.
Design Resource
Stone Carving - Mahabalipuram
The Skillful Crafts in Stone
by
Prof. Bibhudutta Baral, Antony William and Aruna Kumari
History of Monuments
The antique stone architecture of Mahabalipuram talks about the stone carving history of Mahabalipuram. The fascinating towers of famous “Shore temple” which is one of the "Seven pagodas” were constructed by King Narasimha Varman in 18th century during Pallava period. The five monolithic Rathas (chariots) are carved in granite and can be seen in pyramidal structures and are named as Dharma raja Ratha, Bhima Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Draupadi Ratha, Nakul Sahadev Ratha. These Rathas are carved from one single piece of stone which is an interesting attribute. The world famous Arjuna’s Penance which is an episode from Hindu epic Mahabharata is excellently composed with great passion to represent classical essence. Dharma raja Ratha with its highly skilled carvings involves complicated decorative forms. The monolithic rock-cut architecture of Varaha cave temple is a testimony to creative imagination. All these monuments are the outstanding examples of Pallavas art and architecture and remarkable in Indian cultural heritage.
