Mahabalipuram: The hub of art

Swapna

Mahabalipuram: The hub of art

India has established a considerably prestigious reputation in the field of arts and its cities contribute to its glory. Famous for its temples and monuments, Mahabalipuram has been ruling the hearts of history enthusiasts. All these architectural wonders have been loved by people. But, just like its glorious creations, its past waits to be discovered.

The town of Mahabalipuram is located in the south of Chennai, Image source- Istock

Located in the district of Chengalpattu in Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram is a centre for exceptional art. The carvings and designs created on the caves and pillars leave every tourist spellbound.

It can be a perfect date for people who are in love with art and history. The arresting patterns skillfully carved into the brownstone surfaces are enough to sway anyone. Under the blue, cloudy sky, these buildings stand with utmost grace, unfolding its history.

However, according to mythology, the place got its name in honour of King Bali, also known as Mahabali. The Vishnu Puran has a list of his exploits and acts of valour. When Lord Vishnu visited him in his Vamana incarnation, Mahabali offered himself to the him and was liberated.

Since the city was under his empire, the place became famous as Mahabalipuram ("Puram" implies a "city"). Also, the Prakrit form of the original Sanskrit name converts into Mamallapuram.

After independence, Tamil Nadu's predominance of Dravidian politics ensured that its original name would remain in use. The name "Mamallapuram" was announced in a government gazette in 1957, and the name was revived in 1964 when the historic port city was designated a village panchayat.

The town is home to some of the most famous and significant landmarks. The stunning monolithic stone structures are simply breathtaking. At Mamallapuram, a few old buildings have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city contains buildings with impressive artistic and architectural features, such as stone carvings, that reveal much about the diversity of our culture and tradition.

Today, Mahabalipuram is working to restore its reputation as the nation's top beach destination, but it hasn't fully forgotten about its colourful history. It holds annual festivals of classical dance and theatre to protect and advance the legacy of a very old culture.

Mahabalipuram is a popular resort destination also. In addition to its past heritage, it also offers a long stretch of oceanfront beach that is dotted with hotels and vacation rentals. It also houses a number of royal monuments, many of which were carved out of living rock.

The city is first referenced in a first-century work titled "Periplus of the Erythraean Sea" by an unnamed Greek traveller. In his writings, the Greek explorer Ptolemy called this place Malange.

The Pallavas' rise to renown was greatly facilitated by Narasimhavarman I's rule, which began in the year 630 BCE. Up to the end of the ninth century, the Pallavas controlled the southern Telugu region and the northern Tamil region for roughly 600 years.

From the Shore temple to the Pancha Rathas, King Narasimhavarman made the city bustle. Since he was also known as Mamalla, the place came to be known as Mamallapuram.