Indus Valley & Mauryan Civilization Quiz

The generic term for an Orissan temple.

The mandapa (hall) in an Orissan temple.

Orissan temples typically feature a pyramidal roof shape.

Describes the architectural style of Orissan temples, characterized by the lack of pillars.

Orissan temples are constructed using interlocking stone flanges, eliminating the need for mortar or cement.

The largest temple in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to Harihara, a combination of Shiva and Vishnu.

The most famous temple in Puri, Orissa, known for its wooden image of Jagannath.

A UNESCO World Heritage site in Konark, Orissa, dedicated to the sun god Surya.

A style of architecture that is carved directly into solid rock, commonly used in India for Buddhist monasteries and temples.

A type of Buddhist architecture characterized by grand, well-planned temples and halls carved out of cliffs.

A UNESCO World Heritage site in India known for its extensive rock-cut cave temples, including Buddhist, Hindu and Jain sanctuaries.

A period in Indian history that marked a shift towards more organized architecture, with the emergence of the "Garbha Griha", a sacred inner chamber.

A style of architecture prevalent in southern India, distinguished by its towering structures and intricate carvings.

A dynasty in South India responsible for developing and popularizing the Dravidian architectural style.

A type of structure commonly found in Pallava architecture, characterized by a pillared hall.

A type of rock-cut temple prevalent in Pallava architecture, often carved from a single stone.

An ancient civilization in South Asia that flourished around 3000-2000 BC, known for its urban planning, sophisticated irrigation systems, and unique script.

A type of brick building technique used by the Indus Valley Civilization, where bricks are laid in a pattern similar to English bond, known for strength and durability.

The capital city of the Mauryan dynasty in ancient India, located near present-day Patna, known for its impressive Buddhist monuments.

A circular mound-like structure built to house relics and commemorate important figures, particularly associated with Buddhism and built by the Mauryan dynasty.

The gateway structures of a stupa, known for their intricate carvings and ornate designs, symbolizing the entrance to a sacred space.

A famous Asokan pillar located at Sarnath, renowned for its intricate animal carvings and majestic design, serves as a monumental symbol.

The era of Indian art and architecture during the reign of Ashoka, known for its rock inscriptions, stupas, pillars, and rock-cut chambers, incorporating elements of both Buddhist and vernacular style.

A term that describes the architectural style typical of the Mauryan period, primarily using wood as a building material, characterized by its simplicity and use of natural materials.

The Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, built by King Rajsimha, is the oldest structural temple in South India. It's known for its architectural elegance and its location overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Constructed from granite blocks, it's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

The "Vinama" is the most important feature of Chola temples, referring to the sanctuary itself. These temples were often built with well-dressed granite blocks, creating a cohesive and strong structure. Two notable examples are the temples at Gangaikondacholapuram and Tanjore.

The 'Gopuram' or 'cow gate' is a prominent feature of Pandya temples. This architectural element is a tapering tower with an oblong base, often rising at a 25-degree angle. Examples of temples with Gopuram include Jumbukeshwara, Chidambarani, and Tirumalai.

Vijayanagar temples are known for their elaborate use of pillars and piers, often featuring sculptures. The 'horse motif' is a recurring theme in these pillars. Famous temples include Vithala, Hazararama, Varadarajaswami, and Ekambarnatha.

The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is an example of the Madura style, which features a pool surrounded by steps and pillars, known as the "pool of golden lilies."

The Srirangam Temple near Tiruchirapalli is considered the largest Hindu temple in the world. It's also called Tiruvarangatrupati, Periyakoil, BhoologaVaikundam, and Bhogamandabam. It's located on the banks of the Kaveri River.

Orissan temples, like those in Bhubaneswar, Puri (Jaggannath Temple), and Konark (Sun Temple), define the Indo-Aryan style. They differ in their construction and terminology from Dravidian temples and offer a unique approach to understanding temple architecture.

The Indo-Aryan style of architecture is best exemplified through temples in Orissa. Bhubaneswar is a prominent city with many temples of this style. Jaggannath Temple in Puri and the Sun Temple at Konark stand out as the largest and most significant structures. The architecture and terminology differ from the Dravidian style.