The coastal town of Mamallapuram (also known as Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and intricate sculptures. While today’s visitors can marvel at the remaining temples and monuments of this town, ancient legends speak of the famed Seven Pagodas, a term used to describe a group of temples along the coastline. Only one of these temples, the Shore Temple, still stands, while the rest are believed to have been submerged under the sea.

The legend of the Seven Pagodas gained archaeological attention in the 19th century when British explorers and scholars noted local traditions and the Shore Temple’s prominence. Subsequent studies and excavations revealed submerged ruins, corroborating parts of the ancient lore.In 2004, the tsunami temporarily exposed several underwater structures off the Mamallapuram coast. These included stone walls, platforms, and sculptures, believed to be remnants of the lost temples. Marine archaeologists have since conducted underwater explorations, uncovering more evidence of the submerged city.

The Shore Temple and other monuments face challenges from coastal erosion, salt-laden winds, and rising sea levels. Conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) aim to preserve these ancient marvels for future generations.

History of the Seven Pagodas: The Seven Pagodas are believed to have been constructed during the rule of the Pallava dynasty (4th–9th century CE), under the reigns of kings such as Narasimhavarman I (also known as Mamalla) and Rajasimha. Mamallapuram, named after King Mamalla, was a thriving port city and an artistic hub during the Pallava period.The temples were built as part of a grand architectural and religious vision to honour Hindu deities, primarily Shiva and Vishnu. They were constructed using Dravidian architectural styles with influences from Buddhist and Jain traditions.

According to legend, six of the seven temples were swallowed by the sea as divine retribution for the excessive pride and prosperity of the city. European travelers and mariners referred to the Shore Temple as part of the “Seven Pagodas,” popularizing the legend.In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami revealed submerged structures off Mamallapuram’s coast, reigniting interest in the Seven Pagodas and lending credence to the myths of submerged temples.

Architecture of the Seven Pagodas: The Seven Pagodas epitomize the Dravidian architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings, stepped pyramidal towers (vimanas), and open courtyards. The temples showcase a seamless blend of artistic excellence and engineering ingenuity.The temples were carved from granite rocks found in the region. Many structures were monolithic, sculpted out of single rock formations. This technique demanded precision and advanced knowledge of stonework, making these monuments a testament to Pallava craftsmanship.

The Surviving Shore Temple: The Shore Temple, the most iconic of the Seven Pagodas, stands as a proud example of the group. Built during the reign of Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), it is a structural temple (as opposed to rock-cut temples). The Shore Temple is believed to have been constructed in the early 8th century and faces the Bay of Bengal.It has two main shrines dedicated to Shiva and a smaller one dedicated to Vishnu.The temple is about 60 feet tall and sits on a square platform. It is intricately carved with depictions of deities, animals, and mythical figures.Its pyramidal tower and curved kalashas (crowning elements) highlight Pallava artistry.

While the other six temples of the Seven Pagodas remain submerged, descriptions based on legends, historical accounts, and archaeological findings suggest that they were stylistically similar to the Shore Temple. Each temple was likely dedicated to Hindu gods, featuring towering vimanas, pillared halls (mandapas), and finely carved sculptures.

The Pancha Rathas: The Pancha Rathas, or Five Chariots, are another architectural marvel of Mamallapuram and are often associated with the Seven Pagodas. These monolithic temples are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata and display diverse architectural styles.Dharmaraja Ratha is the largest and most ornate of the rathas, with three tiers.Bhima Ratha features a barrel-shaped roof, symbolizing a different temple style.Arjuna Ratha isa smaller, intricately carved structure.Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha is dedicated to animals, particularly elephants.Draupadi Ratha isa simple structure resembling a thatched hut.The Dharmaraja Ratha is about 35 feet high, while the others range from 20 to 30 feet in height.

Significance: The Seven Pagodas were primarily Hindu temples dedicated to deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga. They served as centers for religious practices, festivals, and rituals, embodying the Pallava kings’ devotion and their role as patrons of art and religion.

The temples of Mamallapuram showcase the zenith of Pallava art, blending spirituality with aesthetic beauty. Their intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as episodes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, celestial beings, and deities. These artistic elements influenced later Dravidian temple architecture in Tamil Nadu.

The temples, particularly the Shore Temple, are believed to have served as landmarks for sailors navigating the Bay of Bengal. The term “Seven Pagodas” may have originated from their distinctive structures visible from afar, guiding ancient mariners.

Today, the legend of the Seven Pagodas continues to attract tourists, historians, and archaeologists to Mamallapuram. The site’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list has further amplified its global significance, preserving it as a cultural and historical treasure.Opt for Mahabalipuram tour packages to explore heritage of India.