A group of 5 Monolithic rockcutshrines at Mahabalipuram were excavated during the rule of the Pallava King _______

The correct answer is - Narasimhavarman I

Key Points

• Narasimhavarman I
  • Also known as Mamalla, he ruled the Pallava dynasty from 630 to 668 CE.
  • The group of five monolithic rock-cut shrines at Mahabalipuram, known as the Pancha Rathas, was excavated during his reign.
  • These shrines are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, although there is no historical link to them.
  • Narasimhavarman I is credited for transforming Mahabalipuram into a hub of art, architecture, and culture.
  • These shrines are a prime example of Dravidian architecture and were carved out of single granite blocks (monoliths).

Additional Information

• Pancha Rathas
  • These are five rock-cut temples, each resembling a chariot, and are named as follows:
    • Dharmaraja Ratha
    • Bhima Ratha
    • Arjuna Ratha
    • Draupadi Ratha
    • Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha
  • These structures are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and represent the early stages of Dravidian temple architecture.
  • The shrines are not functional temples as they were never consecrated for worship.
• Significance of Mahabalipuram
  • Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was an important port city during the Pallava dynasty.
  • The site is renowned for its rock-cut sculptures, cave temples, and structural temples like the Shore Temple.
  • The artistic achievements of the Pallavas in Mahabalipuram laid the foundation for later South Indian temple architecture.
• Pallava Dynasty
  • The Pallavas ruled Southern India from the 3rd to 9th centuries CE.
  • They were patrons of art and architecture, with Mahabalipuram being their most celebrated contribution.
  • Other prominent Pallava rulers include Mahendravarman I (known for cave temples) and Narasimhavarman II (builder of the Shore Temple).