UPSC Prelims 2019 · GS Paper I
Question 11: History and Culture
Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
Kalyana mandapas, pillared halls where the marriage of the deity to his consort was celebrated, were a notable feature of Vijayanagara temple building, along with tall gopurams, carved pillars with rearing animals, and large temple complexes within enclosures, as at Hampi. The other kingdoms are known for different things: Chalukya for the Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal experiments, Chandela for the Khajuraho temples, Rashtrakuta for the rock-cut Kailasa temple at Ellora.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Chalukya temples are known for Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal experiments in style.
- (b) Chandela temples are known for Khajuraho and nagara-style spires.
- (c) Rashtrakuta is known for the rock-cut Kailasa temple at Ellora.
- (d) Correct: kalyana mandapas are a Vijayanagara temple feature.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2019, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.