Study of indian rock-cut architecture

Abstract

The rock-cut structures are the most magnificent item of Indian art. Most rock-cut monuments were intimately linked to different faiths and religious activities. At the start, magnificent Buddhist and Jain rock-cut monuments were constructed in places such as Bihar to the east and Maharashtra to the west. The Buddhist monks dug many caverns for worship and housing reasons. Chaityas (Prayer Halls) and Viharas are the finest examples (monasteries). The windows, balconies and portals were sculpted in these rock-cut buildings as enormous arch shaped apertures.