Views of Elephanta Caves Bombay – 2 Postcards 1910
Two 1910 postcards of the Elephanta Caves in Bombay (Mumbai). To get a glimpse of an ancient and astonishing Indian history that lies close by to Mumbai. Head to the famous Elephanta Island an hour’s journey from the Gateway of India by ferry. A huge complex of temples and sculptures thought to date from the 6th Century AD.
All are carved out of solid rock within the cave complex that crisscrosses one of the island’s two hills. The Hindus who originally worshipped here were devotees of Lord Shiva. The most famous of the sculptures is that of a three-headed bust of Shiva or Trimurti Sadashiva, 20 feet high. The Portuguese named the place after the stone elephant they found in the caves. They damaged many of the carvings when they ruled Bombay.
Read more- A Brief History of The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, India.
The ancient history of the Elephanta or Gharapuri (Fortress City), as locally known is in itself a bit complex. The creation of the imposing temple complex is thought to be from the revival of orthodox Hinduism in western India. That followed a decline of Buddism, from the 6th century AD. Elephanta has a profound resemblance to the Shiva temple of Ellora caves near Aurangabad.
Did you know- both Elephanta and Ellora are today UNESCO World Heritage sites.
From the collection- Drawing Hiding The Taj Mahal WW2., The Colaba Coast Bombay – Old Photo 1890., 6 Old Photos of British India Era Vintage Cars., Old Courthouse Street Calcutta – Two Old Postcards 1905., Colaba Point Lighthouse In Mumbai – Old Print 1868
