The presiding deity of the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. The cosmic dancer form of Shiva, representing the five cosmic acts (Panchakritya). The temple is also known as Thillai (after the Thillai tree). Represents the space element (Akasha) and the cosmic dance.
Four-armed dancing form. Right foot on Apasmara, left leg raised. Damaru and fire in hands. Enclosed in ring of fire. Golden roof of the sanctum.