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Ghatotkacha Caves
The Ghatotkach Caves are located 18 km to the west of Ajantha, near Jinjala, India.[1] The caves include three Buddhist caves, one is a chaitya and two are viharas. The caves were excavated in the 6th century AD, and were influenced by Mahayana Buddhism.[1] The caves have an inscription by Varahadeva, a minister of the Vakataka dynasty under King Harishena (r. c. 475 – c. 500 CE).[2] Varahadeva is also known for a decatory inscription in Cave 16 at Ajanta caves in which he affirms his devotion to the Buddhist faith: "regarding the sacred law as his only companion, (he was) extremely devoted to the Buddha, the teacher of the world".[2] The inscription at Ghatotkacha Cave is about the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha.[1] At the same time, Varahadeva proudly affirms his Hindu heritage.[2] The inscription gives a long genealogy of the donor's family. It includes mention of a person named Soma, who had Kshatriya as well as Brahmana wives.[3] The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation advises that the caves are only for the adventurous traveller as access is difficult.[4] The Ghatotkacha Caves and their environment. Plan of the main Ghatotkacha cave Ghatotkacha cave inscription Ghatotkacha inscription (translation) External linksReferences
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