The Kailasa temple, also known as Kailashanatha temple, is a magnificent rock-cut Hindu temple located within the Ellora Caves complex in Maharashtra, India. Carved out of a single cliff face, it is celebrated for its immense size, intricate architecture, and elaborate sculptural adornments. Often hailed as the pinnacle of Indian rock-cut architecture, it stands as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of ancient Indian artisans.

Some key features of the Kailasa temple include:

Size and Architecture: The temple is the largest among the 34 cave temples and monasteries at Ellora, extending over two kilometers along the sloping basalt cliff. Its grandeur is exemplified by its towering structure, with the top of the sanctuary standing at 32.6 meters above the courtyard below. Despite the sloping rock face, archaeologists believe that the entire temple was sculpted from a single rock.

Historical Attribution: While the exact dating of the temple's construction is debated, most of the excavation is attributed to the eighth-century Rashtrakuta king, Krishna I, who ruled from around 756 to 773 CE. However, some elements may have been completed in subsequent years. The architecture displays influences from Pallava and Chalukya styles, reflecting the cultural exchange prevalent during that period.

Sculptural Splendor: The temple is adorned with numerous relief and free-standing sculptures, depicting various Hindu deities, mythological scenes, and celestial beings. These sculptures are executed on a grand scale, complementing the architectural magnificence of the temple. While the temple originally featured paintings as well, only faint traces of them remain today.

The Kailasa temple stands as a remarkable testament to the artistic and architectural prowess of ancient India. Its intricate carvings, monumental scale, and spiritual significance continue to awe visitors from around the world, cementing its status as one of the most remarkable cave temples globally.

 

History

The construction and attribution of the Kailasa temple (also known as Kailashanatha temple) at Ellora are subjects of scholarly debate due to the absence of a dedicatory inscription directly linking it to any specific ruler. However, several epigraphs and historical records provide valuable insights into its patronage and construction.

Attribution to Krishna I: While the temple lacks a dedicatory inscription, it is commonly attributed to the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I based on two significant epigraphs. One of these is the Vadodara copper-plate inscription dating to around 812-813 CE, which credits Krishnaraja as the patron of the Kailasanatha temple at Ellora. Another reference is found in the Kadaba grant of Govinda Prabhutavarsha. However, the exact dating of these inscriptions and their connection to Krishna I's reign remain subjects of scholarly discussion.

Multiple Architectural Styles and Possible Construction Phases: The Kailasa temple exhibits various architectural and sculptural styles, leading scholars to propose that its construction might have spanned the reigns of multiple Rashtrakuta rulers. Art historian Hermann Goetz suggested that the temple's construction commenced during the reign of Dantidurga (c. 735–756 CE) and was later extended by Krishna I and subsequent rulers. Goetz proposed that the temple was initially smaller and was consecrated by Krishna I. Other Rashtrakuta rulers, such as Dhruva Dharavarsha, Govinda III, Amoghavarsha, and Krishna III, may have contributed to its expansion. Additionally, the 11th-century Paramara ruler Bhoja and Ahilyabai Holkar might have commissioned later additions and embellishments to the temple.

Analysis by M. K. Dhavalikar: Dhavalikar analyzed the temple's architecture and concluded that the major portion of the temple was completed during Krishna I's reign. He identified specific components, including the main shrine, its gateway, the nandi-mandapa, lower-storey, elephant-lion frieze, court elephants, and victory pillars, as being completed during this period. Dhavalikar also suggested that the famous sculpture depicting Ravana shaking the Kailasa mountain might have been added later, possibly during the reign of Krishna III.

Excavation of Dashavatara Cave: Dhavalikar proposed that the Dashavatara cave, located next to the Kailasa temple, began excavation during Dantidurga's reign and was completed during Krishna I's rule. This hypothesis explains the stylistic similarities between the sculptures in the two caves.

Pallava-Chalukya influence

M. K. Dhavalikar's analysis sheds further light on the construction of the Kailasa temple at Ellora, proposing a theory that suggests a more streamlined process than previously considered.

Architectural Planning: Dhavalikar argues that the architectural evidence indicates a comprehensive planning process from the outset of the Kailasa temple's construction. Unlike some other architectural projects where additional structures might have been added later, the Kailasa temple appears to have been conceived and executed as a unified whole.

Influence of the Virupaksha Temple: The striking similarities between the main shrine of the Kailasa temple and the Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal suggest a direct influence. The Virupaksha Temple, commissioned by the Chalukyas of Badami, was a replica of the Kailasa temple at Kanchi, constructed by the Pallavas. After defeating the Chalukyas, Dhavalikar theorizes that Krishna I might have been impressed by the Virupaksha Temple and brought its sculptors and architects, including some Pallava artists, to Ellora for the construction of the Kailasa temple.

Streamlined Construction Process: Drawing upon the expertise of architects familiar with the design and construction techniques used in the Virupaksha Temple, Dhavalikar suggests that the construction of the Kailasa temple would have been more efficient. With a blueprint and prototype already established, the effort required for planning and executing the project would have been significantly reduced. Additionally, quarrying a monolithic temple from the existing rock face would have been less labor-intensive than transporting large stones for conventional construction methods.

Labor Estimates: Dhavalikar estimates that with efficient planning and labor allocation, the construction of the Kailasa temple could have been accomplished within a relatively short period. Assuming a daily output of around 4 cubic feet of rock per laborer, he suggests that a workforce of 250 laborers could have completed the temple in approximately 5.5 years.

Influence of Non-Rashtrakuta Styles: The presence of architectural elements and styles associated with the Chalukyas and Pallavas within the Kailasa temple can be attributed to the involvement of artists and architects from these regions. Their expertise and influence would have contributed to the rich and diverse architectural ornamentation seen in the temple.

In essence, Dhavalikar's theory suggests a more organized and efficient construction process for the Kailasa temple, facilitated by the transfer of expertise from the Virupaksha Temple and the collaboration of artisans from different cultural and regional backgrounds. This perspective offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of ancient Indian temple construction and the exchange of architectural knowledge between ruling dynasties.

Temple’s Name

The theories surrounding the origin of the name "Kailasa" for the temple at Ellora provide interesting insights into its symbolism and architectural features:

1. Resemblance to Mount Kailash: One common theory suggests that the Kailasa temple originally had a thick layer of white plaster, giving it a resemblance to the holy Mount Kailash, believed to be the abode of Shiva. This theory is supported by scholars who claim that the entire temple was painted and plastered, earning it the epithet "Rang Mahal," or painted palace. Fragments of old fresco paintings on the porch roof of the upper temple indicate the presence of such decoration, although the extent of the painted surface remains unclear.

2. Allegory of Mount Kailash: Another perspective views the Kailasa temple as an allegorical representation of Mount Kailash, symbolizing the divine abode of Lord Shiva. The temple's monumental architecture and sculptural elements may have been intended to evoke the spiritual significance and grandeur associated with Mount Kailash.

3. Depiction of Ravana Anugraha Murti: The magnificent three-dimensional sculpture of Ravana Anugraha Murti on the southern side of the main temple is considered a significant feature that may have influenced the temple's name. In this sculpture, Ravana is depicted as multi-armed, attempting to lift Mount Kailash where Shiva is seated in repose. The ego of Ravana is depicted as being trampled by the mere pressure of Shiva's toe, symbolizing the triumph of divine power over human arrogance. This portrayal of the mythological event could have contributed to the association of the temple with Mount Kailash and the name "Kailasa."

Overall, these theories offer various interpretations of the name "Kailasa" and underscore the rich symbolism and cultural significance embedded within the architecture and sculptural elements of the temple at Ellora. Whether as a physical representation of Mount Kailash, an allegorical depiction of divine abode, or a tribute to the mythological event involving Ravana and Shiva, the Kailasa temple continues to inspire awe and fascination among visitors and scholars alike.

Construction method

The construction technique employed in the creation of the Kailasa temple is indeed remarkable and has been a subject of fascination and legend over the centuries. Here are some key points regarding the temple's unique vertical excavation method and the associated legend:

1. Vertical Excavation: Carvers of the Kailasa temple began their work from the top of the original rock and excavated downward. This vertical excavation method allowed them to sculpt the temple from the top down, following traditional methods. The rigid adherence to these techniques contributed to the temple's architectural precision and grandeur. This approach contrasts with conventional methods of temple construction, which typically involve excavating from the front or ground level.

2. Marathi Legend: A medieval Marathi legend, preserved in texts such as Katha-Kalapataru by Krishna Yajnavalki (circa 1470-1535 CE), appears to reference the construction of the Kailasa temple. According to this legend, a local king fell severely ill, prompting his queen to pray to the god Ghrishneshwar (Shiva) at Elapura for his recovery. She vowed to construct a temple if her wish were granted and promised to fast until she could see the shikhara (top) of the temple. After the king's recovery, she implored him to build a temple immediately. Despite architects' claims that it would take months to complete a temple with a shikhara, one architect named Kokasa assured the king that the queen would see the shikhara within a week. Kokasa began constructing the temple from the top by carving into the rock, completing the shikhara within the promised timeframe. The temple was then named Manikeshwar after the queen.

3. Identification of Kokasa: M. K. Dhavalikar theorizes that Kokasa, the chief architect mentioned in the legend, may have been the mastermind behind the construction of the Kailasa temple. He suggests that the temple might have originally been known as Manikeshwar, as per the legend. Dhavalikar's theory is supported by multiple 11th-13th century inscriptions from central India that mention architects belonging to the illustrious family of Kokasa.

This legend not only adds a layer of mystique to the construction of the Kailasa temple but also highlights the ingenuity and skill of the artisans and architects involved in its creation. The vertical excavation method and the legend surrounding Kokasa's feat contribute to the temple's enduring legacy as a marvel of ancient Indian architecture and craftsmanship.

Architecture

The architecture of the Kailasa temple at Ellora showcases a unique blend of styles, influenced by various regional traditions and artistic techniques. Here are the key architectural features and elements of the temple:

1. Entrance and Courtyard: The entrance to the temple courtyard features a low gopuram, leading into a U-shaped courtyard with dimensions of 82 meters by 46 meters at the base. The courtyard is surrounded by a three-storied columned arcade, adorned with huge sculpted panels and alcoves containing massive sculptures of various deities.

2. Central Shrine: At the heart of the courtyard lies the central shrine dedicated to Shiva, housing a sacred lingam. The shrine features a flat-roofed mandapa supported by 16 pillars and a Dravidian shikhara. Carved niches, plasters, windows, and intricate images of deities adorn the shrine's interior and exterior.

3. Nandi Mandapa: In front of the central temple stands the Nandi Mandapa, where Nandi, the sacred bull and mount of Shiva, sits on a porch. The mandapa and main Shiva temple are both two-storied structures, approximately 7 meters in height. The lower stories of the Nandi Mandapa are solid structures embellished with elaborate carvings, including scenes from mythology like those from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

4. Detached Shrines: The temple premises also contain five detached shrines, three of which are dedicated to the river goddesses Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

5. Dwajasthambams: Two Dwajasthambams, pillars with flagstaffs, are situated within the temple courtyard.

6. Sculptural Highlights: Notable sculptures within the temple complex include depictions of Shiva in various forms such as the ascetic and the dancer, as well as scenes like Shiva being warned by Parvati about the demon Ravana. One of the most famous sculptures is that of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa.

7. Architectural Influences: While the Kailasa temple's architecture is distinct from earlier styles prevalent in the Deccan region, it draws inspiration from the Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal and the Kailasa temple at Kanchi. The influence of Chalukya and Pallava artists, along with the involvement of regional artisans, has contributed to the unique architectural and sculptural elements seen in the temple.

Overall, the Kailasa temple stands as a masterpiece of Indian architecture, characterized by its monumental scale, intricate carvings, and diverse artistic influences.

Behind the Temple : Kailasa and Cosmology

The Kailasa temple complex at Ellora is not only a masterpiece of architectural ingenuity but also embodies profound cosmological and philosophical principles. Here are some key aspects of its symbolic significance and philosophical underpinnings:

1. Journey from Material to Spiritual: The architectural design of the temple complex is interpreted by scholars as a symbolic journey from the material world to the spiritual realm. The entrance gate, or Gopuram, marks the passage from the mundane to the sacred. As one progresses through the mandapas (halls), the diminishing size, volume, and light symbolize the transition from the earthly to the celestial, signifying a move away from distractions towards the sacred.

2. Symbolism of Ascent: The physical act of ascending the stairs leading to the main shrine symbolizes the ascent to heaven metaphorically. The tall, pointed shikhara (spire) of the temple serves as a representation of the heavenly sphere, emphasizing the connection between the earthly and divine realms.

3. Coexistence of Opposing Elements: The temple complex exemplifies the principle of the coexistence of opposite elements, which complement and reinforce each other. The contrast between total darkness and filtered light, as well as the intricate carvings juxtaposed with uncarved rock faces, highlights the interplay between creation and destruction, giving meaning and depth to the architectural elements.

4. Philosophical Influence: The impact of Shankara's Advaita philosophy, emphasizing non-dualistic unity of knowledge and devotion, can be seen in the integration of god, shrine, and devotee carved into the rocky hill. This reflects the concept of the atman (individual spirit) being both independent and interconnected with the Brahman (universal consciousness), mirroring the seamless interconnectedness of the temple's elements.

5. Symbolism of Completeness and Unity: The Kailasa temple complex is perceived as a symbolic representation of the cosmos (Brahman) and individual spirits (atman). Its interconnected parts, seamlessly integrated into a single entity, symbolize the completeness and unity underlying the diversity of existence.

6. Endurance and Invincibility: The enduring nature of the Kailasa temple complex is highlighted by its resilience against attempts at destruction. Despite Aurangzeb's efforts to demolish the temple, its structural integrity remained largely intact, underscoring its architectural magnificence and enduring significance.

In conclusion, the Kailasa temple at Ellora stands not only as a marvel of architectural brilliance but also as a profound symbol of spiritualism, philosophical depth, and resilience against adversity. Its rich symbolism and philosophical underpinnings continue to inspire awe and reverence among visitors and scholars alike, underscoring its status as a cultural and spiritual landmark of unparalleled significance.