How did architecture evolve under successive Pallava rulers? What was the contribution of Pallava architecture to the development of the Dravidian architectural style?
Main Body
Pallavas in 6-8 century live the heritage of rich Dravidian Architecture in south India. [DIAGRAM PRESENT: Two simple sketches showing 'Pallavas at Peak' with architectural elements, and 'Temple locations of Pallavas' marking Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pallavanam] Evolution of Architecture under Pallavas *Phase I - under Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavaman 1) Promoted cave architecture - Hill cut temples 2) Square, tall and tiny pillars with capital like lions' 3) Dwarapala at entry eg. Mahendrawadi, Singavanaman and Singasvara Temple 4) More advanced under Narasimhavaran eg. Panche Ratha at Pallavanam Phase 2 - Monolith Rock cut temples eg. At Mahamalai purani - Panchisvara Temple (Yudhishthir Temple as largest) Phase 3 - Structural Temple under Rajasimha - presume of theppan (water tank) and Gopuram Gateway eg. Short Temple Mahabalipuram, Kailosenath in Kanchipuram
Conclusion
Thus, Pallavas initiated temple architecture in south which was brought at its peak by Cholas in future.
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Diagram
Two diagrams showing architectural features: 'Pallavas at Peak' with curved design and temple location map
Samiksha Dwivedi
History
Pallava Architecture
Evolution of Dravidian Architecture
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