Pallava Architecture, Part I (MASI 17) c2.65

c2.65

This alphabet is very archaic and similar in style to the one employed in the inscriptions in the Pallāvaram temple. Engraved on the pilaster to the right of the sanctuary and at a spot which appears to have been selected for the principal inscription, is the following name “ Sri Mahēndra-Vikrama, ” exactly as in the Pallāvaram inscription. The pillars at the other end of the hall contain a number of names and birudas, among them, “ Gunabhara, ” who is said to have had the temple excavated and placed within it a stone linga and a portrait image of himself. The inscription also records that the beautiful large sculptural panel facing the shrine entrance, representing Siva in the form of Gangādhāra, was also executed at the same time and is not a later addition.