Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow:-
The small village of Somnathpur contains an extraordinary temple, built around AD 1268 by the Hoysalas of Karnataka-one of the most prolific temple builders. Belur and Helebidu are among their better-known works. While these suffered during the invasion of the 14th century, the Somnathpur temple stands more or less intact in near-original condition. This small temple captivates with the beauty and vitality of its 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 are vertical panels covered by exquisite figures of gods and goddesses, with many incarnations being depicted. There are nymphs too, some carrying an ear of maize, a symbol of plenty and prosperity. The elaborate ornamentation, very characteristic of the Hoysala sculptures, is a remarkable feature. A closer look at the series of friezes on the outer walls reveal intricately carved caparisoned elephants, charging horsemen, stylized flowers, warriors, musicians crocodiles and swans.
The temple was actually commissioned by Sona Dandanayaka or Somnath (who named the village after himself), the minister of the Hoysala king, Narsimha the third. The temple was built to house three forms of Vishnu. The inner centre of the temple was the kalyanamandapa. Leading from here are three corridors, each ending in a shrine, one for each form of Vishnu-Venugopala, Janardana and Prasanna Keshava, though only two remain in their original form.
Which among the following is considered a symbol of plenty and prosperity
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Nymphs carrying an ear of maize
The passage says: "There are nymphs too, some carrying an ear of maize, a symbol of plenty and prosperity." An ear of maize is the cob that carries the grain, a natural sign of a rich harvest, which is why it stands for plenty and prosperity.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: Carved caparisoned elephants and charging horsemen — Incorrect. Wrong link: these appear in the friezes on the outer walls; the passage gives them no symbolic meaning.
Option 3: stylized flowers, warriors and musicians — Incorrect. Wrong link: these too are only listed among the carvings of the friezes.
Option 4: Crocodiles and swans — Incorrect. Wrong link: they close the same list of carved figures and are not called a symbol of anything.