2022 · Q50
Which of the following statements about sculptures at Sanchi is/are correct?
- 1In some sculptures there is representation of Shalabhanjika.
- 2The figure of Shalabhanjika is represented by a woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants.
- 3The Shalabhanjika motif was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
General KnowledgeHistory of India
- A1, 2 and 3
- B2 and 3 only
- C2 only
- D1 and 3 only
Explanation
Sanchi’s gateways do depict Shalabhanjika figures (statement 1 true). But the ‘woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants’ is Gajalakshmi, not Shalabhanjika — who is shown grasping a tree branch (statement 2 false). The Shalabhanjika is a pre-Buddhist yakshi/fertility motif, not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas (statement 3 true). Hence 1 and 3 only.