Mahishasuramardini Cave

Mahishasuramardini Cave Review

The Mahishasuramardini Cave, near the lighthouse on top of the hill, is the most outstanding of the cave temples here. On the right wall is a carved panel depicting Durga riding a prancing lion and defeating the buffalo demon Mahishasura. On the opposite wall, in contrast to this battle scene, is a deeply carved relief of Vishnu reclining on the great serpent Sesha. In this position, Vishnu is usually considered to be in a cosmic sleep, epitomizing his role as preserver of the universe. At the back of the cave are three cells containing statues of Shiva, his consort Uma, and their son Skanda—collectively known as Somaskanda, a common Pallava theme.