Q. Consider the following statements with respect to Badami caves:
- Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyan dynasty which ruled the region from 543 to 598 CE.
- The cave is popularly known as the Vishnu Cave.
- The paintings related to Buddhism have also been found at Badami caves
Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer:
Only 1 and 2
Notes: Only the first and second statements are correct. The third statement is incorrect. Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyan dynasty which ruled the region from 543 to 598 CE. With the decline of the Vakataka rule, the Chalukyas established their power in the Deccan. The Chalukya king, Mangalesha, patronised the excavation of the Badami caves. The inscription in Cave No. 4 mentions the date 578-579 CE, describes the beauty of the cave and includes the dedication to the image of Vishnu. Thus, it may be presumed that the cave was excavated in the same era and the patron records his Vaishnava affiliation. Therefore, the cave is popularly known as the Vishnu Cave.