UPSC Prelims 2002 Q16: Art & Culture – Architecture & World Heritage
Which one of the following statements is NOT correct?
- (a) The statue of Gomateshwara at Sravanabelagola represents the last Tirthankara of Jains
- (b) India’s largest Buddhist monastery is in Arunachal Pradesh
- (c) The Khajuraho temples were built under Chandela Kings
- (d) The Hoysalesvara temple is dedicated to Siva
Answer: (a) The statue of Gomateshwara at Sravanabelagola represents the last Tirthankara of Jains
Explanation
Statement that is NOT correct about Indian monuments
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Gomateshwara statue at Sravanabelagola represents the last Tirthankara | Not correct — it is Bahubali, son of the first Tirthankara Rishabhanatha; the last Tirthankara is Mahavira |
| India's largest Buddhist monastery is in Arunachal Pradesh | Correct — Tawang monastery |
| Khajuraho temples were built under the Chandela kings | Correct — 10th-11th century |
| The Hoysalesvara temple is dedicated to Siva | Correct — at Halebidu |
The question asks for the statement that is NOT correct. The Gomateshwara (Bahubali) statue at Sravanabelagola, raised under the Ganga minister Chamundaraya around 981 CE, does not represent a Tirthankara at all, let alone the last one. The other three statements are correct.
Answer: (a) The statue of Gomateshwara at Sravanabelagola represents the last Tirthankara of Jains.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. This is the false statement: Gomateshwara is Bahubali, not the last Tirthankara Mahavira.
- (b) Incorrect. This statement is true, since Tawang is the largest monastery in India.
- (c) Incorrect. This statement is true, since Khajuraho was built by the Chandelas.
- (d) Incorrect. This statement is true, since the Hoysalesvara temple is a Siva temple.
Key point
Bahubali was the son of Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara; Mahavira (24th) was a Tirthankara.
Remember
Gomateshwara = Bahubali (not a Tirthankara).
Common mistakes
- Reading the question as 'which is correct' and choosing Chandela, a true statement.
- Believing Gomateshwara is a Tirthankara image.
- Doubting the Tawang monastery claim.
Exam tip
Spot the false factual claim; here it is the Tirthankara identity.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — An Introduction to Indian Art
- Nitin Singhania — Indian Art and Culture