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.
Key Points for Quick Revision
- A 12th-century Hoysala mural was discovered in Hassan, Karnataka.
- The mural depicts scenes from Indian epics using natural pigments.
- This discovery adds a new dimension to Hoysala art, which is primarily known for stone sculpture.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is involved in its preservation.
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. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Anniversaries: birth/death anniversaries of important historical figures in the news
- Cultural events and their historical significance
- Archaeological discoveries: site, period, excavating body
- UNESCO World Heritage additions: site name, location, significance
- Art and literature awards linked to historical works
Practice Questions
Q1. The Hoysala dynasty is primarily associated with which modern-day Indian state?
- Tamil Nadu
- Andhra Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Kerala
Explanation: The Hoysala Empire was a prominent Southern Indian empire that ruled most of modern-day Karnataka between the 10th and 14th centuries.
Q2. Which of the following sites is a famous example of Hoysala architecture?
- Hampi
- Halebidu
- Thanjavur
- Konark
Explanation: Halebidu (Dorasamudra) was the capital of the Hoysala Empire and is home to the famous Hoysaleswara Temple.
How to Prepare History & Culture for Government Exams
When a historical figure is in the news, revise 5 key facts about their contribution — this is typically what the exam asks.
For SSC and Railway, focus on dates and names. For UPSC, understand the social, economic, and political context.
Maintain a 'This Week in History' note — anniversaries and commemorations generate predictable exam questions.