The correct option is A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
Explanation
This question correlates major historical sites in India with their specific architectural or metallurgical landmarks, covering the Mauryan, Gupta, Chalukya, and Pallava periods.- A. Mehrauli – Iron Pillar (4): The Iron Pillar located at the Qutub Minar complex in Mehrauli, Delhi, is a testament to the advanced metallurgical skills of the Gupta period. It bears an inscription of King 'Chandra', identified with Chandragupta II. It is famous for its high resistance to rust and corrosion despite centuries of exposure.
- B. Sanchi – Great Stupa (1): Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh) is a prominent Buddhist site. The Great Stupa was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka (Mauryan Empire) in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded during the Shunga period. It is one of the oldest stone structures in India.
- C. Aihole – Durga Temple (2): Aihole (Karnataka) was a capital of the Chalukyas. The Durga Temple (c. 7th–8th century CE) is a structural temple known for its unique apsidal (semi-circular) plan, resembling the back of an elephant (Gajapristha).
- D. Mahabalipuram – Monolithic Temples (3): Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) is renowned for the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), which are monolithic rock-cut temples. These were excavated during the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla) in the 7th century CE.
Key Takeaway: The Mehrauli Iron Pillar is a Gupta metallurgical marvel; Sanchi is associated with Mauryan Buddhist stupas; Aihole showcases Chalukyan structural innovation; and Mahabalipuram represents Pallava monolithic rock-cut architecture.