Question

Which of the following statements is/are TRUE?

• A. The Lion Capital of Ashoka found in Sarnath is carved out of granite rock.
• B. The Ellora caves are carved in granite rock.
• C. The Descent of the Ganges in Mahabalipuram is carved out of granite rock.
• D. The Ajanta caves are carved in basalt rock.

Hint:

Link sites to their native rocks: Sarnath—sandstone; Mahabalipuram—granite outcrops; Ajanta/Ellora—Deccan basalt.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C, D

(A) False — the Sarnath Lion Capital is carved from Chunar sandstone, not granite.
(B) False — Ellora caves are hewn chiefly in Deccan trap basalt, not granite.
(C) True — the great relief “Descent of the Ganges/Arjuna’s Penance” at Mahabalipuram is carved on a massive granite outcrop.
(D) True — the Ajanta caves are excavated in basalt (Deccan volcanic rock).
Hence the true statements are \(\boxed{(C),(D)}\).