Question

Where is the Brihadeshwara temple situated?
A. Konark
B. Thanjavur
C. Mahabalipuram
D. Madurai

Answer 1

Hint: Brihadeshwara temple also known as Rajarajeshvaram is situated on the South bank of Kaveri in the state of Tamil Nadu. The Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was originally built by Chola ruler, Raja Raja Chola I. The temple is a thousand years old and famously titled ‘Great Living Chola Temples’ under UNESCO world heritage sites.

Complete answer: The Brihadeshwara temple was built in 1010 AD by the Chola King. It is situated in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The famous deity in the temple is of Lord Shiva in a dancing pose which is known as Nataraj. It was the first temple to be made of granite. The temple’s topmost structure is known as Vimana. It is said that it has musical pillars which produce sounds on patting. The main attraction of the tower is the 216 feet tall tower above the temple and the magnificent corridors.
-The Konarak Sun temple was built in 1250 CE by King Narasimhadeva I. It is situated in the Konark town of Puri in Orissa. The temple is dedicated to Surya, the Hindu sun god. It has a stone chariot with 12 wheels carved on the exterior of the temple. It is the most famous sun temple. In 1984 the temple was declared the UNESCO world heritage site.
-Mahabalipuram is famous for many temples, Shore Temple is one among the famous Hindu temples situated in Mahabalipuram. It is considered to be one of the finest temples of medieval southern Indian architecture. The temple consists of two shrines, one is dedicated to Shiva and other to Vishnu. Its unique style includes a pyramidal kutina type tower, stepped stories and a finial.
-Madurai is also a home for many ancient and famous temples. We will discuss the Meenakshi Amman Temple. The temple is situated in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to goddess Meenakshi. It is one of the ancient temples, mentioned in Tamil Sangam Literature in 6th century CE texts.
Therefore with the above discussion, the correct answer is option-B.

Note: Brihadeshwara Temple is an example of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period. It took only seven years to build the temple.