Thanjavur Big Temple

City of Temples

Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris , its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples.

Thanjavur enjoys a rich historical heritage and holds a very important position in the moulding of ancient as well modern south Indian civilization. Being of religious importance, this place is a must for all pilgrims. There are many religious places in and around the district. Siva Ganga Garden, Art Gallery, Palace & Saraswathi Mahal Library, Sangeetha Mahal are the main tourist attractions. This is a place where you can constantly witness the magnificent and dynamic cultures of the past and present breathing life into and living in the everyday, giving the area a unique and glorious identity.

Tanjore Paintings

A popular form of classic south Indian painting that originated during the Chola rule and became a native art form of the city. These artworks revolve around the demonstration of Hindu gods and goddesses that are illustrated by stones, wood, glass etc. They are mainly painted on wood frames, locally known as "Palagai Padam". The first step involves drawing the primary sketch on the base which is made up of cloth. The cloth is then pasted over the wooden base to apply a layer of chalk powder zinc - oxide and adhesive. Cut glass, pearls and stones are the primary elements used in carving out the painting which is then finished using vibrant colours.

History Of Thanjavur

Thanjavur is the most visited and the most historical site in India today. It was the capital of Great Chola king Rajaraja who commissioned the beautiful temple of Brihadishvara. Also known as the city of ?Tanjore? this place was named after the demon Tanjan, who was killed by Sri Lord Vishnu and Anandavalli Amman. According to the legend, Tanjan?s last wish was to have this city named after him, which is why the city got its name. The history of this place stretches back to the Sangam era.

One of the oldest temples, Brihadeeswarar Temple, was one such place that saw the rise and fall of several dynasties and experienced an incredible growth in politics and culture. After the Chola dynasty dissolved in the 13th century, Pandya empire came to power for a brief period before Britishers invaded in the 18th century. 1749 saw the British invasion as Thanjavur became a part of British India and an important city in the state of Tamil Nadu.