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The "Big Temple" in Thanjavur refers to the Brihadeshwara Temple, also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil or Rajarajeswaram. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most magnificent and significant temples in India. The Brihadeshwara Temple is located in the city of Thanjavur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Here are some key details about this remarkable temple: 1. Historical Significance: The temple was built by Raja Raja Chola I, one of the greatest Chola emperors, between 1003 and 1010 AD. It is a prime example of Dravidian architecture and reflects the artistic achievements of the Chola dynasty. 2. Architectural Marvel: The Brihadeshwara Temple is renowned for its grandeur and architectural excellence. The vimana (tower) of the temple is one of the tallest in the world. The main temple tower rises to a height of 66 meters (216 feet). The temple is known for its intricate carvings, sculptures, and the use of granite in its construction. Gigantic Vimana (Main Tower): The most striking feature of the temple is its towering vimana, or main tower. The vimana is over 200 feet (66 meters) tall and is one of the tallest in the world. The sheer scale of the structure is awe-inspiring, especially considering it was built over a thousand years ago. Monolithic Nandi: At the entrance of the temple, there is a massive monolithic Nandi (sacred bull), Lord Shiva's mount. This Nandi is carved out of a single rock and is one of the largest of its kind, measuring about 16 feet in length and 13 feet in height. Granite Construction: The entire temple complex is constructed using granite, a hard and durable rock. The precision with which the granite blocks were cut, shaped, and assembled without the use of modern tools is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Chola artisans. Kumbam (Apex): The top of the vimana is adorned with an octagonal dome known as the "Kumbam." The Kumbam is a significant architectural element and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Frescoes and Inscriptions: The temple walls are adorned with exquisite frescoes and inscriptions. These paintings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and showcase the artistic brilliance of the Chola period. The inscriptions provide valuable historical and cultural information. Pillared Halls (Mandapams): The temple complex includes several mandapams or pillared halls. The Maha Mandapam, in particular, is known for its massive size and the grandeur of its architecture. The pillars are intricately carved with various motifs. Unique Architectural Elements: The Brihadeshwara Temple incorporates unique architectural elements that set it apart. The temple is designed in such a way that during the vernal equinox, the sunlight falls directly on the presiding deity's idol in the inner sanctum. Circumambulatory Passage: The temple has a spacious circumambulatory passage around the sanctum sanctorum, allowing devotees to walk around the main deity. The outer walls of the sanctum are adorned with elaborate sculptures and carvings. Innovative Use of Mortar: The Chola architects used a special kind of mortar in the construction of the temple, contributing to its structural stability over the centuries. This innovative use of materials is one of the reasons the temple has withstood the test of time. 3. Lord Shiva: The primary deity of the Brihadeshwara Temple is Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a massive lingam (phallic symbol). The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Shaivites, followers of Lord Shiva. 4. Nandi Statue: A notable feature of the temple is the large Nandi (bull) statue situated at the entrance. The Nandi is carved out of a single rock and is one of the largest monolithic Nandi statues in India. 5. Frescos and Paintings: The temple complex houses various frescos and paintings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology. These artworks provide insights into the cultural and religious practices of the Chola period. 6. Uniqueness: The Brihadeshwara Temple is unique for its use of a special kind of mortar in its construction, which has ensured the stability of the structure for over a thousand years. The temple also has a massive courtyard and several smaller shrines within the complex. 7. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1987, the Brihadeshwara Temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. It is considered a masterpiece of Chola architecture and a symbol of the Chola dynasty's power and artistic achievements. Visitors to the Brihadeshwara Temple can experience not only the religious and spiritual aspects of the site but also marvel at the architectural prowess and artistic richness of ancient Indian civilization. The temple continues to attract tourists, pilgrims, and art enthusiasts from around the world. Gangai Konda Cholapuram is an ancient temple town located near Jayankondam in the Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu, India. It was established by Rajendra Chola I, the son of Rajaraja Chola, in the 11th century. Here's a brief history of Gangai Konda Cholapuram: 1. Foundation by Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE): Rajendra Chola I, the successor of Rajaraja Chola, established Gangai Konda Cholapuram around 1025 CE. The name Gangai Konda Cholapuram translates to "The Chola town that brought the Ganges." 2. Reason for Establishment: The town was founded to commemorate Rajendra Chola's victorious military campaign against the Pala Dynasty in Bengal, which extended the Chola Empire up to the banks of the Ganges River. Rajendra Chola brought water from the Ganges to consecrate the newly built Brihadeshwara Temple in Gangai Konda Cholapuram. 3. Brihadeshwara Temple: The Brihadeshwara Temple in Gangai Konda Cholapuram is the centerpiece of the town. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an architectural marvel similar to the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, built by Rajendra Chola's father, Rajaraja Chola. The temple is renowned for its Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings. 4. Chola Administration Center: Gangai Konda Cholapuram served as a secondary capital of the Chola Empire during the reign of Rajendra Chola I. It was an important administrative and cultural center. 5. Decline: After the Chola period, Gangai Konda Cholapuram witnessed a decline in its prominence. The town faced invasions and changes in ruling dynasties, leading to a gradual decrease in its significance. 6. Archaeological Importance: The site gained archaeological importance in modern times due to its historical ruins and the well-preserved Brihadeshwara Temple. The Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken efforts to maintain and preserve the site. 7. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Along with the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur and the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, the Brihadeshwara Temple in Gangai Konda Cholapuram is part of the "Great Living Chola Temples," which collectively received UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1987. Today, Gangai Konda Cholapuram stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty's architectural and cultural achievements, and it attracts history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and tourists interested in exploring South India's rich history.