At which place was the magnificent temple of Saiva constructed by the great Rashtrakuta King ‘Krishna I’?

Key Points

• The magnificent temple of Saiva was constructed by the great Rashtrakuta King 'Krishna I' at Ellora.
• Ellora is renowned for its monumental caves, which are a mix of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The temple constructed by Krishna I is known as the Kailasa temple, which is one of the largest rock-cut ancient Hindu temples.
• The Kailasa temple is notable for its vertical excavation—carvers started at the top of the rock and excavated downward, which is a unique architectural feat.

Additional Information

• The Rashtrakuta dynasty ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent between the 6th and 10th centuries.
• The Rashtrakutas are credited with some of the most significant contributions to art and architecture in India, including the Ellora Caves and the rock-cut temples at Badami.
• King Krishna I, who reigned from 756 to 774 CE, was a patron of art and architecture, and his reign saw the construction of the Kailasa temple at Ellora.
• The Ellora caves, including the Kailasa temple, are a testament to the religious tolerance during the Rashtrakuta period, as they encompass Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments.
• The temple's construction reflects advanced knowledge of engineering and artistry, highlighting the Rashtrakutas' contributions to India's cultural heritage.