SI-VA-YA-NA-MA or NA-MA-SI-VA-YA……….

This has a special significance in Shiva symbolism. In the Tamil work Unmai Villakkam, they are identified in the dance as follows: In his feet is NA, in his navel MA, in his shoulder is SI, In his face is VA, his head is YA. The meaning of five letters respectively are God, Shakti, Soul, Tirobhava, and Mala.  The essential significance of Shiva's dance is three fold:-

1. It is the image of his rhythmic play as the source of all  movement of the cosmos
    which is represented by the  Arch.
2. The main purpose of this dance is to release the countless souls of men from the
    snare of Illusion.
3. Lastly, the place of the Dance-Chidambaram-the center of the Universe, is within
    the heart. No wonder that this exquisite figure of Shiva Nataraja has inspired
    adoration and complete submission to his will. The fourth Tandava in which Lord
    Shiva has lifted up his right leg above his head and this is found in 'Nritta Sabha at
    Chidamabarm. There is an interesting story about this Urdhava Tandava.

Shiva danced many dances which mother Kali faithfully performed. Seeing this competence, Lord Shiva lifted up his right leg to the level of his crown and danced. But Kali being a woman was too shy to do so and accepted defeat. And now about the Chidambaram Temple which is the Divine abode of Nataraja. This temple has five Sabha-s namely: