Mahishasurmardini Cave Temple

Mahabalipuram has 14 cave temples and one of the significant works of art from the Pallava times is the Mahishasuramardini Cave Temple. Carved on a granite rock face of a hill, this mandapam is one of the most important caves in the city. Mahishasurmardini Cave Temple, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, is one that holds great significance and demonstrates the artistic skills from the Pallava dynasty and beyond. As the tale goes, Goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasura who was always thought to be one who was unconquerable. After having killed him, she got the title ‘Mahishasuramardhini’ - conqueror of Demon Mahisha. The interior walls of the cave depict this battle, where on one of the panels, the goddess is seen riding a lion, with her eight arms holding the bow & arrow. The scene is very realistic and one can see her attacking the demon. Mahishasura and his army are also seen battling and almost sacrificing their heads in acceptance of defeat. It holds great significance and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. On another panel, there is a sculpture of Lord Vishnu lying on the bed of a serpent, with two of his hands holding the five-headed serpent that was called ‘Adisesha’. Adisesha is seen hissing with flames emerging from its hood. The brave, courageous Vishnu looks unconcerned. Along with this, one can see two figures along with Bhudevi - The Goddess of Mother Earth. The two figures have been identified as Nankanda (sword) & Sudharshana (discus), which are said to be Vishnu’s weapons in an animated form. There are also two figures, flying above Vishnu. Those are believed to be his other animated weapons and have been recognized as Panchajanya and Kaumodaki. There are also carvings of Lord Shiva & the Goddess Parvati, both dressed in royal dresses, wearing a musket (crown), and lots of ornaments with their son in between them. Along with this, the wall also has carvings of Nandi (the bull) & Shiva’s mount. The trinity Gods ,Brahma & Vishnu are also seen standing behind Shiva & Parvati, in a way where it seems they are pleased with the couple and stand there with blessings and love for the child. At the entrance to the chambers, there are pillars with the figures of lions at the base. These lion-like base pillars are an excellent example to bring forward the architectural evolution in the style of pillars.