An Educational Tour : All the world is a laboratory to the inquiring mind.
Our history teacher always talked about Ajanta and Ellora caves as one of the great relics of our past. We requested him to plan a tour to these places and he readily agreed. As the school closed for the summer break, a group of twenty students left for Aurangabad. We hired a bus to go to Ellora that is about fifteen kilometres from there. It is an old city that has been excavated by the Department of Archaeology. The Hindu temples present a fascinating sight. There are statues of Hindu Gods and Goddesses everywhere. It is surprising how the architects of ancient times could make such a beautiful and well-planned city! The rooms are constructed in such a manner as would ensure cross-ventilation and remain cool. The idols of bull and Shiva Linga are masterpieces of art. Although the city is more than two thousand years old, the construction is stable and durable.
Ajanta is also situated in the same district but it is quite far-off from the district headquarters. It represents the rise of Buddhism in India. The caves were carved out of solid rocks on the banks of a waterfall. The artisans and architects spent a lifetime in planning and constructing the divine city. The Department of Archaeology provides well-trained guides, who throw light on the subtle aspects of every statue. For example, we were taken to a cave in which there was a huge statue of Lord Budha. When light was thrown from the front, he looked sad. When it was thrown from other angles, the mood of the Lord changed accordingly. The frescoes on the wall are in different colours. These colours were taken directly from the flowers and leaves of the trees. It is surprising that these paintings are still fresh on the walls of the cave. We asked the guide how the artisans worked in the caves. They pointed out that the reflection of the solar rays on the waterfalls were directed into the caves according to their needs.
The monuments remind us of the greatness of man who can create masterpieces under trying circumstances. He can work wonders, if he is inspired enough.
The tour was a great learning experience for all of us. I look forward to more such educational tours to enrich our knowledge.
