Rock Architecture of the Western Ghats
(c. 300 BCE – 1000 CE)
1. Introduction
The Western Ghats, a mountain range running parallel to the western coast of India,
became a significant site for the development of rock-cut architecture between the
3rd century BCE and the 10th century CE. This period witnessed the flourishing of
Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious practices, each leaving a distinct imprint on the
region’s architectural landscape. The basalt-rich hills of the Western Ghats provided
ideal conditions for rock-cut monuments, which were both religious sanctuaries and
artistic marvels.
The rock architecture of this region is a valuable source for understanding ancient
Indian religion, society, economy, and aesthetics. With patronage from dynasties
like the Satavahanas, Vakatakas, Chalukyas, and Rashtrakutas, and support from
merchant guilds and monastic orders, this tradition evolved into one of the most
distinctive forms of Indian architecture.
Reference: Upinder Singh (2008), Chapters 7–10
2. Historical and Cultural Context
As explained by Upinder Singh and J.C. Harle, the emergence of rock-cut architecture
in the Western Ghats coincided with the expansion of long-distance trade routes, the
institutionalization of Buddhism, and increasing state formation in peninsular India.
The Deccan's integration into regional and trans-regional networks facilitated
cultural exchanges that shaped religious and artistic practices.
Merchant guilds played an essential role in patronizing Buddhist monasteries. These
caves often served not only as places of worship and monastic residence but also as
rest stops for traders and pilgrims.
References: Singh (2008), Harle (1986), Agrawal (1965)
3. Early Buddhist Caves (2nd Century BCE to 1st Century CE)
Among the earliest examples of rock-cut architecture in the Western Ghats are the
Buddhist caves of Bhaja, Karle, and Bedsa. These are predominantly Hinayana caves,
focusing on simplicity and symbolic representations of the Buddha through stupas.
- Bhaja Caves: Located near Lonavala, these 2nd century BCE caves include chaityas
and viharas. The chaitya hall features a wooden ribbed roof carved in stone and a
stupa at the far end.
- Karle Chaitya: One of the grandest early Buddhist chaityas, it contains 37
intricately carved pillars with elaborate capitals featuring elephants and riders.
- Bedsa Caves: Simpler in form, they also follow the same chaitya-vihara pattern.
These sites show a transition from wooden architecture to rock, with craftsmen
imitating timber structures in stone. The presence of inscriptions suggests
substantial patronage from merchant communities.
References: Percy Brown (Chapters 2–4), Huntington (Chapters 4–5), Singh (2008)
Select Bibliography
- Singh, Upinder. (2008). A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India: From the
Stone Age to the 12th Century. Pearson Longman.
- Brown, Percy. Indian Architecture: Buddhist and Hindu Periods. D.B. Taraporevala
Sons.
- Harle, J.C. (1986). The Art and Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent. Penguin
Books.
- Huntington, Susan L. (1985). The Art of Ancient India: Buddhist, Hindu, Jain.
Weatherhill.
- Agrawal, V.S. (1965). Studies in Indian Art. Vishwavidyalaya Prakashan.
