The Small Town Of Chidambaram by newsdesk Chidambaram is a small town but is the highlight of the temple circuit because of its famous shrine to the Dancing Destroyer. No, not some hulk but the Nataraja, which is the form of the Hindu god Shiva, as he performs the devastating dance of death. Part of the divine trinity that otherwise includes Brahma the Creator and Vishnu the Preserver, it is Lord Shiva on whom is enjoined the task of Apocalypse. Chidambaram is an important destination for followers of the Hindu god Shiva and exponent of the fearsome, frenzied Tandav Nritya or the dance of destruction. At the centre of the town is the large Natraj Temple complex dedicated to Shiva as the divine dancer or Natraj, the foremost of all dancers. Spread out over 40 acres this complex, dedicated to the god who is usually represented by the phallic symbol, houses other temples, a tank, and the 'thousand pillared hall’. Non-Hindus are allowed into the complex but not the gold plated sanctum sanctorum that houses the idol. The Natyanjali Dance Festival is held on the temple grounds in February with performances by eminent dancers. There is a 13th century Kali Temple on the outskirts of the town. 50 km from Chidambaram is Gangaikondas Cholapuram, at one time the capital of the Chola kingdom. It has a Shiva temple that is noted for its hugeness and the rich carvings on the walls of demi-gods in dancing positions. A huge Nandi bull guards the entrance, and there is a lion-head step well in the complex. Pichavaram, 16km east of Chidambaram, has a huge mangrove forest. There’s a range of sports for the taking like canoeing, rowing and parasailing. The huge sandbar that keeps the sea out can be reached by boat. TTDC provides boating facilities, lodging, and a restaurant for those who’d rather not carry a picnic hamper. The Small Town Of Chidambaram by newsdesk.