This page lists 2 previous year UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination (General Studies Paper-I) questions on Art and Culture in the UPSC 2019 Prelims. Choose an option to see the correct answer and the full explanation on the same page.
Showing 1–2 of 2 questions
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.
UPSC 2019Art and Culture · Buddhism and Jainism
Q2. Consider the following statements: 1. Deification of the Buddha 2. Trading the path of Bodhisattvas 3. Image worship and rituals Which of the above is/are the features/features of Mahayana Buddhism?
Explanation
Buddhism has several sects, with the main ones being Theravada, which follows the earliest teachings of the Buddha, and Mahayana, which emphasizes the Bodhisattva path and compassion for all beings. Additionally, Vajrayana (or Tibetan Buddhism) incorporates esoteric practices and is a significant branch of Mahayana. All three statements are features of Mahayana Buddhism. The Mahayana sect of Buddhism emerged during the Fourth Buddhist Council held in Kashmir during the reign of Kanishka. The deification of Buddha and worship of images of Buddha and Bodhisattvas was a distinctive feature of this sect. A Bodhisattvas is someone who has compassion within himself or herself and who can make another person smile or help someone suffer less.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2019
(d) Vijayanagara
2
2019
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Art and Culture?
This page covers 2 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Art and Culture in the UPSC 2019 Prelims, asked between 1995 to 2024. 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 Art and Culture?
Questions on Art and Culture in the UPSC 2019 Prelims are available for 26 years, from 1995 to 2024. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
