Thillai Nataraja Temple, also known as Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, is dedicated to Shiva in his form as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. Located in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, the temple's origins trace back to the ancient town of Thillai. With architecture symbolizing the unity of arts and spirituality, its walls depict the 108 karanas from Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra, forming the foundation of Bharatanatyam. This sacred structure is renowned for its cultural and spiritual significance.
Constructed primarily in the 10th century by the Cholas, the temple reflects centuries of architectural evolution, repairs, and expansion, especially during the late 12th and early 13th centuries. While Shiva as Nataraja is the central deity, the temple complex honors themes from Shaktism, Vaishnavism, and other Hindu traditions. Its structures include a pre-13th-century Surya shrine, a unique Shiva Ganga pool, and large mandapas, built for devotees’ convenience.
The Chidambaram temple is one of the five elemental Shaivite pilgrimage temples, representing the subtlest of Shiva's temples. It serves as a vibrant site for performing arts, hosting the annual Natyanjali festival on Maha Shivaratri. Originally named Thillai due to the mangrove forests in the region, the site became the Chola capital in the 10th century. The term "Chidambaram" means “wisdom atmosphere,” a fitting tribute to Nataraja, symbolizing cosmic dance and spiritual consciousness.
Situated in southeastern Tamil Nadu, Chidambaram’s Nataraja temple covers a vast 40-acre complex with entrances on all four sides, elaborate mandapas, and lush gardens. Rich in history, it is revered in the Shaiva Bhakti tradition with significant contributions from the Chola, Pandya, and other dynasties. Kings, including Rajaraja Chola I, contributed significantly, adding grand gopuras and other features, making it one of South India’s most enduring and venerated temples.