Let’s rewind to the year 2019, when we embarked on a journey with Heritage Inspired, a travel company that truly stands out from the rest. Our mission? To explore the rich heritage of our beloved state of TamilNadu.
India is a treasure trove of history and culture, so deeply ingrained in every corner that it often goes unnoticed. The veins of Indian heritage run deep and wide, offering a tapestry of diversity that can leave even the most seasoned traveler in awe.
Enter Heritage Inspired, the ultimate guide to unlocking the secrets of South India’s past. I had the pleasure of joining them on The Spy Trail, or as it’s known in Tamil, Ottran Paathai.
For three unforgettable days, we found ourselves surrounded by fellow adventurers of all ages, all eager to uncover the hidden gems of our State. It was a whirlwind of fun, laughter, and discovery – a journey we’ll never forget.
The dapper gentleman sporting the stylish red shirt is none other than Mr. Anand. As the age-old saying goes, “Behind every successful woman there is a man,” and in this case, Mr. Anand is that man. He proudly stands as the co-founder of this travel company, alongside his equally brilliant wife, Deepa Anand. Together, they make a dynamic duo, steering the company towards new heights of success and innovation.
Allow me to introduce you to the one and only Mr. Ramanaujam – a retired Head Master with a knack for storytelling that will leave you utterly captivated. When this man speaks, the crowd hangs on his every word, eagerly awaiting his next joke or pun. Trust me, you do not want to miss out on the opportunity to experience his charm and wit during the tour.
Guess what? We are currently in the beautiful town of Kadambur, home to the renowned Sri Ruthrakodeeshwarar temple. This marks the beginning of our exciting itinerary!
We also visited the Veeranarayanapuram Lake ( now also known as Veeranam Lake ). This beautiful lake was constructed in the Tenth Century during the reign of the Greater Cholas, from 907–955 AD. It spans 16 kilometers and was built by Rajaditya Chola.
Our next halt was at ” Gangaikondacholapuram “. Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a quaint town nestled in the Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu, India, boasts a rich historical and cultural legacy that captivates all who visit. At the heart of this enchanting town lies the awe-inspiring Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Chola dynasty.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram
This is about Shiva, with Parvati by his side, represented as holding the head of Chandesa with his hands and tying a long garland around it.
“A benevolent form (anugrahamurti) of the Hindu deity Shiva, in which he is depicted bestowing his blessings upon his devotee, Chandesa, one of the sixty-three nayanars (canonical Saivite poet saints). In iconographical representations, Shiva –– with his consort Parvati seated to the left –– is shown tying a flower-garland around Chandesa’s head, who bows with folded hands before him. A sculptural depiction can be found at the Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple in Tamil Nadu, while a mural of the scene is part of the Lepakshi Temple in Andhra Pradesh. ”
Credit : Mapacademy.com
Constructed in the 11th century by the illustrious Rajendra Chola I, this temple is a divine ode to Lord Shiva, revered for its grandeur, intricate carvings, and breathtaking sculptures. It stands as a symbol of the Chola Empire’s might, once serving as its glorious capital during its reign over southern India from the 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE.
Behold the marvels of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, where the temple’s towering 53-meter vimana reigns supreme as one of India’s tallest. Enclosed within a colossal wall adorned with ornate gateways and majestic mandapas, the temple is a sanctuary of divine artistry, with its intricate carvings, sculptures, and frescoes narrating tales of Hindu mythology in exquisite detail.
Step into a world where history and myth intertwine, where the echoes of ancient empires resonate through the hallowed halls of Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Experience the grandeur of a bygone era, where every stone whispers secrets of a glorious past waiting to be discovered.
In the captivating photos above, you will find this distinguished gentleman known as Ramesh Vangipuram. His name alone exudes a sense of history, perfectly aligning with his passion and expertise in the field.
Mr. Vangipuram is a no-nonsense individual, overflowing with historical knowledge that spills over the brim of his shirt. Formerly a computer expert, he made the bold decision to pursue his true passion for history with unwavering dedication. He is an integral part of Heritage Inspired, actively participating in numerous tours. He has recently published a book titled “Warpath – Walking the Battlefields of the Cholas”
When it comes to business, Mr. Vangipuram is as serious as they come. He is a walking encyclopedia on all things historical, often seen with a massive map spread out on the ground, a pointer stick in hand, and a wireless microphone to ensure that no detail goes unnoticed.
His enthusiasm is contagious as he passionately shares his wealth of knowledge with a booming voice, ensuring that every listener is fully engaged and captivated by the fascinating world of history. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with Mr. Ramesh Vangipuram as your guide!
We were fortunate enough to explore the magnificent Darasuram temple, also known as the Airavatham temple, and the awe-inspiring Tanjore Big temple. These ancient structures stand tall, each with a history dating back nearly 1000 years, waiting to be experienced by those lucky enough to witness their grandeur.
A friend of mine aptly refers to these temples as “Chiselled Charms,” and I couldn’t agree more. The Airavateswara temple is a true masterpiece of classic Dravidian art and architecture. Every corner of the temple is adorned with intricately carved pillars, columns, and walls that showcase the incredible creativity and skill of the Chola artisans of that era.
As we stood in the presence of these architectural wonders, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and amazement. The history and beauty of these temples truly transport you to a different time and place, allowing you to relive moments from centuries past.
Some notable aspects of Darasuram Temple sculptures:
1. Intricate carvings: Delicate carvings adorn the walls, pillars, and ceilings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, everyday life, and nature.
2. Gajasurasamhara: A magnificent sculpture of Lord Shiva as Gajasurasamhara (slayer of the elephant demon) is a highlight.
3. Ardhanarishvara: A beautiful sculpture of Ardhanarishvara (half-Shiva, half-Parvati) showcases the blending of male and female forms.
4. Nataraja: A stunning sculpture of Nataraja (Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer) exemplifies the cosmic dance of creation and destruction.
5. Yalis: Fantastical creatures called Yalis, with lion-like bodies and elephantine trunks, are depicted in various forms.
6. Mandapa sculptures: The temple’s mandapas feature sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological creatures, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
The Big Temple, Tanjore
The grand finale of the tour was our visit to the Big Temple, Tanjore.
This magnificent temple, built in the 11th century by Rajaraja Chola I, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most iconic temples in India. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered the pinnacle of Chola architecture.
Here are some fascinating facts about the Big Temple:
1. Largest temple in India: It was the largest temple in India for over 1,000 years, with a 66-meter-tall vimana (tower) that’s still an impressive sight.
2. Perfect architecture: The temple’s design is a masterpiece of engineering, with a precision-crafted structure that’s survived for centuries.
3. Intricate carvings: The temple is adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
4. * Massive linga*: The temple houses a massive Shiva linga, measuring over 4 meters tall.
5. Astronomical significance: The temple’s design aligns with the movement of the stars and planets, showcasing the advanced knowledge of astronomy in ancient India.
Mr.Ramesh getting ready to assist Professor Deivanayagam in explaining about the stone inscriptions ( kalvettu ).
Meet Prof. Dr. G Deivanayagam – A strict professor with a heart of gold. He’s not afraid to dive deep into the world of history and sculptures to ensure you understand every detail. Get ready for an enlightening and entertaining experience with this knowledgeable and kind-hearted man.
Professor G. Deivanayagam is a renowned Indian epigraphist, historian, and Sanskrit scholar from Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu. He is a leading expert in the field of epigraphy, particularly in deciphering ancient Tamil and Sanskrit inscriptions.
Professor Deivanayagam made significant contributions to the field of Indian history, culture, and epigraphy, including:
1. Deciphering inscriptions: He deciphered numerous ancient inscriptions, shedding light on India’s rich history, especially during the Chola and Pallava dynasties.
2. Historical research: His research on Tamil Nadu’s history, culture, and temple architecture is highly regarded.
3. Sanskrit scholarship: He is a respected Sanskrit scholar, translating and interpreting ancient texts.
4. Academic contributions: Professor Deivanayagam taught at various institutions, including the University of Madras, and guided many students in their research.
5. Awards and recognition: He has received several awards for his contributions to epigraphy, history, and Sanskrit studies.
Our stays during the tour
We had the pleasure of staying at this luxurious Lakshmi Vilas Heritage Resort, located near Kattumanarkoil.
Saradharam’s Lakshmi Vilas Heritage Hotel is housed in a traditional landlord’s bungalow (Pannaiyar Veedu) built in the mid nineteenth century (1850s). The complex consisted of the main terraced bungalow for the Pannaiyar’s family and two seperate tilled domestic quarters for the staff and farm hands.
During our stay, we were delighted to meet two charming guys who were part of the hotel staff.
To our surprise, that evening they showcased their talents by performing a captivating skit that transported us back to the glorious era of the Kings. It was a truly unforgettable experience that added an extra touch of magic to our stay at this magnificent resort.
The next one was “Indeco Swamimalai“, Kumbakonam. It’s owned by a savvy story teller named Steve Borgia.
The Indian Civilization stands out as one of the oldest and most enduring in the history of mankind, woven intricately through faiths, beliefs, and captivating stories. These tales serve as a bridge to the past, shaping India into the fascinating destination it is today. Enter Steve Borgia, hailed as one of India’s premier storytellers, effortlessly intertwining narratives with history without missing a beat.
When delving into the rich history of the Chola region, one quickly realizes that stories are the heartbeat of its past, often challenging conventional historical accounts. So, buckle up and get ready for a journey through time with Steve Borgia as your guide, where history meets wit and intrigue at every turn.
Our walk through paddy fields
The leisurely stroll through the lush paddy fields, admiring the rustic water pump sets, and witnessing the charming skits performed by the local villagers was a delightful escape for us city slickers yearning for a taste of simple tranquility.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post . We want to express our gratitude to Heritage Inspired‘s dynamic duo, Mr. Anand and Mrs. Deepa Anand, for their dedication and hard work in bringing this historical journey to life.
Their unwavering commitment and passion have truly made this tour a success. We couldn’t have done it without their amazing team by their side.
Keep up the fantastic work, guys! Here’s to spreading love and historical wonder. Cheers!
Leave a Reply