Ajanta is a series of 29 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state in India. These caves were excavated between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE.
The caves were built in two phases. The first phase of construction took place during the Satavahana dynasty in the 2nd century BCE, when the Hinayana sect of Buddhism was prevalent. These caves, numbered 9, 10, 12, 13 and 15A, were used for meditation and worship.
The second phase of construction began in the 5th century CE under the patronage of the Vakataka dynasty, when the Mahayana sect of Buddhism was popular. The remaining 24 caves were built during this phase. These caves were used as monasteries and educational centers for the Buddhist monks.
The caves were abandoned in the 7th century CE, possibly due to a decline in Buddhism in India and the emergence of Hinduism. The caves were rediscovered by a British officer named John Smith in 1819. Since then, they have been extensively studied and preserved.
The Ajanta caves are renowned for their rock-cut architecture, sculpture, and paintings, which are considered to be some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. The paintings, in particular, are famous for their vivid colors and detailed depictions of Buddhist stories and teachings. They provide an important insight into the life and beliefs of the people of ancient India.
In recognition of their cultural significance, the Ajanta caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
