Ghatotkacha Caves

The Ghatotkach Caves are located 18 km to the west of Ajantha, near Jinjala village, India.[1] The caves include three Buddhist caves, one is a chaitya and two are viharas. The caves were excavated in the 6th century AD, and were influenced by Mahayana Buddhism.[1]

Ghatotkacha Caves
Ghatotkacha Cave
Coordinates20.552620°N 75.584977°E / 20.552620; 75.584977
Governing bodyArcheological Survey of India
Location of Ghatotkacha Caves in India

The caves have an inscription by Varahadeva, a minister of the Vakataka dynasty under King Harishena (r. c. 475 – c. 500 CE).[2] Varahadeva is also known for a decatory inscription in Cave 16 at Ajanta caves in which he affirms his devotion to the Buddhist faith: "regarding the sacred law as his only companion, (he was) extremely devoted to the Buddha, the teacher of the world".[2]

The inscription at Ghatotkacha Cave is about the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha.[1] At the same time, Varahadeva proudly affirms his Hindu heritage.[2]

The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation advises that the caves are only for the adventurous traveller as access is difficult.[3]

The Ghatotkacha Caves and their environment.
Plan of the main Ghatotkacha cave
Ghatotkacha cave inscription
Ghatotkacha inscription (translation)

References

  1. Ahir, D. C. (2003). Buddhist sites and shrines in India : history, art, and architecture (1. ed.). Delhi: Sri Satguru Publ. pp. 191–192. ISBN 8170307740.
  2. Spink, Walter (2006). Ajanta: History and Development, Volume 5 Cave by Cave. BRILL. p. 180. ISBN 9789047411871.
  3. Vision Tourism 2020 - Aurangabad District Perspective Draft Plan (PDF). Aurangabad: Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. November 2010. Retrieved 28 June 2013.
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