🛕 Brihadeeswarar Temple – Tamil Nadu

📖 Origin & History

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also called Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Built by the great Chola ruler Raja Raja Chola I in 1010 CE, it is one of the largest temples in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the "Great Living Chola Temples." Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this architectural marvel is also known as the “Big Temple.”

💡 Did You Know?

🪔 The temple’s Vimana (tower) rises to a height of 66 meters – one of the tallest in the world.

🧱 The Kumbam (apex stone) weighs around 80 tons and was placed using an inclined ramp.

🎭 Frescoes inside depict Chola cultural life and dance traditions like Bharatanatyam.

🌍 Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

🔁 Timeline

1010 CE — Temple built by Raja Raja Chola I as a grand tribute to Lord Shiva.

Medieval Period — Expanded by successive Chola and Nayak rulers.

Colonial Era — Survived invasions and became a cultural symbol of Tamil heritage.

Modern Era — Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an active place of worship.

🌸 Spiritual Significance

Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Brihadeeswara, symbolizing cosmic power.
The temple showcases the peak of Chola architecture.
Home to one of the largest Shiva Lingams in the world.
A sacred site for devotees and historians alike, blending faith and culture.

🛕 Brihadeeswarar Temple – Tamil Nadu

📖 Origin & History

💡 Did You Know?

🔁 Timeline

🌸 Spiritual Significance

🎯 Quick Quiz

Who built the Brihadeeswarar Temple?