(a) Discuss the ‘Tandava’ dance as recorded in early Indian inscriptions. (b) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.

Theme

T5 Temple architecture & regional dynasties: Pallava, Chola, Chandela, Vijayanagara, Gupta

What UPSC asks in this theme

The most repeated culture area. UPSC asks about specific dynasties (Pallava, Chola, Chandela, Vijayanagara, Gupta) and their contribution to art and architecture, and how philosophy shaped monuments.

What to cover

• Nagara, Dravida and Vesara styles: key features and examples
• Pallavas: Mamallapuram rathas, Shore Temple, Kailasanatha; also literature
• Cholas: Brihadeeswara, Gangaikondacholapuram, bronzes (Nataraja), administration
• Chandelas: Khajuraho, sculpture's vigour
• Vijayanagara: Hampi, blending older Dravida tradition with new features
• Gupta contributions: temples, sculpture, literature, science
• How Indian philosophy (cosmology, iconography, vastu) shaped monuments

Writing the answer

• Open with the dynasty's period and region, then architecture, sculpture, literature/other arts
• Name temples and specific features — examiners reward precise examples
• Quote-based questions ('…still remembered with pride') need you to justify the quote with evidence

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 7 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.