Question Discussion & Solution

• The famous bronze image of Nataraja is an example of Chola art.
• The Chola Dynasty was one of the greatest dynasties in the southern Indian part.
• They defeated the Pallavas to come into power.
• Their dynasty originated in the fertile valley of River Kaveri.
• Society and culture saw great developments during the reign of Cholas.
• Also, during this period Temples were the epicentre of all the social and religious gatherings. Temples and mutts were the centres of learning as well.
• Several Gods and goddesses were worshipped.
• Among these Shiva was the popular source of strength for the faithful ones. Quite a lot of Shiva temples were built along the banks of the river Kaveri.

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• Nataraja (Lord of the Dance), the Hindu god Shiva in his form as the cosmic dancer, is represented in metal or stone in many Shaivite temples, particularly in South India.
• It is an important piece of Chola sculpture.
• Some of the features of the Nataraja sculpture are:
  • The upper right-hand holds the drum, which signifies the sound of creation. All creations spring from the great sound of the damru.
  • The upper left-hand holds the eternal fire, which represents destruction. Destruction is the precursor and inevitable counterpart of creation.
  • The lower right hand is raised in the gesture of Abhay mudra signifying benediction and reassuring the devotee to not be afraid.
  • The lower left-hand points towards the upraised foot and indicates the path of salvation.
  • Shiva is dancing on the figure of a small dwarf. The dwarf symbolises ignorance and the ego of an individual.
  • The matted and flowing locks of Shiva represent the flow of the river Ganges.

The tomb of Itimad- ud -Daulah is located along the banks of the Yamuna at Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

• It was built by the Mughal queen Nur Jahan, wife of Emperor Jehangir.
• The tomb of Itimad- ud -Daulah is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal.
• It is known for the first use of the pietra dura.

The correct answer is Gujarat.

Key Points

• Garba:
  • It is a popular folk dance of Gujarat.
  • It is performed throughout nine nights of Navaratri.
  • It is performed by the womenfolk of Gujarat. 
  • Garba danced around the symbol to honour the fact that all humans have the Divine energy of Devi within them.

Additional Information

• Some other common folk Dances are - 

The correct answer is Ladakh.

Key Points

• Hemish festival is celebrated in Ladakh.
• Hemish Festival:
  • It is celebrated every year on the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. 
  • The Dance Festival is world-famous representing the reincarnation of Buddha.
  • The most attractive part of the festival is the mystic mask dance.
  • The mask dances of Ladakh are referred to as Chams dance.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Krishna I.

Important Points

• Kailashnatha Temple also known as Kailash Temple is a famous temple located in Ellora, Maharashtra.
• Its construction is generally attributed to the eighth-century Rashtrakuta king Krishna I (756 – 773).
• It is a Hindu temple in the Dravidian architectural style.
• It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its historical importance.