Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct options:
Assertion (A): Gandhara images frequently feature halo and curly hair.
Reasoning (R): These elements symbolise Graeco-Roman influence in North-West India.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
The Gandhara School of Art, which flourished in Northwest India between the 1st century BCE and 4th century CE, is a unique blend of Indian and Hellenistic (Greek) styles. The depiction of Lord Buddha with a decorated halo, wavy curly hair, and muscular anatomy directly reflects Graeco-Roman artistic traditions. These stylistic elements were adapted to Buddhist iconography, where the curly hair resembled Greek Apollo and the halo signified divinity, confirming the strong cultural exchange along the Silk Road.