The correct Answer is 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
This question assesses knowledge of prominent ancient Indian rock-cut cave sites and their distinguishing architectural features, particularly those associated with Buddhist monastic traditions.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Karla: Biggest rock-cut chaitya hall
- Correct. The Karla Caves, located in Maharashtra, house the largest and most magnificent rock-cut chaitya hall in India. This chaitya hall is renowned for its impressive dimensions, intricate carvings, and the presence of a large stupa.
- Kanheri: A hundred and eight excavated caves
- Correct. The Kanheri Caves, situated near Mumbai, Maharashtra, comprise a large complex of Buddhist rock-cut monuments. The site is known for having over a hundred excavated caves, including chaityas and viharas, making it one of the largest cave complexes in India.
- Junnar: Ganeshleni
- Correct. The Junnar Caves, also in Maharashtra, are a group of Buddhist caves. One prominent group among them is known as Ganeshleni, named after a Ganesh shrine located within one of the caves. This group includes several chaityas and viharas.
- Bedsa: Apsidal vault-roof pillarless hall
- Incorrect. The Bedsa Caves, located near Pune, Maharashtra, are known for their chaitya hall which features a vaulted roof and pillars. The description "pillarless hall" is not characteristic of the main chaitya at Bedsa. While some smaller caves might be pillarless, the prominent chaitya hall at Bedsa has pillars. The apsidal vault-roof is a common feature of early Buddhist chaityas, but the "pillarless" aspect is incorrect for Bedsa's main chaitya.
Key Takeaway
Specific architectural features and numerical details are crucial for identifying and distinguishing ancient Indian rock-cut cave sites.