The famous sculpture 'Descent of Ganga' is found at :

Question

Accepted Answer

The famous sculpture 'Descent of Ganga,' also known as 'Arjuna's Penance' or 'The Descent of the Ganges,' is indeed found at Mahabalipuram, making Option 3 the correct answer. Here is a detailed explanation supporting this:

1. **Explanation for Option 3 (Mahabalipuram):**
   - Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town in Tamil Nadu, India, renowned for its group of monuments that are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among these monuments is the magnificent rock relief known as 'Descent of Ganga.'
   - This sculpture is a massive open-air bas-relief carved on two monolithic rock boulders. It depicts the story of the descent of the sacred river Ganga to Earth, which is a significant event in Hindu mythology. The relief is intricately carved with numerous figures, including gods, animals, and humans, showcasing the artistic excellence of the Pallava dynasty during the 7th century.
   - The sculpture is a testament to the skill and creativity of the artisans of that era and is a major attraction for visitors to Mahabalipuram.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Badami):**
     - Badami, located in Karnataka, is famous for its rock-cut cave temples and intricate carvings, primarily associated with the Chalukya dynasty. While it is an important historical site, it does not feature the 'Descent of Ganga' sculpture.

- **Option 2 (Amaravati):**
     - Amaravati, in Andhra Pradesh, is known for its ancient Buddhist stupa and related sculptures. The art and architecture of Amaravati are significant in the context of Buddhist history, but they do not include the 'Descent of Ganga' sculpture.

- **Option 4 (Kanchi):**
     - Kanchi, or Kanchipuram, is another historic city in Tamil Nadu, known for its temples and as a center of learning. While it has many significant sculptures and architectural marvels, the 'Descent of Ganga' is not among them.

In conclusion, the 'Descent of Ganga' sculpture is uniquely associated with Mahabalipuram, making Option 3 the correct choice. The other locations, while historically and culturally significant, do not feature this particular sculpture.