Question

Examine Pallavas’ contributions to architecture.

Answer 1

Pallava period is known for architectural splendor. Pallava’s architecture can be classified as.

1. Rock-cut temples – Mahendravarman style.
2. Monlithic Rathas and Sculptural Mandapas – Mamallan style.
3. Structural Temples – Rajasimhan style and Nandivarman style.

• Mahendravarman Style:
  The best example of Mahendra Varma style monuments is cave temples at Mandagapattu, Mahendravadi, Mamandur, Dalavanur, Tiruchirapalli, Vallam, Tirukazhukkundram, and Siyamangalam.
•  Mamalla Style:

1. The five rathas (chariots), popularly called Panchapandavar rathas, signify five different styles of temple architecture.
2. Each ratha has been carved out of a single rock.
3. So they are called monolithic.
4. The popular mandapams they built are Mahishasuramardhini mandapam, Thirumoorthi mandapam and Varaha mandapam.
5. The most important among the Mamalla style of architecture is the open art gallery.

• Rajasimha Style and Nandivarma Style:

1. Narasimhavarma II, also known as Rajasimha, constructed structural temples using stone blocks.
2. The best example of the structural temple is the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram.
3. This temple was built by using sandstones.
4. Kailasanatha temple is called Rajasimheswaram.
5. The last stage of the Pallava architecture is also represented by structural temples built by the later Pallavas.
6. The best example is the Vaikunda Perumal temple at Kanchipuram.