Pallava dynasty

Hereditary Hindu rulers who dominated southeastern India between the 4th and 9th centuries. The dynasty's greatest kings were Simhavisnu (ruled c. 575–600) and Narasimhavarman I (ruled 630–668). Their capital was Kanchi, southwest of Madras (now Chennai).

Under the Pallavas, maritime trade with Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia flourished, as did music, painting, literature, and architecture. Structural stone temples replaced rock buildings, the most impressive example being the sculptured Shore Temple at the seaport of Mahabalipuram, dedicated to the god Shiva.