Common Element between Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora and Shore Temple at Mamallapuram: Both are carved out from solid rocks.

1. Introduction:
The Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora and the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram are two remarkable examples of ancient Indian architecture. While they belong to different regions and periods, they share a common element - both are carved out from solid rocks. This unique characteristic makes them architectural marvels and testaments to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of that time.

2. The Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora:
- The Kailasanatha Temple, also known as the Kailash Temple or Cave 16, is located in Ellora, Maharashtra.
- It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and was constructed during the 8th century CE.
- The temple is carved out of a single massive rock, and the entire structure, including the main shrine, pillars, walls, and sculptures, is intricately carved.
- The temple complex is one of the largest rock-cut monolithic structures in the world, covering an area of approximately 2,00,000 square feet.
- The entire temple was created by removing the surrounding rock, leaving behind the desired structure.

3. The Shore Temple at Mamallapuram:
- The Shore Temple is located in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.
- It is a complex of three temples, with two dedicated to Lord Shiva and one to Lord Vishnu.
- The Shore Temple was built during the 8th century CE by the Pallava dynasty.
- Like the Kailasanatha Temple, the Shore Temple is also carved out of solid rock, using the ancient technique of rock-cut architecture.
- The temple complex is situated on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, giving it its name.

4. Significance of being carved out from solid rocks:
- The fact that both the Kailasanatha Temple and the Shore Temple were carved out from solid rocks is a testament to the advanced architectural skills and engineering capabilities of the ancient artisans.
- Carving a temple out of a single rock required immense precision, planning, and expertise.
- It showcases the mastery of the craftsmen in sculpting intricate details, delicate carvings, and structural elements directly from the rock.
- This technique also ensured the durability and longevity of the temples, as they were built from a single piece of rock, minimizing the risk of structural deterioration.

Conclusion:
The Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora and the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram are two remarkable examples of ancient Indian architecture. Both temples were carved out from solid rocks, showcasing the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the artisans. This unique characteristic sets them apart and makes them architectural wonders that continue to captivate visitors till today.