Cave No. 26, Ajanta

Cave No. 26 of Ajanta dated to 6th - 7th century A.D is one of the largest Mahayana Chaityagriha of dimension 25 X 12 m that has been elaborately and exquisitely carved with sculpted figures.

This magnificent Mahayana Chaityagriha was the gift of various devotees, named monk Buddhabhadra, Bhadanth Gunakara and Bhikashu Sanghmitra. The spacious forecourt, pillared veranda  with two side porches, and an apsidal hall are main components of chaitya. 

The facade, the inner pillars, the triforium (between pillars and roof arch), aisles side walls are extensively carved with images and decorative designs. The hall is divided by a colonnade into a central nave, and apse, and the side aisles around the hall which act as a circumlocutory passage. 

At the apsidal end, the composite monolithic stupa is the main object of worship, whose pinnacle touches the roof of the vault. The stupa overlaid with intricate carvings contains seated figures of Buddha.

However, the most striking and prominent image is that of Mahaparinirvana of Buddha on the right aisle wall. Below this are also there are various sculptures.

Another prominent sculpture is Assault and Temptation by Mar-on the eve of Enlightenment  These sculptures are of unique composition displaying delicacy and ingenuity.

The pillars with triforium and vaulted roof are all decorated with figures of Buddha and decorative motifs in paintings and sculptures.