Correct Option (A)
The Lingaraja Temple is situated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Hari-Hara, a combined form of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Constructed in the 11th century CE by King Yayati Kesari of the Somavamsi dynasty, it represents a significant example of the Kalinga style of temple architecture, which is a sub-style of the Nagara architectural tradition.
Key architectural features of the Lingaraja Temple include:
- Rekha Deul (sanctum with a curvilinear spire)
- Jagamohana (assembly hall)
- Natamandira (dancing hall)
- Bhoga Mandapa (hall of offerings)
Standing approximately 55 meters (180 feet) tall, it is one of the largest temples in Bhubaneswar, built primarily of red sandstone with intricate carvings. The temple's design marks a crucial transition in the evolution of Kalinga temple architecture.
Incorrect Options
- (2) Bijapur: This city, located in Karnataka, is renowned for its Islamic architectural marvels, such as the Gol Gumbaz, and is not associated with the Kalinga style of Hindu temple architecture.
- (3) Kolkata: As a major cultural and historical city in West Bengal, Kolkata is known for its colonial architecture and diverse cultural heritage, but it does not feature prominent Nagara or Kalinga style temples like the Lingaraja Temple.
- (4) Shravanabelagola: Situated in Karnataka, Shravanabelagola is a significant Jain pilgrimage site, famous for its colossal monolithic statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara). It is unrelated to Hindu temple architecture of the Kalinga style.