Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India

Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. –UPSC 2024 10m,150w

The Pallavas of Kanchi (circa 4th to 9th century CE) made a profound contribution to the development of art and literature in South India. Their reign is often seen as a golden period of cultural and architectural achievements that laid the foundation for later dynasties like the Cholas and Vijayanagaras.

Contribution to Art

1. Temple Architecture:

• The Pallavas pioneered the transition from rock-cut cave temples to structural temples, significantly influencing temple architecture in South India.
• Examples:
  • Rock-cut Temples: The Pallavas began with excavating rock-cut temples like the Mahabalipuram cave temples under the reign of Mahendravarman I. These cave temples, dedicated to various deities, display intricate carvings and detailed relief work.
  • Rathas (Monolithic Temples): The Pancha Rathas at Mahabalipuram are five monolithic temples named after the Pandavas, carved out of a single rock, each with a different architectural style. These were built during the reign of Narasimhavarman I.
  • Structural Temples: The transition to structural temples began under Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) with the construction of the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram, one of the earliest examples of a granite-built temple. This temple, with its two shrines dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, shows the architectural sophistication achieved during Pallava rule.

2. Sculpture:

• Pallava sculptures are celebrated for their detailed and expressive quality, often depicting mythological scenes from Hinduism.
• Example: The magnificent bas-relief “Descent of the Ganges” or “Arjuna’s Penance” at Mahabalipuram is a large open-air rock sculpture that illustrates a dynamic and detailed narrative from Hindu mythology. It demonstrates the artistic prowess of Pallava artisans in both scale and storytelling.

3. Paintings:

• Though most Pallava paintings have not survived due to the impermanence of materials, fragments at places like Sittanavasal indicate their proficiency in mural art.
• Example: Sittanavasal cave paintings (though later than the Pallavas, they continue their tradition of rock art), which depict Jain themes, show the impact of Pallava mural techniques.

Contribution to Literature

1. Promotion of Sanskrit and Tamil:

• The Pallavas were patrons of both Sanskrit and Tamil literature, which flourished during their reign.
• Sanskrit: Pallava kings like Mahendravarman I were not only patrons but also creators of literary works. Mahendravarman I authored the famous Sanskrit play “Mattavilasa Prahasana”, a farcical play that provides a glimpse into the religious and social life of the time.
• Tamil: The Pallavas were instrumental in the development of Tamil literature. They supported the Tamil poet Thirugnanasambandar, one of the three great Saivaite saints, whose devotional hymns (Tevaram) are still revered in Tamil Nadu.

2. Establishment of Education Centers:

• The Pallavas contributed to the development of educational institutions, which became centers of learning for Sanskrit and Tamil.
• Example: Kanchi (Kanchipuram), the capital of the Pallavas, became a major center of learning, attracting scholars and religious figures from various parts of India and Southeast Asia. It was here that the famous philosopher Bodhidharma, who later spread Zen Buddhism to China, studied.

3. Religious Literature:

• The Pallavas also supported the Bhakti movement, which gave rise to a rich tradition of devotional literature in both Tamil and Sanskrit.
• Example: The Nayanars and Alvars, the Tamil Saiva and Vaishnava poets, flourished during Pallava rule. Their hymns, composed in praise of Lord Shiva and Vishnu, are cornerstones of Tamil devotional literature. The Pallavas patronized temples where these poets would sing their hymns.

Conclusion:

The Pallavas of Kanchi significantly contributed to the development of South Indian art and literature by innovating temple architecture, fostering sculptural and painting traditions, and promoting literary and religious activities.