Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram
Why this is the Ether / Space (Akasha) sthalam
No lingam — only empty space, demonstrating that the highest truth (param Brahma) is formless ether. Shiva's Ananda Tandava (cosmic dance of bliss) was performed here for sage Patanjali and Vyaghrapada.
The Lingam
Akasha Lingam — formless empty space (Chidambara Rahasyam, the "secret of Chidambaram"). A bilva garland in front of empty space inside the inner sanctum represents Shiva.
Signature ritual
Nataraja darshan during 6-times-daily puja. The "Chidambara Rahasyam" curtain is parted to reveal — nothing — the formless Akasha-Shiva. Strings of golden bilva leaves swing in the empty space.
Major festival
Margazhi Tiruvadirai (Dec-Jan, 10 days), Aani Tirumanjanam (Jun-Jul), Maha Shivaratri
Significance
Of all Pancha Bhoota Stalams, this is the philosophical peak — represents the formless absolute. Patanjali (the Yoga Sutras author) is said to have witnessed Shiva's cosmic dance here. Gold-roofed Chit Sabha (consciousness hall). Bharatanatyam karanas (108 dance postures) carved on temple walls.