Page 93 - SST Class 06

Local traditions were replaced by the Vedic Importance of Temples
traditions. As Brahmins had the knowledge of the Temples played a very important role in South
Vedas, so they achieved superior status. Indian history. Besides performing religious

Early education was influenced by Jains and functions, they also acted as political, social,
Buddhists. Madurai and Kanchi were the main economic, cultural and educational centers.
centers for Jain institutes but soon these were Meetings were held in the temples. Common
replaced by Brahminical institutions. Popularity issues concerning the people were discussed at
of mathematics increased in the 8th century. The these meetings. Merchants brought goods from
main medium of instructions in all the schools
was Sanskrit.
Architecture
Pallava temples were made in four distinct styles.
These are:
g Mahendra Style : This is a cave-style
architecture and can be seen in the
Ekambaranatha (Kanchipuram) Temple of
the Pallavas.

g Mamalla Style : These are monolithic
temples made from single stone. There are Ratha Temple, Mahabalipuram
seven Pagodas situated near Mahabali-
puram that display an outstanding quality
of this Pallava art.
g Rajasimha Style : The Kailasha Temple of
Kanchi displays this style. The temple has a
pyramidal tower and its mandapam is made
in a flat-roof style.
g Aparajita Style : This resembles with the
Chola architecture style, being more elabo-
rate. A few temples at Dalavanur display
this style of architecture. Also, one can see Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram
beautiful figures of Pallava kings and
queens.
The Pallavas contribution to literature was also
great. Bharavi and Dandin lived in the court of
the Pallava. Dandin had written many poems
and one of these is so unique that if read nor-
mally it tells the story of the Ramayana and if
read in the reverse order then narrates the study
of Mahabharata.

Kailasanath Temple, Kanchi

Social Science-6 93