Question

The famous sculpture 'Shiva slays Yama' was carved at-

• A. Ajanta Caves
• B. Ellora Caves
• C. Elephanta Caves
• D. Bhimbetka Caves

Hint:

Ellora is renowned for its large-scale, high-relief narrative panels depicting Puranic legends. If a question mentions a dramatic Hindu mythological scene, Ellora is often a strong candidate.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the iconography. The sculpture 'Shiva slays Yama' depicts the story of Shiva as Kalantaka, the "Ender of Death," saving his devotee Markandeya from Yama, the god of death.
Step 2: Locate the sculpture among the options. The Ellora Caves are a massive complex of rock-cut monuments known for their large, dynamic, and dramatic Shaivite, Vaishnavite, and Jain sculptures. This theme of Kalantaka is powerfully depicted in several locations at Ellora, most notably within the Kailasa Temple complex (Cave 16) and Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena), showcasing the dramatic narrative style of the Rashtrakuta period.