Pallavas Art and Architecture Pallavas were the pioneer

Pallavas Art and Architecture Ø Pallavas were the pioneer in the field of rock-cut temple architecture. Ø Pallavas monuments are mostly found at Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Siththannavasal near Puthukottai. Ø Mandagapattu Inscription mentioned about the Pallavas built temples without using bricks, timber, metal and mortar. Ø They constructed several mandapas and monolithic temples Ø Monolithic temples are known as Rathas. Ø Most of the monolithic temple constructed during the period of Mahendravarman I

Ø Patronised the learning of art and Temple building in both Cave temples and structural temple including monolithic rathas. Ø Divided into to broad divisions of architectural style 1. rock cut temple 2. structural temple Ø further divided into two Excavated pillared hall and Monolithic shrines. Ø Monolithic shrines called as Rathas Ø Rathas were commonly known as 'pagodas'

Different style of architecture followed by the Pallava rulers. Ø 1. Mahendra Style (610 -640) - Mahendravarman I Ø 2. Mamalla Style (640 - 690) - Narashimhavarman I Ø 3. Rajashimha Style (700 -900) - Rajashiman Ø 4. Aparajita Style (800 -900)- Aparajitavarman Ø According to K. A. Nilakanda Sastri 'the Pallava architecture and sculpture constitute a most brilliant chapter in the history of South India".

Mahendra Style Ø Mahendravarman I discovered new kind of architeture methods Ø he laid basic foundation for the Mahabalipuram. Ø he followed new technique that 'excavating stone temple out of solid rocks'. Ø he was the first person who started the traditio of rock-cut temple without using bricks, timber and metal. Ø Mahendra style of architecture mostly found in Tondaimandalam or in and around the Kanchipuram.

Ø Ø Ø Pillard mandapas was the special feature of the Mahendra Style. Rock-Cut Temple at Vallam, Thanjavur dist Mandagapattu, Villupuram dist Mahendravadi, Vellore dist Mamandur, Kanchipuram dist. he constructed a new town which known as Mahendramangalam near Kanchipuram. Ø Due to his intrest and contribution of art and architecture he was known as 'Vichitrachitta'.