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.
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: Ajanta Caves were built in two phases: Satavahana period (2nd century BCE) and later in the Vakataka period (5th-6th century CE). They are primarily associated with Buddhist art and culture. They are famous for murals, sculptures, and rock-cut chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monasteries). Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) was built in the 7th-8th century CE during the reign of Narasimhavarman I (630-668 CE) of Pallava dynasty.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta caves are mostly dedicated to Buddhist denominations while Mahabalipuram is known for rock-cut monolithic temples, cave temples, and the Shore Temple (structural temple built with granite blocks) mostly dedicated to Shaivaite and Vaishnavite traditions.
Statement 3 is correct: Both Mahabalipuram and Ajanta are one of the finest examples of rock-cut monuments. The Ajanta Caves are a series of rock-cut caves carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff housing chaityas and viharas with intricate carvings and paintings. The monuments at Mahabalipuram include rock-cut temples and bas-reliefs such as the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas and the Arjuna’s Penance relief.