Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram

Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram

     Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja or the cosmic dancer, the ‘Thillai Nataraja Temple’ is one of the most ancient temples of Tamil Nadu known for both, religious and architectural significance. The temple is believed to have been built during the time of Pallava rule in 11th century and further renovations were made during Cholas, Pandyas and Vijayanagara reign. The Nataraja Temple is also one of the ‘Panch Bhuta Sthalas’ with each one dedicated to five elements of universe – earth, air, water, fire and space; this temple signifies the fifth element, space.

     

      The place where the temple sits is believed to be the centre of earth’s magnetic field. The main sanctum known as Chitsabha, houses the deity of Nataraja and Sivakamasundri (Nataraja’s consort). The roof of Chitsabha is made of gold and is believed to have been built during the Chola rule. The temple also has a shrine for Sivakamasundri known as the Sivakami Amman Temple and a 1000 pillared hall designed in the form of a chariot. Dating back to the Chola period, the temple and the hall are adorned with figures of dancers, drummers and musicians on the walls. The lofty gopurams of the temple ornamented with carvings of Hindu gods, various manifestations of Lord Shiva and dancers representing 108 postures of Bharatnatyam, are also a sight to behold.