by PROF. DULARI QURESHI
If you are fascinated by the ancient history and culture of India, you will love this book: ‘The Cave Temples of India’. This book takes you on a journey through the amazing world of rock-cut caves that were built by different religious communities over centuries. You will learn about the origins, architecture, art, and symbolism of these caves that reflect the diversity and richness of Indian civilization.
The book covers more than 2000 cave temples that are spread across the country, from Bihar in the east to Maharashtra in the west. Some of these caves are hidden in remote locations and have been discovered only recently. The book provides detailed descriptions and illustrations of the most famous and significant cave temples, such as Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta, Karla, and Udayagiri.
The book also explores the religious and philosophical aspects of these cave temples. You will discover how these caves were used as places of worship, meditation, education, and social interaction by Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains. You will see how these caves depict the stories and teachings of various deities and sages, such as Buddha, Shiva, Vishnu, Mahavira, and Bahubali. You will also admire the artistic excellence and creativity of the sculptors and painters who carved and decorated these caves with exquisite images of gods, goddesses, animals, plants, and humans.
‘The Cave Temples of India’ is a must-read for anyone who is interested in Indian history, culture, art, and spirituality. It will inspire you to visit these caves and experience their beauty and mystery for yourself. This book is a treasure trove of information and insights that will enrich your knowledge and appreciation of India’s ancient heritage.
The Cave Temples of India is a comprehensive and captivating guide to the magnificent rock-cut temples that dot the Indian landscape. You will learn about the history, culture, and religion behind these amazing structures, as well as the artistic and technical skills that went into creating them.
The book covers all the major cave temples of India, from the oldest ones in Ajanta and Ellora to the later ones in Elephanta and Ellora. You will discover the rich variety of styles and themes that these caves display, reflecting the diversity of Indian civilization. You will also marvel at the exquisite sculptures that adorn these caves, depicting gods, goddesses, saints, and scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
The book also explains in minute detail the structural decorations of pillars, pillars that are intricately ornamented as well as the large spacious halls that have so perfectly and mathematically spaced pillars. The pillars are ornamented with birds, animals, creepers, and floral and geometrical designs.
The book, ‘The Cave Temples of India’ also digs into the architectural details, the gradual evolution of the façade, entrance from plain and simple to highly ostentation and decorative spaces. The later halls have become more complicated and added ante-chamber, sub-shrines, porticoes, and porches.
Cave Temples of India are the greatest contribution of our forefathers to this country and are unique and exclusive. The grandeur of these caves must be witnessed to be believed. This book is a must-read for scholars, historians, and serious students of art.