Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v3.c12.s32.7

v3.c12.s32.7

The scene may be identified with the preaching of the Buddha in the Tushita Heaven, in which case the congregation on the left side shows Indra (Sakka) and his retinue; while on the right the hermit with the skull in his head-gear may represent Śiva (?), or some Buddhist deity associated with such an emblem. But if the Elephant Procession, painted adjoining this subject towards the right, is to be associated with it, the entire scene would represent the visit of Ajātaśatru to the Buddha in the Mango Grove, which is reproduced at both Bharhut and Amaravati.¹ The group towards the left, according to the latter identification, would represent Ajātaśatru and his wives, who accompanied him when he waited on the Buddha to confess his sin and seek absolution.