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Introduction
The Brihannatyanjali Dance Festival is a magnificent annual celebration of India’s rich classical dance traditions, set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. This grand festival pays homage to the Chola dynasty’s artistic legacy and the temple’s centuries-old connection to Bharatanatyam and other traditional dance forms.
Organized within the premises of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the festival gathers some of the finest classical dancers from across India, offering a mesmerizing visual and spiritual experience for devotees, art lovers, and tourists alike. The event transforms the temple courtyard into a divine stage, where Natya (dance) and Bhakti (devotion) merge seamlessly, reviving the sacred temple dance traditions once performed by the temple’s Devadasis in ancient times.
With its spectacular choreographies, deeply evocative themes, and soul-stirring performances, the Brihannatyanjali Dance Festival is not just a tribute to Lord Brihadeeswara (Shiva) but also a platform that preserves and promotes India’s rich classical dance heritage.
Who Organises Brihan Natyanjali Dance Festival
The Brihan Natyanjali Dance Festival in Thanjavur is primarily organized by the Brahan Natyanjali Foundation (BNF). This foundation has been coordinating the festival since 2004, hosting it annually at the historic Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple) in Thanjavur.
The festival is conducted in collaboration with several cultural and governmental bodies, including:
- South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC), Thanjavur
- Department of Art and Culture
- Tourism Department
- Palace Devasthanam, Thanjavur
For inquiries or participation details, you can contact the Brahan Natyanjali Foundation at:
- Address: Dr. V.V.R. Complex, 6th Cross, Arulananda Nagar, Thanjavur – 613007
- Phone: +91 98424 55765
- Email: brahannatyanjali2007@rediffmail.com
The festival typically takes place around Mahashivaratri (February–March) and features performances by classical dancers from across India and abroad, offering a spiritual tribute to Lord Shiva through dance.