Ajanta Cave 9: Life of the Buddha - Conversion of the Three Kasyapa Brothers

INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad

This mural is painted on the wall of Cave 9. Among the older caves at Ajanta, this caitya cave was built during the 2nd century and underwent redecoration during the 5th century. This painting was created during the later period and portrays the Buddha expounding the Dharma to the three Kasyapa brothers, who were renowned sages in the kingdom of Magadha. The fire-worshipping brothers were said to have 1,000 followers, all of whom were later converted to Buddhism.
The outer edges of the mural have peeled away and only the central figures are still discernible. The Buddha is seated and his face is serene. He wears a golden robe and his hands form the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. Two attendant Bodhisattvas stand just behind the Buddha on either side with peaceful expressions. Necklaces adorn their upper bodies and they hold whisks. The three Kasyapa brothers stand before the Buddha. They are dressed as ascetics, with hair traditionally bound and wearing striped garments that bare the right shoulder. They face the Buddha with heads bowed and palms joined in reverence. A stupa is painted to the right of the figures.