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.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the statements given above is correct
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- The Ajanta Caves, located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, consist of approximately 30 rock-cut cave monuments that range in age from the 2nd century BCE to around 480 or 650 CE. These caves were excavated during various periods. Therefore, statement 1 is incorrect.
- The Ajanta Caves are associated with the Buddhist religious denomination.
- Mahabalipuram features scenes such as Arjuna’s penance and the Jala-Sayana Perumal temple, which are primarily related to the Vaishnavite tradition. Hence, statement 2 is also incorrect.
- Both the Ajanta Caves and Mahabalipuram are examples of rock-cut monuments. In Ajanta, cave-cut structures like Chaityas, Viharas, and Stupas can be found. Therefore, statement 3 is correct.
Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.
