The Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed during the reign of which dynasty?
Cholas
Brihadeeswarar Temple Construction and the Chola Dynasty
The magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a renowned architectural marvel and a significant historical monument. Its construction is a testament to the artistic and engineering prowess of the dynasty that commissioned it. This temple is also recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural importance.
Dynastic Patronage of the Temple
The construction of the Brihadeeswarar Temple is attributed to the powerful Chola dynasty. Specifically, it was built during the reign of the greatest Chola king, Raja Raja Chola I, around the early 11th century CE (completed in 1010 CE). Raja Raja Chola I initiated this grand project as a royal temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrating his victories and consolidating his empire's power and prestige.
Key Details about the Construction
- Patron: King Raja Raja Chola I of the Chola dynasty.
- Period: Circa 1010 CE.
- Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Significance: A prime example of Dravidian architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical Context: Other Dynasties
While other prominent South Indian dynasties like the Pallavas, Pandyas, and Cheras made significant contributions to the region's art and architecture during different periods, the Brihadeeswarar Temple specifically belongs to the Chola era.
- Pallavas: Known for their contributions to temple architecture, particularly rock-cut temples, primarily in the 7th to 9th centuries.
- Pandyas: Ruled later and also contributed to temple building, often succeeding or coexisting with the Cholas in certain regions.
- Cheras: Primarily known for their rule in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with distinct architectural styles but not associated with the Brihadeeswarar Temple's primary construction.
Important Questions from Temple Architecture and Regional Styles
The Chennakesva temple was built during which of the following empires?
A. Hoysal
B. Yadavas
C. Cholas
D. Pala
Which of the following is NOT one of the Great Living Chola Temples?
The Kamakhya Temple is located in ______.
Which of the following temples are brick-temples?
(A) Bhitargaon temple, Kanpur
(B) Parsurameswara temple, Bhubaneshwar
(C) Laxmana temple, Khajuraho
(D) Laxmana temple, Sirpur
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
In the context of history of art arrange the following in chronological order, starting from the earliest:
(A) Bhumara
(B) Bharhut
(C) Jaggeyapeta
(D) Tanjavur
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
