Sambhaji Maharaj and the Legacy of Chidambaram’s Nataraja
The recent trailer of the film Chhava, depicting the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valiant son, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has reignited interest in his indomitable spirit and unparalleled contributions to Sanatana Dharma. Among his many remarkable feats, his role in restoring the revered Nataraja idol to the sacred Chidambaram temple stands as a testament to his dharmic resolve and devotion to Hindu heritage.
Like his illustrious father, Sambhaji Maharaj’s influence extended far beyond Maharashtra, reaching deep into Tamil Nadu, a land steeped in Shaivism and profound spiritual traditions. His connection to Tamilagam remains a cherished chapter in the history of Bharat’s sacred geography
The Theft and Restoration of Nataraja
As recorded in a copper plate inscription at Thiruvarur, a
great tragedy struck Chidambaram on 24th December 1648, when the marauding
forces of the Bijapur Sultanate desecrated the temple and looted its treasures.
The sacred Nataraja and Sivagami Vigrahas were hurriedly evacuated by devout
custodians, first to Madurai, then to Kudumiyanmalai, before being concealed
under a tree for safekeeping. For 37 long years, the Chidambaram temple stood
bereft of its divine presence, and daily rituals were tragically halted.
It was during the reign of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj from
his stronghold in Senji that the temple’s custodians, the esteemed Dikshitars,
sought divine intervention to restore Chidambaram to its former glory. Under
the guidance of his Guru, Muthaiya Dikshitar, Sambhaji Maharaj orchestrated the
grand retrieval of the sacred Vigraha and its ceremonial reinstatement in the
sanctum sanctorum—the Ponnambalam. His commitment did not end there; he
personally oversaw the temple’s extensive renovations and presided over its
momentous re-consecration, with his trusted official Gopala Dadasi playing a
key role in these sacred efforts.
A preserved wooden box that once safeguarded the Vigrahas bears a historic copper plate inscription, engraved with an exquisite Tamil verse narrating these events. The verse declares how Nataraja left Chidambaram in the Sarvadhari year, during the Margazhi month, only to return in divine splendor 37 years later, in the auspicious month of Karthigai. Sambhaji Maharaj’s dharmic contributions to Tamilagam and Bharat shall forever be etched in the annals of Hindu history.
Sambhaji Maharaj and the Birth of Sambar
Sambhaji Maharaj’s presence in Tamil Nadu was not limited to acts of devotion and restoration; it also gave rise to an unexpected culinary tradition. During his stay in Thanjavur, the royal kitchen was preparing Amti Dal, a beloved dish from Maharashtra. However, as fate would have it, the kitchen had run out of kokum, a traditional souring agent. Thinking on their feet, the royal cooks substituted tamarind instead. The result was a delectable new dish that Sambhaji Maharaj relished immensely. Thus, it was named Sambhache Ahar—‘Sambhaji’s food’—which, over time, evolved into the beloved South Indian staple, Sambar!
A Legacy Beyond the Battlefield
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life was a saga of courage,
devotion, and dharmic leadership. From restoring one of Hinduism’s holiest
shrines to unknowingly inspiring a culinary legacy, his impact on Bharat
extends far beyond the battlefield. His unwavering commitment to Dharma and the
cultural unity of the subcontinent remains a guiding light for generations to
come.
His legacy is not just one of war and valor but of faith,
tradition, and the eternal spirit of Hindutva—one that continues to inspire and
uplift Bharatvarsha to this day.
Emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Historic Visit to Madras in 1677
The great Hindu warrior king and Dharmic protector, Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj, set foot in Madras (Chennai) in 1677, leaving an
indelible mark on the sacred land of Tamil Nadu. A fearless champion of
Hindutva and Sanatana Dharma, his campaign to liberate Bharatvarsha from
foreign rule took him deep into the southern territories, reaching as far
as Gingee (Senji) and Vellore.
Shivaji Maharaj and the Kalikambal Temple
One of the most revered places associated with his visit is
the Kalikambal Temple, a powerful shrine dedicated to the divine
Goddess Kalikambal, an embodiment of Shakti and righteousness. This
sacred temple, now located in George Town, Chennai, stands as a
testament to Shivaji Maharaj’s devotion to Devi and his unwavering
commitment to Dharma.
A portrait of the great emperor is proudly displayed
in the temple, reminding devotees of his legendary visit. Additionally, a commemorative
plaque narrates this momentous event, celebrating Shivaji Maharaj as a
beacon of Hindu resistance and resurgence.
Shivaji’s Stay in Madras and His Dharmic Mission
During his visit, Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have
stayed near Armenian Street, close to the temple, where he sought divine
blessings for his sacred mission. His arrival in Madras was not just a military
endeavor—it was a symbol of Hindu unity and resurgence, reinforcing the
deep cultural and spiritual ties between Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Originally situated near the seashore, the Kalikambal
Temple was relocated to its present site on Thambu Chetty Street in 1640
during British rule. However, its spiritual power remained undiminished,
and the visit of Shivaji Maharaj further consecrated it as a center of Hindu
resistance and revival.
A Legacy That Lives On
The Chhatrapati’s presence in Tamilagam symbolizes
the unbreakable bond of Sanatana Dharma across Bharat. He was more than
a warrior—he was a spiritual leader, a protector of Hindu temples, and a
true guardian of Dharma. His inspiring visit to Madras continues to
ignite Hindu pride and devotion, standing as a reminder of his relentless
fight against tyranny and his vision of a united Hindu Rashtra.
Jai Bhavani! Jai Shivaji! Glory to the eternal Hindu civilization!
