Why in news?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) observed World Heritage Week from 19 to 25 November 2025 by organising heritage walks and clean‑up drives at several monuments. At the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, volunteers and ASI officials participated in a guided walk and cleaning effort to raise awareness about preserving this 1,000‑year‑old marvel.
Background
Brihadeeswarar, also called the Big Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built around 1010 CE by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples.” The complex covers more than 40 acres and is constructed entirely of granite. A high enclosing wall and moat give it the appearance of a fortified citadel.
Architectural features
- Towering vimanam: The temple’s main tower rises to about 66 metres (216 feet), making it one of the tallest of its kind. It consists of 13 diminishing storeys and is capped by a massive monolithic granite block weighing an estimated 80 tonnes.
- Monolithic Nandi: A huge statue of Nandi (the bull mount of Shiva), carved from a single rock and weighing about 25 tonnes, stands at the entrance. It is considered one of the largest monolithic Nandis in India.
- Dravidian artistry: Intricate stone carvings depict gods, goddesses, dancers and musicians. The layout follows a precise axial alignment, with the sanctum, assembly hall and pillared corridors arranged symmetrically.
- Granite wonder: The entire temple was built without mortar, using massive granite blocks transported from quarries tens of kilometres away. Legends suggest that a six‑kilometre earthen ramp and elephants were used to hoist the capstone to the top.
Recent heritage activities
- Heritage walk: During World Heritage Week, ASI guides led visitors through the temple complex, explaining its history, symbolism and conservation challenges.
- Clean‑up drive: Volunteers, local youth and NCC cadets joined ASI staff in cleaning the premises, removing litter and gently brushing dirt from carvings. The event underscored the importance of community participation in heritage preservation.
Conclusion
Brihadeeswarar Temple stands as a testament to the architectural genius of the Chola dynasty. Conservation efforts and public engagement during World Heritage Week remind us that preserving such monuments requires both expert care and community involvement.
Sources: TH,
