Ellora Caves
- Scottish historian William Dalrymple has urged the Maharashtra government to bring greater visibility to the lesser-known heritage sites around the Ellora Caves.
About Ellora Caves
- Located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, the Ellora Caves are among India’s first UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- The cave complex was carved between 600 CE and 1000 CE, spanning the rule of the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Yadavas.
- Religious Pluralism: The complex comprises 34 major caves, 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain, demonstrating a unique period of interreligious harmony and artistic exchange.
Key Architectural Features
- Kailasa Temple (Cave 16): It is carved from a single monolithic basalt rock, dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva.
- Its design replicates Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, and integrates complex Dravida-style architecture, multi-level mandapas, sculptural panels, and detailed narrative friezes.
- Multi-Religious Harmony: Rare archaeological site exhibiting Hindu–Buddhist–Jain coexistence across centuries.
Population in A&N and Lakshadweep
- The populations of both island territories are projected to increase by 2051, according to the report ‘Unravelling India’s demographic future: population projections for States and Union Territories 2021-2051.’
- Title: “Unravelling India’s demographic future: population projections for States and Union Territories 2021-2051.”
- Lakshadweep Islands population expected to rise by 9.68%, from 67,642 (2016) to 74,194 (2051).
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands population projected to grow by 5.73%, from 3,98,310 (2016) to 4,21,135 (2051).
