Ajanta Caves are considered to be one of the greatest Buddhists rock-cut caves in the world. Recognized as UNESCO site, Ajanta is a great historical monument which captivates the visitors with its exceptional beauty & charm.
These magnificent caves of Ajanta are dated back from 200 BC to 250 AD. Set amidst an isolated glen at a distance of about 100 km from Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, these caves were discovered in 1819 AD from a horse shoe shaped rock facing the Waghmora River. These caves got the name from a nearby village named Ajanta which is at a distance of 12 km from the main site. The principle idea behind the incarnation of Ajanta Caves was to make a pious place for the Buddhist monks for praying and dwelling, so that they could spared the tenets of Buddhism to every corner of the world.
Ajanta caves are renowned for its beautiful carved sculptures and stunning paintings which are considered to be the masterpieces of Buddhist architecture and craftsmanship. There are about 30 caves in Ajanta embellished with several architectural masterpieces of Buddha period. They contain several fascinating statues, wonderful paintings and rock murals depicting the scenes from the life of Buddha and Jatakas.
The sculptures carved throughout the different caves are associated with three main religions of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. The Buddhist caves house the beautiful paintings and sculptures, conveying the nobility and serenity dominated in Buddha’s personality. Mainly two types of caves are found at Ajanta- one is the Chaitya Hall used for prayers or worship. The cave no. 8, 9, 10, 12&13 are Chaitya Halls. Second is the Vihara Cave or Monastery (remaining caves) which is comprised of different cells for monk’s dwelling.
Cave no. 1 is the foremost and most famous cave of the monastery. Every nook and corner of this cave is marvelously painted and decorated with murals of the Bodhisattavas. There is a sculpture of Vajrapani at the right and that of Padampani is at the left side. Cave no. 2 is a Mahayanamonastery which is well known for its paintings, made on the walls and ceilings of the entire cave. Cave 4 is the largest of all the monasteries but is still incomplete. Cave 9 & 10 are the Theravada prayer halls noted for magnificent stupas and arched windows. In cave no. 16, there is a beautiful painting of Princess Sundari depicting the scene after she got to know about her husband’s exile. Cave no. 17 is decorated with several exquisite wall paintings including maidens, musicians, goddesses and celestial creatures on the ceilings. Cave no. 26 is a must visit Chaitya cave which inherit a large statue of reclining Buddha, symbolizing his last moment and below are the images of his followers, mourning on his death.
Thus, Ajanta caves are counted as some of the best architectural masterpieces in the field of Buddhist art and recognized as an important historical landmark, to be visited and explored in India.
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