Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
Bhagwan Shiv as Nataraja, The Cosmic Dancer
By Bhavjot Bhasin
The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiv in his form as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. It stands as a beacon of spirituality and ancient Indian architecture.
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The temple’s origins trace back to the Sangam period (300 BCE - 300 CE). It was originally built by the Chola dynasty in the 9th century and later expanded by Pallavas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers.
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One of the temple’s unique features is Bhagwan Shiv depicted as Nataraja, performing the Ananda Tandava, the Dance of Bliss, symbolising the five activities of Shivji: creation, protection, destruction, embodiment, and release.
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The architectural layout of the temple is symbolic, representing the connection between the human body and the cosmos. Its four gopurams (gateway towers) point to the cardinal directions and are adorned with exquisite carvings.
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At the heart of the temple is the Chit Sabha, the golden hall, where the idol of Nataraja resides under a gold-plated roof. The nearby Kanaka Sabha is another hall used for rituals and ceremonies.
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One of the temple’s most mysterious aspects is the Chidambara Rahasyam, a small, space next to Nataraja’s idol. This symbolises Shiv’s formlessness, representing the infinite nature of the divine.
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The temple is also closely associated with the sage Patanjali and saint Vyagrapada, who are believed to have worshipped Bhagwan Shiv here and witnessed his cosmic dance.
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In a remarkable fusion of faiths, the temple features a shrine to Govindaraja Perumal, showcasing the harmony between Shaivism and Vaishnavism. This inclusiveness makes the Nataraja Temple a unique spiritual centre.
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The temple’s majestic four gopurams and elaborate carvings showcase the craftsmanship of ancient Tamil architecture, making Chidambaram Nataraja Temple a must-visit site for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.
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