Correct Option
The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
Rock-cut architecture in Eastern India, particularly in the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, flourished during the Post-Mauryan period. These traditions were primarily associated with Buddhism in the Andhra region and Jainism in the Odisha region.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Guntapalle (in the Eluru district of Andhra Pradesh) is a significant Buddhist site. It is unique because it features a combination of rock-cut and structural architecture in one location. The site contains rock-cut caves (viharas), a circular rock-cut chaitya, and structural stupas situated on the hill.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Anakapalle (specifically the nearby site of Sankaram/Bojjannakonda) is renowned for its rock-cut stupas. The site features numerous monolithic stupas carved directly out of the rock hill. Therefore, the assertion that it is known for structural temples rather than rock-cut stupas contradicts the archaeological prominence of its rock-cut Buddhist heritage.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Udaigiri and Khandagiri caves near Bhubaneswar in Odisha were excavated during the reign of King Kharavela (Chedi dynasty) in the 1st or 2nd century BCE. These caves were dedicated to Jain monks, not Buddhist monks. They served as residential quarters (viharas) for Jain ascetics and contain inscriptions detailing the reign of King Kharavela (e.g., the Hathigumpha inscription).
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: While the rock-cut caves of Andhra Pradesh (e.g., Guntapalle, Anakapalle) are predominantly Buddhist, the contemporary rock-cut caves of Odisha (Udaigiri-Khandagiri) are exclusively Jain.