What is the popular name given to the monolithic rock cut shrines at Mahabalipuram on the Tamil Nadu coast?

Introduction / Context:
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Tamil Nadu coast, famous for its rock cut architecture and stone temples of the Pallava period. Among its most iconic monuments are a group of monolithic rock cut shrines. Examinations often ask for the popular name of these shrines, testing both cultural and geographical awareness.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The location is Mahabalipuram on the Tamil Nadu coast.
• The monuments in question are monolithic rock cut shrines.
• The options given are Rathas, Prasadas, Mathika, and Gandhakuti.
• We assume the learner has basic familiarity with Pallava architecture.

Concept / Approach:
The famous group of five monolithic temples at Mahabalipuram is popularly known as the Pancha Rathas. Each ratha is carved from a single rock and is named after one of the Pandavas and Draupadi from the epic Mahabharata. The term ratha literally means chariot, but in this context it refers to the monolithic temple like structures. Therefore, the correct popular name for the monolithic rock cut shrines at Mahabalipuram is Rathas. The other terms do not match the standard usage for these specific monuments.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify Mahabalipuram as a centre of Pallava rock cut and structural temples. Step 2: Recall that the group of five famous monolithic shrines is known as the Pancha Rathas. Step 3: Note that in exam questions, these rock cut shrines are usually referred to in short as Rathas. Step 4: Check that the other terms do not specifically refer to Mahabalipuram shrines. Step 5: Conclude that Rathas is the correct popular name.

Verification / Alternative check:
Tourism brochures, history textbooks, and heritage lists all refer to the monolithic temples at Mahabalipuram as the Pancha Rathas. The site map and guide boards at Mahabalipuram also use the term ratha. This consistent usage across different reliable sources confirms that Rathas is the accepted popular name.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Prasadas: This term is sometimes used in temple architecture, but the Mahabalipuram monoliths are not popularly known by this name.
• Mathika: Not a standard term used for these shrines in major references.
• Gandhakuti: This term is associated more with Buddhist architecture, especially a chamber related to the Buddha, rather than Pallava rock cut shrines.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may overthink and try to match unfamiliar terms like Gandhakuti with the site, instead of recalling the very common phrase Pancha Rathas. Another error is to confuse Mahabalipuram's shrines with other temple styles and forget that these particular ones are monolithic. A simple way to avoid confusion is to remember the trio: Mahabalipuram, Pallavas, and Pancha Rathas.

Final Answer:
The monolithic rock cut shrines at Mahabalipuram are popularly known as Rathas, especially the famous Pancha Rathas group.