UPSC Mains 2024 GS1 Q2: model answer

The Pallavas ruled from Kanchipuram between roughly the sixth and ninth centuries CE. They laid the foundation of the Dravidian temple style.

Art and architecture

• Rock-cut caves (Mahendravarman I): mandapas at Mandagapattu and elsewhere, made 'without brick, timber or mortar', as his inscription says.
• Monolithic rathas and reliefs (Narasimhavarman I 'Mamalla'): the Pancha Rathas and the great relief known as Arjuna's Penance or Descent of the Ganga at Mamallapuram.
• Structural temples (Rajasimha): the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram and the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi.
• Later the Vaikuntha Perumal temple at Kanchi; Mamallapuram monuments are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Literature

• Mahendravarman I wrote the Sanskrit satire Mattavilasa Prahasana.
• Dandin, author of Dashakumaracharita, is associated with the Pallava court.
• Bhakti hymns of the Alvars and Nayanars in Tamil flourished.
• Kanchi's ghatika was a centre of learning; Pallava Grantha script spread to Southeast Asia.

The Pallavas moved Indian architecture from cave to free-standing temple, a model later perfected by the Cholas.