Question

An example of Chola architecture can be seen at ___________
A. Ellora
B. Mahabalipuram
C. Tanjore
D. Aihole

Answer 1

Hint: The Chola empire in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent was eminent for its architecture. They established themselves around 850 AD.

Complete answer: The Shahi Chola period which began around 850 AD in southern India was an era of continuous development and improvement of Dravidian art and architecture. The Chola rulers used the money they earned through their extensive successes in building long-standing stone temples and exquisite bronze sculptures almost exclusively in the context of Hindu culture. The Cholas built their temples in the traditional style of the Pallava dynasty, which was influenced by the Amravati School of Architecture. The Chola artists and artisans not only increased their influence from other contemporary schools of art and architecture but also elevated the Dravidian temple design to greater heights. The Chola kings built many temples throughout their kingdom. In addition to their temples, the Cholas also built many buildings such as hospitals, public utility buildings and palaces. The Shiva Temple in Thanjavur is not only the largest but also the tallest of all Indian temples built during the Chola period.
Therefore, option “C” is the correct answer.

Note: They had architectural masterpieces spread over the northern plains, central India and Tamil Nadu. In general, many buildings were built in and across the state of Tamil Nadu and many times the regions of modern Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.