The Nataraja Temple, located in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Nataraja (the cosmic dancer). Here’s a detailed overview:
Key Features & Significance
- Deity:
- The primary deity is Nataraja, depicted in his iconic dancing pose (Ananda Tandava), symbolizing the cosmic cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction.
- The temple also houses a shrine for Vishnu (as Govindaraja Perumal), reflecting the syncretic Shaiva-Vaishnava traditions.
- Architecture:
- Built by the Chola dynasty (9th–13th centuries) in Dravidian style, the temple complex spans 40 acres with:
- Four towering gopurams (gateway) adorned with intricate sculptures.
- A golden-roofed sanctum (Kanaka Sabha) housing the Nataraja idol.
- Five main halls (Sabhas), including the Chit Sabha (main hall) and Nritta Sabha (dance hall shaped like a chariot).
- Built by the Chola dynasty (9th–13th centuries) in Dravidian style, the temple complex spans 40 acres with:
- Symbolism:
- Represents the element of Akasha (space), one of the five Pan
