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Question

Mandala art, a term derived from the Sanskrit word for "circle," Mandalas are mathematical and metaphorical works of art that have captivated people for ages. In essence, a mandala is a circle pattern that represents the cosmos and the individual's journey. The genesis of everything, one's identity, or a heavenly essence are all represented by the design's centre. Complex and often symmetrical patterns spread forth from this hub representing the universe's growth and the continuous flow of life. Mandalas, which have their roots in both Buddhism and Hinduism, are powerful instruments for spiritual ritual and meditation. In order to symbolise the fleeting nature of life and the rejection of earthly possessions, monks painstakingly create these elaborate patterns out of coloured sand, only to brush them away when finished. Making a mandala has therapeutic benefits in addition to its religious significance. Drawing its geometric patterns in a methodical and repeated manner helps to reduce tension, improve focus, and calm the mind. The act of creating is a form of active meditation that allows the artist to concentrate and attain inner peace.

What does the term "mandala" mean in Sanskrit?

This question was previously asked in
SSC CHSL 2025 Tier 1 Question Paper (21-Nov-2025) (Shift 1)
The correct answer is

Circle

This is a direct factual comprehension question, so the answer must come from the exact wording of the passage rather than general knowledge.

The opening line states that mandala is 'a term derived from the Sanskrit word for "circle"', which directly gives the literal translation being asked for.

The strategy for such 'what does the word mean' questions is to separate the word's literal etymology from its symbolic uses, because the options deliberately mix the two.

The passage does describe mandalas as works of art, as tools for meditation, and as designs that represent the universe, but these describe what a mandala is used for or symbolises, not the meaning of the Sanskrit word.

So 'Artwork', 'Meditation' and 'Universe' are functions or symbolism drawn from later sentences, and none is offered as the translation of the term.

Only 'Circle' is tied by the text to the Sanskrit origin of the word itself.

Hence in Sanskrit the term 'mandala' means Circle.

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