sentences:  The port city came to prominence during the reign of Pallava kings Mahendravarman I and his son Narasimhavarman I after whom the city is named.The city was a famous port city during the reign of Medieval Cholas from the 9th century.There are inscriptions in the temple indicating grants of 1000 "kulis" during the 20th year of reign of Ko-Parakesarivarman.