The Art and The Artist
Badami Chalukyas
Lake Agastya
The lake which was the main source of life for people before 1500 yrs. The Chalukya Dynasty settled their capital and kingdom on the banks of Lake Agastya. They made the best use of the rocky mountains and carved them into architectural excellence Caves. The structure you see the reflection is of Bhootanateshwara temple, built with red sand rocks carved off the mountain rocks.
The Chalukya dynasty was formed by taking a way out of Kadama dynasty in 543 CE(Common Era). The kings of Chalukys made Vatapi (Called as Badami) as their capital and started the independent ruling away from Kadambas.
Badami Chalukyas stand very special and different in their interests, not just limiting to expanding the boundaries. But by showing very special interest in art and architecture.
Few highlights of the Badami chalukyas
- They carved a single rock into a cave with sculptures.
- The interests and beliefs in Shiva and vishnu shows up the art work in their caves
- Thry used Dyes to paint the rocks which remains even today after 1400-1500 yrs
- The last cave also adopted Jainism and Sculptures of jaina tirtankaras
- The rock cut architecture stands distinctly special in indian architecture
- The same dynasty was conquered and same art workers played a huge role in carving caves of Ajanta and Ellora
This is some small history of what I know from the travel. There is much more to be proud of Chalukyas. The Chalukya dynasty ruled Badami for over 200 yrs till 7th century, later over taken or conquered by Rastrakoota dynasty.
Below photography is my entry to World Continents Photography challenge - Asian Sunday organized by 
Camera Used
Nikon D5300 with 70-300mm lens
Location is at Badami Agastya lake below the Badami caves.
The photograph was clicked from the steps on other end of the lake. The same place is now used for washing cloths by local people.
Hope the post was informative and you ll love the photograph
Have a colorful day all 😊