : A low wall (c) All three (d) None
3. Toranas : Ceremonial gateways
How many of the above pairs are correctly
matched?
 3

13. Consider the following pairs: 3. Jaugada : Madhya Pradesh

Stupas Present in 4. Kalsi : Karnataka
1. Piprahwa : Rajasthan How many pairs given above are correctly
2. Deur Kothar : Madhya Pradesh matched?
3. Chaukhandi : Uttar Pradesh (a) Only one (b) Only two
How many of the above pairs are correctly (c) Only three (d) All four
matched?
(a) Only one (b) Only two 17. With reference to Nayaka Style of Temple
(c) All three (d) None Architecture, consider the following statements:
1. It is similar to Nagara Style with the
14. With reference to Malwa School of influence of Islamic architecture.
Architecture, consider the following statements: 2. Presence of Parakarms represents this style
1. It is also known as the Pathan School of of architecture.
Architecture. Which of the statements given above is/are
2. Rani Rupmati pavilion is an example of correct?
this school. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 18. With reference to Solanki School of
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Architecture, consider the following statements:
1. In this school of architecture, Temple walls
15. Which one of the following statements is were devoid of any carvings.
correct? 2. Garbhagriha is connected with the
(a) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of the mandapa both internally as well as
Chambal river. externally.
(b) Pandu – lena cave shrines lie in the gorge 3. Temples are east-facing and designed such
of the Narmada river. that every year, during the equinoxes, the
sun- rays fall directly into the central
(c) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of the
shrine.
Waghora river.
How many of the above statements are not
(d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of the
correct?
Godavari river.
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None
16. Consider the following pairs:
Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts Location

1. Dhauli : Odisha
2. Erragudi : Andhra Pradesh
 4

19. Which of the following temple is not present in 20. With reference to Buddhist and Jain Caves,
Hampi? consider the following statements:
(a) Vittalaswami Temple 1. The Buddhist caves were cut in sandstone.
(b) Virupaksha Temple 2. The Jaina caves had no congregation halls
(c) Raghunatha Temple or rock cut shrines.
(d) Banashankari Temple Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
 5

Answer

1. (b) 11. (a)

2. (c) 12. (b)

3. (c) 13. (b)

4. (b) 14. (c)

5. (a) 15. (c)

6. (c) 16. (b)

7. (c) 17. (b)

8. (c) 18. (d)

9. (c) 19. (d)

10. (d) 20. (b)


Hints and Solutions
1. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The most
important features of Harappan
architecture are their superior town-
planning skills and cities that have been
built on a clear geometric pattern or
grid layout. They used geometric tools.
 Statement 2 is not correct: Civilisation
revealed the existence of a very modern
urban civilization with expert urban
town planning and engineering skills.
 Statement 3 is correct: There is
evidence also of defensive walls with
gateways (entrance of the city along
with bastion or watch tower) enclosing
the walled cities which shows that there
may have been a fear of being attacked.
Example: Kot Diji.Kalibangan etc.
2. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: During the reign
of Ashoka, many monolithic stone
pillars were erected on which teachings
of ‘Dhamma’ were inscribed. The
highly polished pillars with animal
figures adorning the top (capitals) are
unique and remarkable.
 Statement 2 is correct: Popular
terracotta objects of various sizes have
been found at Mauryan sites. They are
found more commonly from Pataliputra
to Taxila. They used the lost wax
technique to produce terracotta.
6
3. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Originally, the
stupa was made of bricks and
surrounded by a wooden railing. The
existing stupa at Sanchi encloses the
original stupa and has been enlarged and
enclosed within the stone railing or
balustrade when the stone was adopted in
the place of wood.
 Statement 2 is correct: The central
structure of the stupa consists of a
hemispherical dome (Anda) on a base,
with a relic chamber deep within. The
dome symbolizes, among other things,
the dome of heaven enclosing the earth.
 Statement 3 is correct: In Stupas, all the
elements are covered with relief
sculptures depicting the events of the
Buddha’s life, Jataka stories (about the
Buddha’s previous lives), scenes of early
Buddhism, and auspicious symbols. The
names of donors are also inscribed, the
most notable one being the ivory workers
of Vidisha.
4. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
About the Sangharama:
 Sangharama refers to a "temple" or
"monastery (school)."
 It is the place, including its garden or
grove, where the Sangha, the Buddhist
monastic community dwells.
 A famous sangharāma was that of
Kukkutarama in Pataliputra.

5. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: The
Dravidian style of temple architecture
of South India was pioneered by the
Pallavas who reigned in parts of
Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and northern
Tamil Nadu until the ninth century.
Although they were mostly Shaivite,
several Vaishnava shrines also survived
from their reign. The early buildings are
generally attributed to the reign of
Mahendravarman I, a contemporary of
the Chalukyan king, Pulakesin II of
Karnataka. Narasimhavarman I, also
known as Mamalla, who acceded the
Pallava throne around 640 CE, is
celebrated for his architectural works.
 Statement 2 is correct: The Dravida
temple is enclosed within a compound
wall. The front wall has an entrance
gateway in its center, which is known as
a Gopuram.
 Statement 3 is not correct: The shape of
the main temple tower known as
vimana in Tamil Nadu is like a stepped
pyramid that rises up geometrically rather
than the curving shikhara of North India.
In the South Indian temple, the word
‘Shikhara’ is used only for the crowning
element at the top of the temple which is
usually shaped like a small Stupika or an
octagonal cupola; this is equivalent to the
Amalak and Kalasha of North Indian
temples.
6. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Different Caves:
Karle cave (Lonavala,Pune) 200 BC
7
 Its columns are strong and bulky. The
columns are surmounted by sculptured
capitals.
 It is the largest chaitya griha among all
Buddhist monuments in India. (Hence,
pair 1 is correctly matched)
 It has a huge lion pillar in front of
chaitya griha (only 2 caves have this
design, that is Karle and Kanheri).
 The umbrella put up as a sign of royalty
and dignity developed in the course of
time is an interesting composition on top
of the door.
 Harmik is a square Buddhist railing from
which rises the shaft that holds the
Imperial umbrella, sometimes single and
later on multiplied to three or even more
diminishing in size as they go upwards.
Kanheri caves, Mumbai
 It is the second largest Chaita griha in
India after Karle Caves. It is based in
Mumbai. (Hence, pair 2 is correctly
matched)
 It witnesse presence of Podhis. They are
water cisterns for rainwater harvesting.
 Images of both standing Buddha and
sitting Buddha flanked by Bodhisattvas
are evident.
 Famous Satavahana king, Gautamiputra
Satakarni’s name has been mentioned in
the inscriptions here.
 It witnesses the existence of a Vihara for
resting monks with rocket seats and
benches.
Bhaja caves, Pune
 It represents the Hinayana faith of
Buddhism. (Hence, pair 3 is correctly
matched)
 it has wooden selling over chaitya griha
(Assembly hall)

7. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
Nagara or North Indian Temple Style:
 Statement 1 is correct: Rekha-Prasad or
Latina temples are characterized by a
simple Shikara with a square base and
inward curving walls that have a pointed
top. Early medieval temples such as the
Sun Temple at Markhera in Madhya
Pradesh (MP). The Sri Jagannath Temple
of Odisha has been constructed in the
Rekha-Prasad Shikara style.
 Statement 2 is correct: Phamsana are
shorter but broader structures
consisting of roofs with numerous slabs
that rise upwards in a gentle slope on a
straight incline like a pyramid meeting at
a single point over the midpoint of the
building. The Jagmohan of Konark
Temple is constructed in the Phamsana
mode.
 Statement 3 is correct: Valabhi-style
temples are rectangular in shape
consisting of barrel-vaulted roofs. The
vaulted chamber roof has earned them
the moniker wagon vaulted
buildings/structures. Teli Ka Mandir, a
9th Century temple at Gwalior has been
built in this style.
8. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: The temples of
Chandela architecture were constructed
by Chandela Kings in the Bundelkhand
region during the 10th to 11th centuries.
The Lakshmana temple dedicated to
Vishnu is the grandest temple of
Khajuraho, built-in 954 by the
Chandela king, Dhanga.
 Statement 2 is correct: These temples
8
are conceived as a single unit and have
Shikaras that are curved from bottom to
top. Example: Kandaria Mahadev temple
dedicated to lord Shiva. There are a
number of miniature Shikaras rising from
the central tower and towers that
gradually rise up to the main tower cap
both the porticos and halls.
9. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Features/Parts of stupas:
 The central structure consists of a
hemispherical dome (anda) on a base,
with a relic chamber deep within. The
dome symbolizes, among other things,
the dome of heaven enclosing the earth.
 It is surmounted by a squared railing
(harmika) that can be said to represent
the world mountain.
 A central pillar (yashti) symbolizes the
cosmic axis and supports a triple
umbrella structure (chattra), which is
held to represent the Three Jewels of
Buddhism—the Buddha, the dharma
(doctrine), and the sangha (community).
 Pair 1 is correctly matched: A circular
terrace (medhi), enclosed by a railing,
surrounds the dome, on which the faithful
are to circumambulate in a clockwise
direction.
 Pair 2 and 3 are correctly matched:
The entire structure is enclosed by a low
wall (vedika), which is punctuated at the
four cardinal points by toranas
(ceremonial gateways).
10. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
 Statement 1 is correct: Vihara
generally refers to a Buddhist
monastery for Buddhist renunciates,

mostly in the Indian subcontinent. The
concept is ancient and in early Sanskrit
and Pali texts, it meant any arrangement
of space or facilities for dwellings. They
were constructed for Jains and Buddhist
monks. They had highly polished interior
surfaces and decorative gateways.
Examples: Satgarva caves,
Makhdumpur, Jehanabad.Ashoka
constructed caves for the Ajivika sect.
 Statement 2 is correct: A chaitya refers
to a shrine, sanctuary, temple or
assembly hall in Indian religion. The
term is most common in Buddhism,
where it refers to a space with a stupa and
a rounded apse at the end opposite the
entrance, and a high roof with a rounded
profile.
11. (a)
Option (a) is correct:
About Harappan Sculpture:
 Statement 1 is correct: The bronze
statues were made using “lost wax
technique” or “Cire Perdue”.
 Statement 2 is not correct: The bronze
Dancing Girl (world’s oldest bronze
sculpture) in Tribhanga posture was
discovered at Mohenjo-Daro. She wears
a large number of bangles, probably
made of bone or ivory on her left arm
together with a couple of pairs on her
right arm. Other e.g. Bull found in
Kalibangan.
12. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Statement 1 is not correct: The
Amaravati School of Art is a prominent
and reputable institution of art that has
left its mark and influence in India for its
aesthetic importance. It is promoted by
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the "Satavahanas" of the Andhra
region. The 'Satavahanas' supported
Brahmanism and Buddhism and
contributed to the construction of
chaityas and viharas.
 Statement 2 is correct: The stunning
white marble used to construct the
Amravati stupas. Amaravati sculptures,
which come in human, animal, and floral
shapes, offer a sense of movement and
vigor as well as a profound and calm
naturalism. Notable locations where this
style flourished include Amravati,
Nagarjunikonda, Goli, Ghantasala, and
Vengi.
 Statement 3 is correct: Sculptures of
this period depict the jataka stories of
Buddhism. For example the “Buddha
taming an elephant" reflects a narrative
theme derived from Jataka and Buddha
tales.
13. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 Pair 1 is not correctly matched: The
Indian state of Uttar Pradesh contains
the village of Piprahwa close to Birdpur
in the Siddharthnagar district. On the
grounds of the site are a sizable stupa, the
remains of a number of monasteries, a
museum, and more. At the nearby
Ganwaria mound, ruins of old residential
structures and shrines have been found.
 Pair 2 is correctly matched: In Madhya
Pradesh, central India, there is a site
called Deur Kothar that is significant
archaeologically. It was founded in 1982
and is well-known for its Buddhist
stupas.The Mauryan monarch Ashoka is
credited with building these stupas.
 Pair 3 is correctly matched: In Uttar
Pradesh, Chaukhandi Stupa is a

Buddhist stupa in Sarnath that is 8 miles
from Cantt Railway Station in Varanasi.
A shrine for a Buddha relic is housed in
stupas, which are descended from burial
mounds.
14. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
About Malwa School of Architecture:
 Use of different colored stones and
marbles, absence of minars were unique
features.
 It is also known as the Pathan School of
Architecture. (Hence, statement 1 is
correct)
 European influence can be noticed.
 Environmental adaptation - large
windows, baulis, Local materials, batter
system etc.
 Example: Rani Rupmati pavilion,
Ashrafi Mahal, Hindola Mahal and Jahaz
Mahal. (Hence, statement 2 is correct)
15. (c)
Option (c) is correct:
 The little river Waghora has a U-
shaped valley on its southern side, where
the Ajanta caves are located.
 The Sanchi Stupa is located on a flat-
topped sandstone hill in an area of upland
plateau, which is West of the Betwa
River.
 At the Gomai River, there is a set of
ancient rock-cut sculptures called
Pandu-lena caves.
 Amravati Stupa lies on the bank of
Krishna river.
16. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
 In the Indian state of Odisha, 8
kilometers south of Bhubaneswar, are the
Dhauli Hills, which are situated along
the banks of the Daya River. It is a hill
with a large open area beside it, and on
the side of the road going to the hill's
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peak, there is a pile of granite with
major Ashokan edicts inscribed on it. .
(Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched)
 The Erragudi or Yerragudi rock edict
is situated in Andhra Pradesh's
Kurnool district. The inscriptions,
which belong under the category of large
and minor rock inscriptions, were one
of the prized possessions of Mouryan
king Ashoka (269–231 BCE). . (Hence,
pair 2 is correctly matched)
 Jaugada is an ancient fort that served as
a Mauryan fortified capital of the
Kalinga province. The Jaugada writing
of Ashoka is found in Odisha. The
Prakrit language rock edict inscriptions,
written in Brahmi script, contain
information about the superior
administrative practices based on
Ashoka's awareness of human rights.
(Hence, pair 3 is not correctly matched)
 At the meeting of the Yamuna and
Tonnes rivers in the Uttarakhand
district of Dehradun, there is a Kalsi
inscription. The location of Ashoka's
inscriptions in Kalsi is the only location
in North India where the great Mauryan
emperor left a complete set of all
fourteen rock edicts. These decrees are
written in Brahmi script and use Pali as
the language. (Hence, pair 4 is not
correctly matched)
17. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
About Nayaka Style of Temple
Architecture:
 Also known as Madurai School
flourished under the Nayaka rulers
between 16th to 18th centuries A.D.
 Similar to Dravidian Style with
influence of Islamic architecture. (Hence,
statement 1 is not correct)
 Presence of Parakarms or huge
Corridors. (Hence, Statement 2 is

correct)
 Intricate carving on temple structure.
 Art of Gopuram reached its climax in
Nayaka style, one of the tallest gopuram
built under Nayaka Style at Meenakshi
Temple, Madurai.
18. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
About Solanki School of Architecture:
 Also known as Maru-Gurjara style
 Location: In the north-western parts of
India - Gujarat and Rajasthan.
 School developed under the patronage
of the Solanki rulers.
 Made of SandStone, Black Basalt, Grey
Basalt and after the 11th Century of
white soft marble.
 Temple walls were devoid of any
carvings. (Hence, statement 1 is correct)
 Garbhagriha is connected with the
mandapa both internally as well as
externally. (Hence, statement 2 is
correct)
 The porticos have decorative arched
gateways called Torans.
 Unique Feature:
 Presence of a step-tank, known as
Surya-Kund in the proximity of the
temple.
 Temples are east-facing and
designed such that every year,
during the equinoxes, the sun- rays
fall directly into the central shrine.
 (Hence, statement 3 is correct)
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11
 Example: Modhera Sun temple, Gujarat
(built in 1026–27 by Bhima-I).
19. (d)
Option (d) is correct:
About Temples:
 Vittalaswami temple, Lotus Mahal,
Virupaksha temple and Raghunatha
Temple are present in Hampi.
 But, Banashankari Temple is present
in Badami.
20. (b)
Option (b) is correct:
About Jain Caves:
 Jaina caves were cut in sandstone (easy
to cut but not good for sculpting). But
Buddhist caves were cut into hard rocks
(better for sculpting). (Hence, satement
1 is not correct)
 The Jaina caves had no congregation
halls or rock cut shrines. (Hence,
statement 2 is correct)
 The Jaina cave cells were cut wherever
the rock permitted, there was no
planning.
 The Jaina caves were simple and
reflected the asceticism of Jain monks.
About Buddhist Caves:
 The Buddhist caves had clear halls and
the shrines.
 The Buddhist cave structure was well
laid out.
 The Buddhist caves were elaborate and
spacious.