"Arthuna group of temples" are situated in:

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Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:
The "Arthuna group of temples" is an important historical and architectural site situated precisely in the Banswara district of Rajasthan. Arthuna served as the ancient capital of the powerful Paramara rulers of Vagad, who reigned over the area between the 11th and 13th centuries CE. These temples are predominantly dedicated to Lord Shiva and represent the sophisticated Paramara style of architecture, particularly a regional blend of the *Bhumija* and *Maha-Maru* styles that flourished during that period. The complex, including the notable Mandaleshwar Temple and Jain temples, provides crucial archaeological evidence of the rich cultural and religious patronage the Paramara dynasty extended in the medieval era.

The incorrect option is 1:
Jodhpur district is historically the core of the Marwar region of Rajasthan, a major centre of the Rathore dynasty. The prominent architectural sites here, such as the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada, belong to the later Rajput and Marwari styles. These structures and the ruling clan are entirely distinct in form, style, and dynastic patronage from the ancient Paramara temples found in Arthuna. Furthermore, Jodhpur lies in the western Thar Desert region, making its geographical and historical context different from the southern Vagad area.

The incorrect option is 3:
Udaipur district is famously recognized as the heart of the Mewar Kingdom, ruled by the Sisodia branch of the Rajput clan. Although Udaipur is home to numerous majestic temples and palaces, its primary architectural and artistic traditions fall under the unique Mewar School of art. The development and key monuments of Mewar, such as the City Palace and the Jagdish Temple, were created under different historical circumstances and showcase an independent stylistic evolution compared to the Paramara-built temples of Arthuna.

The incorrect option is 4:
Kota district is located in the Hadoti region of southeastern Rajasthan and was primarily governed by the Hada Chauhan Rajputs. This area is historically celebrated for its distinctive Kota-Bundi school of miniature painting, which is renowned for its intense focus on dynamic hunting scenes and court life. While the region has significant historical structures, their architectural characteristics and the ruling patronage are entirely separate from the 11th-13th century temple building activity of the Paramaras in Arthuna.