Arunachaleswarar Temple Inscriptions: Chola Dynasty Contributions and Socio-Religious Activities
By T. Ramaswamy
Summary
The Arunachaleswarar Temple at Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, originated as a small shrine in the 7th century CE, later expanding into a large rectangular complex spanning 465 meters by 225 meters. Over centuries, it was patronized by dynasties including the Pandyas, Cholas, Pallavas, Banas, and Rashtrakutas, with the Cholas playing a dominant role in its reconstruction and enlargement. Key inscriptions, such as those of Parantaka I (922 CE) and Rajendra I (1030–1031 CE), document donations for temple maintenance and the completion of structural elements like the first prakara (enclosure) and vimana (tower). Subsequent expansions, including additional prakaras and a 1,000-pillared hall, were funded by later Chola rulers and the Nattukkottai Chettiars in the 20th century. The temple’s administration involved territorial divisions like Tiruvannamalai-nadu and Tiruvuraiyur-nadu, with socio-economic activities integrated into religious practices. Donations of sheep, gold, and land, often managed by shepherds and weavers, supported daily rituals and temple economy. Women like Tondaima-Nachiyar and Nilammai contributed through land repairs and endowments. Taxes, including land revenue and vocational levies, funded temple functions, while officials like danattar and devakanmi oversaw administration. The Cholas’ imperial policies and the Bhakti movement’s influence drove temple-building efforts, making Arunachaleswarar a significant architectural and cultural landmark.
Conclusion
The Arunachaleswarar temple at Tiruvannamalai stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between religious patronage, socio-economic activity, and architectural evolution in medieval Tamil Nadu. The temple's gradual expansion—from a modest shrine to a sprawling complex spanning 465 meters—reflects sustained royal support, particularly from the Cholas, who dominated its development through inscriptions documenting donations, renovations, and administrative reforms. These inscriptions reveal a sophisticated temple economy, fueled by land grants, agricultural taxes, and public contributions, which funded rituals, maintenance, and artistic endeavors. The Cholas' role extended beyond construction; they institutionalized temple administration, involving specialized officers and creating territorial divisions to manage resources. The temple also highlights the socio-cultural fabric of the era, with inscriptions noting the roles of shepherds, weavers, and women in religious and economic functions. Ultimately, the Arunachaleswarar temple embodies the Cholas' fusion of spirituality and