In Ellora the cave numbered as 21 is a Shiva Temple and in front of it in the open court yard on a lofty pedestal with carvings on all the the sides is a Nandi. This cave dates back to 8th century A.D and locally known as "Ramesvara".
The shrine has an oblong hall of 16 feet in height and with two side shrines on either side. This magnificent cave has a beautiful facade, supported by beautifully crafted pillars. At the top portion of the front pillars are brackets carved with female figures standing under foliage, with their attendant dwarfs.
There are several sculptures in this cave of gigantic proportions. One among them on the right sidewall depicts the Mahisasuramardhini episode where Goddess Mahishasuri is slaying the buffalo demon.
On the left end, is a tall four armed figure standing with on its both sides are attendants with animal heads.
On the back wall of the hall is a beautiful sculpture portraying the scene of Ravana with five heads shaking the Kailasa on his head upon which are Siva and Parvati with their attendants.
The shrine has an oblong hall of 16 feet in height and with two side shrines on either side. This magnificent cave has a beautiful facade, supported by beautifully crafted pillars. At the top portion of the front pillars are brackets carved with female figures standing under foliage, with their attendant dwarfs.
There are several sculptures in this cave of gigantic proportions. One among them on the right sidewall depicts the Mahisasuramardhini episode where Goddess Mahishasuri is slaying the buffalo demon.
On the left end, is a tall four armed figure standing with on its both sides are attendants with animal heads.
On the back wall of the hall is a beautiful sculpture portraying the scene of Ravana with five heads shaking the Kailasa on his head upon which are Siva and Parvati with their attendants.
Great shots Rajesh. Your posts are always so interesting and exotic.
ReplyDeleteLovely sculptures!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great place, interesting sculptures and designs. Greetings!
ReplyDeleteWonderful photos
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and interesting.
ReplyDeleteSo interesting to see :)
ReplyDeleteOh my, I love those close up shots that show the action . . .too often we glance at lovely sculptures and don't pay attention to the detail!
ReplyDeleteThis is such a magnificent spot...caves so intricately carved is something I have never seen!
ReplyDeletePart of the history of India in every photo you take Rajesh and I find your storytelling fascinating too.
ReplyDeleteShane
It is amazing to think these beautiful sculpture carvings were made in the 8th century! Their beauty has endured the test of time.
ReplyDeleteJust something to think about how old the caves are and the stories the carvings represent! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeletewonderful sculptures with interesting stories behind them.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fascinating place, Rajesh!! So much history and some lovely skies as well!! Thank you for sharing as always! Hope your week is going well!!
ReplyDeleteNice post. Lovely photos
ReplyDeleteWhat lovely sculptures.
ReplyDeleteAmazing work!
ReplyDeleteexcellent :)
ReplyDeleteThat's an amazing place - I'm always impressed by these ancient temples and their workmanship.
ReplyDeleteNice entry with much information and beautiful photographs!
ReplyDeleteExtravagant carvings - lovely.
ReplyDeleteLeslie
abcw team
the vastness of your country allows many treasurers to be shared.
ReplyDeleteROG, ABCW
A wonderful architecture.
ReplyDeleteI remember visiting the caves with some friends from work and it was a lot of fun. They are truly beautiful.
ReplyDeleteBeatAboutThe Book
Fascinating.
ReplyDeleteJust dropping by.
ReplyDeleteMy ABC WEDNESDAY
Interesting post..!
ReplyDeleteWow! The little information accompanying the post makes it a thorough read.
ReplyDeleteMarvelous! Great depict thought sculptures
ReplyDeleteThe richness of Indian history and culture is mind blowing.
ReplyDeleteFascinating place, I like how you show the sculptures leading into the interior.
ReplyDeleteAmazing what human beings can do!
ReplyDeleteWow Wow.. Wanna see this in real :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for Sharing
IID Outfit Ideas
nice cave carvings
ReplyDelete