Rajarajeshwara Temple

The Rajarajeshwara Temple, also known as the Brihadeshwara Temple, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It was built during the reign of the Chola dynasty by the emperor Rajaraja Chola I, who ruled from 985 to 1014 CE. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture.

Construction
The construction of the Rajarajeshwara Temple began in 1003 CE and was completed in 1010 CE. It is believed that the temple was built to commemorate the victory of Rajaraja Chola I over the Pandyas, a rival dynasty. The temple was designed and built by a team of skilled architects, sculptors, and craftsmen who were led by the renowned architect Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Perunthachan.

Architecture
The Rajarajeshwara Temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture and grandeur. The temple is built primarily using granite, which was sourced from nearby quarries. The main shrine of the temple, called the Vimana, is a towering structure that stands at a height of 66 meters. It is one of the tallest temple towers in India. The Vimana is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various mythological stories and deities.

Key Features
- The temple complex spans over an area of around 25 acres and includes several smaller shrines dedicated to different deities.
- The main temple is surrounded by a massive fortified wall, which has intricately carved gopurams (entrance towers) at various points.
- The inner sanctum of the temple houses a massive lingam, symbolizing Lord Shiva, which is believed to be one of the largest in India.
- The temple also has a large Nandi statue, a sacred bull and the mount of Lord Shiva, which is carved out of a single stone and measures about 5 meters in height.
- The temple complex also contains various mandapams (pillared halls) and pavilions, which were used for religious ceremonies and gatherings.

Legacy
The Rajarajeshwara Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. It attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from around the world every year. The temple stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance and cultural heritage of the Chola dynasty and continues to be a symbol of pride for the people of Tamil Nadu.

Raja rajeshwara