The history of Tanjavur, a city cradled by the arms of River Kaveri, can be traced back to the 8th Century. It played a vital role during the Chola period and was under a wide range of dynasties like the Pandya's, Vijayanagar, Nayaks, Marathas, and the British.
Before we dwell deep into the history of the ‘temple city’ and ‘the big temple’ itself, let us learn an interesting fact. It is believed that the city derived its name from a demon that was named Tanjan who was killed by Sri Anandavalli Amman and Lord Vishnu. According to his last wish for a city to be named after his name, the city has come to be known as the ‘the city of Tanjan - Tanjavur’.
Though they were no clear historical evidence of the city’s existence during the Sangam period, some Tamil historians believe the city existed from the 3rd Century. However, it is the reign of the Chola empire that brought limelight to the city.
Rise to fame: The Chola Dynasty
Around 850 CE medieval Chola King Vijayalaya conquered Tanjavur from Mutharayar king Elango Mutharayar. To honor his victory, he built a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Nisumbhasudani. His son Aditya 1 consolidated his hold over the city and re-shaped it into culture, music, dance, and art.
In 985CE, Rajakesari Arumolivarman (Rajaraja Chola) ascends to power, consequently defeating the neighboring Chera's, Pandya's as well as the Chalukya's to Thanjavur’s north and taking the title of ‘Rajaraja’ or King of Kings. In 1010 CE Raja Raja Chola built the Brihadaswara temple which became a landmark of Deccan temple architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage monument. In 1025 CE his son Rajendra 1 shifted his capital to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, which led to a decrease in the prominence of Tanjavur.
The subsequent rulers: All added their stroke of color.
In 1279, Tanjavur was captured by the Pandya King, Maravarman Kulasekara Pandyan 1 after numerous shifts in power between the Cholas and Pandyas. The Pandyas were a good substitute for the cultural enrichment of the city and contributed to the already rich mixture of cultures. They developed the big temple further during their rule while also building many other temples over their reign.
By 1311, the Delhi Sultanate Expedition led by the forces of Malik Kafur claimed the city, introducing influences of Mughal art and architecture. Shortly after, in 1336CE Tanjavur became part of the Vijayanagara empire. The Nayakas were appointed as governors to foresee the administration. Under the Vijayanagara reign, many smaller shrines were added to the Brihadeshwara temple.
In 1549CE Sevappa Nayaka established himself as an independent monarch, thus establishing Tanjavur Nayaka's kingdom as well as fortifying the city. After many power shifts, Nawab of Arcots starts holding the power by instilling Prathap Singh on the throne.
The British Raj
In 1776 Tanjavur becomes a Protected State of the British East India Company, when Tuljaji, the ruler of Tanjavur becomes their ally. In 1855CE when the Maratha king Serfoji 2, adopted son of Tuljaji died without a legitimate male heir, the kingdom was absorbed into British India by the Doctrine of Lapse. The British shifted their administration to Negapatam taking the limelight off Tanjavur.
Though the city has changed hands from one empire to another over time, one should acknowledge each ruler for their contribution to the art and architecture of the city along with a sense of responsibility to protect the legacy of its predecessors.
The Architectural Variety of Tanjavur with unique features of each empire
Tanjavur not only boasts of the Brihadishvara Chola temple (designated UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987 and inclusion of neighboring Chola temples to the list in 2004), it also houses a Vijayanagara fort, palace of Sarfoji, a Maratha Palace and Sarasvathi Mahal Library.
The city is also known for its distinctive painting style, widely known as “Tanjavur paintings” - in which such materials as gold foil, lace, and semiprecious stones are used to embellish the painting—and for a style of embossed metal plates. The art of traditional handloom weaving and manufacturing of veenas are also a few tangible heritage aspects.
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