Correct option is B

The correct answer is (B) a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II

Explanation:

• Achalgarh Temple (and the surrounding fort) was reconstructed and significantly patronized by Rana Kumbha of the Mewar dynasty in 1452. It is located near Mount Abu.

• Dilwara Temples are a group of five legendary Jain temples built between the 11th and 13th centuries under the patronage of the Chalukyas (Solankis) of Gujarat, specifically by ministers like Vimal Shah and Vastupal-Tejpal.

• Eklingji Temple is the most sacred shrine of the Mewar dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the original structure was built by Bappa Rawal in the 8th century, who considered Eklingji the true ruler of Mewar.

• Mahavir Jain Temple (Osian) is a prime example of the Maha-Maru architectural style developed during the reign of the Gurjara-Pratihar dynasty, specifically under King Vatsaraja in the 8th century.

• These temples represent the architectural evolution of Rajasthan, moving from the early Gurjara-Pratihar style to the refined Maru-Gurjara (Solanki) style.

Information Booster:

• The Maha-Maru and Maru-Gurjara styles are the two distinct sub-styles of temple architecture that flourished in Rajasthan and Gujarat between the 7th and 13th centuries.

• Many of these temples, particularly the Dilwara group, are famous for their intricate marble carvings and "pendent" ceilings, which are unmatched in Indian stone architecture.

Additional Knowledge:Achalgarh (Option a)

• It houses the Achaleshwar Mahadev temple, where the "toe" of Lord Shiva is worshipped instead of a traditional Lingam.

• The fort was originally built by the Paramara rulers before being rebuilt by the Mewar kings.

Dilwara (Option b)

• The Vimal Vasahi temple (1031 AD) is the oldest in the group, dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara, Lord Rishabha.

• It is widely considered one of the finest examples of Jain architecture in the world.

Eklingji (Option c)

• Located in Kailashpuri, it features a magnificent four-faced (Chaturmukha) idol of Lord Shiva made of black marble.

• The Maharana of Mewar is traditionally considered the Diwan (Prime Minister) of Eklingji.

Mahavir Jain Temple (Option d)

• Located in Osian (Jodhpur), it is known as the "Khajuraho of Rajasthan" due to its stunning erotic and mythological sculptures.

• It marks the peak of Gurjara-Pratihar artistic excellence before the Islamic invasions.