The art and architecture that came into being during their reign speak for the glory of the Pallavas. The Pallavas were pioneers in art and architecture in the south.
The Pallavas constructed the first stone and mortar temples of south India. They also made cave temples, rock sculptures and brick temples, all of which can be found at Mahabalipuram.
Rock-cut temples came to be built in various parts of Tamil Nadu during the period of Mahendravarman I, the most important ones being at Pallavaram, Mamandur and Thalavanur. Narasimhavarman I became famous for building monolithic rathas, the notable ones being the fall of the river Ganga from the head of Lord Shiva, and Arjuna’s penance.
The construction of structural temples began during the reign of Rajasimha. They came to be known so as they were built using granite slabs. The Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram, with two vimanas surrounded by seated nandis is one of the remarkable structural temples.
Picture Credit : Google