Bhageeratha Penance (Descent of the Ganges), Mamallapuram, Tamil nadu, is located 1 km west of Shore Temple.
It’s a colossal 7th century CE open-air rock relief – one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world.
Commissioned by the Pallava King Narasimhavarman I, this UNESCO World Heritage site is carved into two massive granite boulders that stretch nearly 100 feet in length.
It’s a narrative masterpiece that uses a natural cleft in the rock to represent the celestial event of river Ganges flowing to Earth. The carvings are intricate and detailed, featuring over 100 figures including life-sized elephants, celestial beings, and the emaciated, bony figure of Bhageeratha in yogic pose.
While the Pallavas established the site, it was later preserved and protected by the Vijayanagara rulers.
Mamallapuram is now known as Mahabalipuram.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JFr8gECDYL7tb3Wf7
#drive #nature #heritage
