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GS Paper IUPSC Prelims 2013
Religions & Philosophy
Question No. 77Interactive Test Mode
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+2-0.66

Q77. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

Select the correct option below (or cross out options to eliminate)
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Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution

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Official UPSC Answer KeyUPSC Prelims 2013 • Art and Culture

Correct Answer: Option (B) — Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks.

Concept & Option Breakdown

Standard Reference Verified
  • A Chaitya refers to a Buddhist prayer hall or shrine, typically housing a stupa at the end of a vaulted hall used for congregational worship.
  • A Vihara refers to the monastic residential quarters or dwelling place where Buddhist monks lived, studied, and meditated.
Elimination Heuristic & Exam Approach

Remember: 'Chaitya = Church/Chapel (worship)' and 'Vihara = Living quarters/Residences'.

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Question Specifications & Syllabus Mapping

Examination & YearUPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2013 (Q77)
Paper & Marking SchemeGS Paper I • 2 Marks (-0.66 Negative for incorrect response)
Syllabus Subject & TopicArt and Culture → Religions & Philosophy
Official Answer KeyOption (B) — (b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks.

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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Prelims 2013 Q77

What is the official answer for UPSC Prelims 2013 GS Paper I Question 77 (Art and Culture)?

The official UPSC answer key for this 2013 Art and Culture (Religions & Philosophy) question is Option (B): "(b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks.". Correct attempts carry 2 Marks with -0.66 Negative penalty for wrong answers.

Which UPSC Prelims syllabus topic does this 2013 question belong to?

This question belongs to GS Paper I under the subject "Art and Culture" and micro-topic "Religions & Philosophy". You can explore all repeated questions from Religions & Philosophy in Acme AI's 3D Prelims PYQ Realm or practice 50 full-length and sectional tests in the APT Prelims Test Series.

How can I solve this Religions & Philosophy UPSC Prelims question using option elimination?

Remember: 'Chaitya = Church/Chapel (worship)' and 'Vihara = Living quarters/Residences'.

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