Kanheri Caves - Part 8

This is the eighth article in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In earlier installments, I provided a general introduction to the caves before focusing on Cave No. 1. Adjacent to it, on the northern side, is Cave No. 2, a notable west-facing excavation. This cave houses a vihara and three stupas, each in a separate chamber, resembling detached chaityas.

So far, I have explored various aspects of Cave No. 2. The third article discussed the first stupa, while the fourth covered the second stupa and the sculptures on the left wall of the third stupa. The fifth and sixth articles examined the sculptures on the right and middle walls of the third stupa, respectively. In the seventh installment, I analyzed the inscriptions found in Cave No. 2. This concluding article focuses on the sculptures of the vihara, after which we will move on to the next cave.

The vihara's outer walls feature three bas-relief niches on either side of its two entrances. The first niche, located to the viewer’s left, depicts the Buddha seated on a throne. His legs are pendant, resting on a flat surface (Bhadrasana posture), and his arms are positioned near his chest in the Dharmachakra mudra—a gesture symbolizing the teaching of the Wheel of Dharma. The Buddha is flanked by two standing Bodhisattvas. The carving, though weathered over time, retains its charm, with softened features hinting at its age. The figure is framed within a semi-circular niche or halo-like arch.

The second panel features the Buddha seated in Vajrasana, also known as the full-lotus or double-lotus posture. His feet are crossed, each resting on the opposite thigh with soles pointing upward. His hands are positioned at chest level in the Vitarka mudra, a gesture of teaching or reasoning. To his true left, a chauri bearer holds a whisk in one hand and a lotus stalk in the other. This figure might be mistaken for Padmapani Avalokiteshvara. Above the Buddha, a flying Vidyadhara couple is depicted.

The third niche, also to the viewer’s left, mirrors the depiction in the first niche. Here, the Buddha is again shown seated on a throne in the Bhadrasana posture, his legs pendant and his arms positioned in the Dharmachakra mudra. He is accompanied by two standing Bodhisattvas, and the softened details of the carving reflect the effects of time and weathering. Like the first niche, this figure is also framed within a semi-circular niche or arch.

Happy travelling.

This is Part 8 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

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7