Olympiad Test Level 1: Monuments and Art & Architecture- 2 - Class 7 MCQ

Answer:
The finest example of double dome construction among the given options is the Lodhi Garden. Here is a detailed explanation:
Lodhi Garden:
- The Lodhi Garden is located in Delhi, India and is known for its architectural beauty.
- It houses the tombs of several rulers of the Lodhi dynasty, which ruled over Delhi during the 15th and 16th centuries.
- The tombs in the garden showcase the double dome construction style, which is characterized by two domes placed one above the other.
- This architectural technique gives the structures a unique and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
The other options provided are not the finest examples of double dome construction:
Alai Darwaza:
- Alai Darwaza is an impressive gateway located in Delhi, India.
- While it is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture, it does not feature the double dome construction style.
Tomb of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya:
- The Tomb of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya is a mausoleum located in Delhi, India.
- It is a significant religious site, but it does not showcase the double dome construction style.
Therefore, the correct answer is Lodhi Garden (option B), as it is the finest example of double dome construction among the given options.

State with the highest number of national protected monuments in India:
There are several states in India that are home to national protected monuments, but the state with the highest number of such monuments is Karnataka. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Karnataka:
- Karnataka has a rich historical and cultural heritage, which is reflected in the numerous national protected monuments located within its borders.
- The state is known for its architectural wonders, ancient temples, palaces, and archaeological sites.
- Some of the famous national protected monuments in Karnataka include the Hampi Group of Monuments, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Pattadakal Group of Monuments, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Other notable monuments in Karnataka include the Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, the Mysore Palace in Mysore, and the Chennakesava Temple in Belur.
- Karnataka's historical significance and the preservation of its monuments make it the state with the highest number of national protected monuments in India.
2. Other states:
- Uttar Pradesh: While Uttar Pradesh is home to numerous historical sites and monuments, including the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, it does not have the highest number of national protected monuments in India.
- Delhi: Delhi, the capital city of India, also boasts several national protected monuments, such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. However, it does not have as many national protected monuments as Karnataka.
- Rajasthan: Rajasthan is known for its magnificent forts, palaces, and temples. While it has a significant number of national protected monuments, it is not the state with the highest count.

In conclusion, Karnataka has the highest number of national protected monuments in India due to its rich historical and cultural heritage.

Answer:

Introduction:

In this question, we are asked to identify which site is not listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. We will analyze each option and determine the correct answer.

Options:

• A: Fatehpur Sikri


• B: Nalanda


• C: Mahabodhi Temple


• D: Shore Temple

Analysis:

• A: Fatehpur Sikri - Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Uttar Pradesh, India. It was the capital of the Mughal Empire for a short period. Therefore, it is a UNESCO Heritage Site.


• B: Nalanda - Nalanda is an ancient university located in Bihar, India. It was a center for learning and Buddhist studies. Nalanda is indeed a UNESCO Heritage Site, so it cannot be the correct answer.


• C: Mahabodhi Temple - The Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. It is one of the holiest Buddhist sites and the place where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO Heritage Site.


• D: Shore Temple - The Shore Temple is a famous temple located in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its intricate architecture and is indeed a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Conclusion:

After analyzing all the options, we can conclude that the correct answer is B: Nalanda. Nalanda is not listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Answer:
The Kailash Temple at Ellora in Maharashtra, India, was built by the rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Introduction:
The Kailash Temple is a remarkable example of Indian rock-cut architecture and is considered one of the greatest rock-cut monuments in the world. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Ellora Caves complex in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra.
2. Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
The Rashtrakuta dynasty ruled a large part of the Indian subcontinent from the 6th to the 10th century CE. They were patrons of art, architecture, and literature, and made significant contributions to Indian culture.
3. Construction of the Kailash Temple:
The Kailash Temple was built during the reign of King Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty in the 8th century CE. It is believed that it took over 150 years to complete the construction of this magnificent temple.
4. Architecture and Features:
- The temple is carved out of a single massive rock, creating a monolithic structure.
- It is designed in the shape of Mount Kailash, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva.
- The temple complex includes a main shrine, pillared halls, courtyards, and various other carved sculptures and reliefs.
- The entire temple is adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including gods, goddesses, and various celestial beings.
- The temple's architecture showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the artists and sculptors of the Rashtrakuta period.
5. Significance:
The Kailash Temple is not only a religious site but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a testament to the architectural brilliance and artistic heritage of ancient India.
In conclusion, the Kailash Temple at Ellora in Maharashtra was built by the rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. This remarkable rock-cut temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural history of India.

Natya Shastra, the main source of Indian classical dances was written by Bharat Muni.

The Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian text that serves as the foundational source of knowledge for Indian classical dance forms. It was written by Bharat Muni, a sage and scholar, during the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE.

Key Points:

- The Natya Shastra is a comprehensive treatise on the performing arts, including dance, music, and drama.
- It consists of 36 chapters and provides detailed instructions on various aspects of dance, such as movements, gestures, facial expressions, costumes, makeup, and stage design.
- Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra not only focuses on the technical aspects of dance but also delves into the aesthetics, emotions, and spiritual dimensions of the art form.
- The text categorizes dance into various types, such as Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic dance).
- It also describes the nine rasas (emotions) that form the basis of Indian classical dance, including love, joy, anger, compassion, disgust, heroism, fear, wonder, and tranquility.
- Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra has played a significant role in shaping and preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali.
- Today, dancers and scholars continue to study and interpret the Natya Shastra to ensure the authenticity and evolution of Indian classical dances.
In conclusion, Bharat Muni is the author of the Natya Shastra, which is considered the main source of knowledge for Indian classical dances. His work has had a profound impact on the development and practice of these dance forms over centuries.

Bagh, a village in Gwalior is famous for Cave Paintings:
- Bagh, a village located in Gwalior district in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, is renowned for its ancient cave paintings.
- The Bagh Caves, situated in this village, are a group of nine rock-cut monuments that showcase exquisite and unique cave paintings.
- These paintings are estimated to date back to the 5th and 6th centuries AD and belong to the Gupta period of Indian art.
- The cave paintings in Bagh predominantly depict religious and mythological themes, including scenes from the life of Buddha, various Hindu deities, and other divine figures.
- The paintings are characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate detailing, and the skillful use of shading and perspective.
- The Bagh Caves are considered to be a significant site for the study of ancient Indian art and architecture.
- Apart from the cave paintings, Bagh is also known for its beautiful sculptures and architectural structures.
- The village is home to several ancient temples and monuments, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- The sculptures found in Bagh exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence.
- The architectural structures in Bagh, such as the Baghela Talab, Baghela Ka Bagh, and Baghela Mahal, are worth exploring for their historical and aesthetic significance.
- In conclusion, Bagh, a village in Gwalior, is famous for its cave paintings, sculptures, and architectural treasures, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Answer:
The correct answer is D: Chittorgarh.
Detailed
Vijay Stambha, also known as the Tower of Victory, is an iconic monument located in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India. Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:
1. Introduction:
- Vijay Stambha is a historical monument in India.
- It is also known as the Tower of Victory.
2. Location:
- The monument is situated in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan.
- Chittorgarh is a city in the state of Rajasthan, which is located in northwestern India.
3. Significance and History:
- Vijay Stambha was built by the ruler of Mewar, Rana Kumbha, in the 15th century.
- It was constructed to commemorate his victory over the combined forces of Malwa and Gujarat.
- The tower stands as a symbol of courage, valor, and triumph.
4. Architecture and Design:
- Vijay Stambha is a nine-story tower, standing at a height of around 37 meters.
- It is built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style.
- The tower is adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions.
5. Tourist Attraction:
- Vijay Stambha is a popular tourist attraction in Chittorgarh.
- Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- The monument is known for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
In conclusion, Vijay Stambha is situated in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, making option D the correct answer. This historical monument attracts tourists from all over the world and stands as a symbol of victory and pride.

It is also known as Badgir which means wind catcher tower.

Built by Vishnuvardhana of Hoyasala empire on the banks of Yagachi river.

Oldest Monument: Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves, located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, are considered to be the oldest monument among the given options. These caves are known for their exquisite rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments that date back to the 2nd century BCE and the 480 CE. Here is a detailed explanation:
Ajanta Caves:
- The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consist of 30 rock-cut cave monuments.
- These caves were built in two phases: the first phase includes caves 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A, which were constructed during the Satavahana dynasty (around 2nd century BCE).
- The second phase includes the remaining caves, built during the Vakataka dynasty (around 5th century CE).
Qutub Minar:
- Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, is a historical monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It was built in the early 13th century CE by Qutb-ud-din Aibak.
- While it is an ancient monument, it is not as old as the Ajanta Caves.
Khajuraho:
- Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, India, is famous for its group of Hindu and Jain temples.
- These temples were built between the 10th and 12th centuries CE.
- Although they are ancient, they are not as old as the Ajanta Caves.
Taj Mahal:
- The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most iconic monuments in the world.
- It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century CE.
- The Taj Mahal is relatively more recent compared to the Ajanta Caves.
In conclusion, among the given options, the Ajanta Caves are considered to be the oldest monument, dating back to the 2nd century BCE.