Aurangabad Cave 3: Columns

INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad

These elaborate columns are found within the main hall. The carving style is similar to that seen in the Ajanta Caves. All the columns within the hall are embellished in an imitation wooden style. They are decorated with various motifs and have square bases. The edges of the bases portray mithuna couples and yaksas, as well as scroll leaf and bead patterns.
The column shafts are round and elaborately decorated with bands of lotus flowers, gems, scroll leaves, garlands, and palm leaves. There are up to 64 bands, some of which are carved with shallow niches containing seated Buddhas, yaksas, naga kings, or mithuna couples. Vases or amalaka fruits are carved on the column capitals. Yaksas or naga kings are depicted on the four corners as protectors, and the upper sections are comprised of reliefs of mithuna couples and apsaras.