Exploring the Majestic Thanjavur Periya Kovil

• Thanjavur Periya Kovil, also known as Brihadeeswarar Temple, is one of the most famous and significant Hindu temples in India.
• Located in the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its architectural brilliance, historical significance, and religious importance.
• In this article, we will explore the different aspects of the temple and understand why it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Historical Significance of the Temple

• The temple was built by the Chola dynasty in the 11th century AD and is believed to have been constructed in just five years.
• It was built by King Raja Raja Chola I and is considered one of his greatest achievements.
• The temple was built to commemorate the victory of the Cholas over the Pandyas and is a testimony to their architectural and engineering skills.

• The temple was also a center of culture, art, and learning during the Chola dynasty.
• It was a place of worship for the people of the region and was an important center for the Shaivism sect of Hinduism.
• The temple was a symbol of the power and glory of the Chola empire and was an important center of pilgrimage for Hindus.

Architectural Brilliance of the Temple

• The Thanjavur Periya Kovil is known for its magnificent architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture.
• The temple is built entirely of granite and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
• The most impressive feature of the temple is its Vimana, or the tower above the sanctum sanctorum, which is over 60 meters high and is believed to be one of the tallest temple towers in the world.

• The temple also has a massive Nandi statue, which is 3.7 meters high and 6 meters long.
• The statue is made of a single stone and is believed to be one of the largest Nandi statues in the world.
• The temple also has a massive pillared hall, which is called the Periya Mandapam. The hall has 100 pillars, each adorned with intricate carvings.

Religious Significance of the Temple

• The Thanjavur Periya Kovil is an important center of pilgrimage for Hindus and is considered one of the most significant Shiva temples in India.
• The temple is believed to be a powerful source of energy and is believed to bring peace and prosperity to the devotees.

• The temple has a lingam, or a representation of Lord Shiva, which is believed to be one of the most powerful lingams in the world.
• The lingam is over 3.7 meters high and is believed to have been installed by Raja Raja Chola I himself.
• The temple is also known for its unique rituals, such as the abhishekam, or the bathing of the lingam with various substances.

Festivals Celebrated at Thanjavur Periya Kovil

• The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, which attract thousands of devotees from all over the country.
• The most important festival of the temple is the Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated in February or March every year.
• During this festival, the lingam is bathed with milk, honey, and other substances, and the temple is decorated with flowers and lights.

• Another important festival of the temple is the Annabhishekam, which is celebrated every year on the day of the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai.
• During this festival, the lingam is bathed with a mixture of milk, curd, honey, and other substances, and devotees are served with a special meal.

Tips for Visitors to Thanjavur Periya Kovil

• If you are planning to visit Thanjavur Periya Kovil, here are some tips that may help you:

Dress appropriately: As the temple is a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. It is recommended to wear traditional Indian clothing or clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Remove footwear: Visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. It is recommended to wear socks as the ground can be hot during summers.

Hire a guide: To understand the significance of the temple and appreciate its architecture, it is recommended to hire a guide. The guides are knowledgeable and can provide interesting insights about the temple.

Plan your visit: The temple can get crowded, especially during festivals. It is recommended to plan your visit accordingly and arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.

Be respectful: The temple is a place of worship, and visitors are expected to be respectful of the religious sentiments of the locals. Avoid taking photographs of the devotees or the rituals without their permission.

Conclusion

• The Thanjavur Periya Kovil is an important cultural and religious landmark in India.
• Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for tourists and devotees alike.
• The temple is a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the Chola dynasty and is a shining example of the Dravidian style of architecture.
• Its religious significance and unique rituals make it a center of pilgrimage for Hindus from all over the world.
• If you are planning to visit Tamil Nadu, a visit to the Thanjavur Periya Kovil should definitely be on your itinerary.