Architectural Marvels

1. Granite Construction:

The temple is built entirely of granite, though granite was not locally available in Thanjavur.

It is estimated that over 130,000 tons of granite were used.

2. Vimana (Tower):

The towering vimana (temple tower) stands 66 meters (216 feet) tall.

The capstone, weighing about 80 tons, was placed using an ingenious inclined plane that extended over several kilometers.

1. Nandi (Sacred Bull):

The monolithic Nandi, carved from a single stone, is 13 feet tall, 16 feet long, and weighs around 25 tons.

The sculpture is housed in a separate mandapa (pavilion) and faces the sanctum.

1. Inscriptions:

Over 100 inscriptions on the temple walls provide details of Raja Raja Chola’s rule, temple donations, and administrative policies.

1. Murals and Frescoes:

The temple contains fresco paintings depicting various episodes from Hindu mythology and the Chola king’s life.

The murals are an early example of Tamil art.

1. Temple Layout:

The temple complex is designed as per the Vastu Shastra and includes a sanctum (garbhagriha), assembly halls, and pillared corridors.

The main sanctum houses a massive Shiva Lingam, one of the largest in India.

Historical and Cultural Importance

1. Chola Dynasty's Contribution:

The temple is a testament to the Chola Empire's architectural, engineering, and cultural achievements.

It symbolized the empire's devotion to Shaivism while also showcasing the harmony between religion, politics, and art.

1. Religious Significance:

Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his aspect of Brihadeeswarar (the Great Lord).

The temple continues to be an active place of worship for devotees.

1. Role in Performing Arts:

The temple served as a cultural hub for classical music and dance.

It hosted Bharatanatyam performances as an offering to the deity.

Engineering Feats

The temple was built without using binding materials like mortar; instead, the granite stones were interlocked.

The shadow of the towering vimana never falls on the ground at noon, a unique architectural feature attributed to precise calculations.

*UNESCO World Heritage Site:

Recognized as part of the "Great Living Chola Temples" for its cultural and architectural significance.*

Modern Usage:

It remains a vibrant religious center and a popular tourist attraction.

Brihadeeswarar Temple is a symbol of Tamil pride and heritage.

https://t.me/devmandir

Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India)

Built by: Raja Raja Chola I (1010 AD).

Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.

Architectural Style: Dravidian architecture.

Dedication: Lord Shiva (known as Brihadeeswarar or Peruvudaiyar).

Materials: Entirely made of granite.

Tower (Vimana): 66 meters tall, one of the tallest temple towers in the world.

Unique Features:

The main dome at the top, weighing 80 tons, was placed using a ramp stretching several kilometers.

Intricate carvings and murals adorn the temple walls.

The Nandi statue (sacred bull) carved from a single rock weighs 25 tons.

Historical Significance:

The temple was constructed to display the power, wealth, and architectural prowess of the Chola dynasty.

It served as a center for art, religion, and culture during the Chola reign.

The temple inscriptions provide valuable information about the Chola administration, their conquests, and socio-economic conditions of the time.

Part 1

????जय हिंद जय भारत????