Correct Option
The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Brahadeeshwarar Temple (also known as the Big Temple) at Thanjavur represents the zenith of Chola architecture and Dravidian temple style. Constructed during the reign of the Imperial Cholas, it is renowned for its massive scale, engineering marvels, and strict adherence to the Agama Shastras.
Statement-wise Analysis
Statement 1 is Incorrect.
The Brahadeeshwarar Temple at Thanjavur was built by Raja Raja Chola I and was completed around 1010 AD. It was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple built by Rajendra Chola to commemorate his victory over the Gangetic plains is the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, which shares a similar design but is slightly smaller in height and more feminine in its sculptural contours.
Statement 2 is Correct.
The temple is famous for its towering Vimana (tower over the sanctum), which rises to about 66 meters. The crowning element is a massive monolithic cupola (often referred to as the shikhara or stupika in Dravidian terminology). This structure is octagonal and dome-shaped, weighing approximately 80 tonnes. It is an engineering feat that such a heavy single stone was lifted to that height without modern machinery.
Statement 3 is Correct.
In earlier Dravidian temples, the gopuras (gateway towers) were generally smaller than the main Vimana. The Brahadeeshwarar Temple is significant because it is the first major temple where two large gopuras were conceived and built as an integral part of the original temple plan. These are the Keralantakan Tiruvasal and the Rajarajan Tiruvasal, placed axially to the main shrine.
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: The Thanjavur Big Temple was built by Raja Raja Chola I, whereas the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple was built by his son, Rajendra Chola I. The Thanjavur temple is distinct for its massive monolithic octagonal stupika and the inclusion of two large gopurams in the primary layout.