Kanheri Cave 90: Buddha Triad

INDIA, Maharashtra, Mumbai

Located on the back wall of Cave 90, the main Buddha statue in this niche is lost, only the base and fragments of the nimbus remain. Below the base on each side stands a lion, and a makara fish with an open mouth is carved on each side of the round nimbus on the back wall. Above each makara is a naga king, each of whom has an oval face and five serpents surrounding the head. One leg of each naga king is folded under, while the other leg stretches back as though in flight. In the right hand is a whisk. The naga kings have slender figures and assume a graceful posture.
The standing Bodhisattvas on each side of the base have oval nimbuses and stand in tribhanga pose. The Bodhisattva on the right has a high topknot, whereas the one on the left wears a headdress. Above their heads are pairs of flying heavenly beings. Framing the niche on each side are four smaller arched niches, inside of which contain identical standing Buddhas.