Which Pallava ruler is credited with building the famous Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram and the Shore Temple complex at Mahabalipuram on the Coromandel Coast?

Introduction / Context:
The Pallava dynasty of south India is renowned for its contributions to rock cut and structural temple architecture, especially in and around Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Two of the most iconic monuments are the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram and the Shore Temple complex at Mahabalipuram. This question asks you to identify the Pallava ruler under whose patronage these temples were constructed, which is an important art and architecture fact.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The monuments mentioned are the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi and the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.
• The rulers listed are Narasimhavarman II, Paramesvaravarman I, Mahendravarman I, and Narasimhavarman I.
• We assume that the learner knows broad timelines of Pallava architecture.

Concept / Approach:
Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavarman I are earlier Pallava rulers known for initiating rock cut architecture at places like Mahabalipuram. However, the fully developed structural Kailasanatha temple and the Shore Temple belong to a slightly later phase. These monuments are generally credited to Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, who ruled in the late seventh and early eighth centuries. Paramesvaravarman I did not leave such a strong architectural legacy at these specific sites.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram as one of the earliest large structural temples of the Pallavas. Step 2: Recall that the Shore Temple complex at Mahabalipuram marks the transition from rock cut to full structural temples. Step 3: Remember that Narasimhavarman II Rajasimha is associated by inscriptions and art historians with these mature structural monuments. Step 4: Recognise that Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavarman I were more closely linked with earlier rock cut caves and rathas. Step 5: Understand that Paramesvaravarman I is not prominently credited with these two temples. Step 6: Conclude that Narasimhavarman II Rajasimha is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Art history texts on Pallava architecture consistently attribute the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi and the Shore Temple to the reign of Narasimhavarman II. Inscriptions naming Rajasimha support this attribution and distinguish his building programme from that of his predecessors.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavarman I initiated Pallava rock cut architecture, including the Pancha Rathas, but they are not credited with the later structural Kailasanatha and Shore temples. Paramesvaravarman I does not have a similar architectural reputation linked to these monuments.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse Narasimhavarman I and Narasimhavarman II because of the similar names. Remembering that the more advanced structural temples belong to the later ruler Rajasimha is a helpful way to keep them distinct.

Final Answer:
The Pallava ruler who built the Kailasanatha temple at Kanchi and the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram was Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha).