The Chola Dynasty, which thrived from 300 BC to 1279 CE in Southern India, were devout followers of Shaivism and ardent supporters of arts, literature, and poetry. The Chola Kings, also known as “சோழர்” in Tamil, held a significant position among the rulers of India. They were renowned for constructing numerous Shiva Temples across the world, many of which still stand today.

DARASURAM : MURAL PAINTINGS FROM CHOLA & NAYAK PERIODS

The collection of three remarkable architectural wonders, known as ‘The Great Living Chola Temples,’ were constructed by the Chola Kings and can still be found in Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram, and Darasuram in Tamil Nadu. These temples stand out for their distinctive Dravidian architecture and exceptional artistic craftsmanship.

The Brihadeeswarar temple ( Read about it here ) , also known as the Big Temple or Peruvudaiyar Kovil, situated in Thanjavur, was completed in 1010 AD by Emperor Raja Raja Chola I (985–1014 AD). This magnificent temple, which celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2010, is among the largest temples in India and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Monument.

Rajendra Chola-I (1012-1044 AD), the son of the renowned Rajaraja-I, expanded the kingdom as far as the Ganga River in the North and earned the title Gangaikondacholan. He was a prominent Chola King, ruling over vast parts of Southern India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Sumatra, Kadaram (now Kedah in Malaysia), and Cambodia. Rajendra Chola relocated the capital to Gangaikondacholapuram near Kumbakonam and commissioned the construction of a temple around 1025 AD, later known as the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple ( Read about it here ). This temple has also been safeguarded as a world heritage monument by UNESCO.

MUKHA MANDAPA OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

The Airavatesvara temple at Darasuram near Kumbakonam stands out as a remarkable testament to unparalleled craftsmanship and breathtaking sculptures among the trio of temples. Raja Raja Chola II (1146–1173) commissioned the construction of the Airavatesvara temple in 1150 AD.

According to historical records, Raja Raja Chola II relocated his capital from Gangaikondacholapuram to Palaiyarai and renamed it as Raja Raja Puram. The temple he built there was originally called Raja Rajeschuram, but over time, it transformed through word of mouth into Tharechuram, Darachuram, and eventually Darasuram. The Airavatesvara temple has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

CHARIOT WHEEL CARVED ON THE MUKHA MANDAPA OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

The ancient tale recounts how the white elephant Airavata, belonging to the God Indra, lost its original hue due to a curse cast by sage Durvasa. After seeking penance at this temple and worshipping Lord Shiva, Airavata regained its color, leading to the temple being named Airavatesvara.

The mukha mandapa of the temple displays ornate carvings resembling a chariot drawn by elephants and horses, followed by the main mandapa and sanctum sanctorum. The outer walls of the temple are adorned with intricate sculptures depicting goddesses and historical events from the past.

CHARIOT WHEEL CARVED ON THE MUKHA MANDAPA OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

INTRICATE CARVINGS & MURAL PAINTINGS ON THE SIDE WALLS OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

LINGODBHAVA AT THE WESTERN WALL OF THE SANCTUM

THE STATUE OF GODDESS DURGA (ALSO CALLED MAHISHASURAMARDINI)

AT THE FEET OF GODDESS DURGA (ALSO CALLED MAHISHASURAMARDINI)

SANCTUM SANCTORUM OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

In the vicinity of the sanctum, there is a special shrine dedicated to the goddess Deva Nayaki. The outer walls are adorned with carvings portraying gypsies performing acrobatics, musicians, dancers, and illusions. Additionally, numerous sculptures illustrate the life stories of the 63 Nayanmars. The exterior walls of the temple are adorned with intricate mural paintings from the Chola period, seemingly overlapped by those from the Nayak period.

A SNEAK PEEK INTO HISTORY : THE LONG CORRIDOR AROUND AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

A GENTLE WALK INTO THE PAST : AROUND AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

A WALK AROUND AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

CARVING OF DANCERS ON THE SIDE WALLS OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

CARVING OF GYMNASTS ON THE SIDE WALLS OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

BULL AND ELEPHANT ILLUSION CARVING ON THE SIDE WALLS OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

CARVING OF GYMNASTS ON THE SIDE WALLS OF AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

While visiting Darasuram, we had the chance to explore one of Tamilnadu’s silk weaving hubs. We were fortunate enough to be invited to a local home near the Airavatesvara temple, where the owner graciously demonstrated the intricate art of weaving.

HAND WEAVING OF SILK FABRICS NEAR AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE AT DARASURAM

How to reach Darasuram :

Darasuram is situated at Kumbakonam of the Thanjavur District in Tamilnadu .

By Air : The nearest airport is Trichy (85 Kms).

By Rail : Accessible by train from most cities of Tamil Nadu and lies in the Chennai- Thanjavur track.

By Road : It is 380 Kms from Chennai and about 35 kms from Thanjavur.