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Temples and Their Significance in Indian Architecture

Description: Temples and Their Significance in Indian Architecture
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: indian architecture temples indian culture
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Which of the following is a characteristic feature of South Indian temples?

  1. Shikhara

  2. Gopuram

  3. Vimana

  4. Amalaka


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Gopuram is a monumental gateway tower typically found in South Indian temples, often elaborately decorated with sculptures and paintings.

What is the most sacred part of a Hindu temple?

  1. Garbhagriha

  2. Mandapa

  3. Shikhara

  4. Antarala


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Garbhagriha is the innermost sanctum of a Hindu temple, where the main deity is enshrined.

Which of the following is a famous example of a rock-cut temple in India?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Ellora Caves


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Ellora Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra, India, famous for its intricate rock-cut temples and sculptures.

Which architectural style is characterized by curvilinear towers and intricate carvings?

  1. Dravidian

  2. Nagara

  3. Vesara

  4. Kalinga


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Dravidian architecture is known for its curvilinear towers, intricate carvings, and vibrant colors.

What is the significance of the 'Amalaka' in Indian temple architecture?

  1. It is a decorative element placed atop the shikhara.

  2. It represents the sun and is associated with Surya, the sun god.

  3. It symbolizes the cycle of life and rebirth.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Amalaka is a ribbed, fluted stone disk placed atop the shikhara of a Hindu temple. It represents the sun and is associated with Surya, the sun god. It also symbolizes the cycle of life and rebirth.

Which of the following temples is known for its intricate erotic sculptures?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Ellora Caves


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, India, are famous for their intricate erotic sculptures, which depict various aspects of human life and sexuality.

What is the purpose of a 'Mandapa' in a Hindu temple?

  1. It is a pillared hall used for congregational gatherings and rituals.

  2. It is the sanctum where the main deity is enshrined.

  3. It is a gateway tower leading to the temple complex.

  4. It is a water tank used for ritual bathing.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Mandapa is a pillared hall in a Hindu temple, typically used for congregational gatherings, rituals, and festivals.

Which of the following is a famous example of a temple built in the Nagara style?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a classic example of a temple built in the Nagara style, known for its intricate carvings and curvilinear shikhara.

What is the significance of the 'Nandi' bull in Hindu temple architecture?

  1. It is a sacred animal associated with Lord Shiva.

  2. It symbolizes strength and virility.

  3. It is a guardian deity protecting the temple.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Nandi bull is a sacred animal associated with Lord Shiva. It symbolizes strength and virility and is often placed in front of Shiva temples as a guardian deity protecting the temple.

Which of the following is a famous example of a temple built in the Vesara style?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, Karnataka, is a fine example of a temple built in the Vesara style, which combines elements of both Dravidian and Nagara styles.

What is the significance of the 'Garuda' bird in Hindu temple architecture?

  1. It is a sacred bird associated with Lord Vishnu.

  2. It symbolizes strength and power.

  3. It is a guardian deity protecting the temple.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Garuda bird is a sacred bird associated with Lord Vishnu. It symbolizes strength and power and is often placed atop temple gateways or pillars as a guardian deity protecting the temple.

Which of the following is a famous example of a temple built in the Kalinga style?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Jagannath Temple, Puri


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is a renowned example of a temple built in the Kalinga style, known for its unique architectural features and intricate carvings.

What is the significance of the 'Makara' mythical creature in Hindu temple architecture?

  1. It is a symbol of fertility and abundance.

  2. It is associated with water and rainfall.

  3. It is a guardian deity protecting the temple.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Makara is a mythical creature often depicted in Hindu temple architecture. It is a symbol of fertility and abundance, associated with water and rainfall. It is also considered a guardian deity protecting the temple.

Which of the following is a famous example of a temple built in the Chola style?

  1. Khajuraho Temples

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a magnificent example of a temple built in the Chola style, known for its towering vimana and intricate carvings.

What is the significance of the 'Kalasha' or 'Stupi' in Hindu temple architecture?

  1. It is a symbol of victory and triumph.

  2. It represents the abode of the gods.

  3. It is a protective element warding off evil spirits.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Kalasha or Stupi is a bulbous, vase-like structure placed atop the shikhara of a Hindu temple. It is a symbol of victory and triumph, representing the abode of the gods. It is also believed to be a protective element warding off evil spirits.

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