Thanjai Periya Kovil

Thanjai Periya Kovil, also known as the Brihadeeswara Temple or the Rajarajeswara Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It is considered one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and significance of this magnificent temple.

History:

The Brihadeeswara Temple was built by the Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. The construction of the temple took seven years, from 1003 to 1010 CE. The temple was built to commemorate the victory of Raja Raja Chola I over the Pandyas and the Cheras, and it was designed to showcase the might and power of the Chola Empire. The temple was the center of the Chola capital, and it was a hub of cultural and religious activity.

Architecture:

The Brihadeeswara Temple is renowned for its architectural excellence. The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and is characterized by its towering vimana, or tower, which stands at 66 meters. The vimana is made of granite blocks that were brought from a quarry over 50 kilometers away. The temple also features a massive gopuram, or gateway tower, that is 30 meters tall.

The temple has a large central hall, or mandapa, which is surrounded by a courtyard. The mandapa is supported by massive pillars, and it features exquisite carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities. The main shrine of the temple houses a lingam, or symbol of Lord Shiva, which is one of the largest in the world. The lingam stands at 3.7 meters tall and is made of granite.

Significance:

The Brihadeeswara Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is regarded as one of the holiest temples in South India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is considered the supreme deity in Hinduism. The temple is also significant because of its historical and cultural importance. The temple is a symbol of the power and glory of the Chola Empire, and it is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Indian architects and artisans.

The Brihadeeswara Temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was inscribed on the list in 1987, and it is recognized for its outstanding universal value. The temple is regarded as a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, and it is a prime example of the cultural and artistic achievements of the Chola Empire.

In conclusion, the Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Thanjai Periya Kovil, is a magnificent Hindu temple located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple was built in the 11th century by the Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I, and it is renowned for its architectural excellence. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Brihadeeswara Temple is a symbol of the power and glory of the Chola Empire, and it is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Indian architects and artisans.

The Brihadeeswara Temple is not just a religious site, but also a cultural and historical landmark. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu, and it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to admire its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

One of the most unique features of the temple is its daily rituals. The temple follows the traditions of the Shaivism sect of Hinduism and has a strict schedule of rituals that are performed every day. The rituals include the Abhishekam, or the bathing of the lingam with milk, honey, and other holy substances. The temple also has a daily ceremony called the Raja Gopuram, where the temple's flag is raised and lowered, signaling the beginning and end of the day's activities.