Question 56 from UPSC CSE 2014 - Culture

Question

With reference to the cultural history of India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. a style of temple construction

Strategy: The term 'Panchayatan' appears in the context of temples and architecture rather than administration or sects. Recognizing its association with temple design — specifically, where one central shrine is surrounded by four subsidiary shrines — allows a quick, accurate match to 'a style of temple construction'. Other options relate to common-sounding administrative or social structures, which do not fit this unique term.

Key Info: Panchayatan is a specific style of Hindu temple architecture prominent during the Gupta and later periods.

*   **Layout**: A principal shrine (garbhagriha) is at the center, with four subsidiary shrines at the corners, forming a quincunx (five-shrine) arrangement.
*   **Symbolism**: The layout represents a central deity surrounded by attendant deities.
*   **Examples**: Well-known examples include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho and some early Gupta temples.
*   **Classification**: It is regarded as a highly evolved style within the Nagara (north Indian) temple architecture tradition.
*   **Etymology**: The term literally means 'five shrines' in Sanskrit and is not related to village administration (Panchayat), religious sects, or administrative posts.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: an assembly of village elders

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: a religious sect

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: an administrative functionary