voyage-vista.comAjanta Caves: The Enigmatic World of India’s Rock-Cut Wonders
In India, rock sculpture is said to have developed with the beginning of the Mauryan period around 300 BC. With the passage of time, that art became progressively richer, and we saw the construction of sculptures and architecture that left the beholder in awe. Carving a large stone to create an idol was the main type of rock art, while another type was carving a whole mountain or huge stone to create a temple, monastery, viharadham and sculptures. This second type was artistically complex and challenging for artisans. However, in that period of history, the sculptors of that time carved mountains and created magnificent structures.
Bihar’s barabar caves, Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra, Bhaje Caves near Lonavla, Kanhari Caves, and Ajanta-Ellora Caves are the major and oldest. Although the names of the Ajanta-Ellora caves are taken together and have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, there is actually a geographical distance of one hundred kilometers between them and a time gap of 500 to 600 years.
The Ajanta Caves, a marvel of ancient Indian architecture and artistry, stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. Nestled deep within the heart of Maharashtra, these rock-cut wonders have fascinated explorers, historians, and art enthusiasts for centuries. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the mystical world of the Ajanta Caves, uncovering their historical significance, architectural brilliance, and the awe-inspiring artwork they house.
A Glimpse into History of Ajanta Caves
The Origins of Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves date back to the 2nd century BCE, during the reign of the Satavahana dynasty. Carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff along the Waghora River, these caves served as monastic retreats for Buddhist monks. Over time, they evolved into a center for learning, meditation, and artistic expression.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In recognition of their historical and artistic importance, the Ajanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This prestigious recognition underscores their significance not only for India but for the world as a whole.
Architectural Marvels
Complex Layout of Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves comprise a total of 30 caves, each distinct in its layout and purpose. These caves are categorized into two phases: the Hinayana phase (circa 2nd century BC to 1st century CE) and the Mahayana phase (circa 5th century CE).
Monastic Cells
The caves of the Hinayana phase primarily served as monastic cells for meditation and communal living. They are characterized by simple, unadorned interiors, reflecting the ascetic lifestyle of the monks who resided there.
Exquisite Chaityas and Viharas
The Mahayana phase, on the other hand, witnessed the creation of more elaborate caves. Among these are the impressive Chaitya Halls, resembling ancient Indian temples, and Viharas, which are monastery chambers adorned with exquisite sculptures and frescoes.
Ancient Origins: Ajanta and Ellora Caves: A Journey Through Time
caves of Ellora were carved from 400 AD to 1200 AD, while Historians believe that Ajanta caves were built during the extended period from 200 BC to 700 AD. These caves are among the oldest caves in India. Carved out of one side of a large mountain, these caves were used by Buddhists as monasteries. Further Ajanta Cave remained undiscovered or unknown for years. In 1819, English Captain John Smith discovered Ajanta by accident while hunting tigers. Famous for its beautiful murals, Ajanta is a noble and vibrant example of Indian art. The caves here (out of a total of 29 caves containing 5 prayer rooms and the remaining 25 vihara rooms) can be mainly divided into two periods.
(1) 6 caves dating back to the Hinayana period of 300 BC to 100 BC, which according to many historians are said to have been built during the reign of the Satvahana dynasty. Some historians consider it to be during the Mauryan dynasty. In these 6 caves, caves 9 and 10 are huge Chaityakhand (prayer halls), and caves 12, 13, 15, and 15A are Viharkhand (residential).
(2) The 24 Mahayana Caves, dating back to 500 BC to 700 AD, were built during the reign of Vakataka, a contemporary of the Gupta Empire.
The Ancient Artistry: Frescoes of Ajanta and Ellora Caves
The technique adopted for the murals in all these caves is remarkable; the frescoes made with the tempera technique dating back 2 millennia are truly fascinating, and the fact that they are still well preserved today is awe-inspiring. In the tempera method, artists have to precisely cut the mountain symmetrically to form a flat wall. After that, several layers of wet clay are placed on the wall. Plant fibers are also used in soil for strength. Finally, it was plastered with a thin layer of lime to make it smooth and printable.
The Artistic Splendor
Masterful Frescoes
The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their frescoes, which are some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art. These paintings depict scenes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales, and various other narratives. The colors used, even after centuries, remain vibrant and captivating.
Sculptural Beauty
The caves also house remarkable sculptures that reflect the artistic finesse of their creators. These sculptures, carved with precision and skill, bring to life various deities, Bodhisattvas, and celestial beings.
Vivid Visions: The Artistry and Stories Behind Ajanta Cave Paintings
After preparing the inner walls of the Ajanta caves in this way, the artists of the time gave the expected opus to the ulline outer line of the paintings and the central part of the paintings mainly red, yellow, green, ochre, Ash black and blue. Special natural glue was used for holding the colors. These paintings represent the reincarnations of Lord Buddha, Jataka stories, as well as important events related to the life of Buddha. A knowledgeable guide should be taken along to understand all this, as their greatness cannot be understood without knowing the story behind the paintings and sculptures. Some of the important caves of Ajanta Caves are briefly introduced here with pictures.
Cave no. 1:
This cave, the easternmost of the Ajanta group of caves, is believed to have been built during the fifth century. Ajanta’s iconic Bodhisattva Padmapani with a lotus in her hand can be seen. Padmapani is the compassion form of Buddha. To attain salvation for oneself is called Arihant in Pali, and to attain salvation for others is called Bodhisattva. Another form of Bodhisattva, Avalokitesvara, is found in the same cave.
According to Buddhism, the sun and moon originated from the eyes of Avalokiteshvara. From the brow arose Maheshwar, from the shoulder appeared Devgan, and from the heart appeared Narayana. Then, Saraswati Devi, Vayudev, Varundev, and Prithvi came into existence from the parts like teeth, mouth, abdomen, and feet. Apart from the murals, the pillars here are exquisitely carved with carvings of elephants, horses, lions, nymphs, meditating Buddhists, etc.
Cave no. 2:
This cave was probably built in the 6th or 7th centuries. Apart from the entrance, beautifully carved pillared mandapa, and sculptures, the most eye-catching aspect is the ceiling paintings. The paintings are around 1,500 years old and yet the vibrancy and luster of their colors are striking.
In the sanctum of the cave is a statue of the enthroned Lord Buddha in a lecture posture. Sculptures of Shankhanidhi-Padmanidhi, symbols of prosperity in the left wing; Hariti, a symbol of motherhood; and Panchika, a symbol of wealth, in the right wing, add to the beauty of this vihara. The exquisite depiction of Buddha’s life cycle and Jataka stories on the wall of the mandapa evokes disdain for the painters of the time.
Cave No. 9, no. 10 and no. 11
Caves No. 9 and No. 10, once used as large Chaitya prayer halls, are particularly noteworthy for their architecture. It is believed to have been built from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century BC. Both caves have arched roof structure. It can be speculated that the medieval European churches built centuries later may have been inspired by such constructions.
In the center of the Chaitya Khand there is a stupa, around which there are paintings on 23 pillars. Even today, the images of Lord Buddha seen in a fragmented state on each pillar look so attractive that while looking at them, one wonders when the pictures were painted, and how magnificent it must have seemed at that time.
Cave no. 10 of Ajanta appears to be the oldest cave in the group of caves. Here too, a stupa has been constructed in the prayer hall and there are 39 pillars in all. The paintings on each pillar and on the side arches are in dilapidated condition today. In 1819, while hunting a tiger, English Captain John Smith came across the cave of Ajanta, was cave no. 10! Adjacent 20 m × 18 m cave no. 11 is a Buddhist monastery built in the fifth century. There is a huge statue of Lord Buddha here, one of whose feet a follower is seen kneeling and praying. Along with the human figure, there are also sculptures of some animals.
Cave No. 16
The cave is famous for its paintings, which depict episodes from the life of Lord Buddha. The stuccoed elephant sculptures near the entrance—pillars, mandapa, sanctum and kothi—were built in the 5th century. The sanctum features a statue of Buddha, murals depicting the life and rebirth of Buddha on the walls, and an assortment of flowers, leaves and animals on the ceiling. In the cave, one can see pictures of dying princess, Maya’s dream, Sujata giving Kheer, Sravasti’s miracle, etc., which require the help of a guide or guidebook to be understood in depth.
Cave No. 17
Among the best caves of the Ajanta Caves are the massive 34.5 m × 25.6 m cave No. 17. Except for the pavement, the corners here are decorated with sculptured paintings. Among all the Ajanta caves, the walls and pillars here have the largest number of paintings.
The cave is also known as Rashimandal Cave because of the giant Buddha’s life cycle at entrance. The same statue of Buddha is seen here as in cave number 16, After seeing it, it is a surprise that despite of being built in completely different time periods, both the statues are identical. On the walls of cave no. 17, one of the Jatak Tales of Buddhism is depicted in colorful pictures.
Cave No. 19
This cave was built in around 500 AD and is the Chaityakhand, decorated with 15 pillars containing relief-type statues of Lord Buddha, The inspiration for the construction of this Chaityakhand is to have been taken from 9, as there is a lot of similarity in the construction of both. Built by King Upendragupta in the center of the cave, a statue of Lord Buddha in a standing pose and a sculpture of Nagamanushya (Human snake) guarding him with fangs show the influence of Hinduism and Jainism. Sculptures of Yaksha Dwarpal, Lord Buddha, Apsaras etc. are exquisitely carved on the wall outside the cave at the entrance as well as on the left and right sides upwards.
Among the later caves here, cave no. 24 is an incomplete cave. If you are curious to know how the entire cave was carved out of the mountain, you should visit this cave.
Cave No. 36
The beautifully carved cave features a 20 feet long reclining Buddha statue. Many of the caves at Ajanta are decorated with frescoes, while cave no. 26, special attention is given to sculpture instead of painting. The sculptures here are very finely decorated. In the navel. In the center of the stupa is the main statue of Lord Buddha and on the Pithika-shaped wall of the stupa there are 18 Gokhlas (small cavities) each with statues of Apsaras or Gandharvas.
The Conservation Efforts
Preserving the Ajanta Caves has been a priority for the Indian government and conservationists. Over the years, steps have been taken to protect these ancient treasures from natural elements and wear and tear caused by tourism. Visitors are now required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the longevity of the caves and their artwork.
Unlocking the Treasures of Ajanta: A Guide to an Enriching Visit
Many tourists who come to Ajanta go back with the satisfaction of visiting the caves one after another. The right way to see this art gallery, which has a history of two thousand years, is to plan a visit after studying it in depth. It is better to take a guide with knowledge about the sculptures and paintings here. Even so, traveling to any place with enough information and enough time is worthwhile. There is a lot to know, recognize, and understand. In this regard, we should take the inspiration of a study tour from the foreign tourists who observe our sculptures and architecture very closely.
Conclusion
To truly appreciate the splendor of the Ajanta Caves, one must visit them in person, stand in awe of the ancient rock-cut wonders, and witness the artistic brilliance that has defied the test of time. As you plan your journey to this incredible site, remember that it is not merely a visit to the past; it is a journey into the heart of India’s cultural heritage.
In concluding our journey through the Ajanta Caves, we have barely scratched the surface of the enigmatic world that awaits those who explore this architectural and artistic marvel. The caves are not just a window to India’s past; they are a testament to the enduring power of human creativity and devotion.
Good to know Before you plan your Trip:
When traveling to the Ajanta Caves in India, there are several important points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Ideal Time in a year to visit: October to end of March is ideal. It gets very hot here in summer. Visits can also be arranged in the monsoons when the forests are in full bloom on the mountains.
Nearest Railway stations: Jalgaon is 50 km far, and Aurangabad is 100 kilometers. Bus taxi to Ajanta from both places are easily available. One has to take a bus from the parking lot to the cave. As per existing rates. The caves are accessible on foot and have separate entry and exit points. Wheelchair and dolly (palanquin) facilities are available for adults at the entrance of the cave.
Entry Tickets: Purchase entry tickets in advance, if possible, to avoid long queues at the ticket counters. Tickets to visit all archaeological sites in India can now be booked online. Here is the website for it: www.asi.payumoney.com. Ajanta Caves are closed every Monday.
Opening Hours: Be aware of the opening and closing hours of the Ajanta Caves, as they may vary depending on the season. Plan your visit accordingly.
Accomodation: Excellent accommodation and food facilities are available from the Maharashtra Tourism Department. Ajanta T-Junction is the nearest accommodation facility, which is adjacent to the parking lot. Visit www.maharashtratourism.gov.in
Footwear: You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering the caves, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable and easy-to-remove footwear like sandals or slip-on shoes.
Clothing: Dress modestly and respectfully, as the caves are a religious and cultural site. Avoid revealing clothing.
Photography: Check the rules regarding photography and videography inside the caves. In some areas, photography may be restricted or prohibited.
Guides: Consider hiring a local guide who can provide you with historical and cultural insights about the caves. They can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site.
Conservation: Respect the ancient artwork and sculptures. Do not touch or deface any of the carvings, as they are delicate and have cultural significance.
Safety: Be cautious while exploring the caves, as some areas can be slippery or uneven. Watch your step, especially if you’re visiting with children or elderly individuals.
Lighting: The caves can be dimly lit, so bring a flashlight or use the flashlight function on your smartphone to better see the intricate details of the carvings.
Water and Snacks: Carry a water bottle and some snacks, as there may not be many food vendors inside or near the caves. Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your visit and prepare accordingly. Ajanta can get quite hot during the summer, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Travel Documentation: Ensure you have your identification and travel documents handy, as they may be required for entry.
Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions, and be respectful of them during your visit.
Language: English and Hindi are commonly spoken in the region, so having some basic phrases in Hindi can be helpful, but many locals in the tourist areas may also understand English.
Transport: Plan your transportation to and from the caves in advance. Consider hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour if you’re not familiar with the local transportation options.
Nearby Attractions: Explore other nearby attractions like Ellora Caves and Aurangabad if you have the time. These sites are also of historical and cultural significance.
Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance to cover unexpected events during your trip.
# The cave is kept dark to preserve the frescoes of Ajanta Cave. Certain types of lights are arranged in a certain way for the pictures to be seen. Keep the camera flash off while photographing in the cave.
# Note that mobile network is not available further after car parking. The view of the caves, located 10 km from Ajanta, is amazing. From the view point
# A nearby day trip from here is to visit the famous meteorite Lonar Lake, which is 150 km away.
By keeping these points in mind, you can have a more enjoyable and culturally enriching experience when visiting the Ajanta Caves.
Click Here for:
Bhangarh Fort : Exploring the Eerie Legends and Supernatural Stor
