Chidambaram
Chidambaram
Chidambaram is one of the most ancient and most celebrated shrines in Tamilnadu. It is of great religious, historic and cultural significance. Chidambaram is dominated by the Nataraja Temple, spread across 40 acres in the centre of town and is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a cosmic dancer. The dance of bliss (Nataraja), or the Ananda Tandavam of Shiva is said to symbolize the five divine acts (pancha krityas) of creation, sustenance, dissolution, concealment and bestowment of grace. God Shiva is also worshipped here in the formless form called ‘Chidambara Rahasyam’, while the temple is known for its ‘Akasa Lingam’ an embodiment of Shiva as the formless Space. Devoted to the art of Bharatnatyam, it’s unique in that it is one of the few temples where the Gods Shiva and Vishnu are enshrined under one roof. It is located in the heart of the town of Chidambaram, 58 km south of Pondicherry in Cuddalore District.
Near Chidambaram
More to see around Pondicherry.
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Sight
Annmalai University
It is a residential University founded by the Raja Sir Annamalai Chettiar.
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Sight
Auroville
Located around 8 kms north-west of Puducherry, Auroville was designed by the French architect Roger Anger. Around 2,000 people live there in settlements with names like Grace, Fraternity, Fertile, Certitude and Transformation.
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Sight
Auroville Beach
Its shallow waters and small waves make it an ideal place of swimming. It is a fairly popular destination on weekends.
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Sight
Gangaikonda Cholapuram
It is 50 kms. from Chidambaram. Rajendra -1, a mighty Chola King, established his new capital here with this magnificent city and temple to Lord Siva.
