History
This week we are visiting the sanctum of the Thanjavur temples. Revolving around the paintings, music, dance and drama traditions of the Cholas, we look into the history through literary as well as oral sources. Built with the mechanism to last for thousands of years, the evolution of the Thanjavur temples from small brick constructions to massive stone structures is an engineering marvel for all(generations) to witness. It's rich sculptural elements and intricate carvings have truly been a work of panache. Delving into the rich inscriptions on the temple walls, we talk about the administration, role of women and the devdasi tradition during cholas in a new light and how temples acted as important political, social and economic authorities of the time.