Q1. Black Pagoda is in
(a) Egypt
(b) Konark
(c) Madurai
(d) None of these
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (b) Konark
Explanation: The Black Pagoda refers to the Sun Temple at Konark, Odisha, built in the 13th century. Its dark granite structure and towering architecture earned it the nickname, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q2. Which of the following is correct?
- Shore temple of Mahabalipuram : Pallavas
- Kailasa temple of Ellora: Rashtrakutas
- Khajuraho temples : Chandellas
(a) None is correct
(b) Only I is correct
(c) Only II, III are correct
(d) All are correct
(UPSC Prelims 1983)
Answer: (d) All are correct
Explanation: All three statements are historically accurate:
- Shore temple at Mahabalipuram was built by the Pallavas
- Kailasa temple at Ellora was constructed by the Rashtrakutas
- Khajuraho temples were built by the Chandellas
These monuments reflect India’s rich architectural heritage.
Q3. Write the following in chronological order
- Puri-Jagannath temple
- Meenakshi temple
- Mahabalipuram temples
- Qutab Minar
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3
(b) 1, 4, 2, 3
(c) 1, 4, 3, 2
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2
(UPSC Prelims 1984)
Answer: (d) 3, 1, 4, 2
Explanation:
- Mahabalipuram temples (7th century CE)
- Puri-Jagannath temple (12th century CE)
- Qutab Minar (started in 1192 CE)
- Meenakshi temple (expanded significantly in 16th–17th century CE)
This order reflects the historical development of architecture across dynasties and regions.
Q4. The Nagara style of temple architecture is associated with
(a) North India
(b) South India
(c) East India
(d) None of the above
(UPSC Prelims 1986)
Answer: (a) North India
Explanation: The Nagara style is a distinct form of temple architecture found in North India, characterized by curvilinear towers (shikharas) and square sanctums, unlike the Dravidian style of the south.
