Brihadeeswarar Temple

About

Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is a historical monument. The city’s founding date is uncertain. However, it is thought to have existed throughout the Sangam period, from the third century B.C. to the fourth century A.D. Brihadeeswarar Temple is a beautiful building built by Raja Raja Cholan, the greatest Chola ruler. It was built between 985 and 1014 A.D. and finished around 1010 A.D. The Big Temple, Rajarajesvaram Temple, and Peruvuvuaiyr Kvil Temple are other names for the temple. It exemplifies the Chola period’s architectural prowess. The Thanjavur temple focuses mainly on Raja Raja Cholan, a devout follower of Lord Shiva. The spectacular temple was built to commemorate the Cholas’ contributions to building, painting, bronze casting, and sculpture.

Did you know?

The defensive walls surrounding the temple were most likely built in the 16th century. The temple tower is the world’s tallest building, at 216 feet tall. The temple’s apex or bulbous structure, known as the Kumbam, was cut from a single granite block and weighs roughly 80 tonnes. A massive figure of Nandi carved from a single rock stands at the entryway, roughly 16 feet long and 13 feet tall. Granite is used throughout the sanctuary’s construction, with the closest granite supply approximately 60 miles west of the temple.

Deities

Shiva is the principal deity or “Moolavar” of the Brihadeeswarar Temple. All gods, including Dakshinamurthy and Surya, are gigantic, especially those positioned in the outer wall niches. The “Ashta-dikpaalakas – Indra, Agni, Yama, Nirrti, Varuna, Vayu, Kubera, and Iana – were initially represented by a life-sized statue, approximately 6 feet tall, placed in a separate temple in the corresponding direction. The only remaining deities are Agni, Varuna, Vayu, and Iana. The temple’s main deities are Lord Brihadeeswarar and Goddess Periyanayaki.

Location

The ancient Brihadeshwara temple is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The temple, built in the Dravidian design, is a marvel. Thanjavur lacks an airport and a long-distance train station, but visitors can fly or take a train to Tiruchirapalli and then take a taxi, bus, or train to Thanjavur.

Cultural & Economic Impact

Thanjavur and the surrounding area have benefited economically from the Brihadeshwara Temple. Millions of visitors visit the temple yearly, and their spending stimulates the local economy. The temple employs numerous people, including priests, musicians, performers, and craftspeople. Furthermore, the temple’s religious significance has made it a popular pilgrimage site, which has improved the local economy even more.

Festivals

Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, India, organises several events throughout the year. The most important festival is the 18-day Brahmotsavam, which occurs in May or June. The celebration ceremonies involve bathing the divine being in milk and water, conducting dances and music, and transporting the deity in procession around the temple. Additional festivals conducted in the Brihadeeswarar Temple include Chithirai, a nine-day celebration held in April or May, and Aipasi, a one-day festival held in October or November. Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. The temple’s festivals provide a fantastic opportunity to learn about Tamil Nadu’s rich culture and customs.

Facts

The deity’s initial name was Rajarajeshwar. Brihadeeshwara, or Great Ishwara, was given to it by the Marathas.
The primary temple is made entirely of granite. Over 130,000 tonnes of granite are estimated to have been used in its construction.
According to a long-held urban legend, this temple’s main building throws no shadow on the ground. However, scientists have shown that this is untrue.
The Nandi figure at the temple’s entryway was cut from a single block of stone.
The main Vimanam, which stands about 60 metres tall, is also known as Dakshin Meru or Southern Meru.
Raja Raja Cholan was inspired to build the temple after having a dream while on a trip to Sri Lanka.
A picture of Raja Raja Cholan genuflecting to Lord Natarajar can be found in the temple. This is, without a doubt, the first image of a king.

Frequently Asked Questions { FAQs }

When may I go to the Brihadeeswarar Temple?

Early morning is the finest time to visit Brihadeshwara Temple since the weather is still beautiful, and the breeze will keep you calm. The most significant time to visit the city is during the winter.

Is there an official dress code for temple visits?

Even though no dress code is given, it is preferable to wear ethnic apparel and avoid revealing clothing.