Question

The large Shiv Temple at Thanjavur was built __________.
a. Rajendra Chola
b. Rajaraja Chola
c. Chandellas
d. Rashrakutas

Answer 1

Hint:
- The temple presents a tradition that grew further in later temples of Chola.
- In niches on the walls, the deities are carved and attendant figures are rendered in adjoining niches.
- There are dressed stones on every section of the temple wall. In Indian art, from north to south, a favourite motif is seen here: a human figure riding a vyala or leograph.

Complete solution:
The large Shiv Temple at Thanjavur is Brihadishvara Temple.
Brihadishvara Temple –
What?
- Brihadishvara is a temple dedicated to Shiva on the southern river banks of the river Kaveri in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu in India.
- It is also called Rajarajesvaram.
- It is one of the largest temples in South India and an example of Dravidian architecture completely implemented.
- The name is called Dhakshina Meru (Meru of the south).
Who and when?
The temple was built between 1003 and 1010 AD by Tamil King Raja Raja Chola I, the temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples," along with the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple of the Chola dynasty period and the Airavatesvara temple, which is about 70 kilometres and 40 kilometres to its northeast respectively.
Where?
In the city of Thanjavur, about 350 kilometres (220 mi) southwest of Chennai, the Brihadeswara Temple is located.

The architecture of temple –
- The axial and symmetrical geometry rules are used in the Brihadeshvara temple plan and construction.
- It is listed as Perunkoil (also known as Madakkoil), a large temple constructed on a higher platform of natural or man-made mounds.
- The temple consists of a pyramidal spire and is decorated with inside and outside sculptures and paintings.
- The temple has exceptional quality sculptures.

Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note:
- Bhogasakti and Subrahmanya's bronze sculptures are masterpieces of metal icons from Chola.
- In its history, the temple has been damaged and some artwork is still missing.
- Additional mandapams and monuments were added in subsequent centuries.
- In the midst of fortified walls that were added after the 16th century, the temple now stands.