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Mamallapuram Mamallapuram, 60 km, south of Madras is a World Heritage centre famed for the impressive rock-cut temples and a beach that allures fun seekers by the thousands. Built by Emperor Mahendravarman, Mamallapuram was a port for the Pallavas, one of the Great Indian Emperors. However it was during the reign of Narasimhavarman I, that the town emerged as a prominent point for trade. Infact, the world "Mammalla" which means Great Wrestler was the title given to Narasimhavarman I. The Pallavas who ruled from Kanchipuram commissioned a guild of sculptors to work on granite and create an astonishing variety of excavated temples, monoliths and bas reliefs. Mamallapuram earlier known as Mahabalipuram saw the glorious exchange of trade on its shores. On the sandy shores stand a multitude of exquisite expressions in stone. The intricately carved caves narrate tales of Indian mythology. All these creative depictions are an eloquent testimony of the craftsmen’s inherent artistic talents of a bygone era. Arjuna’s Penance
Arjuna’s Penance is the world’s largest bas-relief. This 27 metre long and 8 metre
high massive rock panel is titled after the Mahabharatha hero, Arjuna. The vast scene
of Arjuna invoking Lord Shiva is a marvel. The "Descent of the Ganga", which is
another interpretation of the bas-relief, is a brilliant composition in stone. Myriad
ornamental figures of celestial beings are shown adoring the divine spectacle. Among
the other exclusive frescoes are the re-creations of the Panchatantra tales.
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The Shore Temple
The Shore Temple was built during the rule of the Pallava king Rajasimha. One should view the structure at the onset of dawn. A spellbinding view of the sunrays envelope the edifice. The brilliant glow is an unforgettable sight. At dusk twilight transcends yet another bewitching view. The temple with its beautiful polygonal dome enshrines Lord Vishnu and Shiva. Vibrant sculptures that adorn the eye-catching columned porch make the monument a masterpiece. |
Mamallapuram Dance Festival
Every year in January the town celebrates a month long ‘Mamallapuram Dance Festival’ performed by renowned exponents of the art. While the stones pulsate rhythm and life, Mamallapuram stirs up to celebrate the cultural extravaganza where Odissi, Kuchupudi, Kathakali, Bharatanatyam and the most expressive of Indian classical dances are performed against the magnificent backdrop of temple, sand and sea. |
Mandapam
Mandapams, similar to porticos, are grand specimens of art. Scooped out of solid rock from a hillside, each mandapam or cave temple depicts exclusive carvings rich in detail. A serene pastoral scene at the Krishna Mandapam shows Lord Krishnan lifting the Goverdhan mountain, to protect his kinsfolk from the worth of Rain God Indra. The Varaha Cave portrays the two avatars (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu, as Varaha and Vamana. Mahishasuramardini cave has a lively portrayal of Goddess Durga all set to slay the buffalo headed demon. Yet another execllent bas relief depicts Lord Vishnu resting on the coils of Adisesha, the serpent. |
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