Q. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India.

 

Q. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India.

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Introduction:

The Pallavas of Kanchi (3rd–9th century CE) played a pivotal role in the cultural transformation of South India. Their rule marked the transition from rock-cut to structural temples, and they were generous patrons of Sanskrit and Tamil literature. Under their patronage, South Indian art and literature flourished, influencing future dynasties like the Cholas and even Southeast Asia.

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Contribution to Art:

🔸 Architecture:

• Rock-Cut Temples:

  • Under Mahendravarman I (600–630 CE), the tradition of rock-cut cave temples began.

  • Examples: Mandagapattu, Mahendravadi, and Pillayarpatti.

  • Introduction of simple pillars, minimal ornamentation, and focus on shaivite deities.

• Monolithic Rathas:

  • Under Narasimhavarman I (Mamallan), the famous Pancha Rathas at Mahabalipuram were carved.

  • Each ratha is dedicated to a Pandava and showcases early Dravidian architectural forms.

• Structural Temples:

  • Pallavas pioneered stone-built structural temples in South India.

  • Example: Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram – earliest examples of granite temples in Tamil Nadu.

  • Served as models for later Chola temples.

• Vastu and Iconography:

  • Detailed temple planning evolved.

  • Iconographic schemes and vigrahas (images) were standardized in temple worship.

🔸 Sculpture and Reliefs:

• Famous bas-reliefs like Descent of the Ganga (Arjuna’s Penance) at Mahabalipuram.

• Realistic human and animal forms, rich in movement and symbolism.

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Contribution to Literature:

🔸 Sanskrit Literature:

• Bharavi, author of Kiratarjuniya, is believed to have visited the Pallava court.

• Dandin, the renowned Sanskrit grammarian and author of Dashakumaracharita, flourished during the Pallava rule.

• Mahendravarman I himself wrote the Sanskrit play Mattavilasa Prahasana, a satirical drama.

🔸 Tamil Literature:

• Though Sanskrit was dominant in court, Tamil language received support too.

• Shaiva and Vaishnava bhakti poets (like Appar, Sambandar, and Nammalvar) composed devotional hymns during Pallava rule, indirectly benefiting from their religious patronage.

🔸 Education and Learning:

• Establishment of Kanchi (Kanchipuram) as a center of learning and scholarship.

• Attracted students from all over India and even abroad (like Southeast Asia).

• Kanchi was one of the earliest educational hubs in South India.

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Conclusion:

The Pallavas of Kanchi were trailblazers in the field of art and literature in South India. Their temple architecture laid the foundation of the Dravidian style, and their support for Sanskrit and Tamil scholarship nurtured a rich literary tradition. Their cultural legacy endured, deeply influencing the Chola period, Bhakti movement, and even Southeast Asian temple architecture like Angkor Wat.