Question

The 'Seven Pagodas' of Mahabalipuram are a witness to the art patronized by the ?

• A. Pallavas
• B. Pandyas
• C. Cholas
• D. Cheras

Hint:

Mahabalipuram temples = Pallavas (7th-8th century). Always connect them with shore temples and rock-cut architecture.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is famous for its rock-cut architecture and shore temples.
Step 2: These were built during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, especially under Narasimhavarman I and Rajasimha.
Step 3: The "Seven Pagodas" refers to a group of temples on the shore, of which only the Shore Temple survives prominently. \[ \boxed{\text{Pallavas}} \]

Answer 2

Match each dynasty to its known centre of artistic patronage to see which one fits Mahabalipuram.

1. Option 1 (Pallavas): The Pallava dynasty, ruling from Kanchipuram, developed Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) as a major port and carved its rock-cut monuments and shore temples, popularly called the "Seven Pagodas."
2. Option 2 (Pandyas): The Pandyas were centred around Madurai and are known for temples like the Meenakshi Temple, not the Mahabalipuram shore monuments.
3. Option 3 (Cholas): The Cholas are famous for the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur and Chola bronzes, a different architectural tradition from the Mahabalipuram carvings.
4. Option 4 (Cheras): The Cheras ruled over the Kerala region and left a different, distinct artistic legacy unrelated to Mahabalipuram.

The rock-cut art of Mahabalipuram is firmly attributed to Pallava patronage.

So, the correct answer is Pallavas.