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Ajanta:
The Ajanta caves are dedicated solely to Buddhism. The caves including
unfinished are thirty in number of which five (9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) are
"Chaitya-Grihas" and the rest are "Sangharamas" or
Viharas (monasteries). Cave 26 by far is most magnificent and has some
ornate sculptures. The Ajanta Caves are well known for their fresco
paintings. The 30 Chaityas and Viharas have paintings, which illustrate
the life and incarnations of Buddha. The interiors are enhanced by a
variety of paintings on the ceiling that include geometric patterns,
floral and ornamental motifs, a variety of animals, birds and plants.
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Ellora:
Ellora has 34 caves with intricate interiors and ornamental facades.
The 12 Buddhist Caves depict Lord Buddha in various poses. The 17 Hindu
Caves embody carvings of the Hindu Gods- Siva, Vishnu, Durga, Parvati
and animals. The 5 Jain caves include figures of the Jain saints. The
most fascinating structure is the magnificient Kailash Temple hewn out
of a single rock and is three storeys high. The grand sculpture of
Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with
his full might is a landmark in Indian art.
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