Location:
Chidambaram
(Chola Naadu)
Vishnu: Govindaraja Perumaal
Taayaar: Pundarikavalli
Taayaar
Theertham:Pundarika Pushkarini
Paasuram :Kulasekhara, Tirumangaialwar
Vimaanam:Satvika Vimanam
Travel Base:Chidambaram
Description: This Divyadesam
is a shrine to Govindaraja Perumaal located in the famed grand Nataraja
temple complex at Chidambaram. The vast Nataraja temple complex
is referred to as 'Kovil' in the Saivite tradition, as the Srirangam
temple complex is in the Sree Vaishnavite tradition. Chidambaram represents
centuries of history and tradition and is second to none in representing
the vibrant culture of India. Pictured above, is one of the entrances to
this grand temple complex.
Deities:
The moolavar here is Govindaraja Perumaal in a reclining posture facing
east while Taayaar is Pundarika Valli in here own sanctum. There are two
festival images here; the first of the Utsavars is Parthasarathy in a
seated posture, and the second is Chitrakootattilullaan.
Legends:
Chidambaram has been held sacred for time immemorial for its association
with the Cosmic dance of Shiva. Legend has it that upon the request of
Patanjali (an incarnation of Adi Seshan) and Vyagrapadar (the sage with
tiger claws), Shiva re-enacted the Dance of Bliss, to the accompaniment
of music played by the celestials. All of the Devas and Gods are believed
to have gathered here to witness this grand spectacle.
The Temple:
Govindaraja Perumal's shrine faces east, while Nataraja's shrine faces
south. Perumal's shrine has its own circumambulatory passage and a set
of towers. This shrine was renovated during the period of Vijayanagar
rule.
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