The Early Development of the Cave 26-Complex at Ajanta

Ajanta's Cave 26-complex, previously believed to be a late Vākāṭaka phase caityagṛha, is now shown to be the second excavation of the Vākāṭaka period and the first major caityagṛha built after a 250-year gap. This study challenges long-held assumptions by presenting new evidence that attributes its unique four-flanked wing arrangement and subsequent additions (Caves 21, 23, 24) to a single patron, likely monk Buddhabhadra, rather than the saṅgha. The research introduces unprecedented architectural features, highlighting individual patronage in Buddhist art and architecture. It also identifies Dharmadatta and Bhadrabandhu as the first known Master Architects of Indian art, credited with executing this groundbreaking project under challenging conditions. By analyzing artistic, iconographic, and architectural data alongside practical excavation challenges, the study offers a fresh perspective on Ajanta's development.

Singh, R. K. (2012). The Early Development of the Cave 26-Complex at Ajanta. South Asian Studies, 28(1), 37–68. https://doi.org/10.1080/02666030.2012.659906