UPSC Prelims 2013 · Question 7 of 99
UPSC Prelims 2013 question on Mural Paintings Historic Places
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2013
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectArt and Culture
- TopicIndian Painting
- DifficultyHard
- TypeDirect
Consider the following historical places:
1. Ajanta Caves
2. Lepakshi Temple
3. Sanchi Stupa
Which of the above places is/are also known for mural paintings?
Show answer
Answer: B. 1 and 2 only
Verdict
Correct Answer: 1 and 2 only
Analysis
This question asks which historical places are known for mural paintings. Ajanta and Lepakshi are important mural painting sites, while Sanchi is mainly known for Buddhist architecture and sculpture.
Statement by statement
1. Ajanta Caves — Correct
Ajanta Caves are famous for Buddhist mural paintings.
The paintings depict Jataka tales and scenes from the life of the Buddha.
They are generally associated with the fresco-secco technique, where paint is applied on a dry plaster surface.
2. Lepakshi Temple — Correct
Lepakshi Temple in Andhra Pradesh is known for medieval mural paintings.
These paintings are found mainly on the ceilings of mandapas.
They depict themes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas.
3. Sanchi Stupa — Incorrect
Sanchi Stupa is a major Buddhist heritage site, but it is not known for mural paintings.
It is mainly famous for its stupa architecture, stone railings and carved toranas.
Do not confuse Buddhist heritage sites with mural painting sites.
Extra UPSC info
* Ajanta Caves are located in Maharashtra and are associated with Buddhist art.
* Ajanta developed under the Satavahanas and later the Vakatakas.
* Lepakshi Temple is associated with the Vijayanagara period.
* Sanchi Stupa was originally commissioned by Ashoka and later expanded under the Shungas and Satavahanas.
* Other important mural sites include Bagh Caves, Sittanavasal, Badami and Ellora.
* Fresco-secco means painting on dry plaster, unlike true fresco where painting is done on wet plaster.
How to crack it
Ajanta and Lepakshi are known for mural paintings, while Sanchi is mainly known for Buddhist architecture and sculpture.