What was the main function of ‘Chaityas’ in Buddhist architecture?
Congregational halls for teaching and interaction
The correct answer is Congregational halls for teaching and interaction.
In Buddhist architecture, 'Chaityas' were prayer or congregational halls where monks and devotees gathered for worship, teaching and interaction.
A chaitya usually housed a stupa at one end and had a long hall with rows of pillars, allowing devotees to circumambulate and assemble.
They are distinct from 'Viharas', which were the residential quarters (monasteries) where monks lived.
Famous rock-cut chaityas are found at Karla, Bhaja, Ajanta and Ellora, noted for their arched roofs and ornate facades.
Storehouses for grains and decorative gateways were not the function of chaityas, and living quarters describe viharas, so those options are incorrect.
Hence the main function of chaityas was as congregational halls for teaching and interaction.
Similar Questions
In Dravida style of architecture, the front wall has an entrance gateway in its centre, which is known as a ____.
The Kailasa Temple built in the 8th century is in which of the following state?
The red sandstone tower of Qutb Minar has _____ meters diameter at its base.
The Gwalior Fort, was initiated by _____ who finished the fortification system around the plateau in 773CE.
Important Questions from Architecture
The idols of Lord Jagnnath, Subhadra and Balbhadra in sanctum sanctorum at Jagannath Puri Temple are made up of
At which place Jajalladev Mahotsava organised?
What is the other name of the Sati temple located in Keshkal valley of this State ?
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 India Parliament building.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Which one of the following statements is correct?
