RAS question
The Rashtrakuta dynasty's greatest architectural achievement is:
Correct answer: (D) Kailasa Temple at Ellora (Cave 16).
The Rashtrakuta dynasty's greatest architectural achievement was the Kailasa Temple at Ellora, also known as Cave 16.
Explanation
The Kailasa Temple at Ellora, or Cave 16, is the Rashtrakuta dynasty's greatest architectural achievement because the Archaeological Survey of India identifies Ellora as world famous for the great Kailasa and describes it as the largest single monolithic excavation in the world. The Archaeological Survey of India attributes the Great Kailasa to Krishna I, who ruled after Dantidurga; it was built by Rashtrakuta king Krishna I around 757-783 CE. Its method and symbolism explain its status: it was carved from a single rock in a top-down excavation and represents Mount Kailasa, the abode of Shiva. For RAS medieval architecture, the key linkage is Rashtrakuta-Krishna I-Ellora Cave 16.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Mahabalipuram temples are not the Great Kailasa at Ellora and were not built under Rashtrakuta king Krishna I.
- (B) Brihadeshwara Temple is not Cave 16 at Ellora; the major Rashtrakuta achievement here is the Great Kailasa.
- (C) Meenakshi Temple is not the Ellora monument that the Archaeological Survey of India calls the great Kailasa or Cave 16.
Concept
Dynastic patronage in Indian temple architecture depends on precise links between monuments, ruling dynasties, and patrons. RAS art-and-culture coverage often turns on one exact association rather than a broad architectural description.