2022 · GS Paper 1 · Q13 · 15 marks
Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.
In short
The lion stands for protecting power (Narasimha, Durga's mount, the Buddha as Shakyasimha) and the bull for dharma and fertility (Nandi, the Indus zebu), from Mauryan capitals to Dravida temples. Ashoka's Sarnath capital, with lions above a bull, became India's National Emblem in 1950.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 318 words
Lion as righteous power
Narasimha destroys Hiranyakashipu and Durga rides a lion as Simhavahini, while the Buddha is Shakyasimha and the lion is Mahavira's emblem.
Bull as dharma
Nandi is Shiva's mount and ideal devotee, and the Bhagavata Purana shows Dharma as a bull losing a leg in each age.
Bull as plenty
The Indus zebu seals and Rishabhanatha's bull emblem tie it to strength, fertility and agrarian wealth.
Imperial sculpture
The Sarnath lions and the Rampurva bull capital, now at Rashtrapati Bhavan, mark the peak of Mauryan stone art.
Coins and icons
Wima Kadphises' gold coins show Shiva with his bull, and Mathura's Buddha sits on a lion throne.
Temple architecture
Pallava pillars at Mamallapuram rise from seated lions, Thanjavur's Brihadeeswara aligns a Nandi mandapa with the shrine, and Konark's gaja-simha guards the Sun temple.
Conserve and explain
Weathered Nandis and lion pillars need ASI conservation and on-site interpretation of their meaning.
Protect the animals
Project Lion (2020) and the Rashtriya Gokul Mission keep the symbols tied to living creatures.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2022 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.