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The multireligious caves at Ellora
The multireligious caves at Ellora

The caves at Ellora are affiliated with three of India’s religious traditions: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Ellora caves
Ellora caves

These 34 monasteries and temples, extending over more than 2 km, were dug side by side in the wall of a high basalt cliff

Rajarajesvara temple, Tanjavur
Rajarajesvara temple, Tanjavur

At 216 feet high, the Rajarajesvara temple is a sight to behold.

Queen or goddess?
Queen or goddess?

Was the 10th century Chola queen, Sembiyan Mahadevi, so beloved, she was depicted as a goddess?

Durga Slays the Buffalo Demon at Mamallapuram
Durga Slays the Buffalo Demon at Mamallapuram

The great goddess Durga slays the buffalo demon Mahishasura in a 7th century rock-cut temple in Mamallapuram, India.

Shore Temple, Mamallapuram
Shore Temple, Mamallapuram

A temple with three shrines, this majestic complex faces the sea and features a rich sculptural program.

The Great Relief at Mamallapuram
The Great Relief at Mamallapuram

This extraordinary carving is one of the largest relief sculptures in the world. Scholars still debate its meaning.

Sacred space and symbolic form at Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho (India)
Sacred space and symbolic form at Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho (India)

Beautiful women and loving couples adorn this temple. Together, they symbolize fertility, growth, and divine union.

<em>Shiva as Lord of the Dance (Nataraja)</em>
Shiva as Lord of the Dance (Nataraja)

Caught in a moment of his dance, this many-limbed figure embodies Hindu ideals of beauty and physical perfection.

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