Karla Cave 8: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

INDIA, Maharashtra, Pune

This relief of the Buddha Teaching the Dharma is located on the wall outside the entrance of Cave 8, with pilasters on each side. Makaras on the capitals face each other with mouths open and support an arch embellished with lotus patterns. The Buddha is seated on a lion throne with legs pendent; his hands form the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. A pair of heavenly beings hold a headdress above the Buddha’s head. On each side of the Buddha is an attendant Bodhisattva standing in tribhanga posture. The Buddha’s feet rest upon a lotus base and beneath him are a Dharma wheel, two deer, and two disciples with palms joined. A tall pillar is supported by two kneeling naga kings below the Dharma wheel, and three kneeling figures make offerings next to the naga kings.