Tribute to Nataraja; Lord Shiva

Dance, highly popular in today’s times, has its roots in the ancient times. Fortunately, it has been preserved till today in ‘The Cosmic Dance of Shiva’ at Chidambaram Temple. The name Chidambaram itself is associated with Nataraj or Lord Shiva in his famous pose Ananda Tandava. This pose is an emblem for all the worshippers of dance all around the world. In addition to that, the word ‘Koyil’ in the Tamil Saivite Tradition refers to this famous temple only.

Each pose no matter how contemporary or ancient it is has a special significance to it. Different people have different perceptions to it but there is always something behind the surface. The ancient dance of bliss (The Cosmic Dance of Shiva) symbolises five divine acts i.e. Creation, Sustenance, Dissolution, Concealment and Bestowment of grace. If we take a close look, these things are the foundation of the human life.

The dance of Shiva is no more just another pose of the dance form. This pose, frozen in the metal is worshipped in the Nataraja Sabhas observed in all the Saivite temples of Tamil Nadu. You can experience this heavenly aura once you decide to take the South India Temple Tour. Other sabhas include Pancha Sabhai, Kanaka Sabhai, Rajata Sabhai, Ratna Sabhai, Tamra Sabhai and Chitra Sabhai. This dance form of Shiva is worshipped till today and no one could come even near to this dance form. The dance performances are commenced with a dance performance of this form as a tribute paid to the form of dance itself.

You will be glad to know that Lord Shiva is more spontaneous than this. He is also worshipped in the formless form i.e. Chidambara Rahasyam. This temple is known for its Aakasa Lingam which represents Lord Shiva as formless space. These phrases may sound odd to the lay man but the artistic minds are well aware of its deepness.

In most of the India tour packages, there is something to see and learn from. This temple is special because it bears special importance to the dance forms. All of us have this spiritual element in us. The degree may vary but in our lifetime, we do dance, it may be just few here and there of footsteps. This inner element in all of us is exteriorised beautifully by Lord Shiva. It is worth extolling and there should be no hesitation in doing that. Only when you learn appreciating others, some else will appreciate you.  So, be ready...to appreciate and be appreciated in return.