Tanjore Temple – A Marvel of Indian Architecture
Tanjore Temple, also known as Brihadeeswarar Temple, is one of the most famous temples in India. It is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, and is an important heritage site. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its grand structure, intricate carvings, and historical significance. Built over 1000 years ago, it is a must-visit place for those who love history, art, and spirituality.
History of Tanjore Temple
The temple was built by the great Chola king, Raja Raja Chola I, in the 11th century. Construction began in 1003 AD and was completed in 1010 AD. The temple was built to show the power and devotion of the Chola dynasty to Lord Shiva. Raja Raja Chola I was a great ruler, and he wanted to create a magnificent structure that would stand for generations. Today, the temple remains one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture.
Unique Features of the Temple
1. The Towering Vimana (Main Tower)
One of the most unique features of Tanjore Temple is its tall tower, known as the ‘Vimana.’ This tower is about 216 feet (66 meters) high and is made of granite. It is one of the tallest temple towers in the world. The most amazing part is that the topmost stone, called the ‘Kumbam,’ weighs about 80 tons! It is still a mystery how this heavy stone was placed at such a great height without modern machinery.
2. The Big Nandi (Sacred Bull)
In front of the temple, there is a huge statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. This statue is carved from a single stone and measures about 13 feet (4 meters) in height and 16 feet (5 meters) in length. It is one of the largest Nandi statues in India. The Nandi is placed facing the sanctum where the Shiva Lingam is worshipped.
3. The Massive Shiva Lingam
The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of a Shiva Lingam. This Lingam is about 13 feet (4 meters) tall, making it one of the biggest in India. The inner sanctum, where the Lingam is placed, is designed in such a way that it remains cool even in hot weather.
4. Amazing Fresco Paintings and Sculptures
The walls of the temple have beautiful paintings and sculptures. The fresco paintings, which are over 1000 years old, depict stories from Hindu mythology. These paintings give us a glimpse into the life and culture of the Chola period. The temple also has many detailed carvings of gods, goddesses, and celestial dancers.
5. The Shadow Mystery
A fascinating fact about the temple is that the main tower does not cast a shadow at noon. This is due to the perfect engineering of the Chola architects. Many visitors find this an amazing feature that adds to the temple’s uniqueness.
Architectural Brilliance
The entire temple is built using granite, which was not locally available in Thanjavur. It is believed that thousands of elephants were used to transport the heavy stones from distant places. The temple is built following the Dravidian style of architecture, with tall towers, wide courtyards, and intricate carvings. The temple complex also includes smaller shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
Cultural and Religious Importance
Tanjore Temple is not just an architectural wonder but also a place of deep religious significance. Devotees from all over the country visit the temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is also an important center for Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form of Tamil Nadu. Many cultural performances take place in the temple premises, keeping the traditional art and music alive.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1987, the temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Great Living Chola Temples” category. This recognition ensures that the temple is preserved for future generations. It is one of the best-maintained heritage sites in India.
Festivals Celebrated at Tanjore Temple
Several festivals are celebrated in the temple throughout the year. The most famous one is Maha Shivaratri, a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this time, thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer prayers. The temple also celebrates the Kumbhabhishekam festival, which happens once in 12 years, attracting large crowds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tanjore Temple is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to explore the temple, as the stone structure can get very hot during midday.
How to Reach Tanjore Temple
Tanjore Temple is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Tiruchirappalli, about 60 km away. Thanjavur also has a railway station with good connectivity to major cities. Many buses and taxis are available from different parts of Tamil Nadu to reach the temple.
Conclusion
Tanjore Temple is a masterpiece of Indian architecture and an important spiritual site. Its towering Vimana, massive Nandi, and intricate carvings make it a must-visit destination for history lovers and devotees. The temple stands as a symbol of the Chola dynasty’s artistic and engineering brilliance. If you ever visit Tamil Nadu, make sure to witness the grandeur of this ancient temple. It is truly a wonder that has stood the test of time for over 1000 years.
