The Airavateshwara temple at Darasuram was built by:
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A)
Explanation:
The Airavateshwara Temple is a Hindu temple of Dravidian architecture located in the town of Darasuram, near Kumbakonam. It was built by the Chola emperor Rajaraja II in the 12th century CE. Along with the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, it forms the “Great Living Chola Temples,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📚 Additional Info: The Great Living Chola Temples
It is crucial to distinguish between the three major Chola temples for history questions.
| Temple | Location | Builder (King) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brihadisvara Temple | Thanjavur | Rajaraja I | Largest vimana; massive Nandi; completed in 1010 CE. |
| Gangaikonda Cholapuram | Ariyalur Dist. | Rajendra I | Built to commemorate victory over the Pala dynasty (Ganges). Curvier vimana than Thanjavur. |
| Airavateshwara Temple | Darasuram | Rajaraja II | Smallest of the three but most ornate. Famous for “Singing Steps” and chariot-shaped mandapa. |
Key Facts about Airavateshwara
- Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legend says Airavata, the white elephant of Indra, worshipped Shiva here to regain his color (cursed by Sage Durvasa).
- Architecture: The front mandapa is conceptualized as a huge chariot with wheels drawn by horses.
- Musical Steps: The stone steps leading to the main shrine produce different musical notes when tapped.