Stone Carving of Mahabalipuram — Living Tradition Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) sculptors have carved granite since the Pallava period, 7th century CE. Modern workshops along the ECR produce temple deities, dancing Natarajas, and decorative panels for buyers worldwide. Master sculptors work with pneumatic chisels but final detailing remains hand-done. Apprentices spend 5–7 years learning human proportions according to Shilpa Shastra texts. Black granite from Krishnagiri quarries and pink granite from Karimnagar are used. The School of Sculpture, run by Tamil Nadu government, trains 100+ students/year. Pieces range from Rs 500 souvenir Ganeshas to Rs 50 lakh temple commissions.