26 Sep SHORE TEMPLE MAHABALIPURAM
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the Topic details “SHORE TEMPLE MAHABALIPURAM”. This Topic has relevance in the Art and Culture section of the UPSC CSE exam.
GS 1: Art and Culture
Why in the news:
Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu has achieved a noteworthy milestone by becoming India’s first green energy archaeological site.
About:
- Solar-Powered Lighting: A pivotal element of the Green Heritage Project revolves around embracing clean and sustainable solar energy to provide lighting for the Shore Temple.
- Elevating Visitor Engagement and Sustainability: In addition to solar lighting, the initiative strives to improve the overall visitor experience while reducing the environmental impact of tourism in the region. This encompasses:
- Solar-Powered Reverse Osmosis (RO) Plant.
- Water Dispensing Stations.
- Empowering the Indigenous Community: The project has opened up employment prospects for local women, who now operate electric buggies.
- Promoting Electric Vehicle (EV) Support: The Green Heritage Project is facilitating the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in the area to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
About the Shore Temple:
- The Shore Temple stands as a remarkable and historically significant architectural wonder situated in Mahabalipuram, a coastal town nestled in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple holds the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation and is celebrated as one of the most exquisite examples of ancient Dravidian architecture.
Historical Context:
- Origins: Constructed during the 7th century AD, the Shore Temple is a product of the Pallava dynasty’s rule. It forms an integral part of a temple complex in Mahabalipuram, which was a pivotal port city during the Pallava dynasty’s era.
- Commissioned by Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, a prominent Pallava king, the temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva and emerged as a significant pilgrimage destination for Shiva devotees.
- Architectural Style: The temple embodies the quintessential Dravidian architectural style, characterized by its pyramid-shaped towers (shikharas), intricate carvings, and utilization of granite stones.
Architectural Attributes:
- Design: The Shore Temple consists of two primary shrines, one facing east and the other facing west, with a smaller shrine in between. The main shrine is consecrated to Lord Shiva, while the adjacent shrine is believed to be dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Monolithic Sculptures: Within the temple complex, an array of monolithic sculptures is on display, including the sacred bull of Shiva, Nandi, as well as lions and various divine and mythical figures. These sculptures are renowned for their intricate craftsmanship and enduring resilience.
- Five Rathas: In close proximity to the Shore Temple, there exist five monolithic rock-cut temples known as the Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas). Each of these rathas is meticulously carved from a single stone block and represents distinct styles of South Indian temple architecture.
- Bas-Reliefs: The temple also showcases splendid bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the descent of the Ganges (Ganga) and the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). These carvings offer valuable insights into ancient Indian culture and religious beliefs.
Cultural Significance:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1984, along with other monuments in Mahabalipuram, the Shore Temple earned the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its profound cultural and historical value.
Download plutus ias current affairs eng med 26th Sep 2023
Q.1 Which of the following statements about the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram is/are correct?
- The Shore Temple is an example of Vesara architecture.
- The temple is dedicated solely to Lord Shiva.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q.2 Which of the following statements about the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram is/are correct?
- The Shore Temple is predominantly an example of Chola architectural style.
- Bas-reliefs within the temple primarily depict scenes from Buddhist mythology.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q.3 How did the Pallava dynasty’s architectural contributions influence the development of temple architecture in South India? Explain with relevant examples.
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