UPSC Prelims 1999 · General Studies
Question 15: History and Culture
Consider the following statements: The striking feature of the Jama Masjid in Kashmir completed by Zain-ul-Abidin include(s) I. Turret. II. Similarity with Buddhist pagodas. III. Persian style. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
The Jama Masjid of Srinagar, a Sultanate-era mosque tied to the names of Sikandar and Zain-ul-Abidin, is a Kashmiri-style wooden mosque. It has turrets over its entrances, pagoda-like roofs that recall the Buddhist architecture of the valley, and Persian influence in its design. The given answer counts all three features. Remember: Kashmir's mosques blend Persian ideas with local wooden, pagoda-like forms.
- I. The mosque has turrets.
- II. Its pagoda-like roofs resemble Buddhist pagoda forms.
- III. It shows Persian style.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. Turrets are only one of the three features.
- (b) Right. Turrets, pagoda-like roofs and Persian style are all counted.
- (c) Wrong. It leaves out the turrets.
- (d) Wrong. It leaves out the similarity with Buddhist pagodas.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1999, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.