Pulliramalai

Pulliramalai (Pullamangai) is an ancient early Chola temple site in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India.

Overview

Pulliramalai is a small village with the Brahmapureeswarar temple, an important early Chola shrine dating to the 10th century CE. The site contains some of the earliest surviving Chola murals and sculptures and contains inscriptions that provide valuable historical information about the Chola dynasty.

Historical Context

The temple at Pulliramalai was built during the reign of the Chola king Parantaka I in the 10th century CE. The site contains inscriptions in Tamil that document royal patronage and religious activities. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and reflects early Chola artistic traditions.

Features/Significance

The temple features a sanctum with murals painted in the typical early Chola style. The sculptures on the walls depict Shaivite themes. The murals of Pulliramalai are among the earliest surviving examples of Chola painting, contemporaneous with those of the Brihadishvara Temple at Thanjavur. The inscriptions at Pulliramalai are important for understanding early Chola epigraphy.

Modern Status

The site is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is a lesser-known but historically significant site that attracts scholars of Chola history and Tamil epigraphy.

Verification Notes

• Located in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India
• 10th century CE early Chola temple (Brahmapureeswarar)
• Earliest surviving Chola murals
• Contains important early inscriptions