Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c19.4

c19.4

changes in the Buddhist doctrine, as it continued to maintain its traditional formation, of which the essential elements were the nave, aisles, apse, stupa, and vaulted roof. The same however cannot be said of the other class of rock-cut hall, the vihara, which underwent considerable alteration. In this monastic type of hostel an innovation which affected both the plan and intention and one which at once distinguishes the Mahayana vihara from the Hinayana, is the change produced in the disposition of the innermost range of cells The appropriation of these cells originally serving as dormitories for the monks, and their conversion into sanctuaries for the reception of images of the Buddha, is significant of the alteration in the belief as a whole. It meant, firstly, that the vihara was now fulfilling the functions of both abbey and church, secondly, that relic worship was being supplanted by image worship, and thirdly, that the dominating cult of Hinduism was not only influencing the Buddhist doctrine, but also vitally affecting its art and architectural practice.