Question 68 from UPSC CSE 2019 - Art & Culture

Question

Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. Vijayanagara

Strategy: Identify 'Kalyana Mandapas' as the key architectural feature. Associate this feature with the Vijayanagara dynasty, as they are renowned for these ceremonial halls, while eliminating other dynasties that do not emphasize this element. This leads to selecting 'Vijayanagara' as the correct answer.

Key Info: Kalyana Mandapa refers to a ceremonial marriage hall found within Hindu temples, particularly prominent in the temple architecture of the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–17th centuries). These mandapas were elaborately pillared halls designed for the ritual reenactment of divine weddings, central to devotional festivities. Vijayanagara temple complexes—most famously at Hampi—incorporate large, ornate kalyana mandapas, richly carved with mythological and floral motifs, and often used for religious gatherings. In contrast, Chalukya, Chandela, and Rashtrakuta architecture emphasized other structural and sculptural elements—such as vimanas, sanctums, and distinctive carvings—but the kalyana mandapa as a hallmark is tightly associated with Vijayanagara temple design. This reflects the empire's devotion to ritual celebration, monumental scale, and distinctive Dravidian architectural influence. Notable examples include the Vitthala Temple and Hazara Rama Temple, which feature renowned kalyana mandapas.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Chalukya

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Chandela

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Rashtrakuta