Which of the following is not a Monolithic temple?

This question was previously asked in
RPSC AEn General Knowledge & General Science 2018 Official Paper
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  1. Dharmaraj temple of Mahabalipuram
  2. Bhim Rath Mahabalipuram
  3. Kailash temple of Ellora
  4. Shore temple of Mahabalipuram

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Shore temple of Mahabalipuram
Free
ST 1: General Knowledge (History & Culture)
20 Qs. 40 Marks 20 Mins

Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is the  Shore temple of MahabalipuramKey Points

  •  The Shore Temple is not a monolithic temple
  •  It is a structural temple built from blocks of granite, unlike the other options, which are monolithic, meaning they were carved from a single rock. 
  •  It was built during the reign of the Pallava King Narasimhavarman II in the 8th century and is dedicated to both Shiva and Vishnu.
  • It is  Located by the Bay of Bengal, the Shore Temple is named for its location and has become a symbol of the ancient maritime heritage of India.

Additional Information

  •  Dharmaraja Ratha (Mahabalipuram):
    • It is a monolithic rock-cut temple, part of the Pancha Rathas in Mahabalipuram, carved out of a single stone.
    • This temple was built during the reign of the Pallava dynasty in the 7th century and is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva.
    • The temple is carved in the shape of a chariot (ratha) and showcases the architectural expertise of ancient India.
  • Bhima Ratha (Mahabalipuram):
    • Like the Dharmaraja Ratha, Bhima Ratha is also a monolithic temple, carved from a single large rock.
    • It is part of the group of monuments known as the Pancha Rathas, representing the five Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
    • The temple has an elongated structure, resembling a traditional South Indian temple with a barrel-shaped roof.
  • Kailash Temple (Ellora):
    • The Kailash Temple at Ellora is one of the largest monolithic rock-cut temples in the world, carved from a single rock.
    •  It was built by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I in the 8th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, massive scale, and stunning sculptures, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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