Brief History of Brihadeshwara Temple

History 

The Brihadeshwara Temple, also known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple or Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is a renowned Hindu temple located in Thanjavur (formerly known as Tanjore), Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the most magnificent architectural marvels of ancient India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built during the reign of the Chola dynasty by the emperor Rajaraja I, also known as Rajaraja the Great, in the 11th century. The construction of the temple was completed in 1010 CE. It was designed by the architect Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Perunthachan. The Chola dynasty was one of the most powerful and influential dynasties of South India, and they were great patrons of art, literature, and architecture. Rajaraja I played a pivotal role in promoting the growth of Tamil literature and commissioned the construction of several temples across the Chola kingdom. The Brihadeshwara Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture and is renowned for its grandeur and intricate design. It is built primarily with granite and features a soaring tower (vimana) that rises to a height of 216 feet (66 meters). The temple complex includes several other structures such as a massive Nandi (bull) statue, a pillared hall, shrines, and a sacred tank. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, specifically in the form of Brihadeshwara, which means "the Great Lord." The deity is enshrined in the main sanctum sanctorum. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Shaivites (devotees of Lord Shiva) and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists from around the world. The Brihadeshwara Temple was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 for its exceptional architectural and cultural value. It is considered a significant example of the Chola dynasty's architectural achievements and the pinnacle of South Indian temple architecture. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its structural integrity. The most notable restoration was carried out during the 20th century by the British architect and archaeologist, A. F. Wells, along with the Archaeological Survey of India.

Who built Brihadeshwara Temple and why? 

The Brihadeeswarar Temple or Peruvudaiyar Kovil, was built by King Rajaraja I of the Chola dynasty in the 11th century. King Rajaraja I ruled the Chola Empire, which was a powerful kingdom in South India during that time. The temple was built as a dedication to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. It was intended to serve as a royal and state temple, symbolizing the king's devotion to Lord Shiva and his divine authority. The temple's construction was also a testament to the Chola Empire's power, wealth, and architectural prowess.

Stories related to Brihadeshwara Temple

The Brihadeshwara Temple is not associated with any specific mythology but is deeply rooted in Hindu religious beliefs and symbolism. However, there are a few legends and stories related to the temple that add to its mystique. Here are a couple of them:

Legend of the Nandi Bull: At the entrance of the Brihadeshwara Temple stands a massive stone statue of Nandi, the sacred bull and mount of Lord Shiva. According to the legend, the Nandi statue was initially facing the main sanctum of the temple. However, a sage named Gautama wanted to have a direct view of Lord Shiva from his hermitage. To fulfill the sage's wish, Lord Shiva turned the Nandi statue to face the opposite direction so that Gautama could see the deity. This legend highlights the divine nature of the temple and its association with Lord Shiva.

Legend of the Shadowless Tower: One of the remarkable aspects of the temple's architecture is that its main tower casts no shadow at noon. According to popular belief, the architect of the temple, Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Perunthachan, made an agreement with the shadow deity (Chaya Devi) that the temple's tower would not cast a shadow on the ground. It is said that the architect achieved this by using a combination of design techniques and precise positioning of the temple. This extraordinary phenomenon is often attributed to divine intervention and adds to the temple's mystical aura.

These stories and legends, although not part of the temple's core mythology, contribute to the rich cultural and religious tapestry surrounding the Brihadeshwara Temple.

Art and architecture of Brihadeshwara Temple

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its architectural grandeur, intricate carvings, and massive proportions. Here are some key features of the art and architecture of the Brihadeshwara Temple:

Architecture: The temple follows the traditional Dravidian architectural style, characterized by its towering vimana (main tower), gopurams (gateway towers), mandapas (pillared halls), and a large courtyard. The vimana of the Brihadeshwara Temple stands at a height of around 66 meters (216 feet) and is one of the tallest in the world. It is made entirely of granite and is a marvel of engineering and construction.

Granite Carvings: The entire temple complex is adorned with intricate stone carvings that depict various mythological stories, deities, and celestial beings. The outer walls of the temple feature detailed sculptures, including depictions of Lord Shiva in different forms, celestial dancers (apsaras), gods, goddesses, and animals. The carvings showcase the exceptional skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.

Nandi Mandapa: In front of the main entrance of the temple, there is a separate mandapa (pavilion) dedicated to Nandi, the sacred bull and the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The Nandi mandapa houses a monolithic Nandi statue, which is approximately 4.6 meters (15 feet) tall and 6 meters (20 feet) long. The statue is carved out of a single stone and is highly revered by devotees.

Frescoes: The inner walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful frescoes that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the royal life of the Chola dynasty. These frescoes have faded over time, but some fragments can still be seen today. The surviving frescoes exhibit vibrant colors and intricate details, showcasing the artistic mastery of the Chola period.

Temple Complex: The Brihadeshwara Temple complex is vast and includes several other structures such as the Nandi mandapa, the main shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, various mandapas, smaller shrines, and a large courtyard. The complex is designed to create a sense of awe and devotion among visitors.

The Brihadeshwara Temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of ancient India.

Tourism and cultural Events of Brihadeshwara Temple

The Brihadeshwara Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world. Here's some information about tourism and cultural events associated with the temple:

Tourism: The temple receives a large number of tourists throughout the year who come to admire its architectural splendor and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the temple complex, marvel at the towering vimana and intricate carvings, and witness the religious rituals and ceremonies performed by the temple priests. The temple's historical and artistic importance makes it a must-visit attraction for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers.

Light and Sound Show: One of the highlights of visiting the Brihadeshwara Temple is the mesmerizing light and sound show held in the temple complex. The show narrates the history, legends, and architectural features of the temple through a captivating combination of lights, music, and narration. It offers visitors an immersive experience, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the temple's cultural significance.

Mahashivaratri Festival: Mahashivaratri, the grand festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, is celebrated with great fervor at the Brihadeshwara Temple. Devotees from far and wide gather to participate in the festivities, which include special prayers, religious processions, cultural performances, and rituals performed throughout the night. The temple is adorned with lights and decorations, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Natyanjali Dance Festival: The temple plays host to the Natyanjali Dance Festival, an annual event that celebrates the classical dance form of Bharatanatyam. Renowned dancers from all over India come together to pay homage to Lord Shiva through their performances. The festival typically takes place during the Mahashivaratri period, and the temple premises serve as a picturesque backdrop for the dance recitals.

Pongal Celebrations: Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is also observed at the Brihadeshwara Temple. Devotees gather to offer prayers and participate in various cultural activities, including traditional music and dance performances. The temple becomes a hub of festivities during this time, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Temple Visits and Religious Practices: Apart from special events and festivals, visitors can engage in regular temple visits and religious practices at the Brihadeshwara Temple. They can offer prayers, receive blessings from the priests, and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that are conducted in accordance with Hindu traditions.

It's important to note that specific events and festivals may be subject to change or have varying schedules, so it's advisable to check with the temple authorities or local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information before planning a visit.

Location of Brihadeshwara Temple

The Brihadeshwara Temple, also known as the Peruvudaiyar Kovil or the Rajarajeswaram Temple, is located in Thanjavur (formerly known as Tanjore), a city in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles) southwest of Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu. The temple is positioned within the city limits of Thanjavur, making it easily accessible to visitors.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the Brihadeshwara Temple stands as a magnificent testament to the architectural brilliance and cultural heritage of ancient India. With its towering vimana, intricate carvings, and rich historical significance, it attracts visitors from all over the world. The temple's grandeur and sacred atmosphere create a sense of awe and reverence among devotees and tourists alike. The Brihadeshwara Temple continues to be an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and a significant tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the glorious past of the Chola dynasty and the artistic mastery of the Dravidian architectural style. Its cultural events, such as the Mahashivaratri festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, and Pongal celebrations, further enhance its allure and provide opportunities for visitors to experience the vibrant traditions and customs of the region. Whether one is drawn to its spiritual significance, historical importance, or architectural splendor, the Brihadeshwara Temple remains an iconic symbol of India's rich cultural heritage.