[Ancient History - Notes]*Chapter 14. The Pallavas Dynasty

 

[Ancient History - Notes]*Chapter 14. The Pallavas Dynasty

Notes of Ancient History - The Pallavas Dynasty 

Following the decline of the Sangam Age, a period marked by flourishing Tamil literature and culture, the Tamil country experienced a significant political upheaval. The Kalabhra dynasty, whose origins remain somewhat obscure, emerged and established control over the region for approximately two centuries. This period, often referred to as the "Dark Age" of Tamil history, was marked by a relative decline in literary activity and historical records.

The Kalabhra Interregnum

 * Decline of the Sangam Age: Following the flourishing of Tamil literature and culture during the Sangam Age, the region experienced significant political upheaval.

 * Emergence of the Kalabhra dynasty: The Kalabhra dynasty, of obscure origins, gained control over the Tamil country for approximately two centuries.

 * "Dark Age": This period is often referred to as the "Dark Age" due to the relative decline in literary activity and historical records.

The Pallavas: A Cultural Renaissance

 * Rise to power: The Pallavas established their kingdom with Kanchipuram as its capital.

 * Cultural achievements: The Pallavas made significant contributions to art, architecture, literature, and philosophy.

 * Patronage of scholars and artists: The Pallavas supported renowned intellectuals and artists, fostering a cultural renaissance.

The Cholas: A New Era

 * Rise of the Cholas: The Imperial Cholas, originating from the Kaveri Delta region, expanded southward.

 * Conquest of Tondaimandalam: The Cholas conquered the Pallavas' heartland, marking the end of Pallavan rule.

 * Dominance in South India: The Cholas became the dominant force in South India.

The Origin of the Pallavas: A Contested Topic

The origins of the Pallavas, a prominent dynasty in South Indian history, have been a subject of scholarly debate for centuries. Various theories have been proposed, but none have been definitively proven.

Various Theories

 * Parthian origin: Some scholars equate the Pallavas with the Parthians, a foreign dynasty.

 * Vakataka connection: Another theory suggests they were a branch of the Vakatakas.

 * Chola-Naga lineage: A third theory links them to the descendants of a Chola prince and a Naga princess.

Lack of Definite Evidence

 * These theories lack sufficient historical evidence to be conclusive.

Indigenous Origin

 * Tondaimandalam: The Pallavas were likely indigenous to this region.

 * Prakrit and Sanskrit inscriptions: Support their association with the Satavahanas, who conquered Tondaimandalam.

 * Early patronage of Brahmanism: Further evidence of their connection to the Satavahanas.

Possible Identity with the Pulindas

 * The Pallavas might have been identical to the Pulindas, a tribal people mentioned in Ashoka's inscriptions.

 * Asserted independence after the Satavahanas' decline.

The origins of the Pallavas remain a subject of scholarly debate, with various theories lacking sufficient historical evidence. The most widely accepted view is that they were indigenous to Tondaimandalam and may have been associated with the Satavahanas. Their possible identity with the Pulindas adds another layer to the complexity of their origins.

The Political History of the Pallavas

The Pallavas' political history can be divided into three distinct phases based on the language used in their charters.

Early Pallavas (250-350 AD)

 * Prakrit charters: Reflect their close association with the Satavahanas.

 * Notable rulers: Sivaskandavarman and Vijayaskandavarman.

Second Line of Pallavas (350-550 AD)

 * Sanskrit charters: Indicate a shift towards Brahmanical influence.

 * Vishnugopa: Defeated by Samudragupta during his southern campaign.

Third Line of Pallavas (575-9th century AD)

 * Sanskrit and Tamil charters: Symbolizing their growing cultural and political influence.

 * Simhavishnu: Founder of this line, established Pallava dominance in Tondaimandalam.

 * Defeat of the Kalabras and Cholas: Expanded the Pallava territory up to the Kaveri River.

 * Other notable rulers: Mahendravarman I, Narasimhavarman I, and Narasimhavarman II.

 * Consolidation of Pallava power: Furthered Pallava dominance and contributed to their cultural and artistic achievements.

The Pallavas' political history can be divided into three distinct phases based on the language used in their charters. Their early period was influenced by the Satavahanas, while the later periods witnessed a shift towards Brahmanical influence and the establishment of Pallava dominance in South India.

Mahendravarman I (600 – 630 A.D.): A Patron of Arts and Culture

Mahendravarman I (600-630 AD) was a significant ruler of the Pallava dynasty, known for his contributions to art, culture, and religion. His reign was marked by the long-drawn Pallava-Chalukya conflict, which began when Pulakesin II of the Chalukya dynasty invaded and captured the northern part of the Pallava kingdom. Despite claiming a victory at Pullalur, Mahendravarman I was unable to reclaim the lost territory.

Key Points:

 * Pallava-Chalukya conflict: Faced a long-drawn conflict with the Chalukya dynasty, losing northern territories to Pulakesin II.

 * Inability to reclaim lost territory: Despite claiming a victory at Pullalur, Mahendravarman I was unable to regain the lost territory.

Religious Journey

 * Initial Jain follower: Initially adhered to Jainism.

 * Conversion to Saivism: Influenced by the Saiva saint Thirunavukkarasar.

 * Construction of Siva temple: Built the Siva temple at Tiruvadi as a devotee of Shiva.

Patronage of the Arts

 * Various titles: Assumed titles like Gunabhara, Satyasantha, Chettakari, Chitrakarapuli, Vichitrachitta, and Mattavilasa.

 * Architectural achievements: Renowned for his rock-cut temple construction.

 * Cave temples: Built temples at Vallam, Mahendravadi, Dalavanur, Pallavaram, Mandagappattu, and Tiruchirappalli.

 * Artistic skills: Talented artist and musician.

 * Mattavilasa Prahasanam: Authored a comic play.

 * Music inscription: Credited with the music inscription at Kudumianmalai.

Mahendravarman I was a significant Pallava ruler known for his contributions to art, culture, and religion. Despite facing challenges from the Chalukya dynasty, he left a lasting legacy as a patron of the arts and a devotee of Saivism. His rock-cut temples and artistic endeavors continue to be admired and studied today.

Narasimhavarman I (630-668 A.D.): A Conqueror and Patron of Arts

Narasimhavarman I, also known as Mamalla (meaning "great wrestler"), ascended the Pallava throne in 630 AD. He was determined to avenge his father's defeat at the hands of the Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.

Military Conquests

 * Ascended the throne: Succeeded Mahendravarman I in 630 AD.

 * Avenged father's defeat: Determined to avenge his father's defeat against Pulakesin II.

 * Battle of Manimangalam: Achieved a significant victory over Pulakesin II.

 * Capture of Vatapi: Pursued Chalukya forces into their capital city, Vatapi, and captured it.

 * Title "Vatapikonda": Earned the title "Conqueror of Vatapi" for his victory.

 * Naval expeditions: Restored the Sri Lankan throne to his friend, Manavarma.

Hiuen Tsang's Account

 * Visit to Kanchipuram: The Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang visited the Pallava capital.

 * Description of Kanchipuram: Described the city as a large and beautiful metropolis with 100 Buddhist monasteries and 10,000 Buddhist monks.

 * Emphasis on education: Noted the people's value for education and the Ghatika's prominence as a center of learning.

Architectural Achievements

 * Founder of Mamallapuram: Established the renowned coastal town south of Chennai.

 * Monolithic rathas: Constructed the iconic rock-cut temples resembling chariots.

 * Artistic and engineering skills: Demonstrated the Pallavas' artistic and engineering prowess.

Narasimhavarman II or Rajasimha (695 -722 A.D.): A Patron of Arts and Architecture

Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, ruled the Pallava kingdom from 695 to 722 AD. He succeeded Mahendravarman II and Parameswarvarman I, during whose reigns the Pallava-Chalukya conflict continued.

Reign and Peaceful Period

 * Ruled the Pallava kingdom: Succeeded Mahendravarman II and Parameswarvarman I.

 * Peaceful reign: Unlike his predecessors, Rajasimha's reign was relatively peaceful.

Architectural Marvels

 * Shore Temple at Mamallapuram: A renowned architectural masterpiece.

 * Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchipuram: Another iconic temple built during his reign.

Patronage of Arts and Letters

 * Dandin: The renowned Sanskrit scholar Dandin is believed to have been associated with Rajasimha's court.

 * Maritime trade and embassies: Fostered maritime trade and sent embassies to China.

Titles and Achievements

 * Assumed various titles: Sankarabhakta, Vadhyavidyadhara, and Agamapriya.

 * Continued Pallava rule: The Pallava dynasty continued for another century after Rajasimha.

 * Defeat by the Cholas: The Pallava rule ended in the late 9th century AD with the defeat by Aditya I.

Narasimhavarman II, or Rajasimha, was a significant Pallava ruler who focused on cultural and artistic development during his peaceful reign. His patronage of arts and letters, along with the construction of iconic temples, left a lasting legacy on the Pallava dynasty.

The Administrative System of the Pallavas

The Pallavas had a well-structured administrative system that ensured efficient governance of their kingdom.

Administrative Units

 * Kottams: The Pallava state was divided into smaller administrative units called Kottams.

 * King as the center: The king, assisted by ministers, was the ultimate source of justice.

Order and Security

 * Well-trained army: The king maintained a well-trained army to ensure order and security.

 * Religious and cultural institutions: Promoted by granting land to temples and Brahmins.

Irrigation Facilities

 * Central government responsibility: The central government provided irrigation facilities.

 * Irrigation tanks: Numerous tanks were constructed by Pallava kings, such as those at Mahendravadi and Mamandoor..

Tax System

 * Land tax: The primary source of government revenue.

 * Exemptions: Brahmadeya and Devadhana lands were exempt from land tax.

 * Other taxes: Taxes were also collected from traders, artisans, and various craftsmen.

Local Governance

 * Village assemblies (sabhas): Played a crucial role in local governance.

 * Committees: Sabhas had committees for land records, local affairs, and temple administration.

The Pallava administrative system, as evidenced by the inscriptions, demonstrates a well-organized and efficient approach to governance, contributing to the dynasty's long-lasting rule.

Society Under the Pallavas: A Period of Transformation

The Pallava period witnessed significant social and religious changes in Tamil society. The caste system became more rigid during this time, with Brahmins occupying a privileged position. They were granted land by kings and nobles and entrusted with the responsibility of managing temples.

Caste System

 * Increased rigidity: The caste system became more rigid during the Pallava period.

 * Brahmin privilege: Brahmins occupied a privileged position, receiving land grants and managing temples.

Rise of Saivism and Vaishnavism

 * Decline of Buddhism and Jainism: The influence of Buddhism and Jainism waned.

 * Bhakti movement: The Bhakti movement, emphasizing devotion, gained momentum.

 * Saiva Nayanmars and Vaishnava Alvars: Renowned poets and saints who promoted Saivism and Vaishnavism through their Tamil hymns.

Construction of Temples

 * Spread of Saivism and Vaishnavism: Numerous temples built by Pallava kings facilitated the spread of these religions.

 * Centers of worship and cultural activity: Temples served as important centers for devotees and cultural activities.

The Pallava period witnessed significant social and religious transformations. The rise of the caste system, the prominence of Brahmins, and the growth of Saivism and Vaishnavism were defining characteristics of this era. The Bhakti movement and the construction of temples played crucial roles in shaping the religious landscape of Tamil Nadu.

Education, Literature, and the Arts Under the Pallavas

The Pallavas were ardent patrons of learning, and their capital, Kanchi, was a renowned center of education. The Ghatika, a prestigious institution in Kanchi, attracted students from across India and beyond. Notable figures like Mayurasarman, the founder of the Kadamba dynasty, Dinganaga, a Buddhist writer, and Dharmapala, who later headed the Nalanda University, studied at Kanchi.

Education

 * Kanchi as a center of learning: The Pallava capital, Kanchi, was a renowned educational hub.

 * Ghatika: The Ghatika, a prestigious institution, attracted students from across India and beyond.

 * Notable students: Mayurasarman, Dinganaga, and Dharmapala studied at Kanchi.

Sanskrit Literature

 * Bharavi: A celebrated Sanskrit scholar who lived during Simhavishnu's time.

 * Dandin: Another prominent Sanskrit writer associated with Narasimhavarman II's court.

 * Mahendravarman I: Authored the Sanskrit play Mattavilasaprahasanam.

Tamil Literature

 * Saiva Nayanmars and Vaishnava Alvars: Renowned for their religious hymns.

 * Devaram and Nalayiradivyaprabandam: Masterpieces of Tamil religious literature.

 * Perundevanar: Translated the Mahabharata into Tamil as Bharathavenba.

 * Nandikkalambagam: Another important Tamil work.

Music and Dance

 * Flourishing arts: Music and dance flourished during the Pallava era.

 * Pallava support: The Pallavas supported these arts, and their courts were likely centers of performances.

The Pallavas were ardent patrons of learning, and their reign witnessed significant developments in Sanskrit and Tamil literature, as well as the arts of music and dance. Kanchi, the Pallava capital, played a crucial role in fostering education and intellectual pursuits. The contributions of scholars, poets, and saints during this period enriched the cultural landscape of South India.

Pallava Art and Architecture: A Golden Age

The Pallava period marked a significant era in the development of South Indian art and architecture. The Pallavas introduced the innovative technique of excavating temples from rock, laying the foundation for the Dravidian style of temple architecture. This style evolved gradually, beginning with cave temples, progressing to monolithic rathas, and culminating in structural temples.

Rock-Cut Temples (Early Stage)

 * Innovative technique: Introduced by Mahendravarman I.

 * Locations: Mandagappattu, Mahendravadi, Mamandur, Dalavanur, Tiruchirappalli, Vallam, Siyamangalam, and Tirukalukkunram.

Monolithic Rathas and Mandapas (Second Stage)

 * Mamallapuram: The iconic structures are located at Mamallapuram.

 * Panchapanadava rathas: Represent different styles of temple architecture.

 * Mandapas: Mahishasuramardhini Mandapa, Tirumurthi Mandapam, and Varaha Madapam.

Structural Temples (Third Stage)

 * Rajasimha's introduction: Ushered in by Rajasimha.

 * Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi: A masterpiece of Pallava art.

 * Shore temple at Mamallapuram: Another example of early structural temples.

 * Later Pallava temples: Vaikundaperumal temple, Muktheeswara temple, and Matagenswara temples.

Sculpture

 * Open Art Gallery at Mamallapuram: A treasure trove of sculptures.

 * Descent of the Ganges and Penance of Arjuna: Intricate details and themes.

 * Other sculptures: Lice-picking monkey, colossal elephants, and the "ascetic cat."

The Pallavas made significant contributions to South Indian art and architecture. Their innovative rock-cut temples, monolithic rathas, and structural temples showcase their mastery of stone carving and architectural techniques. The sculptures at Mamallapuram further demonstrate the Pallavas' artistic excellence.

Fine Arts Under the Pallavas

The Pallavas fostered the development of music, dance, and painting. The Mamandur inscription provides insights into the notation of vocal music, while the Kudumianmalai inscription references musical notes and instruments. The Saiva Nayanmars and Vaishnava Alvars, renowned for their religious hymns, composed their works using various musical notes.

Music

 * Mamandur inscription: Provides insights into the notation of vocal music.

 * Kudumianmalai inscription: References musical notes and instruments.

 * Saiva Nayanmars and Vaishnava Alvars: Composed their hymns using various musical notes.

Dance

 * Sculptures: Depict numerous dancing postures, reflecting the popularity of dance.

 * Sittannavasal paintings: Vibrant colors and intricate details, dating back to the Pallava period.

Painting

 * Mahendravarman I: Known as "Chittirakkarapuli" (lion among painters).

 * Dakshinchitra: Commissioned a commentary on painting principles and techniques.

The Pallavas' patronage of the arts contributed to the development of music, dance, and painting. The inscriptions and artistic works from this period offer valuable insights into the cultural and artistic landscape of Pallava society.

Overview of The Pallavas Dynasty 

The Pallavas, a dynasty that ruled South India from the 3rd to the 9th centuries AD, played a pivotal role in shaping the region's cultural and political landscape. Following the decline of the Sangam Age, the Pallavas emerged as a dominant force, establishing their kingdom with Kanchipuram as its capital.

 * Dominant force in South India: The Pallavas emerged as a significant power following the decline of the Sangam Age.

 * Cultural and political landscape: Played a pivotal role in shaping the region's cultural and political landscape.

 * Achievements in art, architecture, literature, and philosophy: Known for their contributions to these fields.

 * Patronage of scholars and artists: Fostered intellectual and artistic renaissance.

 * Iconic architectural marvels: Mamallapuram's rathas and Kailasanatha temple showcase their architectural prowess.

 * Enduring legacy: The Pallavas' cultural and artistic traditions continue to influence South India.

Key Contributions

 * Development of Dravidian style of temple architecture: Pioneered this architectural style.

 * Flourishing of Tamil literature: Supported the growth of Tamil literature.

 * Patronage of the arts: Encouraged the development of music, dance, and painting.

The Pallavas' reign marked a significant period in South Indian history, characterized by cultural achievements and artistic excellence. Their contributions continue to be celebrated and admired today.