Indian Columbus

There is no limitation to the euphoria of Pallava sculptors. Hence, there is no end to the riddles in the form of exceptional monuments in Mamallapuram. Tri Murti Caves is another example of their unique experiments.  Being the most completed cave shrine among the Mamallapuram monuments, the west-facing Tri Murti Caves is one of the best creations of the Pallavas in the town. Architecturally, it differs from most of the other cave shrines. Unlike them, it does not have a pavilion in its front (Mukha mandapa).  All three shrines follow the common platform. The central shrine is given importance as it is slightly projected forward.  Tri Murti usually denotes three Supreme Deities, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. However, this temple has Subramanya instead of Brahma as the third deity. Subramanya  The northernmost shrine is dedicated to Subramanya. He is found in the form of Brahma Shasta. As per the legend, Subramanya took over the role of Brahma once. As he performed the ta...