Ajanta & Ellora among the finest examples of some
of the earliest Buddhist architecture, caves-paintings and sculptures, these
caves comprise Chaitya Halls, or shrines, dedicated to Lord Buddha and Viharas,
or monasteries, used by Buddhist monks for meditation and the study of Buddhist
teachings. The paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings of the caves depict
incidents from the life of the Buddha and various Buddhist divinities. Among
the more interesting paintings are the Jataka tales, illustrating diverse stories
relating to the previous incarnations of the Buddha as Bodhisattva, a saintly
being who is destined to become the Buddha
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Places of Interest in Ajanta
& Ellora: This is one of the finest monasteries at Ajanta. Graciously
posed Bodhisattvas with elaborate headdresses flank the antechamber doorway.
On its either side are two of the best-known murals Bodhisattva Padmapani and
Bodhisattva Vajrapani holding a thunderbolt (right) accompanied by attendants,
divine musicians and flying figures.
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Excursions in Ajanta & Ellora:
Nothing quite prepare you for the experience that is Elephanta. Even getting
there is different from other trips. The motor launch from Bombay's Gateway
of India chugs out of the harbour, past fishing boats, large ships and little
islands, buoys bob up and down. The northern coastline of Bombay. reminds you
of the changing industrial and technological scene.
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Finished Caves: The left wall of the
antechamber depicts the assault and temptation by Mara, the god of passion,
and on the right wall is the dark princess being offered lotuses by a lady.
In the shrine, the Buddha is seen in the teaching position.
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Unfinished Caves: These are unfinished
monasteries of the second phase of excavation. Cave 5 is notable for its intricately
carved doorway with female figures standing on Makaras.
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