What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram? 1. Both were built in the same period. 2. Both belong to the same religious denomination. 3. Both have rock-cut monuments. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A
1 and 2 only
B
3 only
Correct Answer
C
1 and 3 only
D
None of the statements given above is correct
Explanation
Statement 3 is correct because both sites are iconic examples of rock-cut architecture, featuring excavated caves at Ajanta and monolithic rathas and relief carvings at Mahabalipuram. Statement 1 is a common misconception, but they belong to different eras: Ajanta was developed between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE, while Mahabalipuram dates much later to the 7th-8th century CE. The core concept tested is the comparative chronology, religious affiliation, and architectural styles of major Indian heritage sites.
Ancient Indian HistoryRock-cut Architecture and Cave TemplesAjantaMahabalipuramrock-cut monumentscave templesreligious denominationperiodBuddhismHinduismPallavasVakatakas