Behold Cave 29. It is also known as Dumar Lena. This is no ordinary cave. It is a window into the 8th century.
Cave 29 stands as an important site. It sits beside “Sita-ka-nahani”. This is a pool formed by a waterfall in the Elaganga. Imagine the sound of cascading water mingling with the echoes of ancient carvings.
This cave represents a transition in architecture. It bridges the gap between early rock scooping and later structural models. Think of the Elephanta Caves and Jogeshwari in Mumbai. Cave 29 is larger and finer.
The hall and shrine measure about 148 feet by 149 feet. The height is nearly 18 feet. The entire excavation stretches almost 250 feet. Two large lions with small elephants under their paws guard the steps. They lead to the hall from three sides.
Inside Cave 29, 26 pillars support the structure. Corresponding pilasters add to the grandeur. The main hall has three entrances, excluding the east. A central sanctum houses the linga. There are isles on either side. Four entrances lead to the sanctum. Huge dwarpals stand guard. Female attendants accompany them at each entrance.
Six sculptural panels depict episodes connected with Lord Shiva. Ravananugrahamurti shows Shiva blessing Ravana. Ravana is shaking Mount Kailasa. Kalyanamurti depicts the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Antakasuravadamurti shows Shiva killing the demon Antaka.
Shiva and Parvati are seen playing chausar. Nataraja performs his celestial dance. Lakulisa embodies a form of Lord Shiva.
As you enter, see Andhakasur. This is Shiva killing the demon Andhaka. Andhaka had a boon. When his blood dropped, another Andhaka would be born. Shiva stands in the center with Yogeswari and Sapta Matrikas. He holds a trident on his right shoulder. In one hand, Shiva holds a bowl of blood. Chamunda drinks the blood to prevent more demons from arising. The asuras surrender and become Shiva’s followers.
Opposite this sculpture, Shiva and Parvati sit on Mount Kailash. Ravana shakes the mountain. This is Ravananugrahamurti. Shiva pins Ravana with his toes and then releases him.
The hall showcases a linga in the center. The sanctum with the linga has four entrances. Huge doorkeepers stand on each side. Turning left, you see Nataraja. This is called Gajahasta Murti. He holds a trishul in one hand.
Opposite Nataraja is Shiva as the meditating Lakulisa. He is the 28th incarnation of yogic Lord Shiva. He was worshiped in South and Southeast Asia. Lakulisa founded Pashupata Shaivism.
The pillars are ornate. They have square bases and fluted upper portions. Ribbed cushion capitals cap them.
Enigmatic sculpted depressions exist on the south and north. Their exact function is unknown. Some believe they were Vedic altars for religious rituals.
On the right side of the isle is Kalyanamurti. This is the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Saraswati stands on the extreme right. Opposite the Shiva Parvati wedding is a sculpture of them playing dice.
Note the doorkeepers. They are tall, nearly reaching the ceiling. The thread around their bodies is called ‘Yagyopavit’. Their heavy physical forms, elaborate jewelry, and lady attendants add dignity.
Cave 29 may lack the proportions of Kailasa cave. However, its sculptures showcase skill and imagination. It is a testament to the transition from Chalukyas to Rashtrakutas. It marks a significant phase in cave architecture.