UPSC Prelims PYQ 2014: Indian sculpture sites — Ajanta, Mount Abu, Mamallapuram

With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs:

Famous work of sculpture	Site
1) A grand image of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana with numerous celestial musicians above and the sorrowful figures of his followers below	Ajanta
2) A huge image of Varaha Avatar (boar incarnation) of Vishnu as he rescues Goddess Earth from the deep and chaotic waters,sculpted on rock	Mount Abu
3) “Arjuna’s Penance”/”Descent of Ganga” sculpted on the surface of huge boulders	Mamallapuram

Which of the pairs given above is/ are correctly matched?

1 and 2 only
3 only,
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Pair 1 is correct

The grand image of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, with celestial musicians above and sorrowful followers below, is located in the Ajanta Caves, renowned for their Buddhist rock-cut temples and monasteries.

A photograph of an ancient stone sculpture depicting a large reclining figure, likely a deity or important person, surrounded by smaller carved figures along the base. The sculpture features detailed carvings of feet and multiple human forms, highlighting artistic craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Image Source: Wiki

Pair 2 is incorrect

Udayagiri caves (not to be confused with Udayagiri-Khandagiri Caves in Odisha) located in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for having numerous sculptures on the hill walls. The sculpture of Varaha or Boar incarnation of the Vishnu is notable. The caves have one of the earliest Hindu sculptures.
It also has caves dedicated to Shiva, Narasimha (half-lion, halfman), Narayana (resting Vishnu) and Skanda.

A photograph of an ancient stone relief sculpture depicting a large, multi-armed figure with an elephant head, likely representing the Hindu deity Ganesha, surrounded by smaller human and divine figures. The relief features intricate carvings with rows of smaller figures in the background, showcasing detailed craftsmanship and religious iconography.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Pair 3 is correct

This is a famous rock relief found in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Tamil Nadu.

Photograph of an ancient stone relief carving depicting a variety of animals, human figures, and architectural elements. The carving features detailed scenes including elephants, a large rock on top, and intricate patterns, set against a backdrop of blue sky and greenery.