With reference to the cultural history of India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to
Smart Elimination
Clue 1 - Cultural History (Art and Architecture)
Clue 2 - Panchayatana (Panch means 5) - This immediately suggests a spatial/structural arrangement, not a group of people or a function.
• (a) Assembly of village elders - Not cultural factor, more administrative and it is Panchayat, not Panchayatan → eliminate.
• (b) Religious sect - No known sect with this specific term → eliminate.
• (d) Administrative functionary - No cultural basis.
• (c) Style of temple architecture - adheres with both clue 1 and 2.
Potential Trap
Similar Words: Sounds like 'Panchayat' (village assembly), but in cultural history/art context, it refers to architecture.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: CThe correct answer is Option C.
Explanation: Panchayatan refers to a style of temple construction.
- It consists of a main shrine surrounded by four subsidiary shrines at the corners of the rectangular base.
- Examples: Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho), Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh).
Value Addition
- Nagara Style: Panchayatan is a common feature in the Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture.
Topic Trend (2011-2025)
Visualize the frequency of this topic across past year papers. Click on any bar to see questions.
Foundational question based on core concepts.