This prayer hall is larger than No 19 and is embellished with much more decorative work than any other shrines at Ajanta. Following the same plan, it had pillared Verandah outside and within it is a hall with pillars. The stupa that once dominated the interior view of the chaitya griha has now a shrine alcove for the image of the seated Buddha. The elaborate bands of sculptures around the stupa and above the carved pillars are very distinct and form an effec tive mode of decoration. From this ornate lower portion, the rafters of the vaulted roof spring with simplicity and grace. On the left wall of the aisle, near the side doorway, are two profound sculptured panels.
The first is the ahaparinirvana with a gigantic (7 metre long) figure of the Buddha reclining on his side on a couch, as though preparing to die, to gain everlasting release from the cycle of life. Below the couch are figures of his disciples mourning the departure of their teacher and guide. The sheer scale of the composition makes it one of the most unusual images at Ajanta. The next panel is also on the same wall and depicts the great scene of the Temptation of the Buddha or Bhumisparsha, when the Buddha calls on the earth to be his witness. The Buddha is seen seated under a huge tree, the Bodhi Tree beneath which he was to attain enlightenment.