Consider the following statements:
1. In the Mauryan era, stone was substituted for wood in important structures.
2. The Sarnath lion is an example of Mauryan sculptures.
3. The Sudarsana Lake is an example of irrigation projects undertaken during the Mauryan period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) All three
. Statement 1 is correct; the Mauryan period marked a significant transition in Indian architecture from wood (a common material in earlier periods) to stone, especially for royal and religious structures, many of which survive today.
. Statement 2 is correct; the Lion Capital at Sarnath is a masterpiece of Mauryan sculpture and architecture. Its wheel (Dharmachakra Pravartana) has been adopted as the national emblem of India.
. Statement 3 is correct; the Sudarsana Lake was constructed during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya in the province of Saurashtra, as evidenced by later inscriptions, demonstrating state involvement in large-scale irrigation projects for agriculture.
Information Booster:
. The use of highly polished stone pillars with magnificent capitals is a defining feature of Mauryan art and architecture.
. Ashoka was instrumental in building numerous Stupas and pillars across his empire, largely using stone.
. The Junagarh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman provides details about the creation and repair of the Sudarsana Lake, mentioning governors under Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka.
. Mauryan art shows a high degree of craftsmanship and Persian influence, particularly in the polishing of stone surfaces.
Additional Knowledge:
Only one (Option a)
. This is incorrect because all three statements are historically accurate regarding the Mauryan Empire's innovations in architecture, art, and public works.
Only two (Option b)
. This is incorrect because all three statements are correct.
None (Option d)
. This is incorrect because all three statements describe established facts about the Mauryan era.