Brihadeshwara Temple Masterpiece of the Chola Dynasty
Brihadeshwara Temple
Tucked away in the historic town of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, the Brihadeshwara Temple is a magnificent example of the Chola Dynasty’s masterful architecture and opulent cultural legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage monument, sometimes referred to as the “Big Temple,” is not only a house of worship but also a historical, artistic, and engineering marvel. Let’s explore the temple’s magnificent past, stunning architecture, and neighboring sites that add to its allure.
Historical Significance Brihadeshwara Temple
The Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I constructed the Brihadeshwara Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, between 1003 and 1010 AD. Built at the height of the Chola Empire, this temple represents the richness, power, and dedication of that era. Originally known as Rajarajeswaram, the temple was subsequently renamed Brihadeshwara, which translates to “Great Lord.”
The Chola people were highly skilled engineers, and their construction is a testament to their dedication to the divine. It was one of the biggest temples constructed at the time and is still among India’s most spectacular and towering structures.
Architectural Grandeur Brihadeshwara Temple
- A remarkable example of Dravidian architecture is the Brihadeshwara Temple.
- At 216 feet tall, the temple tower, also known as Vimana, is among the highest in the world.
- The enormous dome atop the Vimana is composed of a single, about 80-ton chunk of granite.
- The dome was probably raised to the summit using an inclined plane, which is how this technical feat was accomplished.
- The 44.7-acre temple complex is encircled by defensive walls that were constructed at a later time.
- The world’s largest Shiva Lingam, which is housed in the inner sanctum known as Garbhagriha, is enormous.
- Hindu mythological scenes are depicted in exquisite carvings, frescoes, and sculptures that cover the walls of the temple.
- The walls are adorned with 108 Bharatanatyam dance positions, emphasizing the significance of dance in Chola culture.
- Read About The ISCKON Temple
Nearby Attractions Brihadeshwara Temple
- Thanjavur Maratha Palace: The historical treasure trove of Thanjavur Maratha Palace is located not far from Brihadeshwara Temple. One of Asia’s oldest libraries, the Saraswathi Mahal Library, is housed there together with an art gallery and a royal museum.
- Gangaikonda Cholapuram: Another architectural marvel constructed by Rajendra Chola I, the son of Raja Raja Chola I, this temple is situated roughly 70 kilometers from Thanjavur. It is frequently regarded as the Brihadeshwara Temple’s brother.
- The Airavatesvara Temple is a component of the Great Living Chola Temples and is renowned for its excellent stone sculptures. It is located in Darasuram, approximately 35 kilometers from Thanjavur.
- Church Schwartz: This church, which was constructed in 1779 by the Danish missionary Rev. Frederik Christian Schwartz, serves as a reminder of Thanjavur’s colonial past.
Temple Timings and Visitor Information Of Brihadeshwara Temple
Every day, the Brihadeshwara Temple is accessible to tourists:
Morning hours: 6:00 AM–12:30 PM
Evening: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The winter months, from November to February, are the ideal times to visit the temple because of the nice weather. A lot of devotees gather during special poojas and festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Navaratri, which are great opportunities to see the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
