The town of temples , sand and sea- Mamallapuram, formerly known as Mahabalipuram, is world renowned for its beautiful Shore temple. It was once the main port and naval base of the great Pallava Kingdom and was later made the capital of this dynasty. ‘Mamalla’ meaning the great wrestler, was the name given to Narasimha Varman I. Most of the temples and sculptures in Mamallapuram dedicated ti Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, were completed between 630 AD and 728 AD during the reign of Narosimha Varman i and Narasimha Varman II.
Sand, water and temples set the backdrop for the graceful and evocative dancers who celebrate the ancient Indian culture and tradition at the annual Mamallapuram Dance Festival held during January and February. Here the expressive Indian Classical dancers adorned in traditional costumes perform Odissi, Kuchupudi, Kathakali and Bharatnatyam.
The quaint little town of Mamallapuram is enriched with ancient and splendid sculptures. Each of the beautiful works of art has a story to tell. Like the large 27m by 9m bas-relief that narrates the tale of Arjuna’s Penance. Arjuna win back the Pandava Empire. A fascinating combination of humans, animals and celestial beings seem to be rushing to the reversed scene. Most prominent among them is a 4.8 m majestic elephant leading a procession. Also known as the Descent of the Ganga, this impressive canvas portray the life giving River Ganges flowing out from its high source in the Himalayas. Enchanting stories from the Panchatantra, are also a part of this magnificent bas-relief.