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UPSC Prelims 2021 Paper-1 📅 10 Oct, 2021

With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements:
1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
2. It is the only circular temple built in India.
3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A
1 and 2
B
2 and 3 only
C
1 and 4
D
2, 3 and 4
Result Summary
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APEDIA

UPSC Prelims
2021 • 10 Oct, 2021 • Paper-1
With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements:
1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
2. It is the only circular temple built in India.
3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
Correct Answer
1 and 4
Historical Origin and Architecture: The temple, located in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh, was constructed in the 11th century by King Devapala of the Ka......
💡 Analysis & Explanation
Historical Origin and Architecture
The temple, located in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh, was constructed in the 11th century by King Devapala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty. It is famous for its distinct circular layout. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
Evaluating Uniqueness
While its circular shape is distinctive, it is absolutely not the "only" circular temple in India. Other prominent circular Chausath Yogini temples exist, such as those in Hirapur and Jabalpur. Thus, statement 2 is incorrect.
Religious Affiliation
The temple is dedicated to the 64 Yoginis and features a central shrine for Lord Shiva. It is associated with Tantric practices and the Shaiva/Shakta traditions, not the Vaishnava cult. Thus, statement 3 is incorrect.
Architectural Legacy
There is a widespread and widely acknowledged historical belief that the unique circular, colonnaded design of this specific temple deeply influenced British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker when they designed the old Indian Parliament building. Thus, statement 4 is correct.
Conclusion
Statements 1 and 4 provide accurate historical and architectural facts.