The architecture of India has relied mainly on stones from centuries. Stone carving has remained a major craft from eras. Numerous Temples, forts and palaces of ancient Indian civilization have been carved out from locally available stones. Archaeological survey of India has revealed intricately carved statuettes and carvings made on stone ages ago. Few of the ancient rock carved wonders are Khajuraho Temple, Elephanta Caves, Konark Temple, Sanchi Stupa etc. Carving stones into sculptures and pillars is an activity older than civilization itself. The stone carving tradition of India is considered as one of the richest in the world. From the 7th century B.C stone carvers have existed in India. States such as Orissa, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh are actively engaged in works related to marble, graphite and sandstone.

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