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Elephanta Caves
Category: - All India Travel Tourism > Culture > Maharashtra
> Elephanta
The island of Elephanta is famous for its cave shrine dedicated
to Lord Shiva. It dates back to the 6th century when it was known as Gharapuri,
the Fortress City. The Portuguese on landing they saw the huge sculpture
of an elephant.They renamed it as Elephanta
The cave temple, which is the pride of Elephanta, sprawles over an area
of approximately 5000 square metres, and is reached by climbing a flight
of more than 100 steps.It is on the top of a hill.
The panels here show all forms of Shiva. As 'Linga' he is worshipped as
God of fertility, as 'Natraj' Shiva is depicted as the cosmic dancer,
the embodiment of cosmic energy, as 'Andhakasuravadha' he is the destroyer
of Andhaka ,the impaling demon of darkness. As 'Kalyanasundara' he is
the gentle, loving God with his consort Parvati by his side. Yet at another
place he is shown as 'Gangadharan', receiving river Ganga in his matted
locks and as 'Ardhanarishwara', Shiva and Shakti, male and female he represents
" the simultaneous experience of longing and union", desire
and satisfaction.
Despite much destruction by the Portuguese the panels have
mesmerizing effect.
Every year in the month of February Elephanta Festival is organized.
Eminent Indian Classical artists perform under the sky.
Location & Access -
Regular launch services from the Gateway of India, Bombay, take tourists
to the Caves throughout the year, except during the monsoon season.
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