Chidambaram temple

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The Chidambaram temple houses the Nataraja (Shiva in Ananda Tandava pose; the Cosmic Dance of bliss) statue. It is of great religious, historical and cultural significance. Chidambaram is one of the foremost Shaivite shrines in India. It is interesting to note that the word "Koyil" or temple in the Tamil Shaivite tradition refers to Chidambaram, where Natarajar is enshrined in the Ananda Tandavam (Dance of Bliss) pose. Chidambaram is one of the Panchabhoota signifying the 5 elements of wind water, fire, earth and space. The famous Tamil poets like Sambandar, Appar, Sundarar as well as Manikkavacakar have sung verses in praise of Chidambaram temple. Besides the above-mentioned poets, there are many other literary works that praise the glory of Chidambaram.