Syllabus section: Art and culture

 

Why in News?

DharaShiv caves were in news recently when Maharashtra CM referred to Osmanabad as Dharashiv (named after 6th century caves).

 

About:

• Osmanabad is named after the last ruler of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, while Dharashiv is derived from the name for the sixth-century caves near the city.

• Dharashiv caves are the nexus of 7 caves in Balaghat mountains in Maharashtra.

• These have been declared as Protected area by Government of Maharashtra.

• They are believed to be built around 5th-7th century.

• There have been debates over caves whether they are Buddhist or Jain creations.

• It is believed that these caves were originally Buddhist, but later some caves were converted to Jain caves.