Brihadeeswarar Temple
Devotees can visit Brihadeeswarar Temple Thanjavur from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM, and from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM daily. The temple is a great source for spiritual awakening and transports devotees to a mystical world with heaven-like vibrations. The architecture, in particular, reflects the mystical aura through intricate details and a silhouette boasting of the culture of the bygone era. It’s majestic in size and is called The Big Temple.
Brihadeeswarar Temple History
Raja Raja Chola I built this stunning temple between 1003 and 1010 AD when Cholas witnessed their maximum potential. This was during the 11th century. It marks the expansion of the Chola Empire and reflects the success of King Raja Raja Cholan. Periya Kovil, RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajeswaram are other names of the temple. It has undergone several renovations and repairs following the wars between Muslim Sultans and Hindu Kings that caused major damage.
Murals Of Brihadeeswarar Temple
Using natural pigments, Chola frescoes run across the circumambulatory path running from ceiling to floor. Shaivism themes dominate a stunning 670 square meters and are a reflection of the Hindu Mythology. These frescos relate to Shiva, Vishnu, Durga including the Chola royalty. Also, each mural tells a story and the profound importance of the era.
However, over the years, soot and exposure to smoke from the lamps and burning of camphor have destroyed some Chola paintings. The Archaeological Survey of India has taken steps to restore the paintings using de-stucco process. In fact, nearly 400-year old paintings are available to explore in a separate pavilion on fibreglass boards.
Inscriptions
The inscriptions in Tamil and Grantha scripts showcase the rich legacy of this temple. An introduction about the king during that time features in either Sanskrit or Tamil. There are 64 inscriptions of Raja Raja Chola I and 29 inscriptions of Rajendra Chola I.
Additionally, there are inscriptions on the north wall about the temple personnel, their roles and names with wages. There are over 600 inscriptions of personalities from different backgrounds. It also has inscriptions of famous dancers and singers.
It’s a well-known charity institution and offers free meals for devotees and pilgrims. More importance for the same is seen during Hindu festivals.
Other significant Shrines at the Temple
Additionally, several smaller shrines for other Hindu deities cover the temple ground. These include:
- Ganesha Shrine
- Subramanya Shrine
- Amman Shrine
- Natarajan Shrine
Events and festivals
Brihadeeswarar Temple is a famous attraction for some amazing cultural events and festivals. During February, you can head to the annual dance festival, specifically on Mahashivratri. Besides, the Brahan Natyanjali festival, featuring classical India dance, lasts for 10 days.
