Ajanata- Cave2

The mahayana monastery (35.7x21.6) is one of the best caves in ajanata. On the basis of paleography it belongs to 6-7 century. It consists of verandah , a hypostylar hall, an antechamber, sanctum with two sub shrines ,chapels and a group of cells. Lord Buddha is enshrined in sanctum flanked by celestial nymphs and bodhisattvas. The western sub-shrine of the sanctum houses the figures of shankaniddhi and padmanidhi(gods of prosperity) while eastern sub-shrine of the sanctum contains the figure of hariti panchika (symbol of motherhood).. The massive pillars and door frames are elaborately carved and decorated with paintings. Extensively painted, it is famous for the ceiling painting in the hall antechamber, verandah and chapels. The painting contain some of the finest circle designs in contrasting colors which still retain their brightness and lustre. The wall of the sanctum and anti chamber are painted with countless figures of Buddha , while those of the halls are painted with illustrations of the former births of Buddha known as jatakas.