12th-Century Hoysala Era Mural Discovered in Karnataka Temple
Archaeologists have unearthed a rare mural painting from the Hoysala period in a remote temple in Karnataka's Hassan district.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- A 12th-century Hoysala era mural painting was discovered in Hirehadagali, Hassan district, Karnataka.
- The mural depicts scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata using natural pigments.
- This find is significant as Hoysala art is primarily known for architecture and sculpture, not murals.
- The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the Hoysala dynasty's artistic repertoire.
- Stylistic similarities exist between the mural and Hoysala sculptures at Belur and Halebidu.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is involved in the restoration and study of the mural.
- The discovery enriches our understanding of 12th-century South Indian art and culture.
- This finding is crucial for competitive exams focusing on Indian history and art.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | High | 10–20 | Ancient, medieval, and modern history form a full section in UPSC Prelims and GS-I Mains. |
| State PCS / PSC | High | 5–10 | Regional history is specifically tested in state exams — Maratha history in Maharashtra, etc. |
Key Facts to Remember: 12th-Century Hoysala Era Mural Discovered in Karnataka Temple
- A 12th-century Hoysala era mural painting was discovered in Hirehadagali, Hassan district, Karnataka.
- The mural depicts scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata using natural pigments.
- This find is significant as Hoysala art is primarily known for architecture and sculpture, not murals.
- The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the Hoysala dynasty's artistic repertoire.
- Stylistic similarities exist between the mural and Hoysala sculptures at Belur and Halebidu.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is involved in the restoration and study of the mural.
- The discovery enriches our understanding of 12th-century South Indian art and culture.
- This finding is crucial for competitive exams focusing on Indian history and art.
Practice Questions
Q1. The recently discovered 12th-century mural painting in Karnataka belongs to which historical dynasty?
- Chola Dynasty
- Vijayanagara Empire
- Hoysala Empire
- Chalukya Dynasty
Explanation: The mural has been dated to the 12th century and is attributed to the Hoysala Empire, known for its significant contributions to art and architecture in South India during that period.
Q2. In which district of Karnataka was the 12th-century Hoysala mural painting discovered?
- Mysuru
- Hassan
- Bengaluru
- Kalaburagi
Explanation: The rare mural painting was discovered in Hirehadagali village, located within the Hassan district of Karnataka, during restoration work at a Shiva temple.
Q3. What are the primary themes depicted in the newly discovered Hoysala mural?
- Jataka Tales and Buddhist Life
- Scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata
- Royal Processions and Courtly Life
- Mythological stories of the Puranas
Explanation: The mural vividly portrays narrative scenes drawn from the two major Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, showcasing the importance of these epics in the cultural and religious life of the Hoysala period.
Q4. Which archaeological organization is involved in the study and preservation of the discovered mural?
- National Museum, New Delhi
- Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- State Department of Archaeology, Karnataka
Explanation: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), a premier government organization for the study and preservation of cultural heritage, is overseeing the restoration work and conducting preliminary analyses of the mural.
Q5. The discovery of this mural is particularly significant because:
- It is the largest mural painting found in India.
- It provides the earliest evidence of painting in South India.
- It challenges the notion that Hoysala art was limited to sculpture and architecture.
- It depicts scenes from a previously unknown epic.
Explanation: The Hoysala period is predominantly celebrated for its intricate stone carvings and temple architecture. The discovery of a well-preserved mural painting suggests that the Hoysalas were patrons of painting as well, broadening our understanding of their artistic achievements beyond stone.
How to Prepare History & Culture for Government Exams — 12th-Century Hoysala Era Mural Discovered in Karn…
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