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Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
- The small village of Somnathpur contains an extraordinary temple built around 1268 A.D. by one of the most prolific temple builders – the Hoysala of Karnataka. Belur and Helebid are among their better-known works. While these suffered during the invasion of the 14th century, the Somnathpur temple stands more or less intact. The small temple has detailed sculpture, covering almost every inch of the walls, pillars and even ceilings. It has three shikaras and stands on a star-shaped raised platform with 24 edges. The outer walls have a profusion of detailed carvings the entire surface run over by carved plaques of stone. There were vertical panels covered by exquisite figures of god and goddesses, with many incarnations being depicted. There were nymphs too, some carrying an ear of maize, a symbol of plenty and prosperity. The elaborate ornamentation, very characteristic of Hoyasala sculptures was a remarkable feature. On closer look, the series of friezes on the outer walls revealed intricately carved caparisoned elephants, charging horsemen, stylised flowers, warriors, musicians, crocodiles and swans.
- The temple was actually commissioned by Soma Dandanayaka or Somnath (he named the village after himself), the minister of the Hoysala king, Narasimha the Third. The temple was built to house three versions of Krishna – Venugopala, Janardana and Prasanna Keshava, though only two remain in their original form. In the darkness of the sanctum sanatorium, there are different images. The temple’s sculptural perfection is amazing including the doors of the temple and the three elegantly carved towers.
Q. 1. Make notes on the above passage in a suitable format. You should use recognisable abbreviations wherever necessary. Give a suitable title to your passage. (5 marks)
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Somnath Temple
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S.No. |
Abbreviation |
Word |
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1. |
Loc. |
Locations |
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2. |
Perfectn. |
Perfection |
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3. |
Chargeng |
Charging |
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4. |
Reinc. |
Reincarnations |
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5. |
& |
And |
Q. 2. Write a summary of the passage based on the above notes: (3 marks)
Answer-
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Somnath temple is located in the small village of Somnathpur and was commissioned by Soma Dandanayaka or Somnath, the minister of Hoyasala. Three corridors end in three shrines with three versions of Krishna –Venugopala, Janaradana and Prasanna Keshava. It has three shikharas with intricate of gods and goddesses, caparisoned elephants, charging horsemen, flowers, warriors, musicians and other majestic animals. The temple is amazing for its sculptural perfection. |
