Question

Difficulty: EasyCultural Heritage, Art, Architecture, Bhakti and Sufi Movements

With reference to ancient and medieval Indian rock-cut art and architecture, which royal dynasty is credited with the construction of the famous monolithic Kailashnath Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora?

  1. RashtrakutasAnswer
  2. B
    Cholas
  3. C
    Pallavas
  4. D
    Chandelas

Answer

Rashtrakutas
The monolithic Kailashnath Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora, Maharashtra, is one of the largest single rock-cut structures in the world. It was carved out of a basalt cliff under the patronage of Rashtrakuta King Krishna I during the 8th century CE.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the location and structural type of the monument mentioned.
The Kailashnath Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a world-famous monolithic rock-cut temple carved from top to bottom out of a single basalt cliff face.
Establishing the precise monument helps correlate it with its historical period and patron dynasty.
2
Recall the royal patronage associated with Cave 16 at Ellora.
The temple was excavated during the reign of the Rashtrakuta monarch Krishna I (c. 756–773 CE).
Connecting the monument to its specific ruler confirms the correct ruling dynasty.

Key Concept

Patronage of Rock-Cut Architecture in Medieval India
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