Natyanjali Festival, Chidambaram

The spectacular annual dance festival “Natyanjali” is celebrated during the eve of Mahashivaratri in the months of February and March at Chidambaram. Chidambaram is also known as the “city of the cosmic dancer “ as it is home to the “Arulmigu Thillai Natarajar Temple”, built in the 10th century by the Chola Dynasty. The temple has a unique pillared hall with Lord Natarajar sculptures depicting 108 poses of Bharathanattiyam. The temple is famous for its history of Lord Natarajar performing a unique style of dancing, “Anandha Thandavam” which portrays the actions of Lord Shiva- creation, protection, transformation, isolation and elegance. ‘Natyam’ denotes the art of dance and ‘Anjali’ intends to offer and is a grand celebration of culture and divinity. The Natyanjali festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the avatar of Nataraja who is revered to be the cosmic dancer according to Hindu Mythology. Every year in the months of February and March, the Natyanjali festival honouring Lord Shiva is held on the grounds of the temple for five days. The whole of India's dance forms, including Bharathanattiyam, Kuchupudi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Odissi, Kathakali and Chhau, are available to spectators under one roof. The Natyanjali festival is held every year with the intention of paying homage to Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The nation's populous dancers gather to perform in this festival as a tribute to Lord Nataraja. For many dancers, being able to perform their "Arangettram"(first stage performance) is a blessing.