Worship & Festivals
The Chola kings were ardent Saivites and the Brihadishwara Temple holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva even to this day. It serves as a place of pilgrimage, attracting worshippers and devotees who seek blessings, solace, and spiritual enlightenment.
Daily Pooja Schedule
-
Kaala Sandhi: 6:30 AM
-
Uchikalam: 12:00 PM
-
Sayarakshai: 5:30 PM
-
Arthajamam: 8:00 PM
The temple is open daily from 6 am - 12:30 pm and from 4 - 8:30 pm.
As you observe the poojas, you may notice the priest throwing the last flower up in the air above the Shiva Lingam and calling out “Paramashivaya namaha” (I bow to the mighty Lord Shiva). This is said to be done to acknowledge that the Brihadishwara temple represents all five elements in the Pancha Bootham (earth, air, water, fire, and ether/space/sky). As the sanctum was originally open to the very top, flowers and prayers are spiritually carried up to the sky with this gesture.
Major Festivals
Natyanjali Dance Festival (Feb/Mar)
An annual classical dance festival celebrating Lord Shiva, featuring Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. Held during Mahashivratri at the Big Temple, featuring classical dancers
Chithirai Car Festival (April/May)
A joyous multi-day festival where devotees take the ceremonial images of deities into the four main streets (Raja Veeedhis) surrounding the Temple. The 16-foot chariot was recently reconstructed by more than 30 artisans and sculptors, with 25 tons of Iluppai and teakwood.
Sadhaya Vizha (Oct/Nov)
Commemorates King Raja Raja Chola I's birth anniversary. The festival includes adorning the emperor's statue, sacred baths for the deity, lamp waving, holy processions, and folk-art performances.