CHENNAI: Mahabalipuram, the closest getaway for those from Chennai, continues to attract an increasing number of visitors month after month — the numbers not dampening even in the peak of summer. According to the data collected by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), nearly nine lakh domestic visitors flocked to the world heritage site in May, when the summer was at its peak. In April, the numbers were over eight lakh. Domestic tourists apart, there were over 70,000 foreign visitors both in April and May.
Official figures show that the numbers have increased over the years, with more and more domestic and international tourists visiting the site known for its magnificent Pallava sculptures.
However, among the millions who visit the site every year, not many know about its archaeological significance that took the place to the prestigious list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. “Among the important structures, there are three types of cave temples — Varaha, Krishna and Panchapandava — rock-cut monoliths, shore temple and exotic sculptures of Pallavas. The Arjuna’s Penance and Pancha Pandava Rathas are among the earliest structural monuments in Tamil Nadu. They speak about the architecture and brilliance of imagination of the Pallavas. But there is not even a single guide at Mahabalipuram who can educate people on these,” said S Swaminathan, an enthusiast and one of the founders of Tamil Nadu Heritage Trust. “Maintaining its historical glory and educating tourists about the place are the need of the hour,” he added.
He blamed the officials for not doing enough to create awareness about these site. In an effort to fill the gap, a team has produced a seven dimensional 20-minute documentary film on the history of the ancient town, to educate the tourists who visit the site. The script was sourced from a book compiled by archaeological researchers including Swaminathan, and was approved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, was ruled by the Pallava Kings from 600 to 750 AD. Kancheepuram was its second capital. The place, which lies on the Coromandel Coast, faces the Bay of Bengal. In the 7th century, it was a port city of South Indian dynasty of the Pallavas. The temple of Mamallapuram, which portrays the events described in the Mahabharata, was built largely during the reigns of king Narasimhavarman and his successor Rajasimhavarman. The temples showcase the shift from rock-cut architecture to structural building.