The Early History of the Deccan (Parts I–XI) v1.c8.s13.31

v1.c8.s13.31

Ajanta and Ellora were still flourishing centres of Buddhism during our period, as is shown by the caves, sculptures, and paintings at these places. The majority of these caves were executed in the Vākāṭaka period, and this would not have been possible if Buddhism had not possessed a large following among the wealthy classes. The Vākāṭaka rulers were all Hindus, but it would not be surprising if new records were to be discovered showing that they had contributed liberally to the development of the Buddhist establishments at these two places, both situated within their kingdom. At any rate some of their ministers are known to have been Buddhists and figure among the donors of a few of the caves.