Chidambaram
is known for its
famous Nataraja
temple. The temple
is also known by
a lot of other names
including ponnambalam,
tillai, Chitramabalam
and so on.
 The
temple has the image
of Siva in ananda
tandavam. According
to the legend it
is believed that
Siva decided to
teach the proud
rishis of darukavanam
a lesson and appeared
in the form of a
mendicant with Vishnu
disguised as Mohini.
The rishipatnis
were attracted by
this pair subsequently
causing the anger
of the rishis. The
rishis tried several
tactics to break
the pair but in
vain. Finally after
defeating them Siva
broke into a dance
which is the Anandatandavam.
The Ananda Tandavam
was also done in
a dance competition.
The famous dance
of Anandatandavam
performed here is
depicted in the
famous Nataraj murti.
Nataraja means king
of Dance. The Lord
is represented here
with the left leg
raised up. This
figure of nataraj
has a lot of connotation,
with each ornament
representing greater
inner meanings.
The roof of the
temple is gold plated.
The temple is a
great piece of architectural
and sculptural brilliance.
Chidambaram is about
132 miles from Chennai.
This town falls
in the railway line
and is well connected
with other important
stations. There
are good bus services
as well. |
