Rock Cut Architecture In India

🏛️ Origins and Evolution

Early Phase (3rd century BCE – 2nd century CE)

• Barabar Caves, Bihar: Oldest surviving rock-cut caves, built during Ashoka’s reign
• Bhaja, Bedsa, Karla, Kanheri Caves: Early Buddhist chaityas and viharas
• Technique: Carving interiors to mimic wooden architecture (beams, arches)
• Purpose: Monastic retreats, meditation halls, and relic chambers

Middle Phase (2nd century CE – 6th century CE)

• Ajanta Caves: Buddhist murals and sculptures, Vakataka patronage
• Nasik and Udayagiri Caves: Transition to Mahayana iconography
• Shift: Buddha images introduced into viharas; more elaborate facades

Later Phase (6th century CE – 10th century CE)

• Ellora Caves: Multi-religious complex (Buddhist, Hindu, Jain)
• Kailasa Temple (Cave 16): Monolithic marvel carved top-down
• Mahabalipuram Rathas: Dravidian-style monolithic shrines (Pallava dynasty)
• Elephanta Caves: Shaivite sculptures including Trimurti