These are beautiful monolithic caves located about 10 km from Vijaywada city in Andhra Pradesh. These were carved out of solid sand stone in the 4th to 5th century AD. It is an impressive four storey structure. Changes seem to have been made in the original structure over the centuries. Originally it appears to have been a Jain temple. Then it was used by Buddhist monks as a rest house. Later on when Buddhism disappeared from these parts it was converted to a Hindu temple. It houses a huge five metre reclining statue of lord Vishnu made of solid granite. The shrine is surrounded by greenery on all sides and numerous specimens of rock cut architecture can be found all around.
It was a sunday well spent for me. Could not complete the painting at the location and had to finish it from pictures clicked there. Hope you all like it.
This is lovely, AK!!! They certainly don't have too many buildings like this anymore. Beautifully painted as always!!
ReplyDeleteHi, AK, a beautiful work and an interesting post. One day, I hope we can sketch together. Best wishes, Sadami
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful place to be and then be able to paint as part of the experience.
ReplyDeleteAlways a pleasure to see where your travels have taken you - and such interesting sights. It looks like a respite from heat and weather to go inside and see what wonders are there - glad it has been added to and not torn down.
ReplyDeleteVery wonderful painting and so interesting place. Thank you for the informations !!!
ReplyDeleteBeautifully done, great work.
ReplyDeleteLove the painting - love the story!
ReplyDeleteI visited The great Relief at Mamallapuram - hope I spelled it correctly.
It blew me away.
You are absolutely right. That is another classic.
DeleteLove.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful painting and such interesting place /history! I love the colors you have chosen and how you painted the light . Thank you for sharing - hope to visit it sometime too :)
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot everyone for your kind comments.
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