Question

What does the inscription found in Cave No. 4 at Badami reveal?

• A. It records a treaty between the Chalukyas and Mauryas.
• B. It praises the cave’s beauty and mentions the dedication of a Vishnu image.
• C. It describes the construction of a Buddhist stupa by Ashoka.
• D. It documents the coronation of Pulakesin I.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. It praises the cave’s beauty and mentions the dedication of a Vishnu image.

Badami Cave Paintings Badami served as the capital of the early Chalukyan dynasty, which ruled the region between 543 and 598 CE. An inscription found in Cave No. 4, dated 578–579 CE, praises the beauty of the cave and records the dedication of an image of Vishnu. The cave paintings primarily depict palace scenes. One notable painting shows Kirtivarman, son of Pulakesin I and elder brother of Mangalesha, seated inside a palace alongside his wife and local chiefs, watching a dance performance. Stylistically, these paintings share similarities with those at Ajanta. The graceful lines, fluid figures, and densely arranged compositions reflect the remarkable skill and artistic maturity achieved by the painters in the 6th century CE.