Chola Empire

29.07.2025

Chola Empire

Context :

On the birth anniversary of Rajendra Chola I, the Prime Minister of India celebrated the Chola Dynasty’s legacy in maritime strength, governance, and cultural unity at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

About the News :

• PM launched commemorative coins and announced statues of Rajendra and Rajaraja Chola.
 • Recalled the Cholas’ role in naval expansion and local democracy.
 • Highlighted their influence in Southeast Asia via culture and trade.
 • PM attended Aadi Thiruthtari festival, aligning heritage with present-day nationalism.

Prominent Rulers of the Chola Dynasty and Their Achievements:

• Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE):
   He played a vital role in enhancing the Chola naval forces, commissioned the construction of the magnificent Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur, and successfully extended the empire’s reach into northern parts of Sri Lanka.
• Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE):
   Renowned for his ambitious military campaigns, he advanced as far as the Ganga plains, founded the city of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and projected Chola influence across Southeast Asia, including regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Maldives.
• Kulottunga Chola I:
   His reign emphasized administrative efficiency and reforms in land revenue systems, helping sustain the Chola legacy of internal stability and economic strength.

Characteristics of Chola Empire :

• Kudavolai system enabled village-level elections using palm-leaf ballots.
 • Decentralised assemblies (Ur, Sabha, Nagaram) handled land, tax, and justice matters.
 • Maintained efficient records, surveys, and revenue inscriptions across the empire.
 • Had a powerful blue-water navy, expanding into Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
 • Encouraged temple economies and trade via ports like Nagapattinam and Poompuhar.
 • Supported both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, promoting religious harmony and temple networks.

Conclusion :

The Chola Empire stands as a beacon of good governance, maritime excellence, and cultural outreach. Its legacy offers India both historical pride and a blueprint for modern nation-building.