Consider the following historical places: 1. Ajanta Caves 2. Lepa

Consider the following historical places:

  • 1. Ajanta Caves
  • 2. Lepakshi Temple
  • 3. Sanchi Stupa

Which of the above places is/are also known for mural paintings?

1 only
1 and 2 only
1, 2 and 3
None
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2013
Ajanta Caves are world-renowned for their ancient Buddhist mural paintings dating back primarily to the Gupta period and earlier. The Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi is famous for its extensive Vijayanagara period mural paintings on ceilings, depicting epic scenes. Sanchi Stupa is primarily known for its architectural structure and the elaborate carvings on its gateways (toranas), but not for significant surviving mural paintings.
Mural paintings are paintings applied directly onto a wall or ceiling surface. India has a rich tradition of mural painting, found in caves, temples, palaces, and homes across different periods and regions.
Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra) represent some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art, particularly painting. Lepakshi Temple (Andhra Pradesh) is a prominent example of Vijayanagara architecture and painting. Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh) is one of the oldest Buddhist sites and is known for the Great Stupa built by Ashoka, with its beautifully carved gateways added later. While walls existed at Sanchi, the site is primarily celebrated for its sculpture and architecture, not its paintings.