Correct Option
The correct option is Karla.
Explanation
Rock-cut architecture in Western India flourished primarily under the patronage of the Satavahanas and Western Kshatrapas. These excavations are categorized into Chaityas (prayer halls with a stupa) and Viharas (monasteries or residential cells). The scale and intricacy of these structures evolved significantly from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE.
Detailed Analysis
- Karla (Correct): Located near Lonavala in Maharashtra, the Karla Caves house the largest and most well-preserved rock-cut Chaitya hall in India. Dating to the early 2nd century CE, the Great Chaitya (Cave 8) measures approximately 38 meters deep, 14 meters wide, and 14 meters high. It is renowned for its vaulted roof with original wooden ribs, a massive sun window, and intricate pillars topped with lion capitals.
- Bhaja: Situated near Karla, the Bhaja Caves are among the earliest examples of rock-cut architecture in Western India (2nd century BCE). While significant for their wooden architectural imitation, the Chaitya hall here is much smaller and simpler compared to Karla.
- Kanheri: Located in Mumbai, Kanheri contains a large number of caves (over 100) spanning a long period from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE. Although it features a significant Chaitya hall (Cave 3) modeled after Karla, it is not the largest.
- Ajanta: Famous for its murals and sculpture, Ajanta contains several Chaitya halls (Caves 9, 10, 19, and 26). While artistically significant, none of the Chaitya halls at Ajanta match the physical dimensions of the Great Chaitya at Karla.
Key Takeaway
Karla Cave 8 represents the zenith of the early phase of Hinayana rock-cut architecture and holds the distinction of being the largest rock-cut Chaitya hall in India.