The Kailasa Temple built in the 8th century is in which of the following state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: Maharashtra.
Explanation:
- Built in the 8th century, the world-renowned Kailasa Temple is situated within the Ellora Caves (Cave No. 16) in the Aurangabad (now Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) district of Maharashtra. This temple stands as a magnificent example of architecture.
- Construction: It was commissioned by Krishna I, a ruler of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
- Key Feature: It is the world's largest 'monolithic' structure, meaning it was carved out of a single massive rock, working from the top downwards.
- Style: This temple represents the Dravidian architectural style and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- UNESCO: The Ellora Caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Key Points Regarding Major Historical Temples (Quick Revision):
- Konark Sun Temple: Odisha (Built by Narasimhadeva I of the Ganga dynasty).
- Khajuraho Temples: Madhya Pradesh (Built by the Chandel rulers).
- Brihadeshwara Temple: Tamil Nadu (Built by the Chola ruler Rajaraja I).
- Dilwara Jain Temples: Rajasthan (Mount Abu; Solanki/Chalukya style).
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Which dynasty commissioned the construction of the Kailasa Temple at Ellora?
Answer: The Rashtrakuta Dynasty.
Question: What is the total number of caves in the Ellora Caves, and to which religions do they belong?
Answer: A total of 34 caves (Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain religions).
Question: Where are the 'Elephanta Caves'—famous for their rock-cut temples—located?
Answer: Maharashtra (near Mumbai).