Mahakali Caves

Mumbai, with all its glory, street madness and nightlife, also has little corners in between which hide some precious old gems. Mahakali Caves in Andheri East are the hidden architectural & historical gems which make for a beautiful place to relax and escape the city chaos. These caves were termed as Kondivite Caves by James Campbell for being located nearby the Kondivite village. A group of 19 rock cut caves is 2000 years old and served as a Buddhist monastery back in those days. These rock-cut ‘chaityas’ & ‘viharas’ (chapels & cathedrals of the Buddhist) were built between 1st century BC & 6th century AD. It can easily be noticed that Kondivite Caves were carved out and embellished in two different time period. The visible difference reflects in Hindu influence on the later era of construction. Although these caves aren’t as huge as the caves in Ajanta & Ellora, but these have their own special designs. The architecture and stone carvings amply suggest that Mahakali or Kondivite Caves were home to Buddhist monks some time in history. One can find scriptures written in Pali, which is an ancient language, said to be older than Sanskrit even. Even though the caves are named as Mahakali Caves, the Kondivite Caves have nothing to do with Goddess Kali. Though most of the caves, being ‘viharas’, are simple in design and embellishment but the Cave number IX, a ‘chaitya’, is sumptuously decorated with carvings. It’s uniquely semicircular, so, the local people called it ‘Anasicha Kamara’ – granary.