Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu

Overview

This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Nataraja, the dancing form of Lord Shiva. It is located in the town of Chidambaram in the Cuddalore district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple is one of the five Pancha Bootha Sthalams, representing the element of space. The temple has ancient roots and a Shiva shrine existed at the site when the town was known as Thillai. Chidambaram, the name of the city literally means “stage of consciousness”. The temple architecture symbolizes the connection between the arts and spirituality, creative activity and the divine.The temple is a vast complex with five gopurams (gateway towers) and several mandapams (halls). The main sanctum sanctorum houses the image of Nataraja, which is made of panchaloha (five metals). The image is depicted in the cosmic dance pose, with one foot raised and the other resting on a demon. The dance is said to represent the cycle of creation, destruction and preservation.

Historical background and Architectural splendor

The Thillai Nataraja Temple, with origins dating back before the 7th century AD, has seen the patronage of various dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara Empire. Despite facing periods of neglect and destruction, it remains a significant center of Tamil Shaivism. The sprawling complex features five towering gopurams, intricate mandapams, and a sanctum sanctorum housing a revered bronze statue of Nataraja, symbolizing the eternal cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.

SURROUNDINGS AREA & ATTRACTIONS

Bhuvanagiri Amman Temple: Situated in nearby Bhuvanagiri, this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari attracts devotees with its architectural beauty and religious significance. The temple is located atop a small hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Tiruvetkalam Temple: This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located about 6 kilometers from Chidambaram. It is believed to be one of the nine Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu, associated with the planet Mars (Angaraka).

Thillai Kali Temple: Located within the premises of the Thillai Nataraja Temple complex, the Thillai Kali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for protection and prosperity.

F.A.Q

What is the significance of the Thillai Nataraja Temple?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7861" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="1" aria-labelledby="1-what-is-the-significance-of-the-thillai-nataraja-temple"> <p>The Thillai Nataraja Temple is dedicated to Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer form of Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the holiest Shiva temples in South India and holds immense religious and cultural significance.</p> </div> </div> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="2-when-was-the-thillai-nataraja-temple-built" class="elementor-tab-title eael-accordion-header" tabindex="0" data-tab="2" aria-controls="elementor-tab-content-7862"> </div> </div>

When was the Thillai Nataraja Temple built?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7862" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="2" aria-labelledby="2-when-was-the-thillai-nataraja-temple-built"> <p>The exact date of the temple’s construction is uncertain, but it is believed to have ancient origins dating back over a thousand years. The temple has undergone renovations and expansions over the centuries, with contributions from various dynasties.</p> </div> </div> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="3-what-are-the-main-festivals-celebrated-at-the-thillai-nataraja-temple" class="elementor-tab-title eael-accordion-header" tabindex="0" data-tab="3" aria-controls="elementor-tab-content-7863"> </div> </div>

What are the main festivals celebrated at the Thillai Nataraja Temple?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7863" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="3" aria-labelledby="3-when-was-the-jagannath-temple-built"> <p>Some of the main festivals celebrated at the temple include Maha Shivaratri, Arudra Darshan, Aani Thirumanjanam, Thai Poosam, Panguni Uthiram, and Navaratri. </p> </div> </div>

Is there an entry fee to visit the Thillai Nataraja Temple?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7864" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="4" aria-labelledby="4-are-there-any-entry-fees-to-visit-the-chamundeshwari-temple"> <p>There is no entry fee to visit the temple.</p> </div> </div>

What is the dress code for visiting the Thillai Nataraja Temple?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7865" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="5" aria-labelledby="5-can-i-perform-special-pujas-or-rituals-at-the-chamundeshwari-temple"> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7865" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="5" aria-labelledby="5-what-is-the-dress-code-for-visiting-the-thillai-nataraja-temple"> <p>Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the temple. </p> </div> </div> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="6-are-photography-and-videography-allowed-inside-the-temple" class="elementor-tab-title eael-accordion-header" tabindex="0" data-tab="6" aria-controls="elementor-tab-content-7866"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="6-is-photography-allowed-inside-the-temple-premises" class="elementor-tab-title eael-accordion-header" tabindex="0" data-tab="6" aria-controls="elementor-tab-content-7866"> </div> </div>

Are photography and videography allowed inside the temple?

<div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="elementor-tab-content-7866" class="eael-accordion-content clearfix" data-tab="6" aria-labelledby="6-are-photography-and-videography-allowed-inside-the-temple"> <p>Photography and videography may be allowed in certain areas of the temple complex.</p> </div> </div> <div class="eael-accordion-list"> <div id="7-how-can-i-reach-the-thillai-nataraja-temple" class="elementor-tab-title eael-accordion-header" tabindex="0" data-tab="7" aria-controls="elementor-tab-content-7867"> </div> </div>

Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu