2The Lost Mahabalipuram Pagodas
Also known as ‘Seven Pagodas’ the south Indian city of Mahabalipuram was discovered in 2004, during the Boxing Day tsunami, when the water receded by 500 meters, uncovering the pagodas.
Soon, an expedition was started. Monty Halls, the expedition leader said: ‘The initial feeling was one of disbelief. The sheer scale of the site was so impressive.’
So there’s a myth, obviously. According to an ancient Hindu legend, Prince Hiranyakasipu refused to worship the god Vishnu, while his son, Prahlada criticized his father’s lack of faith.
Arguing about Vishnu’s nature, the Prince stated that the god was everywhere, even in the walls of their home. And to prove that, he kicked a pillar.
Vishnu appeared in the form of a man with a lion’s hear and killed Hiranyakasipu. Obviously, Prahlada became kind and had a son named Bali, who founded Mahabalipuram.
