An Introduction to the Ajanta Caves: With Examples of Six Caves

You will find in this book the history of the caves as well as the Buddhist legends painted on the walls. The history section includes the chronological development of four Ajanta caves: Caves 1, 2, 16 and 17. This is a new account of the chronology of the Ajanta caves based on the latest research carried out by the author. 

The narrative sections include short summaries of 84 Buddhist legends that are painted on the walls of the Caves 1, 2, 9, and 17. This is for the first time that a small book like this includes 84 Buddhist legends. The short summaries are based on the pioneering research work carried out by D. Schlingloff and his predecessors. The descriptions follow the nearest known versions of the stories, many of them from still very obscure Buddhist scriptures. 

At least one photograph of each of the preserved painted legends has been reproduced. In total there are 284 colour photographs, which also include some examples from architectural details, sculptures, inscriptions, ground plans, and motifs. 

A short introduction of our current understanding about the prevailing political and cultural background is also given.

 

The book is intended for the advanced researchers, educators, students, and such general readers who seek an in-depth understanding of the history of the Ajanta caves and the paintings.

Dr R. K. Singh is a sort of parivrājaka (wanderer) academic, not affiliated, full time, with any institution since 2008. He has published 3 monographs, 16 research papers, 1 CD-Rom, and 5 video documentaries on the Ajanta caves. 

Having earlier served IDC, Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay, as adviser, 'Revisiting Ajanta' project led by Prof. Sumant Rao, he currently serves the 'Dharohar' foundation, Secure Meters Ltd., Udaipur, as Consulting Art Historian, Ajanta Caves Research programme. 

Singh is interested in basic as well as applied research in 'Ajantology.' He is pursuing a lifelong research project called 'Ajanta Śodha Piṭaka.' It comprises of many large and small sub-projects grouped under multiple divisions or series. Each series would culminate into two or more of the following items: monographs, essays, databases, archiving, and documentaries.