LORD KAILASANATH OF ELAPURA

THE BRAHMINICAL CAVES

The Brahminical caves begin where the Buddhist caves end. They are located centrally and in point of construction, they belong to a later period. So far the architectural design is concerned they are superior to the other groups. Richness of decoration in both architecture and sculpture strikes the eye from the first to last. From No.13, the Brahminical group begins, and the first one is called Dharmasala. It is a plain hall, so hastens the visitors to the next No.14 which is called Ravanka - Khai. It has an open hall and pradakshana marga. The south wall is adorned with many carvings, like Mahisharura Mardini, Siva and Parvathi. The sculptural art reached such high water mark of excellence that even the layman glues his eyes to every frame and enjoys for long. The scenes depicting Ravana's attempt to carry off Kailas mount on his shoulders, while Siva was dancing in ecstasy atop; next Mother Bhavani seated on a tiger with weapons in her hands; then Mother Lakshmi among lotuses together with Varaha, Chaturbhuja Mahavishnu sitting with Lakshmi, are so absorbing and highly spiritualizing in effect. Cave No.15 is called the Dasavatara cave. It furnishes the names of builders like Kara, Indra, Danti Durga etc. It has a sacrificial hall in the middle. It is two-storeyed and the pillars and columns of both the storeyed are sculptured in a masterly way. 

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