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).
