Which Pallava monarch authored the Sanskrit satirical play 'Mattavilasa Prahasana', which provides humorous insights into the religious practices of various ascetic sects in ancient Kanchipuram?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Mahendravarman I was a versatile patron of arts and letters who wrote the Sanskrit farce 'Mattavilasa Prahasana', mocking the hypocritical lifestyles of Kapalika and Pasupata ascetics in Kanchipuram. Narasimhavarman I focused predominantly on architectural expansion and military campaigns against the Chalukyas. Paramesvaravarman I commissioned the Kuram copper plates detailing military victories. Nandivarman II restored Pallava hegemony following internal succession disputes.