CAVE 16 AJANTA

Cave 16, dedicated by a minister of the Vakataka emperor, has its own grand entrance from the river still extant. From between two elephants, the great Naga of teh Waghora River presides over the valley.

Most of the left-hand elephant has survived, with some restoration in concrete. The visitor walks between the two elephants to the feet of the Naga king, then up again to the cave porch. Thus, we pay our respects to teh presiding deity before reaching the Buddha's abode.

The Cave 16 porch is much damaged. This ceiling fragment hints at the richness it once possessed. The interior paintings are better preserved, and impressive. The inscription of the Varahadeva, minister of emperor Harisena, is preserved inside.

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