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| Narasimhavarman I (630-668 A.D.): A Conqueror and Patron of Arts |
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.
Narasimhavarman I achieved a significant victory over Pulakesin II in the Battle of Manimangalam near Kanchi. The Pallava army, led by General Paranjothi, pursued the retreating Chalukya forces into Chalukya territory, capturing and destroying their capital city, Vatapi. This victory earned Narasimhavarman I the title "Vatapikonda" (conqueror of Vatapi).
Beyond his military conquests, Narasimhavarman I was also known for his naval expeditions. He restored the throne of Sri Lanka to his friend, the Sri Lankan prince Manavarma.
During his reign, the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang visited Kanchipuram, the Pallava capital. Hiuen Tsang provided a vivid description of the city, calling it a large and beautiful metropolis with a circumference of six miles. He noted the presence of 100 Buddhist monasteries housing approximately 10,000 Buddhist monks. According to his account, the people of Kanchi valued education, and the Ghatika served as a prominent center of learning.
Narasimhavarman I is credited with founding Mamallapuram, a renowned coastal town south of Chennai. The iconic monolithic rathas, impressive rock-cut temples resembling chariots, were constructed during his reign. These architectural marvels stand as a testament to the Pallavas' artistic and engineering skills.
