At a time when the Millenium of the Big Temple built by King Raja Raja Cholan is to be celebrated, Tanjoreans, historians, art lovers and tourism promoters await permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a sound and light programme at the temple.
The Tourism department has allotted Rs 150 lakhs for the project conceived nearly ten years ago and the script of which is readied. Tourism Development Corporation was identified as the implementing agency. However, the ASI which maintains this world heritage monument, has not yet given its approval despite repeated discussions with State and Central government officials.
The site for performing the sound and light programme inside the temple has been identified and the ASI has also been assured that it will not affect the monument.
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The Big Temple has been attracting a large number of tourists, both foreign and domestic, throughout the year. A sound and light programme will provide the tourists an insight into the grandeur of the temple and King Raja Raja Chola who built it.