Buddhist Architecture MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Buddhist Architecture - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Undavalli caves.

Key Points

• The "Reclining Statue of Lord Vishnu" is located in the Undavalli caves, situated in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, India.
• This statue is a prominent example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture, carved out of a single block of granite.
• The statue depicts Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture, also known as Anantasayana, resting on the serpent Adishesha.
• The Undavalli caves date back to the 4th-5th century CE and were originally associated with Buddhist monks before being adapted for Hindu worship.
• The caves are classified as monolithic rock-cut architecture and are considered a significant heritage site in South India.

Additional Information

• Undavalli Caves:
  • The caves are a fine example of Gupta period architecture, which reflects the transition from Buddhism to Hinduism in ancient India.
  • They are multi-storied caves, with the largest one containing the iconic statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture.
  • The caves were initially built as Buddhist monasteries and later converted into Hindu temples.
  • The site is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Reclining Vishnu (Anantasayana):
  • The posture symbolizes Lord Vishnu resting on the serpent Adishesha, representing cosmic balance and preservation.
  • It is a recurring theme in Hindu temple sculptures, signifying the sustainer of the universe.
• Rock-Cut Architecture:
  • This architectural style involves carving temples, monasteries, or sculptures directly out of natural rock formations.
  • Famous examples in India include the Ajanta caves, Ellora caves, and Elephanta caves.
• Other Important Caves in India:
  • Ajanta Caves: Known for Buddhist frescoes and paintings.
  • Ellora Caves: Famous for Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist rock-cut temples, including the Kailasa temple.
  • Elephanta Caves: Located near Mumbai, showcasing Hindu Shaivite sculptures.

The correct answer is Shalbhanjika.

Key Points

• Shalbhanjika is a type of sculpture representing a tree goddess or yakshi, widely associated with fertility and nature worship in ancient Indian art.
• It is considered part of Hindu and folk traditions rather than being directly inspired by Buddhist ideas.
• Yakshis like Shalbhanjika are often depicted in sensual poses, highlighting their connection to fertility and prosperity.
• While the Sanchi Stupa contains depictions of Buddhist symbols such as the Empty Seat, Wheel, and Tree, the Shalbhanjika sculptures are ornamental additions influenced by non-Buddhist traditions.
• Such sculptures were integrated into Buddhist architecture to reflect the cultural amalgamation and appeal to a broader audience beyond the Buddhist community.

Additional Information

• Sanchi Stupa:
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Built during the Mauryan dynasty under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
  • It serves as a significant site for Buddhist art and architecture.
• Buddhist Symbols:
  • The Empty Seat symbolizes Buddha's enlightenment and absence following nirvana.
  • The Wheel (Dharmachakra) represents the teachings of Buddha and the cycle of life.
  • The Tree often symbolizes the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
• Yakshis and Yakshas:
  • Yakshis are female nature spirits, while Yakshas are their male counterparts in ancient Indian mythology.
  • They are considered guardians of treasures hidden in the earth and are frequently depicted in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist art.
• Cultural Syncretism:
  • The incorporation of Shalbhanjika into Buddhist monuments like Sanchi reflects the blending of Buddhist and non-Buddhist traditions.
  • This syncretism aimed to make Buddhist teachings accessible to followers of other religions and cultural practices.

The correct answer is - Bhitargaon

Key Points

• Bhitargaon
  • Bhitargaon is not associated with Buddhist Stupas; instead, it is known for its ancient brick temple from the Gupta period.
  • This temple is one of the earliest surviving examples of a shikhara-style Hindu temple, showcasing early Indian architectural designs.
  • As Bhitargaon is related to Hindu temple architecture and not Buddhist Stupas, it is the correct choice for this question.
• Other Options
  • Pavani, Bhattiprolu, and Vaishali are all well-known sites associated with Buddhist Stupas.
  • Pavani: Located in Maharashtra, Pavani is recognized as an important Buddhist site with remnants of stupas.
  • Bhattiprolu: Found in Andhra Pradesh, Bhattiprolu is famous for its ancient Buddhist stupa and inscriptions in early Brahmi script.
  • Vaishali: Located in Bihar, Vaishali is historically significant as the site of a large stupa and the Second Buddhist Council.

Additional Information

• Buddhist Stupas
  • A stupa is a hemispherical structure containing relics, typically associated with the Buddha or other Buddhist figures, and used as a place of meditation.
  • Famous examples of Buddhist stupas include:
    • Sanchi Stupa: Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Amaravati Stupa: A significant stupa in Andhra Pradesh, known for its intricate carvings.
    • Dhamek Stupa: Located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, it marks the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
• Gupta Period Architecture
  • The Gupta period (4th-6th century CE) is known as the "Golden Age" of Indian culture, particularly for its advancements in art and architecture.
  • Bhitargaon Temple, from this period, is a notable example of early brick temple construction, featuring a shikhara (spire) and intricate terracotta panels.

The Correct answer is Ajanta.

Key Points

• Ajanta Caves are a group of Buddhist cave temples located in Maharashtra, India.
• The caves include paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with figures of the Buddha and depictions of the Jataka tales.
• They were built during the period between the 2nd century BCE and 480 CE.
• The caves were used as monasteries and prayer halls by Buddhist monks.
• Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

 Additional Information

• Nalanda
  • Nalanda was an ancient center of learning located in present-day Bihar, India.
  • It was a university during the Gupta period and later, renowned for being one of the first residential universities in the world.
  • Nalanda University attracted students from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia.
• Khajuraho
  • Khajuraho is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
  • The temples are renowned for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
  • They were built between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty.
• Bhimbhetka
  • Bhimbhetka rock shelters are an archaeological site in Madhya Pradesh, India, that span the prehistoric Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, as well as the historic period.
  • The site includes more than 750 rock shelters and is famous for its rock paintings.
  • It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.

The correct answer is Sanchi Stupa.

Key Points

• The Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and was originally commissioned by the Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• This monumental stupa is located at Sanchi in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.
• The stupa is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, which is a hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha.
• The original structure was a simple hemispherical brick building, which was later expanded to almost double its original size.
• The stupa has a large number of decorative gateways, known as Toranas, which are intricately carved and depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha.
• The Sanchi Stupa is a significant monument in the history of Indian architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 Additional Information

• Dhamek Stupa
  • The Dhamek Stupa is located in Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • It marks the spot where the Buddha is said to have given his first sermon to his disciples after attaining enlightenment.
• Bavikonda Stupa
  • The Bavikonda Stupa is situated near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, India.
  • This site contains remnants of an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
• Mahabodhi Stupa
  • The Mahabodhi Stupa or Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India.
  • It is the site where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.

The correct answer is Sanchi Stupa.

Key Points

• The Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and was originally commissioned by the Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• This monumental stupa is located at Sanchi in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.
• The stupa is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, which is a hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha.
• The original structure was a simple hemispherical brick building, which was later expanded to almost double its original size.
• The stupa has a large number of decorative gateways, known as Toranas, which are intricately carved and depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha.
• The Sanchi Stupa is a significant monument in the history of Indian architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 Additional Information

• Dhamek Stupa
  • The Dhamek Stupa is located in Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • It marks the spot where the Buddha is said to have given his first sermon to his disciples after attaining enlightenment.
• Bavikonda Stupa
  • The Bavikonda Stupa is situated near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, India.
  • This site contains remnants of an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
• Mahabodhi Stupa
  • The Mahabodhi Stupa or Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India.
  • It is the site where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.

The Correct answer is Ajanta.

Key Points

• Ajanta Caves are a group of Buddhist cave temples located in Maharashtra, India.
• The caves include paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with figures of the Buddha and depictions of the Jataka tales.
• They were built during the period between the 2nd century BCE and 480 CE.
• The caves were used as monasteries and prayer halls by Buddhist monks.
• Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

 Additional Information

• Nalanda
  • Nalanda was an ancient center of learning located in present-day Bihar, India.
  • It was a university during the Gupta period and later, renowned for being one of the first residential universities in the world.
  • Nalanda University attracted students from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia.
• Khajuraho
  • Khajuraho is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
  • The temples are renowned for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
  • They were built between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty.
• Bhimbhetka
  • Bhimbhetka rock shelters are an archaeological site in Madhya Pradesh, India, that span the prehistoric Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, as well as the historic period.
  • The site includes more than 750 rock shelters and is famous for its rock paintings.
  • It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.

The correct answer is Shalbhanjika.

Key Points

• Shalbhanjika is a type of sculpture representing a tree goddess or yakshi, widely associated with fertility and nature worship in ancient Indian art.
• It is considered part of Hindu and folk traditions rather than being directly inspired by Buddhist ideas.
• Yakshis like Shalbhanjika are often depicted in sensual poses, highlighting their connection to fertility and prosperity.
• While the Sanchi Stupa contains depictions of Buddhist symbols such as the Empty Seat, Wheel, and Tree, the Shalbhanjika sculptures are ornamental additions influenced by non-Buddhist traditions.
• Such sculptures were integrated into Buddhist architecture to reflect the cultural amalgamation and appeal to a broader audience beyond the Buddhist community.

Additional Information

• Sanchi Stupa:
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Built during the Mauryan dynasty under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
  • It serves as a significant site for Buddhist art and architecture.
• Buddhist Symbols:
  • The Empty Seat symbolizes Buddha's enlightenment and absence following nirvana.
  • The Wheel (Dharmachakra) represents the teachings of Buddha and the cycle of life.
  • The Tree often symbolizes the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
• Yakshis and Yakshas:
  • Yakshis are female nature spirits, while Yakshas are their male counterparts in ancient Indian mythology.
  • They are considered guardians of treasures hidden in the earth and are frequently depicted in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist art.
• Cultural Syncretism:
  • The incorporation of Shalbhanjika into Buddhist monuments like Sanchi reflects the blending of Buddhist and non-Buddhist traditions.
  • This syncretism aimed to make Buddhist teachings accessible to followers of other religions and cultural practices.

The correct answer is - Bhitargaon

Key Points

• Bhitargaon
  • Bhitargaon is not associated with Buddhist Stupas; instead, it is known for its ancient brick temple from the Gupta period.
  • This temple is one of the earliest surviving examples of a shikhara-style Hindu temple, showcasing early Indian architectural designs.
  • As Bhitargaon is related to Hindu temple architecture and not Buddhist Stupas, it is the correct choice for this question.
• Other Options
  • Pavani, Bhattiprolu, and Vaishali are all well-known sites associated with Buddhist Stupas.
  • Pavani: Located in Maharashtra, Pavani is recognized as an important Buddhist site with remnants of stupas.
  • Bhattiprolu: Found in Andhra Pradesh, Bhattiprolu is famous for its ancient Buddhist stupa and inscriptions in early Brahmi script.
  • Vaishali: Located in Bihar, Vaishali is historically significant as the site of a large stupa and the Second Buddhist Council.

Additional Information

• Buddhist Stupas
  • A stupa is a hemispherical structure containing relics, typically associated with the Buddha or other Buddhist figures, and used as a place of meditation.
  • Famous examples of Buddhist stupas include:
    • Sanchi Stupa: Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Amaravati Stupa: A significant stupa in Andhra Pradesh, known for its intricate carvings.
    • Dhamek Stupa: Located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, it marks the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
• Gupta Period Architecture
  • The Gupta period (4th-6th century CE) is known as the "Golden Age" of Indian culture, particularly for its advancements in art and architecture.
  • Bhitargaon Temple, from this period, is a notable example of early brick temple construction, featuring a shikhara (spire) and intricate terracotta panels.

The correct answer is Buddhism.

Key Points

• The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and an important monument of Buddhist architecture.
• It was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE.
• The stupa is a hemispherical structure that contains relics of the Buddha and is a place for meditation and worship.
• Sanchi is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The site includes several other important Buddhist structures, such as temples, monasteries, and other stupas.

Additional Information

• Emperor Ashoka
  • Ashoka was the third emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled almost all of the Indian subcontinent from 268 to 232 BCE.
  • After the Kalinga War, he embraced Buddhism and spread its teachings across Asia.
  • Ashoka is credited with the construction of many stupas and the propagation of Buddhism.
• Stupa
  • A stupa is a dome-shaped structure erected as a Buddhist shrine.
  • Stupas typically contain relics of the Buddha or other significant monks and are used as a place of meditation.
  • The Great Stupa at Sanchi is a classic example of Indian stupa architecture.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • The Great Stupa at Sanchi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.
  • This designation is given to places of cultural or natural importance that are of outstanding value to humanity.
• Buddhism
  • Buddhism is a major world religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, in the 5th century BCE.
  • It emphasizes the path to enlightenment through practices such as meditation, ethical conduct, and wisdom.
  • Buddhism has two main branches: Theravada and Mahayana.

The Correct answer is Ajanta.

Key Points

• Ajanta Caves are a group of Buddhist cave temples located in Maharashtra, India.
• The caves include paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with figures of the Buddha and depictions of the Jataka tales.
• They were built during the period between the 2nd century BCE and 480 CE.
• The caves were used as monasteries and prayer halls by Buddhist monks.
• Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

 Additional Information

• Nalanda
  • Nalanda was an ancient center of learning located in present-day Bihar, India.
  • It was a university during the Gupta period and later, renowned for being one of the first residential universities in the world.
  • Nalanda University attracted students from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia.
• Khajuraho
  • Khajuraho is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
  • The temples are renowned for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
  • They were built between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty.
• Bhimbhetka
  • Bhimbhetka rock shelters are an archaeological site in Madhya Pradesh, India, that span the prehistoric Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, as well as the historic period.
  • The site includes more than 750 rock shelters and is famous for its rock paintings.
  • It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.

The correct answer is 4.

Key Points

• The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and an important Buddhist monument.
• It was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• The stupa has four elaborately carved gateways known as 'Toranas' at the cardinal points of the compass.
• These gateways are intricately decorated with sculptures depicting various events of the Buddha's life and Jataka tales.
• The Toranas symbolize the entrance to a sacred space and are significant in Buddhist architecture.

Additional Information

• Emperor Ashoka:
  • A major patron of Buddhism, Ashoka played a critical role in the spread of Buddhism across Asia.
  • He erected numerous stupas and pillars inscribed with Buddhist teachings and edicts.
• Stupa:
  • A stupa is a dome-shaped structure erected as a Buddhist shrine.
  • It typically contains relics of the Buddha or other holy figures and serves as a place of meditation.
• Jataka Tales:
  • These are a voluminous body of literature native to India concerning the previous births of Gautama Buddha in both human and animal form.
  • The tales are used to convey moral lessons and are important in Buddhist teaching.
• Buddhist Architecture:
  • Buddhist architecture includes various structures such as stupas, viharas (monasteries), chaityas (prayer halls), and temples.
  • These structures are designed to support the practice and teachings of Buddhism.

The correct answer is Sanchi Stupa.

Key Points

• The Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and was originally commissioned by the Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• This monumental stupa is located at Sanchi in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.
• The stupa is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, which is a hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha.
• The original structure was a simple hemispherical brick building, which was later expanded to almost double its original size.
• The stupa has a large number of decorative gateways, known as Toranas, which are intricately carved and depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha.
• The Sanchi Stupa is a significant monument in the history of Indian architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 Additional Information

• Dhamek Stupa
  • The Dhamek Stupa is located in Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • It marks the spot where the Buddha is said to have given his first sermon to his disciples after attaining enlightenment.
• Bavikonda Stupa
  • The Bavikonda Stupa is situated near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, India.
  • This site contains remnants of an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
• Mahabodhi Stupa
  • The Mahabodhi Stupa or Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India.
  • It is the site where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.

The Correct answer is Ajanta.

Key Points

• Ajanta Caves are a group of Buddhist cave temples located in Maharashtra, India.
• The caves include paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with figures of the Buddha and depictions of the Jataka tales.
• They were built during the period between the 2nd century BCE and 480 CE.
• The caves were used as monasteries and prayer halls by Buddhist monks.
• Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

 Additional Information

• Nalanda
  • Nalanda was an ancient center of learning located in present-day Bihar, India.
  • It was a university during the Gupta period and later, renowned for being one of the first residential universities in the world.
  • Nalanda University attracted students from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia.
• Khajuraho
  • Khajuraho is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
  • The temples are renowned for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
  • They were built between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty.
• Bhimbhetka
  • Bhimbhetka rock shelters are an archaeological site in Madhya Pradesh, India, that span the prehistoric Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, as well as the historic period.
  • The site includes more than 750 rock shelters and is famous for its rock paintings.
  • It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.

The correct answer is Shalbhanjika.

Key Points

• Shalbhanjika is a type of sculpture representing a tree goddess or yakshi, widely associated with fertility and nature worship in ancient Indian art.
• It is considered part of Hindu and folk traditions rather than being directly inspired by Buddhist ideas.
• Yakshis like Shalbhanjika are often depicted in sensual poses, highlighting their connection to fertility and prosperity.
• While the Sanchi Stupa contains depictions of Buddhist symbols such as the Empty Seat, Wheel, and Tree, the Shalbhanjika sculptures are ornamental additions influenced by non-Buddhist traditions.
• Such sculptures were integrated into Buddhist architecture to reflect the cultural amalgamation and appeal to a broader audience beyond the Buddhist community.

Additional Information

• Sanchi Stupa:
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Built during the Mauryan dynasty under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
  • It serves as a significant site for Buddhist art and architecture.
• Buddhist Symbols:
  • The Empty Seat symbolizes Buddha's enlightenment and absence following nirvana.
  • The Wheel (Dharmachakra) represents the teachings of Buddha and the cycle of life.
  • The Tree often symbolizes the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
• Yakshis and Yakshas:
  • Yakshis are female nature spirits, while Yakshas are their male counterparts in ancient Indian mythology.
  • They are considered guardians of treasures hidden in the earth and are frequently depicted in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist art.
• Cultural Syncretism:
  • The incorporation of Shalbhanjika into Buddhist monuments like Sanchi reflects the blending of Buddhist and non-Buddhist traditions.
  • This syncretism aimed to make Buddhist teachings accessible to followers of other religions and cultural practices.