Temple Architecture: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Art and Culture)
1 previous year UPSC Prelims question on Temple Architecture (Art and Culture). Choose an option to see the answer and explanation.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
Showing 1–1 of 1 question
UPSC 2019Art and Culture · Temple Architecture
Q1. Building ‘Kalyana Mandapam’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of
Explanation
Vijayanagara art and architecture, flourishing from the 14th to 16th centuries, blends Dravidian styles with Islamic and Persian influences. Notable for grand temples like Virupaksha and the Hampi ruins, it features large gopurams, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards, reflecting both devotion and royal splendor.
Option (d) is correct: Kalyan Mandapa (or Kalyana Mandapam) is an architectural feature commonly seen in South Indian temples, especially during the Vijayanagara period (14th-17th century). These mandapas were used for ceremonial purposes, such as the symbolic marriage of deities. The Virupaksha Temple and Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi are prime examples of Vijayanagara architecture which feature Kalyana Mandapams with intricately carved pillars and large open spaces. The Kalyan Mandapa serves as a ceremonial hall within the temple complex, specifically built for conducting marriage rituals of deities, symbolizing the divine wedding of the presiding deity. The mandapas are often elaborately decorated with sculptures, intricate carvings, and motifs depicting deities, mythological scenes, and floral patterns.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2019
(d) Vijayanagara
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Temple Architecture?
This page covers 1 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Temple Architecture (Art and Culture), asked from 2012 to 2021. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for Temple Architecture?
Questions on Temple Architecture (Art and Culture) are available for 6 years, from 2012 to 2021. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
