PM Modi expresses reverence for ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ during event at historic Chola Temple

Historians consider the era of the Chola Empire to be one of the golden ages in India. The Chola Empire continued the tradition of referring to India as the mother of democracy.

Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today spoke at an event celebrating the birth anniversary of the esteemed Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola I, held at Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple.

PM Modi mentioned that whenever he hears 'Om Namah Shivaya', he experiences goosebumps. "This Raj serves as a site of veneration for the king, and the way Ilaiyaraaja engaged us all in Shiv bhakti today created such a magnificent ambiance." As the MP of Kashi, the phrase Om Namah Shivaya gives me chills.

Historians consider the era of the Chola Empire to be one of the golden ages in India. The Chola Empire continued the tradition of referring to India as the mother of democracy. Historians reference Britain's Magna Carta as a symbol of democracy.

Long ago, elections were conducted democratically in the Chola Empire. We hear of numerous kings who carried back gold, silver, or livestock after defeating other regions. However, Rajendra Chola transported Gangajal. PM Modi prayed at the Lord Brihadeeshwara temple. They were observed adoring while surrounded by Vedic and Saivite Tirumurai recitations.

PM Modi carried a traditionally adorned Kalash, believed to hold water from the Ganges River. The temple priests greeted the Prime Minister with a customary Poorna Kumbham. Clad in a veshti (dhoti), a white shirt, and an angavastra draped around his neck, the PM walked through the temple's inner corridor.

PM Modi also attended an exhibition by the Archaeological Survey of India focused on Chola Shaivism and architectural styles. Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple is an ancient temple situated in Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu, constructed by the Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola I during the 11th century. The temple is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Great Living Chola Temples, which also encompasses the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur and the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram. This shrine is devoted to Lord Shiva.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Conqueror of the Ganges) honors Rajendra Chola's military victory extending to the Ganges River. The primary sanctum sanctorum of the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple stands at 55 metres tall. A 13.5-foot tall Shivalinga is installed, making it one of the largest Shivalingas in South India.

The temple's design showcases Dravidian style, featuring detailed carvings and sculptures that highlight the brilliance of Chola art and architecture. The temple served as the capital of the Chola Empire for 250 years, with its construction finishing in 1035 CE. The temple ensemble includes various pavilions like the Nandi Mandapa, Alankar Mandapa, and Maha Mandapa. There are four daily rituals and yearly celebrations like Mahashivaratri. This temple welcomes visitors from 5 AM to 12 PM and from 4 PM to 9 PM.