Chennai, July 27 (NationPress) On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in the concluding festivities of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, commemorating the birth anniversary of the renowned Chola emperor, Rajendra Chola I, at the historic site of Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu's Ariyalur district.

During this significant event, the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative coin honoring the Chola ruler, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to Indian history, architecture, and maritime heritage.

Adorned in traditional Tamil clothing, consisting of a white veshti (dhoti), a half-sleeved shirt, and an angavastram (upper garment), the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Gangaikonda Cholisvaram temple, also recognized as the Brihadisvara Temple, which was constructed by Rajendra Chola I as a homage to his father, Rajaraja Chola I's temple in Thanjavur.

This temple, preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India, is hailed as a masterpiece of Chola architecture and Saivite tradition.

Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with poorna kumbham honors before proceeding into the temple grounds.

He performed abhishekam for the principal deity, Choleeswarar (Lord Shiva), using sacred water sourced from the Ganga in Varanasi.

The Prime Minister also participated in deeparadhana (lamp worship) and observed Tamil Shivaacharyas reciting Vedic hymns in Tamil as part of the traditional rituals.

He explored various shrines within the temple complex, including those dedicated to Goddess Durga, Parvati, and Lord Murugan, taking time to appreciate the intricate sculptures and bronze icons from the Chola period.

The Prime Minister was particularly captivated by the stone-carved figures, copper plates, and metal idols that exemplify the cultural and spiritual richness of the Chola dynasty.

Throughout the ceremony, odhuvars (temple singers) performed sacred Saivite hymns, while the esteemed music composer Ilaiyaraaja showcased compositions from Thiruvasagam, the devotional verses of Tamil saint-poet Manikkavasagar.

This event also celebrated the millennial anniversary of Rajendra Chola’s legendary maritime expedition to Southeast Asia, illustrating the naval strength and vast influence of the Chola empire.

Additionally, the Prime Minister visited a thematic photo exhibition on Saiva Siddhanta and Chola Temple Arts organized by the ASI and engaged with scholars about Rajendra Chola I's legacy, expressing profound appreciation for the dynasty's impact on Indian history and architecture.