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Chidambaram is a temple town, in the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu. It is most famous for the beautiful temple, dedicated to Lord Nataraja - God Siva, in the form of a cosmic Dancer. This is one of the few temples where the Gods, Siva and Vishnu are enshrined under one roof. This ancient temple of the Cholas is unique, not only because it is devoted solely to the art of Bharatanatyam (a South Indian classical dance form), but also because it is one of the rare temples where Shiva is represented by an idol rather than the customary Lingam. Spread over 40 acres with a gopuram (tower) on each side, the temple is distinguished by five sabhas or courts.

Temple cars are chariots used to carry idols of Hindu gods. During festivals, the car is spruced and decked up and the temple idol is mounted it. The car is pulled through the streets by several thousand devotees.

The Chidambaram temple car is reputedly one of the most beautiful temple cars existing in Tamil Nadu.