2010 - 1000 Years of Brihadeeswarar Temple | Commemorative Coin

The 6th commemorative coin of 2010 was released to celebrate the 1000 Years of the Brihadeeswarar Temple. This marked the first time a ₹1000 coin was introduced in the coinage of the Republic of India.

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, stands as one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of ancient India. Built in 1010 CE by the Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I, the temple represents the zenith of Dravidian architecture and serves as a testament to the artistic, cultural, and engineering brilliance of the Chola dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is revered not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the grandeur and vision of one of South India’s most powerful empires.

Constructed entirely out of granite, a material not naturally available in the region, the temple remains an engineering marvel even after a millennium. Its towering Vimana, rising to a height of around 66 meters, is one of the tallest of its kind in the world and was built without the use of modern mechanical equipment. The massive monolithic Nandi statue at the entrance, carved from a single stone, showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the sculptors of that era. The walls of the temple complex are adorned with intricate frescoes, inscriptions, and sculptures that reflect the artistic excellence and cultural richness of the Chola period.

The Brihadeeswarar Temple was not merely a spiritual center but also a cultural and economic hub, supporting hundreds of artisans, dancers, scholars, and priests. Its inscriptions provide valuable information about the administration, social structure, and daily life of the Chola kingdom. The temple played a significant role in promoting art, music, literature, and dance, and it continues to inspire generations of artists and historians.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the group “Great Living Chola Temples,” the Brihadeeswarar Temple remains a living symbol of India’s heritage. It has withstood natural calamities and the passage of time, standing unwavering as a monument of devotion and architectural excellence. Celebrating its thousand-year milestone in 2010 reaffirmed its place as one of the most enduring cultural treasures of the nation. The temple continues to draw millions of devotees, scholars, and tourists each year, offering a profound experience that blends spirituality, history, and artistic grandeur in one magnificent space.

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