Chidambaram Tample History
Chidambaram Temple Overview.
Chidambaram Temple: A Divine Abode of Lord Nataraja
The Chidambaram Temple, also known as Thillai Nataraja Temple, is one of the most ancient and revered temples in South India. It is located in the town of Chidambaram in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. It is considered to be one of the five holiest Shaivite temples in India.
The temple is known for its unique architecture, elaborate rituals, and the exquisite bronze statue of Lord Nataraja. The temple complex covers an area of 40 acres and has four large gopurams (gateway towers) on each of its four sides. The main deity of the temple is Lord Nataraja, who is depicted in a cosmic dance pose, with one leg raised and the other resting on a demon.
History of Chidambaram Temple
The history of Chidambaram Temple dates back to the 2nd century AD when it was built by the Chola dynasty. The temple was later expanded and renovated by various dynasties, including the Pallavas, the Pandyas, and the Vijayanagara kings. The temple complex is a living testimony to the rich cultural heritage of India.
Legend has it that Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a cosmic dancer to the sages Patanjali and Vyagrapada in the Tillai Vanam (forest of Tillai trees), which is now known as Chidambaram. The sages were so mesmerized by Lord Shiva's dance that they prayed to him to stay there forever. It is said that Lord Shiva agreed to their request and transformed himself into the form of Lord Nataraja.
Architecture of Chidambaram Temple
The Chidambaram Temple is a masterpiece of South Indian temple architecture. The temple complex is divided into four parts: the outermost prakaram (enclosure), the second prakaram, the third prakaram, and the sanctum sanctorum. The sanctum sanctorum houses the bronze statue of Lord Nataraja.
The main gopuram of the temple is located on the eastern side and is 40 meters high. The gopuram is adorned with intricate carvings of various Hindu gods and goddesses. The other three gopurams are located on the other three sides of the temple and are slightly smaller in size.
The temple also has a thousand-pillared hall, which is a marvel of South Indian architecture. The hall is adorned with intricate carvings of various Hindu gods and goddesses. It is said that each pillar in the hall produces a different musical note when struck.
Rituals and Festivals at Chidambaram Temple
The Chidambaram Temple is known for its elaborate rituals and festivals. The temple follows the Vedic tradition and the Agama scriptures in its worship of Lord Nataraja. The daily rituals at the temple begin with the Mangala Aarti, which is performed at 5 am. The other important rituals at the temple include the Abhishekam (bathing of the deity), Alangaram (dressing of the deity), and Naivedyam (offering of food to the deity).
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, the most important of which is the Natyanjali Dance Festival. The festival is held during the months of February and March and is dedicated to Lord Nataraja. The festival is a celebration of classical Indian dance and attracts dancers