Meaning of Kalvelai

Kalvelai

Language - Tamil

Tamil Word - கல்வெலை

Land or other forms of patronage granted to skilled stone sculptors who contributed to the construction and ornamentation of temples (pagodas). Example: The Kalvelai Inam in a village near Mahabalipuram was given to a family of renowned stone sculptors who carved intricate sculptures and reliefs adorning the Shore Temple, showcasing their artistic mastery and devotion. Kalvelai grants recognized the artistic contributions of stone sculptors to temple architecture and religious iconography. These grants supported skilled artisans and ensured the preservation and continuation of traditional stone carving techniques.