Mahabalipuram emerged as an important centre of temple architecture under which of the following kingdoms of south India?

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Step 1: Identify the site — Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is famous for its rock-cut and structural temples and reliefs.

Step 2: Historical patronage — These monuments were built mainly during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, especially under Narasimhavarman I (known as Mamalla) in the $7^{th}$–$8^{th}$ centuries CE.

Step 3: Architectural evidence — The Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas and numerous rock-cut cave temples at Mahabalipuram are characteristic Pallava styles and inscriptions link construction to Pallava rulers.

Conclusion: Mahabalipuram emerged as an important centre of temple architecture under the Pallava kingdom (option $1$), so the correct choice is option a.

FINAL_ANSWER: a

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