Aerial view above Cave-1 at Elephanta Caves (2023) by CyArkCyArk
Where are the Elephanta Caves?
The Elephanta Caves are a collection of rock-cut caves located on the Elephanta Island, off the eastern seaboard of Mumbai in India. These 1500 year old caves have and continue to serve as sacred spaces dedicated to the worship of the Hindu God, Shiva.
Sancta Sanctorum at Elephanta Caves site (2023) by CyArkCyArk
The rock-cut cave temples of Elephanta hold deep significance for the local community living on the island.These temples, dating back to the 6th-7th century C.E., are more than just historical monuments to the locals.
Archeologist Andre Baptista Talks about Visiting the Elephanta Caves for the First TimeCyArk
Archeologist Andre Baptista
Main Trimurti panel at Elephanta Caves (2023) by CyArkCyArk
The community, numbering around 1200 people in three villages, has lived on the island for generations, growing up with stories about the cave temple and its deity. The site is like their home and a vital part of their cultural identity, with ongoing worship.
Kurush Dalal
Painted boat Mumbai Harbor (2023) by CyArkCyArk
While long-term climate change effects from development projects don't concern the locals as much, immediate issues like water sources drying up due to intensifying summers are alarming to them.
Professor Yogini Aatreya at Cave-1 at Elephanta Caves (2023) by CyArkCyArk
The locals consider themselves custodians of a long-standing tradition, protectors of a belief system, and interpreters of the sculptural panels within the caves.
Dr. Andre Baptista identifies portions of the Ravananugraha panel at Cave-1 (2023) by CyArkCyArk
On the occasion of Mahashivratri or ‘The Great Night of Shiva’ that’s celebrated in February or March of each year, the locals perform a great pooja/aarti (worship) to commemorate the sacred union of Shiva and his consort Parvati.
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