NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings - Cultural Developments (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

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The artificial caves at Barabar, constructed in the third century BCE, were originally made for renouncers belonging to which sect?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

ABuddhist
BAjivika
CShaiva
DJaina

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is Ajivika.

Explanation

The Barabar caves represent the earliest surviving examples of rock-cut architecture in India. Dating back to the Mauryan period, these structures are renowned for their distinctive "Mauryan polish" and the architectural imitation of timber construction in stone.

Detailed Analysis:

Construction and Patronage: The caves are located in the Jehanabad district of Bihar and were constructed during the 3rd century BCE. Inscriptions found in the caves (such as the Sudama and Karna Chopara caves) confirm that they were commissioned by Emperor Ashoka.
Religious Dedication: Although Emperor Ashoka is widely known for his patronage of Buddhism, the inscriptions explicitly record that these caves were granted to the ascetics of the Ajivika sect.
The Ajivika Sect: The Ajivikas were a heterodox school of ancient Indian philosophy, founded by Makkhali Gosala. They were contemporaries of Buddhism and Jainism and adhered to the doctrine of Niyati (absolute determinism or fate).
Historical Context: Later, Ashoka’s grandson, Dasharatha Maurya, also dedicated caves in the nearby Nagarjuni Hills to the Ajivika sect, indicating continued royal patronage.

Key Takeaway: The Barabar caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka specifically for the Ajivika sect.

Your note

More from Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings - Cultural Developments (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

With reference to the Jaina monastic vows, consider the following statements: 1. Jaina monks and nuns took five vows, including observing celibacy. 2. The vow to abstain from possessing property was optional for nuns. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the development of Mahayana Buddhism, consider the following statements: 1. It strictly prohibited the worship of images of the Buddha. 2. It introduced the idea of a saviour who could ensure salvation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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In Jaina philosophy, the cycle of birth and rebirth is believed to be determined by:

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James Fergusson, an early modern art historian, interpreted the site of Sanchi primarily as a centre associated with which of the following forms of worship?

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With reference to the preservation of the Sanchi Stupa in the nineteenth century, consider the following statements: 1. The French and English showed no interest in the Sanchi Stupa. 2. Shahjehan Begum and Sultan Jehan Begum provided funds for the preservation of the site and the building of a museum. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is Ajivika.

Explanation

Detailed Analysis:

Construction and Patronage: The caves are located in the Jehanabad district of Bihar and were constructed during the 3rd century BCE. Inscriptions found in the caves (such as the Sudama and Karna Chopara caves) confirm that they were commissioned by Emperor Ashoka.
Religious Dedication: Although Emperor Ashoka is widely known for his patronage of Buddhism, the inscriptions explicitly record that these caves were granted to the ascetics of the Ajivika sect.
The Ajivika Sect: The Ajivikas were a heterodox school of ancient Indian philosophy, founded by Makkhali Gosala. They were contemporaries of Buddhism and Jainism and adhered to the doctrine of Niyati (absolute determinism or fate).
Historical Context: Later, Ashoka’s grandson, Dasharatha Maurya, also dedicated caves in the nearby Nagarjuni Hills to the Ajivika sect, indicating continued royal patronage.

Key Takeaway: The Barabar caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka specifically for the Ajivika sect.