By which of the following dynasties was the Brihadeswara temple built?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is: (b) Chola

Explanation:

• The Brihadeeswara Temple (also called Rajarajeswaram) was built by Rajaraja Chola I.
• Constructed in the 11th century (1010 CE) at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
• It is one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture from the Chola period.

Information Booster:

• The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – “Great Living Chola Temples.”
• Built entirely of granite, despite no major granite sources nearby.
• The Vimana (tower) is one of the tallest of its kind in India (~66 meters).
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Known for its precise engineering, murals, sculptures, and inscriptions of the Chola era.

Additional Knowledge :

• Maurya: Famous for Buddhist architecture (e.g., Sanchi, Ashokan pillars); did not build this temple.
• Gupta: Known for classical art and early Hindu temples in North India, not South Indian Dravidian temples.
• Pandya: Ruled adjacent regions; built many temples, but not the Brihadeeswara Temple.
• Chola: The only dynasty associated with this monumental temple.