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

The correct option is 2 only.

Explanation

The Kandariya Mahadeo temple is the largest and most ornate temple in the Khajuraho group of monuments. Built by the Chandela dynasty in the 11th century, it represents the culmination of the Nagara style of temple architecture in Central India.

Statement-wise Analysis

• Statement 1 is Incorrect.
  • The Kandariya Mahadeo temple is a structural temple constructed using sandstone blocks, not a rock-cut temple. Rock-cut architecture (e.g., Kailasa temple at Ellora) involves excavating a monolith from a natural rock face.
  • Geographically, Khajuraho is located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh (Central India), specifically in the Bundelkhand region. It is not located in the Deccan, which generally refers to the plateau south of the Narmada River (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka).
• Statement 2 is Correct.
  • The temple is a classic example of the Nagara style of architecture.
  • It features key Nagara elements such as a cruciform ground plan, a high platform (Jagati), and a curvilinear tower (Shikhara) topped with an Amalaka and Kalasha.
  • It specifically showcases the Sekhari mode of the Nagara style, characterized by a cluster of subsidiary spires (Urushringas) clinging to the main central spire, creating the visual effect of a mountain range.
• Statement 3 is Incorrect.
  • The description "highly stylized with sharp noses and long slanting eyes" refers to the Apabhramsa or Western Indian School of Painting (often associated with Jain manuscripts from Gujarat and Rajasthan).
  • The sculptures of Khajuraho are renowned for their realistic modeling, sensuous forms, fluid body movements (Tribhanga pose), and intricate detailing, rather than the angular and flat stylization described in the statement.

Key Takeaway

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple is a structural sandstone temple in Central India (Khajuraho) built in the Nagara style. Its art is characterized by realistic and sensuous sculpture, whereas "sharp noses and protruding eyes" are features of medieval Jain/Apabhramsa paintings.