Part of: Madhya Pradesh Gk set 9

Famous sculptures depicting art of love built some time in 950 AD-1050 AD are

Category: Madhya Pradesh Gk

Hint: Consider the time period and the region known for its erotic sculptures.

Correct Answer: A) Khajuraho temples.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Khajuraho temples are a significant historical and cultural landmark located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. These temples were constructed by the Chandela dynasty between the 950 AD and 1050 AD. The temples are renowned for their intricate carvings and sculptures, which include a significant number of erotic sculptures. These sculptures are not merely decorative but are deeply symbolic, representing various aspects of human life, including love, fertility, and spirituality.

The Khajuraho temples are divided into three main groups: the Western group, the Eastern group, and the Southern group. The Western group is the most famous and includes the Kandariya Mahadeva temple, which is the largest and most ornate of the Khajuraho temples. The sculptures on these temples are not only erotic but also depict scenes from daily life, mythology, and religious themes. The erotic sculptures are particularly notable and have made the Khajuraho temples a unique and important site for both tourists and scholars.

The construction of the Khajuraho temples was a significant architectural and artistic achievement. The temples are built in the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by a curvilinear spire (shikhara) and a complex plan. The sculptures on the temples are carved from sandstone and are known for their intricate detailing and artistic quality. The erotic sculptures are believed to represent the Chandela philosophy that life should be celebrated in all its forms, including love and sexuality.

It is important to note that while the Khajuraho temples are famous for their erotic sculptures, they also contain a wealth of other sculptures and carvings that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology, daily life, and religious practices. The temples are a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Chandela dynasty and continue to be a significant site for both religious and cultural tourism.

Other temples mentioned in the options, such as the Jama Masjid, the Sun temple, and the Mahabalipuram temples, are also significant historical and cultural landmarks in India. However, they are not known for the same type of erotic sculptures that the Khajuraho temples are famous for. The Jama Masjid is a mosque located in Delhi, the Sun temple is located in Konark, Odisha, and the Mahabalipuram temples are located in Tamil Nadu. Each of these sites has its own unique features and historical significance, but they do not match the specific criteria of the question regarding the time period and the type of sculptures.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Khajuraho temples are famous for their intricate sculptures depicting art of love, built between 950 AD and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty in Madhya Pradesh.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The Jama Masjid is a mosque located in Delhi, not known for erotic sculptures and not built in the specified time period.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The Sun temple is located in Konark, Odisha, and is known for its architectural grandeur and solar deity worship, not for erotic sculptures.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The Mahabalipuram temples are located in Tamil Nadu and are known for their rock-cut architecture and bas-reliefs, not specifically for erotic sculptures.

Mnemonic: K for Khajuraho, known for its erotic sculptures.

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