“I am M A Sri Kandan, a sculptor from Mahabalipuram, carrying forward the ancient Pallava tradition of stone, wood, and bronze carving. Though I come from a family of blacksmiths in Kanyakumari, my heart was drawn to art from a young age. I spent my summers assisting a calendar artist in my village, mesmerized by how a blank canvas could transform into something timeless.
Choosing this path wasn’t conventional, but my parents supported me wholeheartedly. I pursued my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in traditional architecture and sculpture from Tamil Nadu’s government-aided colleges. Today, I’m working towards a Ph.D. in Chola Bronze sculpture, diving deeper into the art that defines our heritage.

This craft has taken me across the world—Fiji, Sweden, Reunion Island—where I have worked on temple constructions, exhibited my sculptures, and even taught aspiring artists. Yet, Mahabalipuram remains my home, where the government provides support through stipends and resources.

The biggest challenge in this profession isn’t just the physical labor but making people recognize its value. Modern art is celebrated, but traditional art is history carved in stone. Thankfully, more students are showing interest, interning with us, and some even learning just for the love of it.

Art does not die, nor do artists. It is our duty to ensure these stories live on—not just in books but in stone, in bronze, in every sculpture we create. Because without art, history fades. And without history, who are we?

Let’s keep the legacy alive.”

#HumansOfMadras #SculptingHistory #TamilArt #Mahabalipuram #HeritageArt