Thanjavur Periya Kovil: Explore the Cultural Heritage of Chola Dynasty

We have heard about many temples that are years old and hold great significance in recent times. There are several temples and pilgrimage sites that fascinate visitors. Among them comes one of the most famous and incredible temples in the Southern part of India, known as Thanjavur Periya Kovil. 

Along with that comes the structure and the vision of the architect that reflects in the beauty of the temple. This temple, also known as Brihadeeswarar or Rajarajeswaram, is a magnificent Hindu temple. It is located in Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu, India. This temple is well-known for its architectural magnificence, historical significance, and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance of Thanjavur Periya Kovil Temple

During the reign of the Chola dynasty’s greatest monarch, Rajaraja Chola I, in the 11th century, the construction of the Brihadeshwarar Temple took place. They completed the temple in 1010 AD, dedicating it to Lord Shiva. Rajaraja Chola I ordered the temple’s construction as a celebration of his victory over the Chalukya dynasty.

Furthermore, the construction of the temple commenced in 1003 and concluded in 1010 AD, showcasing the Dravidian Architecture Style. This temple took seven years to complete. Most importantly, Chola Dynasty has left its legacy as it remained an essential place for people to worship. Brihadeshwarar Temple also received global recognition when designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its brilliant architecture and great historical significance. 

Furthermore, visiting this temple helps individuals gain knowledge about history and appreciate past achievements. The architects have designed the temple with beautiful cravings and statues that depict various mythological and religious themes. Furthermore, paintings and portraits of gods and goddesses cover the walls of the temple. Not only that, it also has scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. 

Unique Thanjavur Temple Architecture 

The unbelievable architecture of the Thanjavur temple inside will amaze you when you learn about this fact. This temple is no less than a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. It is one of the finest examples of Chola architecture. Well, the Thanjai Periya Kovil height is around 216 feet (66 meters), and it is one of the tallest temple towers in the world. Moreover, the Vimana has been constructed uniquely because of its single-stone usage. Placing the stone used to build the towers, which weighs around 80 tons, at the top.

Did you know the entire temple is granite and is the world’s first granite temple? This rock is very hard, durable, and has the ability to withstand. So this is the reason why it became an ideal choice for the construction of this holy place. You might not believe it, but the construction of the entire temple required approximately 1,30,000 tonnes of granite.

Furthermore, the temple also has a massive Nandi statue, which is over 6 meters tall and weighs around 25 tonnes. The temple’s design is based on the principles of Vastu Shastra and features multiple courtyards, pillared halls, and sanctums. The main shrine contains a massive lingam, standing over 3 meters tall and is one of the largest in the world.

Besides that, the most outstanding feature is the large Brihadeshwara temple Shivling. The Shivling, made of black granite, stands at a height of 12 feet. Every corner of this temple is so mesmerising and thus draws devotees’ attention worldwide. Anyone interested in history, culture, or religion must visit this destination. 

Benefits of Visiting Brihadeshwara Temple

Visiting the Thanjavur big temple or the Brihadeeswarar Temple can benefit the mind, spirit, and overall well-being. Here are some advantages of experiencing this remarkable temple:

• Inner Peace and Calmness: The peaceful environment of the temple can provide a feeling of inner calm and tranquillity. Sacred chants and Rituals fill the atmosphere with positivity. 
• Spiritual Connection: For those on a spiritual journey, visiting the temple can encourage a deeper relationship with the divine. Moreover, Lord Shiva’s presence and passion can aid in meditation and spiritual growth.
• Historical Understanding:  Understanding the temple’s historical significance and the Chola dynasty’s accomplishments can broaden your understanding of ancient Indian history and architectural achievements.
• Exchange of Culture: Interacting with locals and other visitors can provide an understanding of different cultures and outlooks, promoting global awareness and understanding.
• Physical Activity: Walking around the temple floors and climbing the steps to the Vimana tower can provide a peaceful form of physical exercise, contributing to overall well-being. It’s a space where you can connect with something larger than yourself. It helps you to find meaning and purpose in life and existence. 

Also Read: 6 Different And Beautiful Architecture Of Temples In India

Important Rituals Performed at Thanjavur Periya Kovil Temple 

The temple performs some essential rituals to honour and gratitude towards Gods. 

• Abhishekam: This involves properly bathing the deity’s idol with milk, honey, curd, ghee, and water. Different gods have specific abhishekams performed on additional days of the week.
• Poojas: It is conducted in the name of Lord Brihadeeswarar (Shiva). The day begins with the Nithya Kalyana Utsavam, a wedding ritual performed for the main deity and Goddess Parvati.
• Navakiragam Pooja: This ritual is performed every Tamil month’s first Tuesday. During this ritual, people appease the Navagrahas (nine celestial planets) to seek blessings and protection. 
• Annaprashanam: The ritual of presenting solid food to a newborn for the first time. The priests perform it in the temple, seeking the blessings of Lord Brihadeeswarar. 
• Panguni Uthiram: During this unique festival Goddess Parvati is decorated with various ornaments and is marched around on a Rath (golden chariot). 
• Deepa Aradhana: This ritual involves offering aarti (light) to the deities using a vast lamp, creating a mesmerising visual spectacle.
• Rahu Kala Pooja: This is a pooja performed to appease the planet Rahu, which helps in both positive and negative effects in Hindu astrology.
• Annabhishekam: This ritual involves offering an abhishekam with rice and other food items. This symbolises nourishment and health. 
• Theertham: Devotees can receive the sacred water (theertham) from the temple priests. This sacred water has healing and purifying properties.
• Ardhajama Pooja: This is the final pooja of the day, performed before the deity’s relaxing time. It takes place around 8:30 PM.
• Maha Arathi: It is held twice daily, during sunrise and sunset. The priest rings the bells of the temple. Devotees then offer prayers by lighting lamps, symbolising the divine light.

Festivals Celebrated in Thanjavur Temple

Some of the major festivals celebrated at the temple include:

• Maha Shivaratri: This is one of the most important festivals celebrated dedicated to Lord Shiva. It falls in February or March. Devotees offer prayers, perform special rituals, and wake up all night in devotion to Lord Shiva.
• Panguni Peruvizha: This festival is observed during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April). It is a 10-day festival with various music, dance performances, and religious rituals. Furthermore, the temple hosts the “Ther Thiruvizha,” a chariot procession of the deities around the temple. 
• Annabhishekam: This ritual offers a unique mixture of rice, ghee, curd, honey, and other ingredients. It grants blessings and prosperity to the devotees. People perform Annabhishekam on the day of the Tamil New Year. 
• Aadi Pooram: Celebrated in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August), this festival marks the birth of Goddess Andal, a Tamil Vaishnavism. During this festival, people organize special poojas, processions, and cultural events. 
• Navaratri: This nine-night festival is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her various forms. It falls in September-October. Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess. 
• Arudra Darshanam: This festival is celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January). It marks the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva as Nataraja. 
• Deepavali (Diwali): The festival of lights is also celebrated at the Brihadeeswarar Temple. Devotees light lamps and offer prayers to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
• Pradosham: This festival is observed twice a month on the 13th day of the waxing and waning moon. Devotees dedicate Pradosham to Lord Shiva and conduct special poojas during this time. 
• Pavitrotsavam: It is performed to purify and the renewal ceremony. In August, they commit to cleansing the temple and its deities.

Also Read: 5 Alluring Temples Of Gujarat You Must Visit

In conclusion, we would like to introduce you to a website where you’ll have an opportunity to explore various temples in India. Visit our astrology website InstaAstro for all the astrological assistance. We assure you that we will resolve all your queries. 

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Also Read: Siddhi Vinayak Temple And Its History

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