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Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu for the valedictory ceremony of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, which commemorated Emperor Rajendra Chola I's birth anniversary.

Who Were the Cholas?

The Cholas were one of South India’s most enduring dynasties, ruling from the 9th to the 13th century CE.
Their empire spanned Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and extended overseas to Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia through their naval strength.

Prominent Rulers and Their Achievements

Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE)

Strengthened the Chola naval fleet, making it a dominant maritime power.
Commissioned the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Expanded the empire’s influence into Sri Lanka, solidifying Chola dominance.

Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE)

Launched military expeditions to the Ganga River region, showcasing Chola power in North India.
Established Gangaikonda Cholapuram as the new capital.
Extended Chola influence to Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Maldives through naval campaigns.

Kulottunga Chola I

Prioritized internal administration and revenue reforms over expansion.
Strengthened the economic and administrative foundations of the empire, ensuring stability and prosperity.

PM's Tribute to the Chola Emperors

Historical inspiration: Prime Minister Modi praised Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola I for their military power, naval expansion, administrative improvements, and cultural contributions.
A commemorative coin was released to honor Rajendra Chola I for his efforts, which included the construction of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the Brihadisvara Temple, and Cholagangam Lake.
Statue announcement: The Centre will erect statues of both emperors in Tamil Nadu to raise national historical awareness.

Chola Achievements: A Model for Modern India

Economic and strategic vision: Chola-era achievements in trade, defense, water management, and local government were highlighted as models for India's future growth.
Strengthening defense: Echoing Rajaraja and Rajendra's naval tradition, Prime Minister Modi underscored modern India's dedication to national security, highlighting Operation Sindoor as an example of the country's determined strategic posture.
Democratic foundations: The Cholas' Kudavolai system was recognized as an early example of grassroots democracy.

Source: The Hindu

Practice Question:

Q. Which of the following statements about the Chola Dynasty is/are correct?

Rajaraja Chola I built the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.
Rajendra Chola I led naval expeditions to Southeast Asia and established Gangaikonda Cholapuram as the capital.
The Chola administration was known for its village assemblies (Sabhas) which played a crucial role in local governance.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer:

D) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – Rajaraja Chola I commissioned the Brihadisvara Temple, an architectural marvel.
Statement 2: Correct – Rajendra Chola I expanded the empire overseas and founded Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Statement 3: Correct – The Cholas are noted for their decentralized administration with village assemblies (Sabhas) managing local affairs, taxation, and irrigation.