Question

Identify the Ellora Cave, where the sculpture of 'Govardhandhari Krishna' is carved-

• A. Cave No. 13
• B. Cave No. 16
• C. Cave No. 20
• D. Cave No. 15

Hint:

Cave 16 (Kailasa Temple) is the centerpiece of Ellora and contains a vast repertoire of Hindu mythology. Many of the most famous sculptures from Ellora are located within this single cave complex.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the sculpture's theme. 'Govardhandhari Krishna' refers to the episode where Krishna lifts Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra.
Step 2: Locate this theme within the Ellora Caves. Cave No. 16 at Ellora is the Kailasa Temple, the largest monolithic rock-cut temple in the world. This vast complex is dedicated to Shiva but also contains numerous panels dedicated to Vaishnava themes. A significant and well-known panel depicting Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan is carved on the walls of the Kailasa Temple. While a version also exists in Cave 15, the one in Cave 16 is one of the most prominent.