Part of: Maharashtra Gk set 52

Find the incorrect pair of the UNESCO cultural Heritage Site and it's location

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Check the location of the Elephanta Caves.

Correct Answer: C) Elephanta caves-Madhya Pradesh.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to recognize places of outstanding cultural or natural importance. These sites are protected and preserved for their historical, cultural, or natural value. In India, several sites have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Elephanta Caves, all of which are located in the state of Maharashtra.

The Ajanta Caves, located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, are a series of rock-cut cave monuments dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves are renowned for their intricate carvings and paintings, which depict the life of the Buddha and other religious and secular themes. The Ajanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique architectural style, which blends Gothic Revival and Indian architectural elements. The station was designed by the British architect Frederick William Stevens and was completed in 1888. It is a significant landmark in Mumbai and a symbol of the city's colonial history.

The Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Island, near Mumbai, in Maharashtra. These caves are a group of rock-cut stone temples and sculptures dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The Elephanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The main cave, known as the Great Cave, contains a series of sculptures and reliefs that depict various aspects of Shiva's life and mythology. The island is accessible by ferry from Mumbai and is a popular tourist destination.

It is important to note that the Elephanta Caves are located in Maharashtra, not in Madhya Pradesh. This misconception might arise due to the confusion of the location of other cultural sites in India. Therefore, the incorrect pair in the given options is "Elephanta caves-Madhya Pradesh."

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Ajanta Caves are located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are known for their rock-cut cave monuments dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
  • Option B: This option is correct. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its unique blend of Gothic Revival and Indian architecture.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The Elephanta Caves are located in the Elephanta Island, near Mumbai, in Maharashtra, not in Madhya Pradesh. The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their rock-cut stone temples and sculptures.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Since one of the pairs (Option C) is incorrect, "None of these" cannot be the correct answer.

Mnemonic: A-C-E: Ajanta, Chhatrapati, Elephanta (all in Maharashtra)

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