Difference between revisions of "Great Living Chola Temples" - New World Encyclopedia
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The '''Great Living Chola Temples''' are temples built during the [[Chola]] rule in the south of [[India]]. These temples are the [[Brihadisvara Temple]] at [[Thanjavur]], the [[Gangaikonda Cholapuram|Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram]] and the [[Airavatesvara Temple]] at [[Darasuram]]. The Brihadisvara Temple was declared by [[UNESCO]] as a [[World Heritage Site]] in 1987; the Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were added as extensions to the site in 2004. The site is now known as the "Great Living Chola Temples." | The '''Great Living Chola Temples''' are temples built during the [[Chola]] rule in the south of [[India]]. These temples are the [[Brihadisvara Temple]] at [[Thanjavur]], the [[Gangaikonda Cholapuram|Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram]] and the [[Airavatesvara Temple]] at [[Darasuram]]. The Brihadisvara Temple was declared by [[UNESCO]] as a [[World Heritage Site]] in 1987; the Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were added as extensions to the site in 2004. The site is now known as the "Great Living Chola Temples." | ||
| − | == | + | ==Thanjavur== |
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| + | <!--{{attention|date=October 2007}}—> | ||
| + | {{redirect|Tanjore}} | ||
| − | + | '''Thanjavur''' ([[Tamil language|Tamil]] : தஞ்சாவூர்), also known by its [[anglicised]] name '''Tanjore''', is a city and a [[municipality]] in [[Thanjavur district]] in the [[India]]n [[States and territories of India|state]] of [[Tamil Nadu]]. Thanjavur is also the capital of the Thanjavur District. The city lies on the south bank of the [[Kaveri River]]. Thanjavur was the capital of the [[Mutharayar]]s and [[Chola]]s when they were at the peak of their power. Since then, Thanjavur has been one of the chief political, cultural and religious centres of [[South India]]. Thanjavur is home to the famous [[Brihadeeswara Temple]], one of [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]]s. | |
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| − | + | Thanjavur derives its name from Tanjan - an [[asura]] (demon) who according to local legend caused devastation and was killed by Sri Anandavalli Amman and Sri Neelamegapperumal. Tanjan's last request, that the city might be named after him, was granted. | |
===History=== | ===History=== | ||
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{{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction | | {{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction | | ||
native_name = Thanjavur | | native_name = Thanjavur | | ||
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footnotes = | | footnotes = | | ||
}} | }} | ||
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The Thanjavur area, where a majority of Kallar and other families are presently located, has a rich historical heritage and is a prism of ancient as well as the modern south Indian civilizations. The city was once the stronghold of the historic [[Cholas]]. | The Thanjavur area, where a majority of Kallar and other families are presently located, has a rich historical heritage and is a prism of ancient as well as the modern south Indian civilizations. The city was once the stronghold of the historic [[Cholas]]. | ||
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====Under the Cholas==== | ====Under the Cholas==== | ||
[[Image:Brihadeshwara front right.jpg|thumb|left|Brihadeeswara Temple built by Rajaraja Chola I]] | [[Image:Brihadeshwara front right.jpg|thumb|left|Brihadeeswara Temple built by Rajaraja Chola I]] | ||
| − | Thanjavur, or ''Tanjapuri'' as it was called in the ancient times was chosen by the [[Mutharayar]] king and later conquered by [[Vijayalaya Chola]]. Vijayalaya built a temple for his favourite goddess Nisumbhasudani in the city. Although subsequent emperors made [[Kanchipuram]] a subsidiary capital, Thanjavur maintained its position as the chief city. The great '''[[Brihadisvara Temple]]''', built by '''[[Rajaraja Chola I]]''' was completed around | + | Thanjavur, or ''Tanjapuri'' as it was called in the ancient times was chosen by the [[Mutharayar]] king and later conquered by [[Vijayalaya Chola]]. Vijayalaya built a temple for his favourite goddess Nisumbhasudani in the city. Although subsequent emperors made [[Kanchipuram]] a subsidiary capital, Thanjavur maintained its position as the chief city. The great '''[[Brihadisvara Temple]]''', built by '''[[Rajaraja Chola I]]''' was completed around 1010 C.E. It remained the centre of the Chola administration for many years, channelling the state revenue into a number of civic projects. It also acted as a repository of the empire's records, as the great Rajaraja had its walls covered with numerous inscriptions recording his conquests and his endowments to various charities. The impression we get from the inscriptions is of a wealthy, progressive city, although totally dominated by the temple. |
The inscriptions tell us about a number of royal palaces in the city and of the districts where palace servants lived. We also learn the names of a number of streets: the big street of Virasola and the big market of Tribhuvanamadeviyar. During the reign of Rajaraja we learn that the city was divided into two parts: ''Ullalai'' (inner) and ''Purambadi'' (outer) city. Purambadi could have been an extension to the city built during Rajaraja's reign. Among the new streets built by Rajaraja were two running east to west in front of the [[Brihadisvara Temple]] and called Northern and Southern ''Talichcheries''. People who worked in the temple occupied these streets. There were other temples then, such as the Jayabhima temple and Tanjai Mamani found in the inscriptions, which do not exist anymore. There was also a public hospital attached to a Vishnu temple named after [[Parantaka Chola II|Sundara Chola]] called ''Sundarachola Vinnagara Salai'' which was endowed by Kundavai, the sister of Rajaraja Chola. | The inscriptions tell us about a number of royal palaces in the city and of the districts where palace servants lived. We also learn the names of a number of streets: the big street of Virasola and the big market of Tribhuvanamadeviyar. During the reign of Rajaraja we learn that the city was divided into two parts: ''Ullalai'' (inner) and ''Purambadi'' (outer) city. Purambadi could have been an extension to the city built during Rajaraja's reign. Among the new streets built by Rajaraja were two running east to west in front of the [[Brihadisvara Temple]] and called Northern and Southern ''Talichcheries''. People who worked in the temple occupied these streets. There were other temples then, such as the Jayabhima temple and Tanjai Mamani found in the inscriptions, which do not exist anymore. There was also a public hospital attached to a Vishnu temple named after [[Parantaka Chola II|Sundara Chola]] called ''Sundarachola Vinnagara Salai'' which was endowed by Kundavai, the sister of Rajaraja Chola. | ||
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====After the Cholas==== | ====After the Cholas==== | ||
| − | [[Image:RajaGopalaCannon.JPG|thumb|right|300px|A Mighty Cannon of forge-welded Iron. This cannon was built during the reign of [[Thanjavur Nayaks|Raghunatha Nayak]] (1600 - 1645 | + | [[Image:RajaGopalaCannon.JPG|thumb|right|300px|A Mighty Cannon of forge-welded Iron. This cannon was built during the reign of [[Thanjavur Nayaks|Raghunatha Nayak]] (1600 - 1645 C.E.), and it was located at the defense barricade at the Eastern entrance to the city.]] |
After the [[Cholas]] the [[Pandyas]] conquered the [[Chola]] country. [[Madurai]] was the Pandya capital and Thanjavur remained in the background, as a province of [[Vijaynagar]] empire. | After the [[Cholas]] the [[Pandyas]] conquered the [[Chola]] country. [[Madurai]] was the Pandya capital and Thanjavur remained in the background, as a province of [[Vijaynagar]] empire. | ||
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Later in 1535,the [[Vijaynagar]] king installed a [[Nayak]] king hence the era of [[Tanjore Nayaks]] which lasted till mid-17th century, until attacked by the [[Madurai Nayaks]]. Later slipped into the hands of [[Maratha]]s. | Later in 1535,the [[Vijaynagar]] king installed a [[Nayak]] king hence the era of [[Tanjore Nayaks]] which lasted till mid-17th century, until attacked by the [[Madurai Nayaks]]. Later slipped into the hands of [[Maratha]]s. | ||
| − | Tanjore was conquered by the [[Maratha]]s in | + | Tanjore was conquered by the [[Maratha]]s in 1674 under Venkaji, the half-brother of [[Shivaji]] the Great; his successors ruled as rajas of Tanjore. The British first came into contact with Tanjore by their expedition in 1749 with a view to the restoration of a deposed raja of Tanjore Nayak lineage. In this they failed, and a subsequent expedition was bought off. The Maratha rajas held Tanjore until 1799. A [[Protestant]] mission at Tanjore was founded in 1778 by the Reverend [[Christian Friedrich Schwarz]]. His church dates from 1779. |
| − | In October 1799, the district was ceded to the [[British East India Company]] in absolute sovereignty by Raja [[Serfoji II]], a pupil of the missionary Schwartz. The raja retained only the capital and a small tract of surrounding country. He died in | + | In October 1799, the district was ceded to the [[British East India Company]] in absolute sovereignty by Raja [[Serfoji II]], a pupil of the missionary Schwartz. The raja retained only the capital and a small tract of surrounding country. He died in 1833 and was succeeded by his son Sivaji, on whose death in 1855 without an heir the house became extinct. |
===Geography=== | ===Geography=== | ||
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Thanjavur is famous for the [[Brahadeeswara Temple]] (or Brihadeeswara temple) built by [[Rajaraja Chola]], the first sailor king of India. The Brahadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is one of [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]]s. The temple is enclosed in two courts, surmounted by a lofty tower and including the exquisitely decorated shrine of [[Murugan|Subrahmanya]]. Among the other historic buildings is the [[Vijayanagar]] fort, which contains a palace that was expanded by the Maratha king [[Serfoji II]] with an armoury, a Bell Tower and the [[Saraswathi Mahal Library]], which contains over 30,000 Indian and European manuscripts written on palm leaf and paper. | Thanjavur is famous for the [[Brahadeeswara Temple]] (or Brihadeeswara temple) built by [[Rajaraja Chola]], the first sailor king of India. The Brahadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is one of [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]]s. The temple is enclosed in two courts, surmounted by a lofty tower and including the exquisitely decorated shrine of [[Murugan|Subrahmanya]]. Among the other historic buildings is the [[Vijayanagar]] fort, which contains a palace that was expanded by the Maratha king [[Serfoji II]] with an armoury, a Bell Tower and the [[Saraswathi Mahal Library]], which contains over 30,000 Indian and European manuscripts written on palm leaf and paper. | ||
| − | * [http://www.bergerfoundation.ch/wat4/museum1?museum=Tanjore&col=pays&country=Inde&genre=site&cd=7256-3181-3938:7256-3181-3940&cdindex=1 "Tanjore (Tamil Nadu)" | + | * [http://www.bergerfoundation.ch/wat4/museum1?museum=Tanjore&col=pays&country=Inde&genre=site&cd=7256-3181-3938:7256-3181-3940&cdindex=1 "Tanjore (Tamil Nadu)," Jacques-Edouard Berger Foundation, World Art Treasures] |
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| + | ==='''Brihadeeswarar Temple''' === | ||
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| + | <!--{{Expert}}—> | ||
| + | {{coor title dm|10|47|N|79|08|E}} | ||
| + | [[Image: Big Temple Temple.jpg]] | ||
| + | {{Infobox Mandir | ||
| + | |image = Big_Temple-Temple.jpg | ||
| + | |creator = [[Raja Raja Chola]] | ||
| + | |Original_name = PERUVUDIAYAAR TEMPLE | ||
| + | |proper_name = Peruvudaiyaar Koil [Peruvudiayaar Temple] | ||
| + | |date_built = 11th century AD | ||
| + | |primary_deity = PERUVUDIAYAAR = Brihadeeswarar ([[Shiva]]) | ||
| + | |architecture = [[South Indian]], [[Kovil]] | ||
| + | |location = [[Thanjavur]] | ||
| + | }} | ||
| + | The ([[Tamil language|Tamil]]: {{lang|ta|பெருவுடையார் கோவில்}}; '''Peruvudaiyar Koil'''<ref>{{cite web| title= Bragatheeswarar Temple, The Big Temple|url=http://www.thanjavur.com/bragathe.htm|publisher=thanjavur.com| accessdate=2007/09/29}}</ref><ref>Brihadeeswarar is also spelled ''Brihadeshvara'', ''Birhadeeshwara'' or ''Bragatheeswarar''</ref>) is an ancient [[Hinduism|Hindu]] temple located at [[Thanjavur]] in the state of [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]. The temple is dedicated to [[Shiva]] and dates to the [[Chola dynasty]] rule in the [[11th century]] [[Common Era|CE]]. | ||
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| + | The temple is part of the [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]] "[[Great Living Chola Temples]]." | ||
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| + | ==== History ==== | ||
| + | The temple was built by [[Chola dynasty|Chola]] king [[Rajaraja Chola I]]. Construction was completed in 1009-10 C.E. | ||
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| + | ==== Architecture ==== | ||
| + | This temple is a prime example of the [[Indian architecture#Hindu architecture|Dravidian]] style of [[Hindu temple architecture| temple architecture]] The central temple known as the ''Periya Kovil'' (Big Temple) stands within a fort, whose walls were later additions built during the [[16th century]]. The name ''periya kovil'' came from its original name "periya aavudayar kovil" (''aavudayar'' being a local name of Lord [[Shiva]]). The ''[[Vimana (tower)|vimana]]'' (main tower) of the temple is approximately 65 [[metre|m]] (215 [[foot (unit)|ft]]) high and is the tallest in the world.<!--{{Fact|date=September 2007}}—> It was so designed that the ''vimana'' never casts a shadow at noon during any period of the year.<!--{{Fact|date=February 2007}}—> | ||
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| + | More details on this temple can be found at http://www.templepages.com | ||
===Arts and Culture=== | ===Arts and Culture=== | ||
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Tanjore plates which are made of color glass pieces which are aesthetically cut and embedded on velvet cloth. It will have god image or birds at the center. | Tanjore plates which are made of color glass pieces which are aesthetically cut and embedded on velvet cloth. It will have god image or birds at the center. | ||
| + | <!-- | ||
=== Demographics === | === Demographics === | ||
The city is the 8th largest in the state of Tamil Nadu with a census population of around 225,000 (est. 2005). It has an area of 36 km². Ethnically most of the people are Tamils. There is also a large [[Telugu people|Telugu]] population along with [[Saurashtra language|Saurashtrians]] and [[Thanjavur Marathi]] people. [[As of 2001]] India [[census]]<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref>, Thanjavur had a population of 215,725. Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. Thanjavur has an average literacy rate of 80%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 76%. In Thanjavur, 9% of the population is under 6 years of age. | The city is the 8th largest in the state of Tamil Nadu with a census population of around 225,000 (est. 2005). It has an area of 36 km². Ethnically most of the people are Tamils. There is also a large [[Telugu people|Telugu]] population along with [[Saurashtra language|Saurashtrians]] and [[Thanjavur Marathi]] people. [[As of 2001]] India [[census]]<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref>, Thanjavur had a population of 215,725. Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. Thanjavur has an average literacy rate of 80%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 76%. In Thanjavur, 9% of the population is under 6 years of age. | ||
Here in Thanjavur in 1994, 8th Tamil world conference was held. | Here in Thanjavur in 1994, 8th Tamil world conference was held. | ||
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== Nearby Towns == | == Nearby Towns == | ||
* [[Tiruchirappalli]] - 55 km West, | * [[Tiruchirappalli]] - 55 km West, | ||
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# Thiru. Basel Pillar RAJAKUMAR A | # Thiru. Basel Pillar RAJAKUMAR A | ||
# Dr.S.Jayakumar,Chief Technology Officer,[http://www.epigon.in Epigon Media Technologies] | # Dr.S.Jayakumar,Chief Technology Officer,[http://www.epigon.in Epigon Media Technologies] | ||
| + | —> | ||
| + | <!-- | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
* {{1911}} | * {{1911}} | ||
<references/> | <references/> | ||
# | # | ||
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| + | <!--{{credits|Thanjavur|176331139|}}—> | ||
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| + | == Gangaikonda Cholapuram== | ||
| + | <!--{{Citations missing|date=May 2007}}—> | ||
| + | [[Image:Gangaikonda CholaPuram.JPG|thumb|right|Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram]] | ||
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| + | {{Chola history}} | ||
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| + | '''Gangaikonda Cholapuram''' ([[Tamil language|Tamil]]: [[:ta:கங்கைகொண்ட சோழபுரம்|கங்கைகொண்ட சோழபுரம்]]) was erected as the capital of the [[Cholas]] by [[Rajendra Chola I]], the son and successor of [[Rajaraja Chola]], the great Chola who conquered a large area in South India at the beginning of the 11th century C.E. It occupies an important place in the history of India. As the capital of the Cholas from about 1025 C.E. for about 250 years, the city controlled the affairs of entire south India, from the [[Tungabhadra]] in the north to [[Ceylon]] in the south. The great temple of [[Siva]] at this place is next only to the [[Brihadisvara temple]] at [[Thanjavur]] in its monumental nature and surpasses it in sculptural quality. | ||
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| + | === Founding the City === | ||
| + | [[Image:Gkcp1.jpg|thumb|left|thumb|Stone sculpture of [[Parvati]] at the temple]] | ||
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| + | The city was founded by Rajendra Chola to commemorate his victorious march to the [[Ganges]]. The name means ''The town of the chola who captured the Ganges''. It is now a small village, its past eminence only remembered by the existence of the great Siva Temple. | ||
| − | + | C. 1022 C.E. Rajendra undertook an expedition to the Ganges along the east coast of peninsular India. The emperor himself accompanying the army up to the banks of the Godavari river. The Chola armies conquered all the countries north of [[Vengi]], which included [[Kalinga (India)|Kalinga]], Odda, Southern Kosala, the lower and upper Lada and finally the Vangaladesa ([[Bengal]]). The triumphant Chola armies brought back waters from the river Ganges in golden vessels. | |
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| + | To commemorate this celebrated victory, Rajendra assumed the title of '''''Gangaikonda Chola''''' and had the Siva Temple Gangakkondacholeswaram built. Soon after the capital was moved from Thanjavur to Gangaikondacholapuram. The city of Gangaikondacholapuram was probably founded by Rajendra before his 17th year. | ||
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| + | Most of the Chola kings who succeeded Rajendra were crowned here. They retained it as their capital, reoriented and trained the efficient Chola army. | ||
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| + | === Fortifications === | ||
| + | Judging from the available literature and the remains we may conclude that it was an extensive city, carefully planned and laid in accordance with the architectural treatises to suit the needs of a capital. | ||
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| + | The city seems to have had two fortifications, one inner and the other outer. The outer was probably wider. The remains of the outer fortification can be seen as a mound running all around the palace. | ||
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| + | The outer fortification built of burnt bricks, was about six to eight feet wide. It consisted of two walls, the intervening space (the core) being filled with sand. The bricks are fairly large in size and are made of well-burnt clay. Systematic brick robbing by the local inhabitants has reduced this structure to its current state. | ||
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| + | The outer fortification was known as ''Rajendra Chola Madil'' and is mentioned in inscriptions. The inner fortification was around the royal palace, probably identical with the Utpadi vittu madil of the inscriptions. | ||
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| + | Probably in the reign of [[Kulothunga Chola I]], the fortifications were renewed and the city underwent some alteration and additions. An epigraph refers to the fort wall of Kulothunga Chola ''(Kulottunga Cholan Thirumadil)''. The strengthening of the fortification and additions to the city in the reign of Kulothunga I were probably necessitated by the uprising which led to the murder of Chola king [[Adirajendra]], Kulothunga's predecessor. | ||
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| + | === Architechure === | ||
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| + | [[Image:Gangai-Konda-Cholapuram-Singavaai_Kinaru.jpg|thumb|left|thumb|lion-well (simhakeni)]] | ||
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| + | The temple of Gangaikondacholisvara is approached through the northern entrance from the road. The passage passes through the enclosure wall and leads on to the inner court. | ||
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| + | As one steps in, the great Vimana arrests the visitor's sight. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Tanjavur. As it rises to a height of 160 feet and is shorter than the Tanjavur tower, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Tanjavur temple. | ||
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| + | The Vimana is flanked on either side by small temples; the one in the north now housing the Goddess is fairly well preserved. The small shire of Chandikesvara is near the steps in the north. In the north-east are a shire housing Durga, a well called lion-well (simhakeni) with a lion figure guarding its steps and a late mandapa housing the office. Nandi is in the east facing the main shrine. In the same direction is the ruined gopura, the entrance tower. The main tower surrounded by little shrines truly presents the appearance of a great Chakravarti (emperor) surrounded by chieftains and vassals. The Gangaikondacholapuram Vimana is undoubtedly a devalaya chakravarti, an emperor among temples of South India. | ||
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| + | === Royal Palace === | ||
| + | |||
| + | [[Image:Maligai-Medu.jpg|thumb|left|thumb|Remains of Royal Palace as of 2005]] | ||
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| + | [[Image:Remainsof-Maligai-Medu.jpg|thumb|left|thumb|Exacavated Ancient Items]] | ||
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| + | The royal [[palace]] also was built of burnt brick. The ceilings were covered with flat tiles of small size, laid in a number of courses, in fine lime mortar. The pillars were probably made of polished wood, supported on granite bases; a few pillar bases have survived to this day. Iron nails and clamps have been recovered from this palace site. | ||
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| + | In the reign of [[Virarajendra Chola]], Rajendra's third son, the palace at Gangaikondacholapuram is referred to as Chola-Keralan Thirumaligai (Chola Keralan palace) evidently after one of the titles of Rajendra I. The same inscription mentions a few parts of the palace as ''adibhumi'' (the ground floor), ''Kilaisopana'' (the eastern portico), and a seat named ''Mavali vanadhirajan''. Evidently the palace was multistoried. In an inscription dated in the 49th year of Kulothunga I (1119 C.E.) reference is made to Gangaikondacholamaligai at this place. It is likely that there were more than one royals building each having their own name. | ||
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| + | === Roads and City gates === | ||
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| + | Besides the names of the palace and fort walls, the names of a few roads and streets are preserved in the epigraphs. The entryways named Thiruvasal, the eastern gate and the Vembugudi gate, evidently the south gate leading to the village Vembugudi situated in that direction are mentioned. Reference is also found to highways named after Rajaraja and Rajendra as Rajarajan Peruvali and Rajendran Peruvali. Other streets mentioned in epigraphs are the ten streets ''(Pattu teru)'', the gateway lane ''(Thiruvasal Narasam)'' and the ''Suddhamali lane''. The inscription also refers to the highways, ''Kulottungacholan Thirumadil peruvali'', ''Vilangudaiyan Peruvali'' and ''Kulaiyanai pona Peruvali'' (the highway through which a short elephant passed by). | ||
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| + | === City layout === | ||
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| + | The epigraphs also refer to the ''Madhurantaka Vadavaru'', now called the Vadavaru, running about six kilometers east of the ruined capital. Madhurntaka Vedavaru, named after one of the titles of Rajendra I, was a source of irrigation to a vast stretch of land bordering the capital. An irrigation channel called Anaivettuvan (destroyer of elephants) is also mentioned. | ||
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| + | There were both wet and dry lands inside the Fort, used for cultivation and other purposes. The present positions of the existing temples throw some light on the lay out of the city. With the palace as the centre to the city, the great temple, and the other temples in the city seem to have been erected. Towards the northeast ''(Isanya)'' of the palace is the great temple of Siva. The Siva temple according to [[Vastu]] and traditional texts should be in the northeast of the city or village and should face east. The temple of [[Vishnu]] should be in the west. | ||
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| + | A number of small tanks and ponds mentioned in inscriptions and a number of wells, supplied drinking water to the residents. | ||
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| + | === Destruction of the city === | ||
| − | + | This capital of the most powerful empire in Asia at one time is now desolate; only the temple of Gangaikondachola survives. | |
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| − | + | What caused the destruction of this city? The [[Pandyas]] who put an end to the Chola empire late in the 13th century, avenging their earlier defeats, should have razed the city to the ground, a misfortune that befell on capitals in early times. It should have remained a heap of brick debris, the inhabitants of the nearby villages pilfering the bricks for their constructions. The people have also dug systematically deep into the ground and extracted cartloads of ancient bricks. | |
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| − | === | + | === Temple of Gangaikondacholisvara === |
| − | + | :''From Main article'': ''Gangaikonda Cholapuram'' | |
| + | [[Image:Gangai-Konda-Cholapuram-Singavaai_Kinaru.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Lion-well (Simhakeni)]] | ||
| − | + | The temple of Gangaikondacholisvara is approached through the northern entrance from the road. The passage passes through the enclosure wall and leads on to the inner court. | |
| − | + | As one steps in, the great Vimana arrests the visitor's sight. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Tanjavur. As it rises to a height of 160 feet and is shorter than the Tanjavur tower, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Tanjavur temple. | |
| − | [[Image: | + | [[Image:Gangaikonda CholaPuram.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram]] |
| − | + | The Vimana is flanked on either side by small temples; the one in the north now housing the Goddess is fairly well preserved. The small shire of Chandikesvara is near the steps in the north. In the north-east are a shire housing Durga, a well called lion-well (simhakeni) with a lion figure guarding its steps and a late mandapa housing the office. Nandi is in the east facing the main shrine. In the same direction is the ruined gopura, the entrance tower. The main tower surrounded by little shrines truly presents the appearance of a great Chakravarti (emperor) surrounded by chieftains and vassals. The Gangaikondacholapuram Vimana is undoubtedly a devalaya chakravarti, an emperor among temples of South India. | |
| − | + | <!--Gangaikonda_Cholapuram|139570661|—> | |
| − | + | ==Darasuram== | |
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:IMGP3269.jpg|thumb|right|300px]] —> | <!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:IMGP3269.jpg|thumb|right|300px]] —> | ||
'''Darasuram''' is a small town near [[Kumbakonam]] in [[Tamil Nadu]] state in [[South India|southern India]]. It is known for the [[Airavatesvara Temple]] built by [[Rajaraja Chola II]] in the [[12th century]] [[Common Era|CE]]. | '''Darasuram''' is a small town near [[Kumbakonam]] in [[Tamil Nadu]] state in [[South India|southern India]]. It is known for the [[Airavatesvara Temple]] built by [[Rajaraja Chola II]] in the [[12th century]] [[Common Era|CE]]. | ||
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At the very entrance to the temple two Dwarapalakas, Sankhanidhi and Padmanidhi, are imposing figures, giving vivid anatomical expressions of the exuberance of youth. In front of the temple, there is a small mandapa, which can be reached by 3 steps in the form of a ladder. The steps are made of stones, which give different musical sounds when tapped All the seven swaras can be had at different points. If proper care is not taken the village children will spoil the stones soon. | At the very entrance to the temple two Dwarapalakas, Sankhanidhi and Padmanidhi, are imposing figures, giving vivid anatomical expressions of the exuberance of youth. In front of the temple, there is a small mandapa, which can be reached by 3 steps in the form of a ladder. The steps are made of stones, which give different musical sounds when tapped All the seven swaras can be had at different points. If proper care is not taken the village children will spoil the stones soon. | ||
| − | <!--{{credits|Darasuram|146201108|}}—> | + | <!--{{credits|Darasuram|146201108|}} —> |
| + | |||
| + | === Airateswara Temple === | ||
| + | [[Image:Airavateshwarar Gopuram.jpg|thumb|right|150px|The ''vimana' of the Airavateswara Temple]] | ||
| + | {{Infobox World Heritage Site | ||
| + | | WHS = Great Living Chola Temples | ||
| + | | Image = [[Image:Airavateshwarar Gopuram.jpg|150px|The ''vimana' of the Airavateswara Temple]] | ||
| + | | State Party = {{IND}} | ||
| + | | Type = Cultural | ||
| + | | Criteria = i, ii, iii, iv | ||
| + | | ID = 250 | ||
| + | | Region = [[List of World Heritage Sites in Asia and Australasia|Asia-Pacific]] | ||
| + | | Year = 1987 | ||
| + | | Session = 11th | ||
| + | | Extension = 2004 | ||
| + | | Link = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/250 | ||
| + | }} | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Airateswara Temple''' is a [[Hindu]] temple located in the town of [[Darasuram]], near [[Kumbakonam]] in the [[South India]]n state of [[Tamil Nadu]]. This temple, built by [[Rajaraja Chola II]] in the [[12th century]] [[Common Era|CE]], along with the [[Brihadeeswara Temple]] at [[Thanjavur]], the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple at [[Gangaikonda Cholapuram]] are a [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]] referred to as the [[Great Living Chola Temples]]<ref>[http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/250/ Great Living Chola Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Centre]</ref>. | ||
| + | ==== Legend ==== | ||
| + | The Airateswara temple is dedicated to [[Lord Shiva]]. Shiva is here known as Airavateshwara, because he was worshipped at this temple by [[Airavata]], the white elephant of the king of the gods, [[Indra]]. | ||
| − | ===Deities=== | + | It is said that the King of Death, [[Yama]] also worshipped Shiva here. Tradition has it Yama, who was suffering under a Rishi's curse from a burning sensation all over the body, was cured by the presiding deity Airavateswarar. Yama took bath in the sacred tank and got rid of the burning sensation. Since then the tank has been known as ''Yamateertham''. |
| + | |||
| + | ==== Architecture ==== | ||
| + | [[Image:Airavateshwarar Darasuram.jpg|thumb|Airavateshwarar temple|200px|right|The sanctum is in the form of a chariot]] | ||
| + | This temple is a storehouse of art and architecture and has some exquisite stone carvings. Although this temple is much smaller than the Brihadeeswara Temple or the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple, it is more exquisite in detail. This is because this temple is said to have been built with ''nitya-vinoda'', "perpetual entertainment," in mind. | ||
| + | |||
| + | The ''[[Vimana (tower)|vimana]]'' is 25 [[metre|m]] (85 [[foot (unit of length)|ft]]) high. The front ''mandapam'' is in the form of a huge chariot drawn by horses. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==== Deities ==== | ||
The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple. | The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple. | ||
<!--[[Image:PeriyaNayaki Darasuram.jpg |thumb|200px|right|Periya Nayaki Amman temple]]—> | <!--[[Image:PeriyaNayaki Darasuram.jpg |thumb|200px|right|Periya Nayaki Amman temple]]—> | ||
| − | ===UNESCO World Heritage Site=== | + | ==== UNESCO World Heritage Site ==== |
This temple was added to the list of Great Living Chola Temples in the year 2004. The Great Living Chola Temples includes the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airateswara Temple at Darasuram. All of these temples were built by the Cholas between the [[10th century|10th]] and 12th centuries CE and have a lot of similarities. | This temple was added to the list of Great Living Chola Temples in the year 2004. The Great Living Chola Temples includes the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airateswara Temple at Darasuram. All of these temples were built by the Cholas between the [[10th century|10th]] and 12th centuries CE and have a lot of similarities. | ||
<!--[[Image:Airavateshwarar full.JPG |thumb|right|Airavateshwarar temple]]—> | <!--[[Image:Airavateshwarar full.JPG |thumb|right|Airavateshwarar temple]]—> | ||
| − | ==The Airavateshwarar temple== | + | ==The Airavateshwarar temple Gallery== |
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
Image:PeriyaNayaki Darasuram.jpg|Periya Nayaki Amman temple | Image:PeriyaNayaki Darasuram.jpg|Periya Nayaki Amman temple | ||
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<!--Airavatesvara_Temple|148264967—> | <!--Airavatesvara_Temple|148264967—> | ||
| − | ==The Brihadeeswarar Temple== | + | ==The Brihadeeswarar Temple Gallery== |
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
Image:Big_Temple-Temple.jpg|<center>The Big Temple</center> | Image:Big_Temple-Temple.jpg|<center>The Big Temple</center> | ||
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*[[Shiva]] | *[[Shiva]] | ||
| − | == | + | ==Notes== |
{{commonscat|Brihadeeswarar Temple}} | {{commonscat|Brihadeeswarar Temple}} | ||
{{reflist}} | {{reflist}} | ||
<!-- | <!-- | ||
| − | == | + | ==Notes== |
{{reflist}} | {{reflist}} | ||
—> | —> | ||
| + | ==References== | ||
| + | * Nagasamy R, Gangaikondacholapuram (1970), State Department of Archaeology, Government of Tamilnadu | ||
| + | * Nilakanta Sastri, K. A., The Colas (1955), University of Madras, Reprinted 1984 | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
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<!--* {{wikitravel}}—> | <!--* {{wikitravel}}—> | ||
*[http://darasuram.kumbakonam.info Photo gallery, details about this temple] | *[http://darasuram.kumbakonam.info Photo gallery, details about this temple] | ||
| − | + | *[http://tamilnation.org/culture/architecture/gkc.htm Gangaikondacholapuram from Tamilnation.org website] | |
| + | *Maligai Medu - [http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/12/04/stories/2004120402350100.htm Buried in Time ] | ||
| + | *[http://gangaikondacholapuram.kumbakonam.info Gangaikondacholapuram a symbol of World Heritage] | ||
| + | *[http://darasuram.kumbakonam.info Photo gallery, details about this temple] | ||
{{Famous Shiva temples}} | {{Famous Shiva temples}} | ||
Revision as of 18:57, 13 December 2007
| Great Living Chola Temples* | |
|---|---|
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| |
| State Party |  India
|
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | i, ii, iii, iv |
| Reference | 250 |
| Region** | Asia-Pacific |
| Inscription history | |
| Inscription | 1987 (11th Session) |
| Extensions | 2004 |
| * Name as inscribed on World Heritage List. ** Region as classified by UNESCO. | |
The Great Living Chola Temples are temples built during the Chola rule in the south of India. These temples are the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. The Brihadisvara Temple was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987; the Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were added as extensions to the site in 2004. The site is now known as the "Great Living Chola Temples."
Thanjavur
- "Tanjore" redirects here.
Thanjavur (Tamil : தஞ்சாவூர்), also known by its anglicised name Tanjore, is a city and a municipality in Thanjavur district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Thanjavur is also the capital of the Thanjavur District. The city lies on the south bank of the Kaveri River. Thanjavur was the capital of the Mutharayars and Cholas when they were at the peak of their power. Since then, Thanjavur has been one of the chief political, cultural and religious centres of South India. Thanjavur is home to the famous Brihadeeswara Temple, one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Thanjavur derives its name from Tanjan - an asura (demon) who according to local legend caused devastation and was killed by Sri Anandavalli Amman and Sri Neelamegapperumal. Tanjan's last request, that the city might be named after him, was granted.
History
| Thanjavur Tamil Nadu • India | |
  | |
| Coordinates: | |
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) |
| Area • Elevation |
36 km² (14 sq mi) • 2 m (7 ft) |
| District(s) | Thanjavur |
| Population • Density |
215,725 (2001) • app. 7,700 /km² (Expression error: Unrecognized word "app". /sq mi) |
| Municipal Chairperson | Thenmozhi Jayabalan[1] |
| Codes • Pincode • Telephone • Vehicle |
• 613 001 till 009 • +914362 • TN 49 |
Coordinates: The Thanjavur area, where a majority of Kallar and other families are presently located, has a rich historical heritage and is a prism of ancient as well as the modern south Indian civilizations. The city was once the stronghold of the historic Cholas.
Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar ruled his kingdom with Uraiyur as the capital[citation needed]. Later it was ruled by the Nayaks of Vijayanagara and the Maratha rajas.
Thanjavur contains over 90 temples, as it was favored by the Chola rulers between the 1st - 12th centuries, the Nayakas in the 16th century, and the Marathas in the 17th and 18th centuries.[2]
Under the Cholas
Thanjavur, or Tanjapuri as it was called in the ancient times was chosen by the Mutharayar king and later conquered by Vijayalaya Chola. Vijayalaya built a temple for his favourite goddess Nisumbhasudani in the city. Although subsequent emperors made Kanchipuram a subsidiary capital, Thanjavur maintained its position as the chief city. The great Brihadisvara Temple, built by Rajaraja Chola I was completed around 1010 C.E. It remained the centre of the Chola administration for many years, channelling the state revenue into a number of civic projects. It also acted as a repository of the empire's records, as the great Rajaraja had its walls covered with numerous inscriptions recording his conquests and his endowments to various charities. The impression we get from the inscriptions is of a wealthy, progressive city, although totally dominated by the temple.
The inscriptions tell us about a number of royal palaces in the city and of the districts where palace servants lived. We also learn the names of a number of streets: the big street of Virasola and the big market of Tribhuvanamadeviyar. During the reign of Rajaraja we learn that the city was divided into two parts: Ullalai (inner) and Purambadi (outer) city. Purambadi could have been an extension to the city built during Rajaraja's reign. Among the new streets built by Rajaraja were two running east to west in front of the Brihadisvara Temple and called Northern and Southern Talichcheries. People who worked in the temple occupied these streets. There were other temples then, such as the Jayabhima temple and Tanjai Mamani found in the inscriptions, which do not exist anymore. There was also a public hospital attached to a Vishnu temple named after Sundara Chola called Sundarachola Vinnagara Salai which was endowed by Kundavai, the sister of Rajaraja Chola.
The influence of Thanjavur began to diminish when Rajendra Chola I built a new city named Gangaikonda Cholapuram and moved his capital there.
After the Cholas
After the Cholas the Pandyas conquered the Chola country. Madurai was the Pandya capital and Thanjavur remained in the background, as a province of Vijaynagar empire.
Later in 1535,the Vijaynagar king installed a Nayak king hence the era of Tanjore Nayaks which lasted till mid-17th century, until attacked by the Madurai Nayaks. Later slipped into the hands of Marathas.
Tanjore was conquered by the Marathas in 1674 under Venkaji, the half-brother of Shivaji the Great; his successors ruled as rajas of Tanjore. The British first came into contact with Tanjore by their expedition in 1749 with a view to the restoration of a deposed raja of Tanjore Nayak lineage. In this they failed, and a subsequent expedition was bought off. The Maratha rajas held Tanjore until 1799. A Protestant mission at Tanjore was founded in 1778 by the Reverend Christian Friedrich Schwarz. His church dates from 1779.
In October 1799, the district was ceded to the British East India Company in absolute sovereignty by Raja Serfoji II, a pupil of the missionary Schwartz. The raja retained only the capital and a small tract of surrounding country. He died in 1833 and was succeeded by his son Sivaji, on whose death in 1855 without an heir the house became extinct.
Geography
Thanjavur is located at [3]. It has an average elevation of 2 metres (6 feet). The city lies on the south bank of the Kaveri River, 200 miles south of Chennai.
The city is primarily divided into two parts separated by a flyover. The Downtown [known as Old Town or simply Town] is the business district. The other side of the flyover is the residential area which is a relatively new neighborhood. The various neighborhoods are Palliagraharam, Karanthai, Old Town, Vilar, Nanjikottai Road, Manabuchavadi, Pookkara Street, New Town, Medical College, Old Housing Unit, New Housing Unit and Srinivasapuram.
The extension areas include Mariamman Koil, Gnanam Nagar, Kattuthottam, Nanjikottai, Madhakottai, Pillaiyarpatti, Nilagirivattam and Reddypalayam. The total population of the composite city touches 500,000 (unofficial figure). For all purposes the city extends from Vallam to Mariamman Koil (west - east) and Vayalur to Nanjikottai (north-south) for an area of 100 km².
Places of interest
Thanjavur is famous for the Brahadeeswara Temple (or Brihadeeswara temple) built by Rajaraja Chola, the first sailor king of India. The Brahadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple is enclosed in two courts, surmounted by a lofty tower and including the exquisitely decorated shrine of Subrahmanya. Among the other historic buildings is the Vijayanagar fort, which contains a palace that was expanded by the Maratha king Serfoji II with an armoury, a Bell Tower and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which contains over 30,000 Indian and European manuscripts written on palm leaf and paper.
Brihadeeswarar Temple
| Peruvudaiyaar Koil [Peruvudiayaar Temple] | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name: | Peruvudaiyaar Koil [Peruvudiayaar Temple] |
| Creator: | Raja Raja Chola |
| Date built: | 11th century AD |
| Primary deity: | PERUVUDIAYAAR = Brihadeeswarar (Shiva) |
| Architecture: | South Indian, Kovil |
| Location: | Thanjavur |
The (Tamil: பெருவுடையார் கோவில்; Peruvudaiyar Koil[4][5]) is an ancient Hindu temple located at Thanjavur in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and dates to the Chola dynasty rule in the 11th century CE.
The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Great Living Chola Temples."
History
The temple was built by Chola king Rajaraja Chola I. Construction was completed in 1009-10 C.E.
Architecture
This temple is a prime example of the Dravidian style of temple architecture The central temple known as the Periya Kovil (Big Temple) stands within a fort, whose walls were later additions built during the 16th century. The name periya kovil came from its original name "periya aavudayar kovil" (aavudayar being a local name of Lord Shiva). The vimana (main tower) of the temple is approximately 65 m (215 ft) high and is the tallest in the world. It was so designed that the vimana never casts a shadow at noon during any period of the year.
More details on this temple can be found at http://www.templepages.com
Arts and Culture
Thanjavur is one of the chief political, literary and religious centres of southern India, known for its contribution to Carnatic music, it has produced many classical musicians and Bharathanatyam dancers. It has become the second most important site for the annual Natyanjali dance festival.
Tiruvaiyaru, which is close to Thanjavur, is the place where the great musician Saint Tyagaraja lived. Here in Tiruvaiyaru every year in the tamil month of 'Thai'(January end) Thyagaraja Aradhana will be held where musicians from all over the country will participate.
It is also well known for its unique painting style called Tanjore Painting, a percussion instrument called the Thavil, a divine classical string instrument Veenai and the Thanjavur Dolls[6].
The Tanjore paintings are very popular and are renown around the world. The artists use a combination of canvas background with glass, metals, etc. to depict and decorate various scenes from Hindu mythology.
Tanjore plates which are made of color glass pieces which are aesthetically cut and embedded on velvet cloth. It will have god image or birds at the center.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram
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Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Tamil: கங்கைகொண்ட சோழபுரம்) was erected as the capital of the Cholas by Rajendra Chola I, the son and successor of Rajaraja Chola, the great Chola who conquered a large area in South India at the beginning of the 11th century C.E. It occupies an important place in the history of India. As the capital of the Cholas from about 1025 C.E. for about 250 years, the city controlled the affairs of entire south India, from the Tungabhadra in the north to Ceylon in the south. The great temple of Siva at this place is next only to the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur in its monumental nature and surpasses it in sculptural quality.
Founding the City
The city was founded by Rajendra Chola to commemorate his victorious march to the Ganges. The name means The town of the chola who captured the Ganges. It is now a small village, its past eminence only remembered by the existence of the great Siva Temple.
C. 1022 C.E. Rajendra undertook an expedition to the Ganges along the east coast of peninsular India. The emperor himself accompanying the army up to the banks of the Godavari river. The Chola armies conquered all the countries north of Vengi, which included Kalinga, Odda, Southern Kosala, the lower and upper Lada and finally the Vangaladesa (Bengal). The triumphant Chola armies brought back waters from the river Ganges in golden vessels.
To commemorate this celebrated victory, Rajendra assumed the title of Gangaikonda Chola and had the Siva Temple Gangakkondacholeswaram built. Soon after the capital was moved from Thanjavur to Gangaikondacholapuram. The city of Gangaikondacholapuram was probably founded by Rajendra before his 17th year.
Most of the Chola kings who succeeded Rajendra were crowned here. They retained it as their capital, reoriented and trained the efficient Chola army.
Fortifications
Judging from the available literature and the remains we may conclude that it was an extensive city, carefully planned and laid in accordance with the architectural treatises to suit the needs of a capital.
The city seems to have had two fortifications, one inner and the other outer. The outer was probably wider. The remains of the outer fortification can be seen as a mound running all around the palace.
The outer fortification built of burnt bricks, was about six to eight feet wide. It consisted of two walls, the intervening space (the core) being filled with sand. The bricks are fairly large in size and are made of well-burnt clay. Systematic brick robbing by the local inhabitants has reduced this structure to its current state.
The outer fortification was known as Rajendra Chola Madil and is mentioned in inscriptions. The inner fortification was around the royal palace, probably identical with the Utpadi vittu madil of the inscriptions.
Probably in the reign of Kulothunga Chola I, the fortifications were renewed and the city underwent some alteration and additions. An epigraph refers to the fort wall of Kulothunga Chola (Kulottunga Cholan Thirumadil). The strengthening of the fortification and additions to the city in the reign of Kulothunga I were probably necessitated by the uprising which led to the murder of Chola king Adirajendra, Kulothunga's predecessor.
Architechure
The temple of Gangaikondacholisvara is approached through the northern entrance from the road. The passage passes through the enclosure wall and leads on to the inner court.
As one steps in, the great Vimana arrests the visitor's sight. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Tanjavur. As it rises to a height of 160 feet and is shorter than the Tanjavur tower, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Tanjavur temple.
The Vimana is flanked on either side by small temples; the one in the north now housing the Goddess is fairly well preserved. The small shire of Chandikesvara is near the steps in the north. In the north-east are a shire housing Durga, a well called lion-well (simhakeni) with a lion figure guarding its steps and a late mandapa housing the office. Nandi is in the east facing the main shrine. In the same direction is the ruined gopura, the entrance tower. The main tower surrounded by little shrines truly presents the appearance of a great Chakravarti (emperor) surrounded by chieftains and vassals. The Gangaikondacholapuram Vimana is undoubtedly a devalaya chakravarti, an emperor among temples of South India.
Royal Palace
The royal palace also was built of burnt brick. The ceilings were covered with flat tiles of small size, laid in a number of courses, in fine lime mortar. The pillars were probably made of polished wood, supported on granite bases; a few pillar bases have survived to this day. Iron nails and clamps have been recovered from this palace site.
In the reign of Virarajendra Chola, Rajendra's third son, the palace at Gangaikondacholapuram is referred to as Chola-Keralan Thirumaligai (Chola Keralan palace) evidently after one of the titles of Rajendra I. The same inscription mentions a few parts of the palace as adibhumi (the ground floor), Kilaisopana (the eastern portico), and a seat named Mavali vanadhirajan. Evidently the palace was multistoried. In an inscription dated in the 49th year of Kulothunga I (1119 C.E.) reference is made to Gangaikondacholamaligai at this place. It is likely that there were more than one royals building each having their own name.
Roads and City gates
Besides the names of the palace and fort walls, the names of a few roads and streets are preserved in the epigraphs. The entryways named Thiruvasal, the eastern gate and the Vembugudi gate, evidently the south gate leading to the village Vembugudi situated in that direction are mentioned. Reference is also found to highways named after Rajaraja and Rajendra as Rajarajan Peruvali and Rajendran Peruvali. Other streets mentioned in epigraphs are the ten streets (Pattu teru), the gateway lane (Thiruvasal Narasam) and the Suddhamali lane. The inscription also refers to the highways, Kulottungacholan Thirumadil peruvali, Vilangudaiyan Peruvali and Kulaiyanai pona Peruvali (the highway through which a short elephant passed by).
City layout
The epigraphs also refer to the Madhurantaka Vadavaru, now called the Vadavaru, running about six kilometers east of the ruined capital. Madhurntaka Vedavaru, named after one of the titles of Rajendra I, was a source of irrigation to a vast stretch of land bordering the capital. An irrigation channel called Anaivettuvan (destroyer of elephants) is also mentioned.
There were both wet and dry lands inside the Fort, used for cultivation and other purposes. The present positions of the existing temples throw some light on the lay out of the city. With the palace as the centre to the city, the great temple, and the other temples in the city seem to have been erected. Towards the northeast (Isanya) of the palace is the great temple of Siva. The Siva temple according to Vastu and traditional texts should be in the northeast of the city or village and should face east. The temple of Vishnu should be in the west.
A number of small tanks and ponds mentioned in inscriptions and a number of wells, supplied drinking water to the residents.
Destruction of the city
This capital of the most powerful empire in Asia at one time is now desolate; only the temple of Gangaikondachola survives.
What caused the destruction of this city? The Pandyas who put an end to the Chola empire late in the 13th century, avenging their earlier defeats, should have razed the city to the ground, a misfortune that befell on capitals in early times. It should have remained a heap of brick debris, the inhabitants of the nearby villages pilfering the bricks for their constructions. The people have also dug systematically deep into the ground and extracted cartloads of ancient bricks.
Temple of Gangaikondacholisvara
- From Main article: Gangaikonda Cholapuram
The temple of Gangaikondacholisvara is approached through the northern entrance from the road. The passage passes through the enclosure wall and leads on to the inner court.
As one steps in, the great Vimana arrests the visitor's sight. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Tanjavur. As it rises to a height of 160 feet and is shorter than the Tanjavur tower, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Tanjavur temple.
The Vimana is flanked on either side by small temples; the one in the north now housing the Goddess is fairly well preserved. The small shire of Chandikesvara is near the steps in the north. In the north-east are a shire housing Durga, a well called lion-well (simhakeni) with a lion figure guarding its steps and a late mandapa housing the office. Nandi is in the east facing the main shrine. In the same direction is the ruined gopura, the entrance tower. The main tower surrounded by little shrines truly presents the appearance of a great Chakravarti (emperor) surrounded by chieftains and vassals. The Gangaikondacholapuram Vimana is undoubtedly a devalaya chakravarti, an emperor among temples of South India.
Darasuram
Darasuram is a small town near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu state in southern India. It is known for the Airavatesvara Temple built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century CE.
This temple is a storehouse of art and architecture. The vimana is 85 feet high. The front mandapam itself is in the form of a huge chariot drawn by horses. The temple has some exquisite stone carvings. The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple.
The Great Living Chola Temples. (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram were built by the Cholas between the 10th and 12th centuries CE and have a lot of similarities.
The legend goes to show that Airavata, the white elephant of Indra, worshipped Lord Siva in this temple; so did also the King of Death, Yama. Tradition has it that the presiding deity Airavateswarar cured Yama himself (the God of Death) who was suffering under a Rishi's curse from a burning sensation all over the body. Yama took bath in the sacred tank and got rid of the burning sensation. Since then the tank is known as Yamateertham. It gets its supply of fresh water from the river Kaveri and is 228 feet in width. The pilgrims always make a point to have a bath in the tank. In the recent past Raja Raja Chola and Karikala Chola worshipped the Siva Lingam in this temple. Volume II of the South Indian Temple Inscriptions deals with a number of endowments of the Pandya Kings also (vide pages 556 to 562) On the temple walls these inscriptions are given, from which it is seen that the temple was known in those days as Raja Rajeswararn and Raja Rajapuram. Two such inscriptions are copied here.
Inscription No. 563 of the Book at page 557.No. 23 of 1908 on the inner Gopura of the temple, right of entrance. Record dated in the 10th Year, Tai 11, of the reign of the Pandya King Maravarman alias T ribhuvana Chakravartin Srivallabhadeva registering the provision made for repairs and for celebrating festivals in the temple of XXXI Ra (ja) ra (ja) isuram Udaiyanayanar, by the residents of Uttattur-nadu, a sub-division of Kulottunga-valanadu.
Inscription No. 564 at page 558. Record dated in the 31st Year, Makara, Ba. Dvitiya, Uttarashada (probably a mistake for Uttaraphalguna) of the reign of the Chola king Tribhuvana Ghakravartin Sri RAJARAJADEVA registering the grant of land (Irandu Ma mukkani araikkani) 23/160 of a veli to meet the expenses of worship, offerings, etc., to the God by a native of Peruchchalipuram, a village in Kilar-kurram, a sub-division of Pandyakulapati-valanadu.
As originally Airavata worshipped the Lingam, the Lingam is named after him as Airavateswara. The Goddess in this temple is known as Deva Nayaki. Whatever remains of the sculptural part of the temple is on the inside wall of the outer prakaram, about a foot from the floor level. 'The carvings contain different poses of gymnastic feats we see in modern circus, shown by females keeping their head at the centre and legs interwoven in such a skilful way as to form the circumference of a circle. It may be a depiction of the present-day gypsy tribe entertaining villagers with skilful gymnastic shows and dancing poses. Such gypsies are still to be seen visiting the interior villages of the country. Very many styles of physical feats shown by both men and "men have been carved a stone.
All the dancing poses of Bharatanatyam are carved a stone. There is a carving showing the village womenfolk helping in delivery of another female, who has put both her hands on the shoulders of the two ladies, who are pressing their hands and the abdomen of the lady to help her deliver. 'These are very skilful and artistic works of superb style. This may give a glimpse into the social conditions of the past. The stone image of Ravana carrying Kailas is a fine specimen of workmanship.
At the very entrance to the temple two Dwarapalakas, Sankhanidhi and Padmanidhi, are imposing figures, giving vivid anatomical expressions of the exuberance of youth. In front of the temple, there is a small mandapa, which can be reached by 3 steps in the form of a ladder. The steps are made of stones, which give different musical sounds when tapped All the seven swaras can be had at different points. If proper care is not taken the village children will spoil the stones soon.
Airateswara Temple
| Great Living Chola Temples* | |
|---|---|
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
The vimana' of the Airavateswara Temple | |
| State Party | India
|
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | i, ii, iii, iv |
| Reference | 250 |
| Region** | Asia-Pacific |
| Inscription history | |
| Inscription | 1987 (11th Session) |
| Extensions | 2004 |
| * Name as inscribed on World Heritage List. ** Region as classified by UNESCO. | |
Airateswara Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Darasuram, near Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple, built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century CE, along with the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram are a UNESCO World Heritage Site referred to as the Great Living Chola Temples[7].
Legend
The Airateswara temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shiva is here known as Airavateshwara, because he was worshipped at this temple by Airavata, the white elephant of the king of the gods, Indra.
It is said that the King of Death, Yama also worshipped Shiva here. Tradition has it Yama, who was suffering under a Rishi's curse from a burning sensation all over the body, was cured by the presiding deity Airavateswarar. Yama took bath in the sacred tank and got rid of the burning sensation. Since then the tank has been known as Yamateertham.
Architecture
This temple is a storehouse of art and architecture and has some exquisite stone carvings. Although this temple is much smaller than the Brihadeeswara Temple or the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple, it is more exquisite in detail. This is because this temple is said to have been built with nitya-vinoda, "perpetual entertainment," in mind.
The vimana is 25 m (85 ft) high. The front mandapam is in the form of a huge chariot drawn by horses.
Deities
The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
This temple was added to the list of Great Living Chola Temples in the year 2004. The Great Living Chola Temples includes the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airateswara Temple at Darasuram. All of these temples were built by the Cholas between the 10th and 12th centuries CE and have a lot of similarities.
The Airavateshwarar temple Gallery
Periya Nayaki Amman temple
Airavateshwarar temple
The Brihadeeswarar Temple Gallery
The Big Temple 
A rear view of the main gopura of the Big Temple 
Entrance to Dakhinamoorthi temple 
View from the rear right 
View from the front left 
Rajagopuram (main tower) of the temple 
An ornamented pillar in the temple courtyard 
The Nandi, with the [vimana] in the background 
Frescoes on the enclosure roof 
Entrance to the Brihadeeswarar Temple 
Detail of Gopuram 
The Shrine of Sri Subramanya 
Detail of steps of the Shrine of Sri Subramanya 
One of many bronze deities found in the pillared cloister surrounding the courtyard 
Several of the Lingam found in the pillared cloister 
Example of the many frescos found in the pillared cloister 
Nandi, looking peaceful.
See also
Notes
- ↑ The Hindu dated 29 October 2006
- ↑ Brahadeshvara Temple. Retrieved 2006-09-14.
- ↑ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Thanjavur
- ↑ Bragatheeswarar Temple, The Big Temple. thanjavur.com. Retrieved 2007/09/29.
- ↑ Brihadeeswarar is also spelled Brihadeshvara, Birhadeeshwara or Bragatheeswarar
- ↑ Thanjavur Dolls in Action (Animation)
- ↑ Great Living Chola Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Centre
ReferencesISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- Nagasamy R, Gangaikondacholapuram (1970), State Department of Archaeology, Government of Tamilnadu
- Nilakanta Sastri, K. A., The Colas (1955), University of Madras, Reprinted 1984
External links
- UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
- Panoramic 360 degree views of the Temple.
- TLC: Mysteries of India: Lost South Indian Temples (via Google Video).
- Photographs of Brehadiswara and other South Indian Temples.
- Article on Indian Murals.
- Brihdeeswara Temple Guide.
- Brihadeeswarar Temple.
- Photos of Thanjavur Periya Kovil.
- UNESCO's World Heritage Site: listing the Chola temples.
- Photo gallery, details about this temple
- Gangaikondacholapuram from Tamilnation.org website
- Maligai Medu - Buried in Time
- Gangaikondacholapuram a symbol of World Heritage
- Photo gallery, details about this temple
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