-| Aurangabad | -
Location: Dist - Aurangabad (Maharashtra) - Lat19º 52'N, Long 75º
17 E
The
Aurangabad caves can be divided in three group. These caves are located in a
range of hills, 3 kms. north of the town of Aurangabad. In the first group of
caves, there are fine excavations (1-5). The second group comprises of four
caves ( 6-9 ) few meters east of the first. A third group is located further
1.5 kms. east with few plain unfinished cells without religious affiliation.
The architectural and iconographical features of the first and second group
of caves can be dated between 6th and 7th century A.D. These caves are particularly
interesting for the inspired orgy of the sculptural magnificence and match in
grace and plastic treatment with even the best of the Ajanta caves of the same
time bracket. The soft and sensuous modelling and the dignified bearing of the
large sized female figures and Boddhisattvas along with the quality of workmanship
is seldom found in the reliefs of the contemporary Buddhist caves. The caves
were originally painted as can be established due to the patches of painting
still lingering at places. The majority of the paintings were destroyed due
to ravage of time. The grandest of the first group is cave 3. This monastic
complex with set-plan and splendid embellishments compares well with the best
productions of Ajanta Caves. It consists of a pillared Veranda with a chamber
at each end, a pillared hall with a central pillared portico and two cells at
either side. A pillared porch is leading to a shrine at the back.
The cave 7 has no porch attached to the main sanctum which has a passage or
a processional path on all sides. The sculptural embellishment of the walls
of the sanctum with large figure of considerable beauty is extraordinary of
its kind. This cave has three sanctuary complexes opening from the back of a
long verandah.
The caves 1,2,5,3,4,7 and 9 are remarkable for their architectural, sculptural
and decorative beauty and are worth a visit after the visit of Ajanta caves.
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