Couples break up if they visit this temple: Here's why it's still worth your time

The historic city of Thanjavur and the legendary Brihadeeshwara temple have been viral on social media lately. The majestic structure, crafted in stone, boasts the splendid architectural traditions of the Chola era. However, a popular belief associated with the temple is that lovers would break up if they visit the temple together. But those who have visited the spot vouch for the mesmerising beauty of the temple complex and the tranquil ambience here.

The tallest in South India
It took 12 years to complete the construction of the Brihadeeshwara temple. The grand crest of the temple is visible from multiple angles, highlighting its intricately designed carvings. Touted as the tallest temple in South India, the Brihadeeshwara Temple, also known as Thiruvudayar Kovil, Periya Kovil, and Rajarajeshwaram Kovil, stands 216 feet tall and spans 14 levels. The temple is situated on the banks of the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu’s famous Thanjavur district. You need to pass elaborately sculptured temple walls and two gateways to enter the sanctum sanctorum. A miniature model and the history of the temple are displayed at the entrance for visitors to gain an understanding of the iconic structure. As soon as you enter the temple, the magnificent corridors and the breathtaking shrines adorned with intricate carvings of dance postures mesmerise you with their perfection.

How to reach
You could reach Thanjavur by train as well as by road. There is a daily train to Thanjavur from Ernakulam at 10.25 pm; you could board this train from either the south or the north stations. The train reaches Thanjavur junction at 9.05 am. There are facilities in the railway station or in the vicinity to freshen up. You could then hire an auto or take a bus to the Brihadeeshwara temple, which is barely a kilometre away. It would be better to carry an umbrella as there aren’t any canopies in the temple premises to protect you from the harsh sun.

A script that can't be read
The incredible architecture of the temple celebrates the fabulous craftsmanship and artisanal talent of the Chola period. The construction of the temple began in 985 AD under the Chola king Rajaraja Chola and was completed 12 years later, in 1013. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the main deity is worshipped in the form of the Lingam. The temple features exquisitely carved walls that recount scenes from heroic battles, as well as ancient Tamil alphabets, showcasing the evolution of the language. The people in the locality say that there is no one in the area who can read the ancient script. The beautiful dance postures inscribed on the stone pillars are known for their perfect anatomical features. Additionally, the temple features many giant pillars crafted from a single stone.

The change over time
Beyond the gopuram lies a hall with a massive monolith statue of Nandi, which is 12 feet tall and 20 feet long. The Nandi, crafted in a single stone, weighs around 20 tons. As Thanjavur doesn’t have any quarries, the stones and giant rocks are believed to have been brought from the rocky structures near Thiruchira or the quarries in Puthukotta. Old photos of the temple and a few historical documents are exhibited at the temple. The main shrine’s corridor is lined with Shiva lingas as well as pillars that are richly adorned with carvings. The Brihadeeshwara temple, which mesmerises with its rich history, cultural heritage and scintillating architecture, is also a UN World Heritage site.

Other sites worth visiting
The Marata Palace is another destination in Thanjavur where you get a glimpse of the royal heritage. The palace is just a few kilometres from the Brihadeeshwara temple; the bus ticket costs just Rs 50. Although the palace is currently undergoing renovation, you can still see the guns, royal attire, and other armaments used by the ancient kings. Besides, a gigantic skeleton of a blue whale is also exhibited here. The skeleton is believed to be of a blue whale that washed ashore at Tharangambadi beach in 1955.