Consider the following statements regarding the Chalukyan architecture at Aihole and Pattadakal: 1. The Ravana Phadi cave is located at Badami. 2. The Virupaksha temple at Pattadakal is built in the Dravida style. 3. The Durga temple at Aihole has an apsidal shrine reminiscent of Buddhist chaitya halls. Which of the statements given above are correct?

The correct option is 2 and 3 only. Explanation The Chalukyas of Badami (6th-8th century CE) played a foundational role in the evolution of Indian temple architecture. Their monuments, concentrated in the Malaprabha river valley at Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakal, mark the transition from rock-cut caves to structural temples. This region is known for the coexistence and experimentation of Nagara (North Indian) and Dravida (South Indian) architectural styles. Statement-wise Analysis: - Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Ravana Phadi cave is located at Aihole, not Badami. It is one of the earliest rock-cut shrines in the region, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and dates to the mid-6th century. While Badami is famous for its four major cave temples (Cave 1 to 4), Ravana Phadi is a distinct monument situated in Aihole. - Statement 2 is Correct. The Virupaksha temple at Pattadakal is built in the Dravida style. It was commissioned by Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate the victory of Vikramaditya II over the Pallavas of Kanchipuram. The temple is modeled after the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram, showcasing distinct Dravidian features such as the vimana (tower) with storeys and a stupi (finial). - Statement 3 is Correct. The Durga temple at Aihole is renowned for its unique apsidal plan (semi-circular rear), which resembles the layout of a Buddhist Chaitya hall. Despite its name (derived from 'durg' meaning fortress, as it was near a fortification), it is a Brahmanical temple. The structure includes a pillared corridor running around the inner sanctum, adapting the Buddhist chaitya style for Hindu worship. Key Takeaway: Aihole is considered the "Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture" due to its early experimental forms, while Pattadakal represents the mature phase where distinct Nagara (e.g., Galaganatha) and Dravida (e.g., Virupaksha) styles were established side by side.

NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

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Consider the following statements regarding the Chalukyan architecture at Aihole and Pattadakal:

The Ravana Phadi cave is located at Badami.
The Virupaksha temple at Pattadakal is built in the Dravida style.
The Durga temple at Aihole has an apsidal shrine reminiscent of Buddhist chaitya halls.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1, 2 and 3
B2 only
C2 and 3 only
D1 and 2 only

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

The Chalukyas of Badami (6th-8th century CE) played a foundational role in the evolution of Indian temple architecture. Their monuments, concentrated in the Malaprabha river valley at Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakal, mark the transition from rock-cut caves to structural temples. This region is known for the coexistence and experimentation of Nagara (North Indian) and Dravida (South Indian) architectural styles.

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Incorrect.
The Ravana Phadi cave is located at Aihole, not Badami. It is one of the earliest rock-cut shrines in the region, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and dates to the mid-6th century. While Badami is famous for its four major cave temples (Cave 1 to 4), Ravana Phadi is a distinct monument situated in Aihole.
Statement 2 is Correct.
The Virupaksha temple at Pattadakal is built in the Dravida style. It was commissioned by Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate the victory of Vikramaditya II over the Pallavas of Kanchipuram. The temple is modeled after the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram, showcasing distinct Dravidian features such as the vimana (tower) with storeys and a stupi (finial).
Statement 3 is Correct.
The Durga temple at Aihole is renowned for its unique apsidal plan (semi-circular rear), which resembles the layout of a Buddhist Chaitya hall. Despite its name (derived from 'durg' meaning fortress, as it was near a fortification), it is a Brahmanical temple. The structure includes a pillared corridor running around the inner sanctum, adapting the Buddhist chaitya style for Hindu worship.

Key Takeaway:
Aihole is considered the "Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture" due to its early experimental forms, while Pattadakal represents the mature phase where distinct Nagara (e.g., Galaganatha) and Dravida (e.g., Virupaksha) styles were established side by side.

Your note

More from Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

Which of the following temple groups is renowned for the 'Bangla roof' style that subsequently influenced Mughal architecture?

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With reference to the basic form of the Hindu temple, consider the following statements: 1. The garbhagriha was originally a small cubicle with a single entrance which later grew into a larger chamber. 2. The mandapa is the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple. 3. The mount or vehicle of the temple’s main deity is placed axially behind the sanctum to guard the rear entrance. Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I | List II A. Amalaka | 1. Motif resembling a cow-eye or arch B. Kalasha | 2. Composite mythical beast C. Gavaksha | 3. Vase or pot placed on top of the amalaka D. Vyala | 4. Horizontal fluted disc at the top of the shikhara

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easy

Consider the following statements regarding the sub-types of Nagara temple architecture: 1. Latina buildings are characterized by a flat roof structure. 2. Phamsana buildings tend to be broader and shorter than Latina ones. 3. Valabhi buildings have a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber, similar to a wagon-vault. Which of the statements given above are correct?

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The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Incorrect.
The Ravana Phadi cave is located at Aihole, not Badami. It is one of the earliest rock-cut shrines in the region, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and dates to the mid-6th century. While Badami is famous for its four major cave temples (Cave 1 to 4), Ravana Phadi is a distinct monument situated in Aihole.
Statement 2 is Correct.
The Virupaksha temple at Pattadakal is built in the Dravida style. It was commissioned by Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate the victory of Vikramaditya II over the Pallavas of Kanchipuram. The temple is modeled after the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram, showcasing distinct Dravidian features such as the vimana (tower) with storeys and a stupi (finial).
Statement 3 is Correct.
The Durga temple at Aihole is renowned for its unique apsidal plan (semi-circular rear), which resembles the layout of a Buddhist Chaitya hall. Despite its name (derived from 'durg' meaning fortress, as it was near a fortification), it is a Brahmanical temple. The structure includes a pillared corridor running around the inner sanctum, adapting the Buddhist chaitya style for Hindu worship.