Daily Current Affairs : 12-February-2024

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located in Maharashtra, India, are first-rate UNESCO World Heritage sites. Recently, the Ministry of Tourism included these caves in the Swadesh Darshan Scheme II. This initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism throughout India. Let’s explore the features and significance of these two remarkable sites.

Location

  • Ajanta Caves: Situated in the Sahyadri mountain ranges near the Waghora River, Ajanta is about 100 kilometers from Aurangabad.
  • Ellora Caves: Located around 100 kilometers away from Ajanta, Ellora is also in the Sahyadri range, making both sites easily accessible for travelers.

Number of Caves

  • Ajanta Caves: There are 29 caves, all of which are Buddhist. Out of these:
    • 25 served as Viharas (residential caves).
    • 4 functioned as Chaityas (prayer halls).
  • Ellora Caves: This complex has 34 caves, showcasing a mix of religions:
    • 17 Brahmanical (Hindu),
    • 12 Buddhist,
    • 5 Jain.

Historical Development

  • Ajanta Caves: Developed between 200 B.C. and 650 A.D., these caves were created by Buddhist monks under the Vakataka kings, notably Harishena. Famous Chinese travelers like Fa Hien and Hieun Tsang mentioned Ajanta in their writings.
  • Ellora Caves: These caves were built between the 5th and 11th centuries A.D. by various guilds from regions like Vidarbha, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

Prominent Features

  • Ajanta Caves:
    • Painting: Known for exquisite fresco paintings, the caves feature images primarily depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales. Interestingly, blue is absent in these artworks.
  • Ellora Caves:
    • Remarkable Cave Temple: The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a stunning example of rock-cut architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolizing the mythical Mount Kailash.

UNESCO Recognition

Both Ajanta and Ellora Caves were designated UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1983. This recognition highlights their cultural and historical importance, attracting tourists from around the globe.

Important Points:

Location:

  • Ajanta Caves: Near Waghora River, about 100 km from Aurangabad.
  • Ellora Caves: Approximately 100 km from Ajanta, also in the Sahyadri range.

Number of Caves:

  • Ajanta Caves: 29 Buddhist caves (25 Viharas, 4 Chaityas).
  • Ellora Caves: 34 caves (17 Brahmanical, 12 Buddhist, 5 Jain).

Historical Development:

  • Ajanta Caves: Developed between 200 B.C. and 650 A.D. by Buddhist monks under Vakataka kings, noted by Chinese travelers.
  • Ellora Caves: Constructed between the 5th and 11th centuries A.D. by various guilds from regions like Vidarbha, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

Prominent Features:

  • Ajanta Caves: Famous for fresco paintings depicting Buddha’s life and Jataka tales, notably lacking the color blue.
  • Ellora Caves: Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a significant rock-cut architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva.

UNESCO Recognition: Both sites were designated UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1983, emphasizing their cultural and historical significance.

Why In News

The Ministry of Tourism has included the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in its Swadesh Darshan Scheme II, aimed at developing sustainable tourism destinations in India. This initiative not only highlights the cultural significance of these sites but also promotes eco-friendly practices that benefit local communities and preserve heritage for future generations.

MCQs about Ajanta and Ellora Caves:UNESCO Heritage Sites

  1. What is the primary purpose of including Ajanta and Ellora Caves in the Swadesh Darshan Scheme II?
    A. To increase commercial tourism
    B. To develop sustainable tourism destinations
    C. To promote religious tourism
    D. To attract foreign investments
    Correct Answer: B. To develop sustainable tourism destinations
    Explanation: The Swadesh Darshan Scheme II aims to promote sustainable tourism, which includes preserving cultural heritage while benefiting local communities and emphasizing eco-friendly practices.
  2. How many caves are found in the Ajanta Caves complex?
    A. 34
    B. 29
    C. 25
    D. 12
    Correct Answer: B. 29
    Explanation: The Ajanta Caves consist of a total of 29 caves, all of which are Buddhist in origin, showcasing their extensive historical and cultural significance.
  3. Which notable feature distinguishes the Ellora Caves?
    A. The absence of paintings
    B. The Kailasa Temple
    C. The number of Buddhist caves
    D. Its location near a river
    Correct Answer: B. The Kailasa Temple
    Explanation: The Kailasa Temple, located within the Ellora Caves complex, is a remarkable example of rock-cut architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolizing the site’s architectural significance.
  4. In which year were the Ajanta and Ellora Caves designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites?
    A. 1980
    B. 1983
    C. 1990
    D. 2000
    Correct Answer: B. 1983
    Explanation: Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves were designated UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1983, highlighting their cultural and historical importance on a global scale.

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