Ajanta Cave 1

Ajanta Cave 1, which is at the far end of the horseshoe-shaped scarp at the Ajanta site, is an integral part of how the architecture at the site changed over time. This spot shows how the bedrock has grown from the middle to the edges of the scarp.

The cave signifies the dexterity and creativity of the builders during a most important phase in the history of art and architecture. One needs to see and feel this in one of the best places to visit in Ajanta Caves. It is a place where one can view manipulation and design in ancient times.

Ajanta Cave 1 Period

Based on the timeline provided by Walter M. Spink, work on Cave 1 began around 466 CE. Several things got in the way of the building process. A drop in the economy between 469 and 471 CE and a break in 472 CE stopped the work. The work resumed around 473 CE but abruptly stopped at the end of 477 CE. The quick stop left the cave temple a little unfinished, which gives us a unique look into the history of that time.

Stunning Murals: Depictions of Buddha's Life

The porch is still primarily whole, with many friezes showing scenes from Buddha's life. There are paintings in the main hall that show stories from Buddha's past life and events from his life as Siddhartha Gautama. 

The two well-known Bodhisattvas of Ajanta are on the walls in front of the entrance hall. Visitors can explore these artistic wonders as part of Ajanta Caves tour packages, which offer a deeper insight into the site's rich history and culture.

The Iconic Bodhisattva Paintings

This might be the most well-known picture in the Ajanta Caves. The word Padmapani in Sanskrit means "one who holds the lotus." Someone who wants to be a Buddha is called a bodhisattva. He has a blue flower in his right hand in this picture. He has a beautiful crown on.

The eyes remain half-closed, and the face tilts downward. You can see a sharp nose, a big chest, and a tiny waist. The neck is decorated with an Ekavali or a single pearl string. There is a blue gem in the middle of the pearl string. As they go around, the gems get smaller. The style you see is still used today.

There is a story in which the artist would put a bucket of water with a mirror at the cave's entry. The light from the mirror would shine into the dark cave and light it up. After that, the painter could start working on the pictures.

Architectural Brilliance of Ajanta Cave 1

Cave 1 is famous for its external and interior sculptures. These artists crafted the narrative and ornamental sculptures with great skill and detail.

Friezes depict Siddhartha's encounter with four omens and his decision about his royal status, while the sanctuary features a three-dimensional sculpture of Shakyamuni’s first speech.