New Delhi: The architectural brilliance of South India is visible in its many majestic temples, and the Brihadeeswara Temple is one of the brightest examples of that. Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, it is a Shaivite Hindu temple which was constructed in a Chola architectural style. It is located on the Cauvery River’s bank in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur. One of the largest Hindu temples, it is one of the brightest examples of Tamil architecture. Along with the Chola-era Airavatesvara Temple and Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, the Brihadeeswara Temple forms the “Great Living Chola Temples” which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Who constructed the Brihadeeswara Temple?
The Cholas emerged as a powerful dynasty between 850 and 1280 and during the early phase of their rule, the Cholas focused on expanding the boundaries of their empire rather than focusing on architecture. In the 10th century, a new architectural style emerged in the Chola Empire with features like multifaceted columns with projecting square capitals. The Brihadeeswara Temple is a bright example of this style and it was built by Rajaraja I, the Chola emperor between 1003 and 1010.
The original temple was constructed around a moat with the main temple, gopurams, massive tower, inscriptions, and sculptures. In the next 1,000 years, the temple was renovated, and repaired and new structures were added. The wars and raids in the region damaged the temple and Hindu dynasties that regained control repaired them. In some cases, the rulers tried to renovate by ordering new murals on top of the older ones. In other cases, they sponsored the addition of shrines. Today, the temple is located amidst fortified walls which were constructed after the 16th century.
The Brihadeeswara Temple and its splendid architecture
A major attraction of the Brihadeeswara Temple is a massive statue of Lord Shiva’s sacred bull, Nandi. Its height is 13 feet, width is 16 feet and was carved out of a single rock. The walls that surround the temple have elaborate rock artwork. The temple has one of the largest Shiva lingas in the country and the main tower’s height is 216 feet, making it one of the tallest in the world.
The temple had been built from granite and the main Gopurams are excellent structures with detailed sculptures. The temple is also famous for the brass Nataraja which was commissioned in the 11th century. The inscriptions and frescoes of the temple tell the tale of the fortunes of the city. The temple represents the Chola dynasty’s might and power that once ruled over the region.
One of the largest Hindu temples, it is one of the brightest examples of Tamil architecture. Along with the Chola-era Airavatesvara Temple and Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, the Brihadeeswara Temple forms the “Great Living Chola Temples”. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
