The Brihadisvara Temple, also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the largest and most significant architectural achievements of the Chola dynasty, constructed by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 AD. The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples.”

This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty’s grandeur, engineering prowess, and devotion. The temple’s towering vimana (temple tower) rises to a height of about 66 meters (216 feet) and is topped with a massive monolithic cupola weighing around 80 tons. The engineering techniques used to place this heavy structure atop the tower continue to awe historians and architects.

The temple complex includes a massive courtyard, numerous subsidiary shrines, and intricately carved sculptures and murals depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and Chola culture. The main deity, Shiva, is represented as a huge lingam in the sanctum, and the temple’s inscriptions provide valuable historical data about the period.

The Brihadisvara Temple is not only a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture but also a vibrant center of worship and cultural heritage. Its grandeur and artistic richness attract thousands of visitors and devotees, making it a living monument of India’s historical and religious legacy.