SPIRITUALITY & PERFORMANCE ART: MAHABALLIPURAM
Mahaballipuram Ancient city Temples Shore Temple Dakshinchitra Bharatnatyam India Acme Travel
Mahaballipuram is to the south what Varanasi is to the north. One of the most ancient cities in the world, this once-bustling port traded with the Greeks and Ancient China! The temples of Mahaballipuram and the enormous bas reliefs carved into the rock, are epic. These ancient works of art and sculpture are masterpieces of design and craftsmanship. The Shore Temple is one of the oldest monuments in existence today. Wandering across the ruins, now protected by UNESCO, is an eye-opening and awe-inspiring experience.
Just a short drive away, a visit to Dakshinchitra is another fascinating excursion. Dakshinchitra is a center devoted to the revival of the arts, crafts, dance and music of South India. The school of classical Indian dance here is one of the finest and they specialise in Bharatnatyam. From a very young age, children are brought up in the deep discipline of classical Indian dance in a very pure form, until they graduate. The campus is also home to a stunning ethnographic museum, encompassing all the architectural styles that are prevalent across South India. Dakshinchitra also offers seasonal programs and internships for those who want to do a brief residency and learn more about South India's cultural heritage.