Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s21.34

v2.c8.s21.34

The white umbrella held over the head of Vidhurapaṇḍita is symbolical of his spiritual kingship. He had a *chaurī*-bearer as well, but only the hand of the latter is visible now behind the figure of Vidhurapaṇḍita, the body having been destroyed. The minister is urging the elephant on with the iron goad which is seen in his right hand. The thick ropes tied round the body of the animal and hanging on one side are meant to keep the trappings in position, and also to enable the *charkaṭā* (the elephant groom) to climb up the animal. The trappings of the horses are most elaborate, and except for the stirrups, which are not very clear, have all the accessories which are seen in a modern harness.¹ The light grey horse at the bottom of the picture is bedecked with ornaments as well, among which the *jhānjhan*, *haikal*, and *pākhar* are prominent.²