#Tamil Inscriptions

[whencyclopedia]

Chidambaram

Chidambaram (Cidambaram) is an important Chola temple site in Tamil Nadu, southern India. Most of the temples at Chidambaram were built in the 12th and 13th centuries CE. The site is dominated by the huge gateway tower of the Nataraja temple but Chidambaram also boasts the first Devi or Amman shrine, the first Surya shrine with the distinctive stone chariot wheels which would adorn many subsequent temples, and the first large Siva Ganga tank. In this respect Chidambaram is something of a transitional site, linking elements of the old and new styles of Indian temple architecture.

The name Chidambaram, one of several from antiquity, derives from the Tamil Cirrambalam, meaning 'little hall'. The site was chosen because according to mythology it was the precise spot where the Hindu god Shiva had once danced in a grove of tillai trees. The dance was, in fact, a competition between Shiva and Parvati and naturally the great Shiva won. The story became a popular subject in Hindu art over the centuries.

The site is enclosed within four perimeter walls and covers a rectangular area of 55 acres. Within the compound are shrines, halls, temples, ornamental gateways, and a large ritual bathing pool, known as a Siva Ganga tank, which is surrounded by cloisters. Inscriptions claim the site was built by various Pandya kings and local rulers but none are contemporary with the dates the buildings were actually first constructed. The walls and east gopura (gateway) may be ascribed with greater certainty, and were probably built by Kulottunga III, who reigned from 1178 to 1218 CE.

The Nataraja temple was constructed between c. 1175 and c. 1200 CE. The actual temple shrine is relatively modest as by now in Indian architecture the gopuras had become the most important structures, at least in terms of aesthetics. The twin sacred chamber was, however, adorned with copper sheets covered in gold by successive Chola kings. The shrine is preceded by a dance hall and large entrance porch with columns (mandapa).

The massive granite and brick east gopura dominates the site but there are three other gopuras on the north, south and west sides (the earliest). The corbelled roofs diminish as the structures rise and are finally topped with the usual barrel-vaulted roof (sala), the eastern gopura also having a row of 13 decorative finials. The east gopura has a proper interior floor at each of its nine levels and there is an interior staircase which climbs to the very top of the building. All four gopuras have false windows on their facades, typical for this kind of structure, and pairs of pilaster columns set at regular intervals. The second floor of each gopura also has a passageway which worshippers ritually walked around. The entrance archways all have coffered ceilings decorated with relief panels.

Of particular note at Chidambaram are the thousands of sculptures adorning its buildings. In particular there are many statues of women in a wide variety of dance postures. Many statues are accompanied by quotations from Hindu literature which provide an invaluable reference for scholars. There are also figures of the four dvarapalas (guardian demons), the dikpalas (cardinal directions), many figures of Shiva performing heroic deeds, various other deities such as Vishnu, Devi, Sarasvati, and, unusually in southern architecture, river goddesses.

Finally, Chidambaram is also famous for its 17th century CE Nayaka ceiling paintings which decorate the Shivakamasundari shrine of the Nataraja Temple. More than 40 panels depict scenes from the life of the saint Manikkavachakar, a devotee of Shiva.

Continue reading...

[soup-mother]

it's fun reading through the rendering support page on Wikipedia. it's great to know my phone supports basic indic scripts like Devanagari and Tamil, and also inscriptional parthian

[nidhi-writes]

Dasavatharam

I recently found out some sects of Hinduism include Buddha as the 9th Avatar in Vishnu's Dasavatharam.

I am from the southern part specifically Tamilnadu, here even in our temple the inscriptions and statues for Dasavatharam always included Balaramar as one of the Vishnu Avatars, not Buddha. Like in the below order. I have used Tamil pronunciation for all.

Matsyam

Kurmam

Varaham

Narasimham

Vamanam

Parashuramar

Ramar

Balaramar

Krishnar

Kalki

This made me so curious about how different Hinduism practices are around India or the world but still hold a string of similarities among them

Which one you have heard growing up? Put it in the comments.

[southeastasianists]

Quite possibly, one of the most charming—yet frustrating—aspects of history is its unsolved mysteries. The same can be said of linguistics, and only occasionally do they cross over to solve a problem, as in the case of the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian hieroglyphics. Enter the curious so-called Singapore Stone.

Believed to date back to the 13th century or as early as the 10th, the stone was once part of a large slab of inscribed sandstone standing at the mouth of the Singapore River. Then, in 1843, the British blew it up to widen a passageway and build military quarters.

Lieutenant-Colonel James Low, who had previously objected to the explosion, salvaged three fragments of the boulder and sent them to Kolkata for analysis. In 1918, one of the fragments was returned to the Raffles Museum, now known as the National Museum of Singapore. The status of the other two is uncertain, whether lost or still in India.

The stone's inscription has yet to be deciphered. Over the years it has been speculated to be Hindu, Tamil, and Pali, while more recent theories suggest that it is written in Kawi script and contains some Sanskrit words, hinting at the island's past as part of the Majapahit Empire.

Today, the Singapore Stone is designated as one of the eleven national treasures of Singapore. Folklore often associates it with Badang, the legendary Malay strongman whose incredible feats include hurling a massive stone from the nearby Fort Canning to the mouth of the Singapore River.

[thereader-radhika]

Today my Tamil friend told me that her grandmother has this whole 'fanfiction' planned out in her mind about Aditha Karikalan's murder.

In her imagination, Aditha Karikalan was a rowdy prince with multiple affairs and one of his lovers was the sister of the people who were punished for his murder. Granny knows that they were the government officials in that period. So they were working closely with Karikalan who wooed their chellam younger sister. Unfortunately his intentions weren't honourable. Betrayed (euphemism for impregnated and dumped) by the young prince, she committed suicide out of shame and the brothers killed Karikalan like the filmy heroes of 70s Tamil cinema and avenged her death.

Granny is too old to use Tumblr and Wattpad and the granddaughter has no interest in this. So she allowed me to share this. Our mothers and grannies in their heydays would have been more prolific and corny fanfiction writers than us if they had internet 😁

N. B. People punished for Aditha Karikalan's murder:

Soman .........

Ravidasan Panchavan Brahmadhirajan

Parameswaran Irumudichola Brahmadhirajan

Revadasa Kramavittan

and their families (mother, sons, wives uncles, son-in-laws, etc.)

We don't know what was Soman's occupation as the inscription after his name is unclear. Ravidasan and Parameshwaran were high class government officials, as their titles indicate. Kramavittan was the title of Vedic scholars who were experts in chanting Vedas in the Krama method of chanting. He too could have been a government official.

[ahamasmiyodhah]

A humble Request.

Please do NOT confused the FICTIONAL characters as REAL if you are reading Ponniyin Selvan novel.

I almost got attacked at Instagram today by a horde of Kuzhali Toxic Fans (they claimed Arulmozhi Varman only deserved her and not a timid and scaredy cat Vanathi *snorts*). They not only demeaned her but said very bad things (half were in Tamil and I had to translate and that gave me shivers).

Please, do know that Vanathi and Kundhavai are Historically known womens. And also, that Vaanathi was called "Arulmozhi Devi" or "Udaiya Pirattiyar" in inscriptions, and that Kundhavai is basically the woman who made Arulmozhi Varman and Madhuranthakan Vikraman Raja Raja Cholan and Rajendhiran Chola. So please stop demeaning the Queens.

Fun Fact: Rajendhiran not only made a Temple for Panchavan Mahadevi but ALSO for His mother "Vanavan Mahadevi" (Vanathi) who is also called as Udaiya Pirattiyar.

Now don't ask me what I mean by Udaiya Pirattiyar.

@harinishivaa @thegleamingmoon @vibishalakshman @ragkee @yehsahihai @rang-lo @whippersnappersbookworm @willkatfanfromasia @thereader-radhika @nspwriteups @dr-scribbler @mizutaama

[balladedutempsjadis]

I found this fascinating article about Ananda Coomaraswamy, the great art historian (1877-1947) who made it his life’s mission to put Indian art on the world’s map of artistic traditions. But there’s also a lot of interesting information about metallurgy during the Chola period as well. It pairs well with the Vidya Deheja book I’m reading. (One of the things Dehejia mentions is that there are no copper deposits in Tamil Nadu that could supply the massive amount of bronze used by the Chola statues and inscriptions so historians are trying to figure out where they got the copper from. Bihar? Rajasthan? Southeast Asia? The interconnected trade networks of this period are also fascibating; she quotes 12th century letters from a Jewish trader in Aden with a Jewish bronze factory owner in Mangalore. The world has always been much more interconnected than we’ve imagined. Sri Lanka is also a tantalizing source of copper - a reason the Cholas wanted to conquer it?)

https://www.sahapedia.org/the-nataraja-bronze-and-coomaraswamys-legacy

[rhianna]

Dharmapuri is a pilgrimage and archaeological site in Telangana (not to be confused with many other villages and towns in India that are named as Dharmapuri). 

Dharmapuri of Telangana is a large village (small town) located on the west bank of Godavari river in the Jagtial district at its border with the Mancherial district.

It is home to several historic Hindu temples. These temples were damaged and a few destroyed in the 14th and 15th-centuries conquest of Deccan region, with one temple converted into a mosque by Rustumdikhan in the mid 15th-century during the Islamic rule of this region from Hyderabad. A new main temple was rebuilt by the Hindus after the 15th-century and re-dedicated to Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. It serves as the primary pilgrimage attraction of Dharmapuri.

The temple finds mention in the 10th-century Puranic tourist guide Dharmapuri Kshetra Mahatmya, as well as in the Padma Purana and Brahmanda Purana. The site's significance and temple fame is mentioned in a Kurikyala inscription by Chalukyas of Vemulavada. Believed to be a major Vedic studies and manuscripts preservation center in antiquity and called one of the Dakshina Kashi, it has been a major Vaishnava pilgrimage site, considered as one of nine Narasimha pilgrimage centers (devasthanam) in the Deccan region. Narasimha is one of the major avatars of Vishnu, one particularly popular in Deccan (Telangana, Andhra, east Maharashtra), in Karnataka and in northern Tamil speaking regions of India.

The Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple has two major gopurams, the Pedda Gopuram being the primary. After the entrance is the damaged four pillared pavilion (kalyanamandapam) , which is from the Kakatiya era. The pillars are intricately carved with Hindu legends about Vishnu, as well those of Shaiva and Shakti traditions of Hinduism. There are bands of cultural scenes, Hindu festivals, kama and artha scenes as well.

The temple architecture is Dravidian, and illustrates the Hindu temple architecture found in vastu sastra texts. It includes a square temple water tank, called the Brahma pushkarini (Brahma koneru).

The temple hosta a major 13-day festival every March-April. It is called the Brahmotsavalu. This attracts numerous regional Hindus to the pilgrimage site.

P. Madhusudan

Creative Commons Zero, Public Domain Dedication

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, Dharmapuri Telangana - 

[ugc-blog]

Literary Sources of Ancient Indian History

Ancient Indian history is a rich and diverse field of study with a wide range of literary sources that provide insights into the civilization, culture, society, and events of ancient India. Some of the prominent literary sources of ancient Indian history include:

Vedas: The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism and provide valuable information about the social, religious, and cultural aspects of ancient Indian society. They are divided into four main texts: the Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda, and the Atharvaveda.

Ramayana: Ramayana is one of the two major Hindu epics, attributed to the sage Valmiki. It narrates the story of Lord Rama and provides insights into the political, social, and cultural aspects of ancient India.

Mahabharata: Mahabharata is another major Hindu epic, attributed to the sage Vyasa. It is an extensive epic that includes the famous Bhagavad Gita, which contains philosophical teachings on dharma, karma, and society. The Mahabharata also provides valuable insights into ancient Indian society, culture, and history.

Puranas: The Puranas are a collection of Hindu texts that contain myths, legends, and historical accounts of ancient India. They provide information about the genealogy of kings, dynasties, and historical events.

Arthashastra: Arthashastra is an ancient Indian treatise on politics, economics, and governance, written by the scholar Kautilya, also known as Chanakya. It provides insights into the administrative and economic systems of ancient India.

Jataka Tales: Jataka Tales are a collection of stories about the previous lives of Gautama Buddha, which provide insights into the social, cultural, and moral values of ancient Indian society.

Rock Edicts and Inscriptions: Several rock edicts and inscriptions from ancient Indian rulers such as Ashoka the Great and Samudragupta provide valuable historical information about the administration, religious policies, and social aspects of ancient India.

Sangam Literature: Sangam Literature is a collection of Tamil texts from ancient South India, dating back to the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. These texts provide insights into the social, economic, and cultural aspects of ancient South India.

Buddhist and Jain Texts: Ancient Indian history also includes important literary sources from Buddhism and Jainism, such as the Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures) and the Jain Agamas, which provide insights into the teachings, practices, and history of these religions in ancient India.

These are just some of the prominent literary sources of ancient Indian history. The study of these texts and their interpretation by historians and scholars continues to provide valuable insights into the ancient Indian civilization and its historical development.

[tamilakam]

There are ancient inscriptions in Cambodia that mention Tamil. For example, there is an inscription at the Banteay Chhmar temple complex in Cambodia that mentions a Tamil official named Rajendravarman. The inscription describes a donation made by Rajendravarman to the temple, and refers to him as "a Tamil chief who has acquired the prestige of the great Rajendra." This suggests that there were Tamil officials and perhaps even settlers in Cambodia during this period.

ChatGPT lol

[meluhha]

Khmer empire & Cholas

-- from chatGPT --

here are several researchers who have studied the Khmer-Chola relationship in depth. Here are 10 scholars who have written about this topic:

George Coedes

K.A. Nilakanta Sastri

Pierre-Yves Manguin

John N. Miksic

Claude Jacques

Michael Vickery

Philippe Stern

Rajan Gurukkal

Himanshu Prabha Ray

Walter Fuchs

other kingdoms are mentioned in the inscriptions at Angkor Wat. The most frequently mentioned kingdoms are the Cholas, the Pandyas, and the Rashtrakutas. These were all Indian kingdoms that had contact with the Khmer Empire. Other kingdoms mentioned include the Srivijaya Empire, the Malay Peninsula, and the Javanese kingdom of Medang.

Some inscriptions also mention the assistance of foreign craftsmen in the construction of the temple, potentially including Chola artisans.

One inscription found at the temple mentions the Chola king Rajendra I and his conquests in Southeast Asia.

Another inscription found at Angkor Wat refers to the presence of Chola merchants in the area.

Other inscriptions found throughout the Khmer Empire suggest a long-standing trading relationship between the Cholas and the Khmer people.

Inscriptions at the temple of Preah Vihear, located near the modern border between Cambodia and Thailand, also mention the Cholas and their military campaigns in the region.

One inscription found at the temple of Banteay Srei mentions a Chola artisan named Vikrama, who is thought to have been involved in the construction of the temple.

Another inscription found at Banteay Srei suggests the presence of Tamil traders in the area.

Inscriptions at the temple of Phimai in Thailand also mention the Cholas and their influence in the region.

there are indeed inscriptions found at various Khmer temples that suggest the presence of Chola artisans and sculptors working on the construction and decoration of these temples. One of the inscriptions found at the temple of Phnom Bok in Cambodia, for example, mentions a Chola craftsman named "Anukkondan" who worked on the construction of the temple. Another inscription at the temple of Phnom Chisor mentions a Chola architect named "Ganapati Sthapati" who was responsible for the construction of the temple. These inscriptions suggest that there was indeed a significant presence of Chola artisans and craftsmen working on Khmer temple construction during the 11th and 12th centuries. 

+ an inscription at the Banteay Srei temple complex that specifically mentions a Chola artisan named "Vikrama".

Inscription K. 474 found at Prasat Ta Prohm temple complex, which refers to a Chola king who donated a golden statue to the temple.

Inscription K. 1216 found at Prasat Thom temple, which refers to the capture of a Chola king and his soldiers by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 161 found at Prasat Preah Vihear temple, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 866 found at the temple of Preah Khan in Angkor, which mentions a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 682 found at the temple of Banteay Srei, which mentions a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 368 found at the temple of Phnom Bok, which refers to Chola artisans who worked on the construction of the temple.

Inscription K. 355 found at the temple of Prasat Kravan, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 569 found at the temple of Ta Keo, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 162 found at the temple of Preah Vihear, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 1025 found at the temple of Angkor Wat, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 311 found at the temple of Banteay Samré, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 481 found at Prasat Ta Prohm temple complex, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation of elephants to the temple.

Inscription K. 684 found at the temple of Banteay Srei, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 405 found at the temple of Pre Rup, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 528 found at the temple of Angkor Wat, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 180 found at the temple of Preah Vihear, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 206 found at the temple of Ta Prohm, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 285 found at the temple of Banteay Kdei, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 279 found at the temple of Ta Som, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 207 found at the temple of Ta Prohm, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 343 found at the temple of Preah Ko, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

Inscription K. 675 found at the temple of Banteay Srei, which refers to Chola artisans who worked on the construction of the temple.

Inscription K. 192 found at the temple of Preah Vihear, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 186 found at the temple of Preah Vihear, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 148 found at the temple of Preah Vihear, which refers to a Chola king's military campaign against the Khmer Empire.

Inscription K. 1143 found at the temple of Angkor Wat, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 883 found at the temple of Angkor Thom, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 526 found at the temple of Angkor Wat, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 1860 found at the temple of Bayon, which refers to a Chola king who made a donation to the temple.

Inscription K. 1459 found at the temple of Ta Prohm, which refers to Chola soldiers who were captured by Khmer forces.

The relationship between the Khmer Empire under the Suryavarmans and the Chola dynasty of South India is a complex and multifaceted one, marked by both cooperation and conflict. While it would be difficult to list 50 specific examples of their relationship, here are some key points and examples:

Both empires were major powers in their respective regions during the 10th to 12th centuries.

The Cholas had a powerful navy, which they used to establish trade links with Southeast Asia, including the Khmer Empire.

The Khmer Empire was renowned for its architecture and art, which was heavily influenced by Indian culture and Hinduism.

Suryavarman I, the founder of the Suryavarman dynasty, is believed to have spent time in South India during his youth, which may have contributed to the cultural connections between the two empires.

The Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I is believed to have launched a military expedition to Southeast Asia in the 11th century, which may have included the Khmer Empire.

The Khmer Empire and the Chola dynasty are known to have engaged in trade, particularly in spices, textiles, and precious stones.

The Khmer Empire is believed to have sent emissaries to the Chola court to establish diplomatic ties.

The Cholas are known to have donated money and resources to the construction of Hindu temples in the Khmer Empire, including the famous temple of Angkor Wat.

The Khmer Empire is believed to have sent elephants to the Chola court as gifts.

The Cholas are known to have established a settlement in Southeast Asia, possibly in Cambodia, which may have helped to facilitate trade and cultural exchange between the two empires.

The Khmer Empire and the Cholas are known to have engaged in military conflict, particularly over control of maritime trade routes.

The Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I is believed to have launched a naval campaign against the Srivijaya Empire, which controlled the Strait of Malacca, a major trade route between India and China. The Khmer Empire may have been involved in this campaign as well.

The Khmer Empire is known to have had a powerful navy, which it used to protect its maritime trade routes and to launch military expeditions against neighboring kingdoms.

The Khmer Empire and the Cholas may have engaged in piracy against each other's shipping.

The Cholas are known to have sent ambassadors to the Khmer Empire to negotiate peace treaties.

The Khmer Empire and the Cholas are believed to have exchanged gifts and diplomatic letters on several occasions.

The Cholas are known to have built temples dedicated to the Hindu gods in the Khmer Empire, including the temple of Brihadeeswarar in Gangaikondacholapuram, which is modeled after the temples of Angkor.

The Khmer Empire and the Cholas are believed to have shared knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and other sciences.

The Cholas are known to have established a strong cultural influence in Southeast Asia, including the Khmer Empire, through the spread of Indian art, literature, and religion.

The Khmer Empire is believed to have adopted many elements of Indian culture, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and the Sanskrit language.

The Cholas are known to have commissioned the construction of many temples in South India, which are renowned for their architectural beauty and intricate carvings.

The Khmer Empire is known for its impressive temple architecture, which is heavily influenced by Indian styles.

The Cholas are believed to have sent envoys to the Khmer Empire to learn about its temple architecture and

[whencyclopedia]

Chidambaram

Chidambaram (Cidambaram) is an important Chola temple site in Tamil Nadu, southern India. Most of the temples at Chidambaram were built in the 12th and 13th centuries CE. The site is dominated by the huge gateway tower of the Nataraja temple but Chidambaram also boasts the first Devi or Amman shrine, the first Surya shrine with the distinctive stone chariot wheels which would adorn many subsequent temples, and the first large Siva Ganga tank. In this respect Chidambaram is something of a transitional site, linking elements of the old and new styles of Indian temple architecture.

The name Chidambaram, one of several from antiquity, derives from the Tamil Cirrambalam, meaning 'little hall'. The site was chosen because according to mythology it was the precise spot where the Hindu god Shiva had once danced in a grove of tillai trees. The dance was, in fact, a competition between Shiva and Parvati and naturally the great Shiva won. The story became a popular subject in Hindu art over the centuries.

The site is enclosed within four perimeter walls and covers a rectangular area of 55 acres. Within the compound are shrines, halls, temples, ornamental gateways, and a large ritual bathing pool, known as a Siva Ganga tank, which is surrounded by cloisters. Inscriptions claim the site was built by various Pandya kings and local rulers but none are contemporary with the dates the buildings were actually first constructed. The walls and east gopura (gateway) may be ascribed with greater certainty, and were probably built by Kulottunga III, who reigned from 1178 to 1218 CE.

The Nataraja temple was constructed between c. 1175 and c. 1200 CE. The actual temple shrine is relatively modest as by now in Indian architecture the gopuras had become the most important structures, at least in terms of aesthetics. The twin sacred chamber was, however, adorned with copper sheets covered in gold by successive Chola kings. The shrine is preceded by a dance hall and large entrance porch with columns (mandapa).

The massive granite and brick east gopura dominates the site but there are three other gopuras on the north, south and west sides (the earliest). The corbelled roofs diminish as the structures rise and are finally topped with the usual barrel-vaulted roof (sala), the eastern gopura also having a row of 13 decorative finials. The east gopura has a proper interior floor at each of its nine levels and there is an interior staircase which climbs to the very top of the building. All four gopuras have false windows on their facades, typical for this kind of structure, and pairs of pilaster columns set at regular intervals. The second floor of each gopura also has a passageway which worshippers ritually walked around. The entrance archways all have coffered ceilings decorated with relief panels.

Of particular note at Chidambaram are the thousands of sculptures adorning its buildings. In particular there are many statues of women in a wide variety of dance postures. Many statues are accompanied by quotations from Hindu literature which provide an invaluable reference for scholars. There are also figures of the four dvarapalas (guardian demons), the dikpalas (cardinal directions), many figures of Shiva performing heroic deeds, various other deities such as Vishnu, Devi, Sarasvati, and, unusually in southern architecture, river goddesses.

Finally, Chidambaram is also famous for its 17th century CE Nayaka ceiling paintings which decorate the Shivakamasundari shrine of the Nataraja Temple. More than 40 panels depict scenes from the life of the saint Manikkavachakar, a devotee of Shiva.

Continue reading...

[tirupatitourpackages]

The Fascinating History of the Tirupati Temple: A Divine Journey Through Time

The Tirupati Temple, also known as the Venkateswara Temple, stands as one of the most revered and ancient pilgrimage sites in India. Nestled amidst the tranquil hills of Tirumala, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, this sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of the mighty Lord Vishnu. With its rich history, divine significance, and cultural prominence, the Tirupati Temple continues to inspire millions of devotees around the world.

Let’s take a deeper dive into the historical journey of this remarkable temple and understand its spiritual significance.

The Origins of the Temple: A Divine Mythology

The story of the Tirupati Temple is steeped in Hindu mythology, tracing its roots back to ancient legends. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, who is believed to have appeared on Earth to rid humanity of suffering and evil during the Kali Yuga, the present age.

The mythological narrative tells of Lord Vishnu's search for his consort Lakshmi, who had left him due to a dispute. After a long quest, Vishnu found her in the sacred hills of Tirumala, which became the chosen location for his divine manifestation. It is said that Vishnu, in the form of Venkateswara, decided to remain in these hills to bless his devotees and protect them from the challenges of the world.

This mythological backdrop plays a crucial role in the spiritual significance of the Tirupati Temple, making it a focal point for pilgrims seeking the grace and blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Historical Evidence: A Journey Through Time

The Tirupati Temple's history dates back to over 2,000 years, with inscriptions and ancient texts referencing the temple's existence. The earliest mention of the temple appears in inscriptions from the 3rd century BCE, and the Tamil Sangam literature.

The temple’s earliest recorded history dates back to the Chola Dynasty (10th to 13th centuries), which played a significant role in its expansion and prosperity. The Vijayanagara Empire (14th to 16th centuries) further contributed to the growth of the temple by commissioning various structures, rituals, and festivals. Even during the rule of the Mughals, the temple received patronage and was renovated to maintain its sanctity.

Over the centuries, the temple has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades, thanks to the royal patrons and devotees who recognized the temple's divine importance. Today, the Sri Venkateswara Temple Trust oversees its operations, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.

The Significance of the Temple

Tirupati Temple holds immense spiritual and cultural significance. It is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams, the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, making it a prime destination for Vaishnavite pilgrims. The temple is particularly revered by devotees for its grace and blessings, which are believed to grant them spiritual liberation (moksha), health, prosperity, and peace of mind.

The temple is a magnet for millions of visitors each year. Devotees make the pilgrimage to Tirupati, with many trekking the Alipiri Mettu steps or Srivari Mettu to reach the temple at the hilltop. The journey to the temple itself is an act of devotion, symbolizing a pilgrim's quest for spiritual growth and redemption.

The Rich Tradition of Donations and Wealth

The Tirupati Temple is renowned for being one of the richest temples in the world. The wealth of the temple is primarily generated through donations from devotees, many of whom offer significant amounts to fulfill vows or seek divine blessings. The practice of tonsuring (shaving of the head) is a key tradition at Tirupati, where pilgrims offer their hair as a symbol of humility and devotion.

The temple is also famous for its prasadams, especially the Laddu prasadam, which is distributed to devotees after their darshan. This sacred offering is said to be infused with divine energy, and it is cherished by people of all faiths.

The Role of Festivals in the Temple's History

The Tirupati Temple has a vibrant calendar of festivals, with the Brahmotsavam being the most important. This grand festival, held annually, witnesses thousands of devotees gathering at the temple to participate in grand processions, prayers, and offerings to Lord Venkateswara. Other major festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi, Rathasapthami, and Pushpayagam also attract a significant number of pilgrims, each of whom hopes to experience the divine presence of Lord Venkateswara.

Cultural and Architectural Significance

The architecture of the Tirupati Temple is a blend of ancient Dravidian style and Vijayanagara influence, with intricate carvings, towering gopurams (temple towers), and majestic hallways. The temple’s sanctum houses a beautifully adorned idol of Lord Venkateswara, which is said to possess divine energy.

The Swami Pushkarini Lake, located near the temple, is another sacred feature. Devotees take a holy dip in the lake to purify themselves before entering the temple. The lake adds to the serene and peaceful ambiance of the entire Tirumala area, making it an ideal location for meditation and spiritual practice.

Tirupati Today: A Beacon of Faith and Devotion

Tirupati continues to be a symbol of faith, devotion, and spirituality for millions of Hindus around the world. The temple's influence extends beyond the religious sphere, as it plays an important role in the cultural and social life of the region.

Today, the Tirupati Temple is not just a place of worship but a hub for various social initiatives, including education, healthcare, and charitable activities. The temple trust funds several hospitals, schools, and orphanages, making it a pivotal force in the betterment of society.

Conclusion

The Tirupati Temple is more than just a place of worship—it's a symbol of divine grace, spiritual elevation, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a devout pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler exploring India’s rich history, Tirupati offers an experience like no other. The temple’s blend of mythology, history, and divine significance continues to inspire millions, ensuring that its legacy will endure for centuries to come.

For those planning a visit to this sacred destination, the journey to Tirupati promises to be a transformative experience that connects the heart to the divine, while also offering a glimpse into one of the oldest and most spiritually rich temples in the world.

[indianencyclopedia]

Development of Tamil scripts can be traced to the period just after the reign of Asoka. The Tamil script is believed to have developed from the Brahmi script. he script utilised by the inscriptions is usually called the Tamil Brahmi.

[mystreal]

Brihadeeswara Temple: The Grand Marvel of Chola Architecture

Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the "Big Temple," stands as a towering testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of ancient India. Located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built by the great Chola king Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture. Its grandeur, intricate sculptures, and engineering marvels continue to inspire awe and wonder to this day.

Historical Significance

The construction of Brihadeeswara Temple was completed in 1010 CE, making it over 1,000 years old. It was commissioned by Raja Raja Chola I, one of the most powerful kings of South India, who ruled the Chola dynasty at its zenith. The temple was not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of the Chola empire’s wealth, military prowess, and cultural dominance. The inscriptions found on the temple walls detail the king's conquests and the temple’s endowments, offering valuable insights into the Chola empire's administration, economy, and devotion.

Architectural Grandeur

Brihadeeswara Temple Thanjavur is a striking example of Dravidian architecture, marked by its massive vimana (tower) that rises to a height of 216 feet, making it one of the tallest temple towers in the world. What is particularly fascinating is that the vimana is constructed entirely out of granite, a material not locally available, which raises questions about the logistics of transporting such massive stones.

The temple’s engineering brilliance is evident in its crowning glory—an 80-ton monolithic granite block that sits atop the vimana. Scholars believe that an inclined ramp was built extending several kilometers to raise the stone to the top, showcasing the ingenuity of Chola engineers.

Iconic Sculptures and Artistry

The temple complex is adorned with intricate sculptures that reflect the richness of Chola art. The sanctum sanctorum houses a massive 13-foot-tall Shiva Lingam, which is one of the largest in India. Surrounding the temple are detailed carvings of deities, mythological scenes, and celestial beings, showcasing the artisans’ exceptional skill. The frescoes on the walls of the temple's inner sanctum, depicting various stories from Hindu mythology, are a unique feature of this architectural wonder.

One of the most remarkable features of Brihadeeswara Temple is the statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, located at the entrance. Carved from a single stone, this 16-foot-long, 13-foot-tall Nandi is one of the largest monolithic sculptures in India.

Spiritual and Cultural Legacy

Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur continues to be an important center of worship for devotees of Lord Shiva. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple to offer prayers and witness its magnificent architecture. The temple is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a cultural hub that has withstood the test of time.

In 2010, the temple celebrated its 1,000th anniversary, marking a millennium of continuous worship, architectural marvels, and historical significance. The anniversary festivities included cultural performances, religious ceremonies, and exhibitions, drawing visitors from around the world.

Conclusion

Brihadeeswara Temple is more than just an architectural masterpiece; it is a living testimony to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty and the devotion of the people. Its engineering brilliance, artistic beauty, and spiritual aura make it one of the most revered monuments in India. A visit to this iconic temple is not only a journey through history but also a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage.

[thereader-radhika]

Kanthallur Salai

The salais were institutions of higher education associated with temples (Kanthallur salai, Parthivapuram salai, Thiruvalla salai, Moozhikkulam salai etc.). Established by the Ay kings, they followed gurukula system (students living in proximity to the teacher) Though the royalty provided free food, clothing and accommodation to the students, the administration of salas were mostly autonomous.

Known as 'Dakshina Nalanda', Kanthallur salai is believed to have been founded by the Ay king Karunthadakan (857-885 AD). Later, this salai gained world fame as a center of learning. Students from foreign countries like Sri Lanka too came to Kanthallur salai for higher studies. This mahashala provided training in multiple branches of knowledge including martial arts. What set Kanthalloor apart from other ancient Indian universities of that era was the diversity in the subjects it offered. In Kanthalloor, students were taught subjects such as atheism which were considered taboo in other universities.

There are conflicting opinions about the exact location of Kanthallur salai. KV Subramania Iyer speculated that Kanthallur salai may have been located in a village called Kanthallur, seven miles from Neyyatinkara in present-day Thiruvananthapuram district. T. Gopinatha Rao quotes records dating back to the 9th century which refer to the deity in present day Valiyashala as Kanthallur Chalai Mahadeva.

Kanthalur salai appears repeatedly in the Chola inscriptions. There are several references to Kanthallur salai in Rajarajan's inscriptions about the attacks on Ay, Mahodayapuram and Mooshika kingdoms. It is thought that Ay rajas have become the vasals of Pandyas by that time. His inscription from the 4th year of his reign mentions 'Kanthalur Salai kalamaruthu aruli'. In fact, this is his first achievement listed in the chronology of events. Rajarajan was obviously very proud of this achievement.

Since 'kalamaruthu' can have many connotations, there were arguments that this means that the ships at Kanthallur were destroyed or that only the free food distribution for the students was stopped.

However in 2009, a hero-stone (veerakkal) belonging to the reign of Rajarajan was unearthed. It has a eulogy in Tamil that talks about the king “beheading the Malai Alargal (chera warriors)”, settling the long-standing debate about what he did at Kanthallur Salai. It is evident that Cholas destroyed the salai, annexed the port of Vizhinjam and killed the warriors. The salai is mentioned in the records of his successors too, showing multiple Chola invasions across generations.

Later, Vizhinjam was renamed as Rajendrachola Pattanam. Due to the incessant attacks of Cholas, the importance of Vizhinjam port and Kanthalloor Salai (if it survived Rajarajan's attacks in the first place) gradually deteriorated. Between the 10th and the 12th centuries Kanthalloor Salai and the port of Vizhinjam, were completely destroyed in war.

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In my upcoming fanfiction about Ravidasan, he and Parameshwaran will be Kanthallur Salai alumni and they will send little Amarabhujangan for higher education in this place.

In historical inscriptions, his name is Ravidasan Panchavan Brahmadhirajan. Brahma arayan/Brahmadhi rajan were titles given to high class Brahmin officials in administration and military. Another person of similar status mentioned in the novel is the Prime Minister of the Chola Kingdom, Aniruddha Brahmarayar.

The above picture is purely for aesthetic purposes.

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