RAS question
The Hoysala temples are primarily made of:
Correct answer: (B) Chloritic schist (soapstone).
Hoysala temples such as those at Belur and Halebid are primarily made of chloritic schist, a soft stone often identified with soapstone.
Explanation
The Hoysala temples at Belur, Halebidu and Somnathpur are associated with chloritic schist, or soapstone. Karnataka Tourism states that the Halebid and Belur temples are cut from soft chloritic schist and that this material allowed very fine detailing on their intricately carved walls. The stone's workability helped Hoysala artisans produce the dense sculptural surface for which these temples are known. Other standard Hoysala markers include star-shaped plans, which increase the surface available for carving, and lathe-turned pillars. Chloritic schist is central to the distinctive Hoysala visual style, not a decorative afterthought.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Marble is associated with later Rajput and Mughal architecture rather than the Belur, Halebidu and Somnathpur temples.
- (C) Granite is associated with Chola and Pallava architecture rather than the primary material of Hoysala temples.
- (D) Red sandstone is associated with North Indian temple contexts rather than Hoysala temples.
Concept
Temple architecture under Ancient and Medieval Indian History requires matching dynasties with materials, plans and sculptural techniques. Hoysala architecture recurs in RAS through its soapstone carving, star-shaped layout and ornate temple surfaces.