Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Jul 27: In a deeply symbolic and culturally rich ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took part in the valedictory celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district. The event marked the birth anniversary of the legendary Chola emperor, Rajendra Chola I.

Dressed in traditional Tamil attire — a white veshti (dhoti), half-sleeved shirt, and angavastram — the Prime Minister offered reverence at the majestic Gangaikonda Cholisvaram temple, a UNESCO-recognised architectural marvel built by Rajendra Chola as a counterpart to his father Rajaraja Chola’s iconic Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur.

To commemorate the occasion, PM Modi unveiled a special coin honouring Rajendra Chola I, acknowledging the emperor’s monumental contributions to India’s history, architecture, spirituality, and maritime achievements.

Upon his arrival, the Prime Minister was received with traditional poorna kumbham honours. He performed abhishekam to the temple's presiding deity, Lord Choleeswarar (a form of Shiva), using sanctified water brought from the sacred Ganges in Varanasi — a symbolic gesture linking India’s northern and southern spiritual heritage.

The Prime Minister participated in deeparadhana (ritual lamp offering), while Tamil Shivaacharyas recited ancient Vedic hymns in Tamil, preserving the deeply rooted Saivite traditions of the region. PM Modi also visited shrines within the complex dedicated to Goddess Durga, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Murugan.

Visibly captivated by the temple’s artistic grandeur, he spent time exploring its intricately carved stone sculptures, centuries-old bronze icons, and the remarkable Chola-era metal idols and copper plates that narrate a saga of devotion, craftsmanship, and imperial vision.

Adding to the spiritual ambience, odhuvars (temple singers) recited sacred Saivite hymns, while legendary music composer Ilaiyaraaja delivered a soul-stirring rendition of verses from Thiruvasagam, the poetic work of Tamil saint-poet Manikkavasagar.

This year’s celebration held added significance as it also marked 1,000 years since Rajendra Chola’s famed naval expedition to Southeast Asia — a feat that showcased the Chola Empire’s maritime dominance and far-reaching influence.

PM Modi concluded his visit by exploring a thematic photo exhibition curated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), titled "Saiva Siddhanta and Chola Temple Arts." He engaged with scholars, historians, and temple experts, expressing admiration for the enduring spiritual and architectural legacy of the Chola dynasty.

“This celebration is not only a tribute to Rajendra Chola I but also a recognition of Tamil Nadu’s unparalleled contribution to India’s civilisational journey,” the Prime Minister remarked during his visit.