The art made inside the caves of Ajanta have been a tourist’s delight from the time it had been discovered. For many years, it remained hidden until once when the British officers accidentally discovered it during their hunting sessions. These art forms are rare and of great historical value.
As they are believed to be made around the 6th century when there was a rise in Buddhism. The Jataka tales which revolves around the life of Buddha are the theme of the Ajanta caves drawings, is possibly, evidence to its origin. There is also a story about Gautam Buddha visiting Ajanta to grace King Achintya. And hence the Ajanta cave was named after the king Achintya.
A very interesting fact to note about Ajanta cave art is the technique used to make these paintings. Even at such early years of civilization, ancient Indians used superior method for artwork; that would make the paintings visible in spite of inadequate lights in the caves and add beauty to the caves. On further research of the caves it was found they used materials like cow dung, mud, white lime powder etc. All these materials are used till date for many types of traditional art forms in India.
Apart from these drawings, there are art carved out on the stones of the caves. Researchers have found that these carvings have been executed by an axe, hammer or chisel. Having been there since centuries the art form is cherished and highly preserved by the natives.