Brihadeeshwarar Temple, Tamilnadu

The Brihadeeshwarar temple celebrated its 1000th year in 2010 and is one of the greatest temple built during the Chola period. Raja Raja Chozhan constructed this grandeur in Thanjavur on the basin of river Kaveri, Tamilnadu. The temple is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples”.

It is said that the Brihadeeshwarar Temple was erected in only seven years and is an architectural marvel. The temple stands amidst fortified walls that were probably added during the 16th century. The vimanam (temple tower) is 216 ft (66 m) high and is the tallest in the world. The Kumbam (the apex or the bulbous structure on the top) of the temple is carved out of a single rock and weighs around 80 tons.

The Nandi (sacred bull) stands tall, and is carved out of a single rock measuring about 16 ft (4.9 m) long and 13 ft (4.0 m) high at the entrance. The entire temple structure is made out of granite. This temple is one of the most visited tourist attractions of Tamil Nadu. 

Recently we happened to meet the 13th desendant of the Thanjavur Maratha family, the senior Prince of Thanjavur, Marathas, Mr Babaji Rajah Bhonsle. The Marathas were the last of the empire which ruled Thanjavur over throwing the Nayaks who had succeeded the Pandavas and Cholas. Later like the rest of the country, the British took over this land. But the family continued and still lives in the palace. A large part of the Aranmanai, has now been taken over by the government for restoration and as tourist attractions.

During a short conversation with Mr. Bhonsle, he explained that as a Senior Prince of the Thanjavur Royal family, he is glad that he is able to continue the traditions of his forefathers, the Thanjavur Marathas who were well known for their architecture, temples, art and culture. He now acts as a connect between the people and the government in solving the issues of the land. 

He is also a trustee of 88 temples and continues what his forefathers did, just in a different way. Though they still maintain relations with the other royal families in the country and meet during weddings and other social occasions (which is the only time they wear the royal attire), they mainly work together on social causes. This is especially of programs that protect the art and culture of the country, like the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage(INTACH). Apart from that, he is also involved in the upkeep and functioning of many art galleries and libraries.

A very interesting chat we had and his passion towards conserving the rich heritage of the south indian temples and it's artifacts is overwhelming.. may his tribe live long for many more generations to come...