UPSC Prelims 2019 Analysis

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. Saint Nimbarka lived in the 13th or 14th century, while Akbar's reign was from 1556 to 1605.

Statement 2 is incorrect. Saint Kabir lived in the 15th century, predating Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi who belonged to the 16th-17th century.

Explanation

The Vijayanagara Empire, which existed in Southern India from the 14th to 17th century, was known for its significant contributions to temple architecture.

One notable feature of temple construction during this period was the inclusion of 'Kalyana Mandapams' or marriage halls within temple complexes. These halls were used for conducting religious ceremonies, including weddings of the deities, as well as for community gatherings and festivals.

Hence, the correct option is C, the Vijayanagara Empire.

The other notable features of the Vijaynagar temple architecture are rai gopurams, chariot streets and charging horses carved on the temple pillar.

Explanation

Jahangir (reigned 1605-1627) was known for his keen interest in art and culture. While his predecessors valued illustrated manuscripts, Jahangir favoured a more personal approach to artistic expression.

He patronized artists like Bichitr, Mansur, and Abu’l Hasan, who excelled in portraiture.

He actively commissioned individual portraits and compiled albums showcasing a variety of subjects, including people, animals, and flora and fauna. This shift reflected a growing interest in realism and individual character studies within Mughal art during his reign.

Explanation

Kanaganahalli, located near Sannati in Karnataka, is an archaeological site known for its Buddhist stupas, sculptures, and inscription slabs.

One particular sculpture depicts a royal figure with attendants, identified through the Brahmi inscription as "Ranyo Ashoka" (King Ashoka). This makes it the only confirmed instance among the given options where the inscription and the portrait are found together.

Sanchi, in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its Great Stupa, built under Ashoka's patronage.

Shahbazgarhi: Located in modern-day Pakistan, Shahbazgarhi contains Ashokan Edicts written in Kharosthi script. These edicts promote Dharma (moral law) but do not include a stone portrait of Ashoka.

Sohgaura, in Uttar Pradesh, has a pre-Ashokan inscription, written in the Brahmi script. It is not associated with Ashoka but rather with a Mauryan period famine relief measure.

Explanation

All three statements (1, 2, and 3) are features of Mahayana Buddhism.

Deification of the Buddha: While Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the Buddha as a human who attained enlightenment, Mahayana portrays the Buddha as a transcendent being who can exist in multiple forms.

Treading the path of Bodhisattvas Mahayana: Buddhism emphasizes the Bodhisattva ideal, where individuals strive for enlightenment not just for themselves but for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Image worship and rituals: Mahayana Buddhism incorporates elaborate rituals and devotional practices involving statues and images of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. These practices are seen as a way to connect with the divine and progress on the path to enlightenment.