New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the iconic Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district to pay tribute to the legacy of the Chola dynasty. The 11th-century Shiva temple, built by Rajendra Chola himself, stands as a monumental symbol of the dynasty’s architectural and military prowess.
PM Modi offered prayers at the temple and took a tour of the complex, which is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Great Living Chola Temples. Draped in traditional Tamil attire — veshti and angavastram — the Prime Minister participated in the rituals at the temple, offering prayers and performing customary ceremonies. The Chola emperor, often celebrated in Tamil literature and folklore, has also been referenced in PM Modi’s past speeches.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram was the ‘victory city’ constructed by Rajendra Chola following his victorious maritime expedition to South East Asia about 1,000 years ago. PM Modi arrived at the temple to attend the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival. The grand finale of the festival that commenced on July 23 was marked by celebrations today. Shivacharyas and Othuvamurthys, scholars well-versed in Saivaite scriptures, recited sacred hymns to welcome the Prime Minister. A special musical performance on Tiruvasagam by maestro Ilayaraja was also planned.
On the occasion, Gangaikonda Cholapuram was adorned with floral green arches leading up to the temple, while police took control of the entire area to manage the security arrangements.
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