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Source-This post on Kotravai sculpture from the Pallava era found is based on the article “Kotravai sculpture from Pallava period unearthed near Ulundurpet” published in “The New Indian Express” on 14th February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, archaeologists unearthed an eighth-century Kotravai sculpture, an artifact dating back to the Pallava period, near Ulundurpet, Tamil Nadu.
What does the discovery suggest?
1. It is crafted from slab stone during the eighth century Pallava period.
2. The sculpture portrays items like chakkara, sword, bell, and abhaya mudra in its right hands, while the left hands display a conch, bow, shield, and Uru Mudhra, along with bangles in all hands.
What are the significant details regarding the Pallava Dynasty?
| Aspect | Details |
| About | 1. The Pallava Dynasty was a prominent force in South India that existed between the 3rd and 9th Centuries. 2. They governed northern Tamil Nadu, sections of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with Kanchipuram as their capital. |
| Origin | 1. They were earlier feudatories of Andhra Satavahanas. 2. Following the decline of the Andhra Satavahanas in Amaravati, the Pallavas gained autonomy and grew independent 3. They gradually moved southward and established their capital in Kanchipuram during the 4th century CE. |
| Foreign Traveler Account | 1. Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited Kanchipuram during the Pallava era, praised their kind rule. 2. He portrayed Bodhidharma, the founder of the Chan (Zen) school of Buddhism in China, as a prince of the Pallava empire. |
| Notable Kings | During the reigns of Mahendravarman I (571 – 630 CE) and Narasimhavarman I (630 – 668 CE), the Pallava realm experienced increased wealth and strength. |
| Architecture | 1. The Pallava Dynasty was renowned for their contributions to Dravidian architecture, particularly in temple construction. 2. They played a pivotal role in shifting from rock-cut architecture to stone temples. 3. Mahabalipuram, a significant hub of art, architecture, and literature during Pallava rule, showcases their remarkable achievements. 4. Narasimhavarman II commissioned the construction of the Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram and the Shore Temple. |
| Religion | They embraced Shaivism, a local religion, and identified as Dravidians. |
| Combat | 1. The Pallava Dynasty engaged in persistent battles with the Chalukya Dynasty to the north and the Tamil kingdoms of Chola and Pandyas to the south. 2. Their conflicts with the Chalukyas of Badami persisted until they were eventually subdued by the Chola kings in the 8th century CE. |
| Decline | 1. The rise of the Rashtrakutas led to the decline of the Pallava Dynasty. 2. In 897 AD, Vijayalaya, the Chola King, defeated Aparajitavarman, the last Pallava King, completely. |
UPSC Syllabus- History and Art & Culture
