What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram? 1. Both were built in the same period. 2. Both belong to the same religious denomination. 3. Both have rock-cut monuments. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Let's analyze the commonalities between Ajanta and Mahabalipuram:

1. Both were built in the same period. This statement is incorrect. The Ajanta Caves mainly span from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE (primarily during the Vakataka and Gupta periods). The monuments at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) were predominantly constructed during the Pallava dynasty, largely in the 7th and 8th centuries CE. Thus, they belong to different historical periods.

2. Both belong to the same religious denomination. This statement is incorrect. The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their Buddhist rock-cut caves, chaityas (prayer halls), and viharas (monasteries), adorned with Buddhist art. Mahabalipuram, on the other hand, consists mainly of Hindu monuments, including rock-cut temples, monolithic rathas, and structural temples dedicated primarily to Shiva and Vishnu.

3. Both have rock-cut monuments. This statement is correct. Ajanta is famous globally for its magnificent rock-cut Buddhist caves. Similarly, Mahabalipuram is well-known for its impressive rock-cut architecture, including the monolithic 'Rathas' (chariot-shaped temples carved from single rocks) and various cave temples.

Therefore, only statement 3 is correct.