Which of the following is the correct chronological order in the evolution of Indian painting (starting with the earliest)?
1. Mahajanaka Jataka, Ajanta
2. Bhimbetka rock art
3. Royal portrait, Sittannavasal cave
4. Heavenly musicians, Brihadishvara temple

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) 2, 1, 3, 4
Explanation:
• Bhimbetka rock art (prehistory) is the earliest.
• Ajanta (Mahajanaka Jataka and other panels) dates to early centuries CE (roughly 2nd century BCE–5th century CE).
• Sittannavasal (Jain cave paintings) largely belong to the 7th century CE.
• Brihadishvara (Chola period) murals and temple art are later (approx. 10th–11th century CE).
• Sequence: Bhimbetka → Ajanta → Sittannavasal → Brihadishvara (2–1–3–4).
Information Booster:
• Ajanta represents classical Buddhist mural tradition; Sittannavasal is an example of early medieval Jain painting; Chola art reflects South Indian temple mural traditions.
Additional Knowledge:
Bhimbetka (2)
. Prehistoric rock shelters with multi-period paintings.
Ajanta (1)
. Major Buddhist fresco tradition with narrative jatakas.
Sittannavasal (3)
. Important Jain rock-cut and mural works of the early medieval period.
Brihadishvara (4)
. Chola temple art illustrating later medieval South Indian aesthetic.