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Two new immersive experiences on Google Arts & Culture, curated to inspire global audiences through innovation and storytelling.
Located off the coast of Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are now accessible to the world through a detailed virtual exhibition titled “Explore Elephanta Caves”.
India’s rich cultural and culinary heritage takes center stage in two new immersive experiences on Google Arts & Culture, curated to inspire global audiences through innovation and storytelling.
1. Explore the Ancient Elephanta Caves – Virtually
Located off the coast of Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are now accessible to the world through a detailed virtual exhibition titled “Explore Elephanta Caves”.
Key Features:
3D LiDAR Scanning: In partnership with CyArk, ASI, CSMVS, and others, Google used cutting-edge scanning technology to capture over 6,500 photos and 197 laser scans of the main cave temple.
AI-Powered “Talking Tour”: For the first time, viewers can embark on an interactive guided tour with real-time audio explanations and even ask questions through Google AI.
Artifact Archive: Rare sculptures, pot sherds, and copper plates excavated from the site are featured, offering deeper insights into the island’s ritual history.
Historical Prints: Vintage artwork, like an 1836 engraving by Robert Brandard, adds artistic context to the digital journey.
The initiative brings to life the artistic and engineering brilliance of India’s ancient past, turning the caves into a living story of cultural legacy.
2. Food Mood India Edition – A Playful AI Culinary Tool
Google also launched the Food Mood India Edition, an AI-powered recipe generator that lets users blend two Indian regional cuisines to create new, innovative dishes.
How It Works:
Choose any two Indian cuisines (e.g., Rajasthan + Kerala).
Select your dish type (starter, soup, main course, or dessert).
Let the AI (powered by Gemini 1.5 Flash via VertexAI) create a unique fusion recipe using authentic spices, ingredients, and cooking styles from both regions.
This fun and interactive feature honors traditional Indian cooking while sparking creativity in the kitchen.
Why It Matters
These experiences reflect Google Arts & Culture’s mission to make learning about India’s diverse heritage — from ancient rock-cut temples to culinary treasures — more accessible, engaging, and tech-enabled than ever before.
You can explore both projects now on the Google Arts & Culture platform.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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