Kailasanatha Temple and Dashavatar Cave architecture of Rashtrakutas

The Rashtrakuta dynasty (around 753–982 CE) is remembered as one of the greatest patrons of art in the Deccan. Their biggest contribution is seen in the Ellora caves of Maharashtra, especially the Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16) and the Dashavatar Cave (Cave 15). These works show how rock-cut caves gradually evolved into temples that look like free-standing structures, even though they were carved out of a single mountain.

Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16)

The Kailasanatha Temple, built by King Krishna I (c. 756–773 CE), is the most stunning creation of the Rashtrakutas. It is the largest monolithic structure in the world—a whole temple carved out of one single rock.

Architectural Features:

Carved from a single rock: Unlike earlier caves that were dug into a hillside, this one was created by cutting vertically from the top of the mountain downwards. This method helped in proper alignment and water drainage.

Dravidian style: Its design was inspired by South Indian temples of the Pallavas and Chalukyas, complete with a tower (Vimana), a grand entrance gateway (Gopuram), a Nandi Mandapa, and flag pillars (Dhwajastambhas).

Complex Layout: The main shrine is dedicated to Shiva, with a Nandi Mandapa connected by a rock bridge, giving the impression of a free-standing temple.

Sculptural Features:

• The base (plinth) is decorated with elephant and lion carvings, making it look as though the whole temple rests on their backs.
• Walls show huge panels from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• The most famous carving is Ravana trying to shake Mount Kailasa, a scene full of dramatic energy.

Dashavatar Cave (Cave 15)

The Dashavatar Cave is very different from Kailasanatha. It shows a transitional stage-part cave, part structural temple.

Architectural Features:

• Originally a Buddhist monastery (Vihara), it was later turned into a Hindu temple, probably during Dantidurga or Krishna I’s reign.
• It has two levels: the lower one is plain, while the upper one has a large pillared hall (Mandapa) and shrine.
• The hall has 26 square pillars and deep relief carvings, designed to look like structural panels of real temples.

Sculptural Features:

• The cave is called Dashavatar because of its panels of Vishnu’s ten incarnations (like Varaha and Narasimha).
• The Narasimha panel, showing Vishnu tearing Hiranyakashipu, is a masterpiece of movement and power.
• Shiva panels are equally striking, especially Shiva killing Andhaka and Shiva emerging from the Linga (Lingodbhava). These show the Rashtrakutas’ bold sculptural style.

Conclusion

The Dashavatar Cave reflects the transition from Buddhist to Hindu patronage, and the growing importance of Vishnu and Shiva themes. Kailasanatha Temple is the grandest achievement, where an entire mountain was turned into a replica of a Dravidian temple something unmatched anywhere else in ancient India.