The rock-cut ratha temples at Mahabalipuram were built by the ______.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The rock-cut Ratha (chariot-shaped) temples at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) were constructed by the Pallava dynasty.
Pallava Architecture and Ratha Temples
Rulers: These monuments were primarily built during the 7th and 8th centuries, under the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I (also known as 'Mamalla').
Sapta Ratha (Pancha Pandava Rathas): These temples at Mahabalipuram are 'monolithic,' meaning they were carved from a single, massive rock. There are primarily five Ratha temples named after the Pandavas (Dharmaraja Ratha, Bhima Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha, and Draupadi Ratha).
UNESCO World Heritage: Due to their remarkable carvings and architecture, they have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.