Kanheri Caves - Part 13
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In my earlier installments, I explored the architectural layout and sculptural richness of Cave No. 3 at Kanheri, including its entrance features, massive interior pillars, colossal Buddha images, donor couples, and numerous sculptural panels adorning the verandah walls. In this article, I continue my exploration of Cave No. 3 by stepping into the inner hall, where unfinished stonework, votive stupas, and one of the earliest depictions of the Buddha in western India await our attention. As previously discussed, Cave No. 3, also known as the Chaitya Cave, faces west and houses a spacious apsidal prayer hall. The hall comprises a central nave and two side aisles, supported by a total of 34 stone pillars . Several of these pillars remain unfinished, suggesting that work was left incomplete, possibly due to changes in patronage or shifting priorities. The twelve pillars near the hall’s entrance, six on each side, are stylistically refined, featuring a tiered base, octagonal shaft, cushio...