Thyagaraja Swamy Temple, Thiruvarur - Largest Temple in India

The subtle Thyagaraja swamy temple is one of the heritage sites of India representing the socio cultural history of the Tamils. One of the largest temples in India, it covers an area of 30 acres. Legends say that the trinity Gods of Hinduism like Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva decided to perform a pooja checking their will power. It was started with a decision that whoever is able to sustain it for a long time is the best of all. It was Lord Vishnu who performed it for a time longer than others. Vishnu, proud of his achievement, started to chase the devas with a bow he obtained from the sacred pit where the ritual is performed.

Devas ran for shelter and eventually reached this place. Vishnu was tired as a result of Shakthi's influence. He kept the bow on the ground and was leaning on it. Making use of that time, Devas asked their guru Jupiter for advice. The idea was to get down to the floor where the bow was placed and become ants to corrode the string. They did it and the sudden release of bow beheaded Vishnu. Devas were afraid of the act and it was Lord Shiva to help them. Lord Vishnu was brought back alive and Vishnu did penance to thank him. Shiva, very satisfied with his penance and blessed him with a child and that is ‘Thyagaraja’. He kept the icon in his mind and every breath in and out would make the icon dance in rhythm resulting in what is called "Ajaba Nadanam (Dance like a frog)".

The galactic five-layered temple complex contains 9 gopurams, 80 vimanas, 13 massive mandapams, 21 tirthas, 365 Shiva lingams, more than 100 shrines dedicated to various Gods. The 1000 pillars, a roof over them, standing near the East gate were used to weave a makeshift cover to accommodate the vast devotees thronging the temple during the festive period in ancient times. As per the records, it is seen that the present structure was built during the Chola dynasty in the 9th century, while later expansions were made by Vijayanagara rulers. Records show that the present structure dates back to the 9th century with the efforts of the Chola dynasty. The temple’s chariot is one of its kind in the world weighing to 300 tons with a height of 90 feet. Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu maintains the temple.