Temple Trip #2 - Thanjavur Temple

 Temple Trip: Summer 2022

This is the second edition in a series of temples talking about temples I visited on my trip to India in the summer of ´22. All photos included were taken by yours truly. 

Thanjavur Temple:

The Thanjavur Temple, also known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple, is a Hindu temple located in the city of Thanjavur in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It was built during the Chola dynasty in the 11th century by Rajaraja Chola I, who was a prominent ruler of the Chola Empire. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is considered to be one of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring temples in the world.

The construction of the temple was a significant achievement in Indian architecture, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple's main attraction is the towering Vimana, which is a 66-meter-high pyramid-like structure that is made entirely of granite. The Vimana is topped with a single stone block that weighs around 80 tons and is believed to have been hoisted to the top using an inclined plane. It is a marvel of engineering, a feat that is more difficult to accomplish than the erection of the pyramids of Giza. 

The Thanjavur Temple has a rich history and significance in Indian culture. It was built during a time when the Chola dynasty was at the height of its power, and the temple is considered to be a symbol of the Chola's cultural and architectural achievements. The temple also played a significant role in the spread of Hinduism, and it has attracted pilgrims and devotees from all over the world for centuries. In addition to its religious and cultural significance, the Thanjavur Temple is also renowned for its architectural beauty. The temple's intricate carvings and sculptures, which adorn its walls and pillars, are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Chola artisans. The temple's towering Vimana, which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, is also a marvel of engineering.

The temple's inner sanctum houses a massive statue of Lord Shiva, which is made of granite and stands at 3.7 meters tall. The statue is considered to be one of the largest sculptures of Lord Shiva in the world. The temple also has several other smaller shrines dedicated to various deities. There are also hundreds of kilometers of underground tunnels connecting other Indian kingdoms and temples across South India that all convene at the Thanjavur temple. A number of these tunnels have deteriorated with time, or have been equipped with traps rendering them inaccessible. On the second floor of the temple, there is an art gallery filled with the different dances of Shiva, a collection that is incomplete. 

In conclusion, the Thanjavur Temple is a magnificent example of Indian architecture and culture. Its rich history, religious significance, and architectural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history and culture. 

Part 3 with the next temple is coming soon!