 Sathaya Thiruvizha is the annual birthday festival of Raja Raja Chola held during October every year . Thanjavur is the base for the Tyagaraja Aradhana , a Carnatic music festival held annually during January – February at Thiruvaiyaru , located 13 km ( 8 @.@ 1 mi ) away from the city . Thanjavur painting is a major form of classical South Indian painting from Thanjavur . It dates back to about 1600s , the period of Nayakas of Thanjavur , who encouraged art , classical dance , music literature , both in Telugu and Tamil . The art is usually a combination of raised and painted surfaces , with the Hindu god Krishna being the most popular image depicted . In modern times , these paintings have become souvenirs of festive occasions in South India , wall decors , and collectors ' items for art lovers . 
