What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram? 1. Both were built in the same period. 2. Both belong to the same religious denomination. 3. Both have rock-cut monuments. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

None of the statements given above is correct

QUESTION

Hard

Art & Culture

Prelims 2016

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.

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Ajanta and Mahabalipuram were not built in the same period.

Ajanta is known for its rock-cut cave monuments, which were constructed from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE, primarily during the Gupta and Vakataka dynasties.
On the other hand, Mahabalipuram's rock-cut monuments and structures were built primarily during the 7th and 8th centuries CE, under the Pallava dynasty.

Statement 2 is incorrect:

Ajanta is associated with Buddhism, as the cave monuments were used as monasteries and temples by Buddhist monks.
Mahabalipuram, on the other hand, is associated with Hinduism, as the rock-cut monuments and temples are dedicated to Hindu deities and themes.

Statement 3 is correct: Both Ajanta and Mahabalipuram are known for their remarkable rock-cut monuments and structures. The Ajanta Caves are a series of rock-cut cave temples and monasteries, while Mahabalipuram is renowned for its rock-cut temples, Rathas (chariot-shaped temples), and other monumental structures carved directly out of rock.

Therefore, the only common feature between Ajanta and Mahabalipuram is that both have rock-cut monuments, as stated in statement 3.

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