With reference to the art and archeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

Ans (c) Rock-cult Elephant at Dhauli

Rock-cult Elephant at Dhauli was built during the reign of Ashoka in 250 BC. Rock-cut Elephant above the Edicts is the earliest Buddhist sculpture of Odisha. The stone elephant shows the animals foreparts only, though it has a fine sense of form and movement. It is considered as one of the few remains of Mauryan art.

Varaha Image at Udayagiri was built by Chandragupta II of the Gupta Empire. The iconic Varaha sculpture represents the story of the rescue of Bhudevi (Earth). In Udayagiri, in the early 5th century, artisans began work under the patronage of the mighty Gupta ruler Chandragupta II Vikramaditya (375-414 AD), creating a cave temple complex.

Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram were built during the 7th-8th century AD during the reign of Pallavas. The Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram were made by the Pallava king Narsimha. The beauty of the rock-cut sculpture of the temple is reflective of the artistic tastes of the erstwhile Pallava rulers.

Lingaraja Temple at Bhubneshwar was built by Yayati (1025-1040) in the 11th century AD. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered the largest temple in Bhubaneswar city. It is believed to have been built by the Somvanshi King Yayati I. It is a classic example of the Kalinga style of architecture.