Kanheri Caves - Part 2

This is the second article in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In the first installment, I provided an overview of these caves. From this article onward, I will start discussing the individual caves, beginning with Cave No. 1.

The west-facing Cave No. 1 is an unfinished Vihara (for the starters, let us call this a Buddhist monastery). Initially, it was likely intended to be a two-story structure, but construction was abandoned halfway probably due to defects in the rock. As a result, there is no sculpture within the cave.

There are only two pillars standing outside supporting the huge beam. The pillars resemble those at the most popular Elephanta Caves with their cushion capitals. The inner hall remains incomplete, with blocks left in place where pillars were intended.

Since the pillars are the main feature of this Vihara, let me describe their style:

The pillar has a solid, robust base that is slightly wider than the shaft, providing a stable foundation. The base transitions smoothly into the shaft without any elaborate ornamentation.

The shaft is cylindrical and tapers slightly towards the top, segmented into three distinct sections:

The lower part is plain and undecorated, providing sturdy support.

The middle section has a subtle ridge or band, adding a touch of detail without compromising simplicity.

The upper part narrows slightly before transitioning into the capital.

The capital is bulbous and cushion-like, a characteristic feature of ancient Indian pillars, especially those from the Buddhist tradition. It is rounded and smooth, resembling a compressed sphere or lotus bud, both aesthetic and functional in distributing the weight of the architrave above.

Atop the capital is a flat slab or abacus, rectangular in shape, serving as a transitional component between the capital and the architrave. The abacus evenly distributes the load from the horizontal beam to the pillar.

The entire pillar, like the surrounding structure, is carved from natural rock. This monolithic construction is a hallmark of rock-cut architecture, showcasing the skill and precision of ancient craftsmen who sculpted entire structures from solid rock formations.

There is no inscription found in this cave. I am not sure if anyone has speculated about the period of this particular cave. My personal opinion, based on the style of the pillars, is that it may belong to the 5th or 6th century CE. Though it is numbered as Cave No. 1, it is definitely not one of the earliest caves of the complex.

This is Part 2 of the series of articles on Kanheri Caves. If you are interested to read the earlier parts of the series, click the links below.

Part 1

Happy travelling.