Front View of the West Wing
The image shows the front view of the West Wing of Elephanta Main Cave (Cave 1), displaying the rock-cut pillars, interior hall, and the shrine’s elevated platform. Carved directly into the basalt rock of the hillside and situated opposite the western entrance of the Main Hall, the West Wing is a small shrine dedicated to Shiva that reflects the sophisticated rock-cut architecture of the 6th century CE.
The façade of the West Wing measures approximately 27 feet wide and 8 feet 11 inches high, while the interior extends about 13 feet 7 inches deep. As seen in the image, the façade is supported by two stone pillars with cushion-shaped capitals, characteristic of the architectural style of the Elephanta Caves. A short flight of steps leads to the elevated platform of the shrine. At the rear end is the garbhagriha (inner sanctum), housing a Shiva Linga, whose doorway is flanked by large dvarapalas (door keepers) on either side.
Between the inner sanctum and the entrance is a small hall (mukhamantapa or vestibule) where devotees would gather for worship.
The wooden protective barrier visible on the left side of the vestibule is intended to protect fragile sections of the monument. A cistern, which once provided drinking water for the priests of this temple complex, is also located on this side, and the protective barrier extends around it as well.
Carved on the right side of the vestibule (northern wall) is a sculptural panel depicting Shiva seated on a lotus pedestal.
Explore More About Elephanta Caves
– Cave Temples of Elephanta
– Elephanta Main Cave (Cave 1), Elephanta Main Cave Ground Plan
– The Mystery of Elephanta Cave 2
– The Smaller Caves of Elephanta: Caves 2, 3, 4, and 5
– How to Reach Elephanta Caves
Explore Badami Caves
– Badami
– Cave Temples of Badami
– Badami Cave 1, Badami Cave 2, Badami Cave 3, Badami Cave 4
– Durga Temple at Aihole
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