Cheras Empire: History, Rulers, Administration & More

The Cheras Empire, also known as the Keralas, ruled over parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Known for its extensive trade relations, particularly with the Roman Empire, the Cheras played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of ancient South India. This article aims to study in detail the Cheras Empire’s history, key rulers, administrative structure, and its impact on regional heritage and economy.

About Cheras Empire

• The Cheras, known as the Keralas, ruled over Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu.
• The Cheras Empire was located west and north of the Pandya kingdom and consisted of diverse ecological zones, including strips of land between hills and forests.
• The capital city was Vanji, while Tondi and Musiri were vital seaports of the Cheras Empire.

History of Cheras Empire

The history of the Cheras dynasty is derived from various ancient inscriptions and literary sources, providing valuable insights into their rule, culture, and notable kings. The following are key sources of information about the Cheras Empire:

• Pugalur Inscription: This inscription, dating back to the first century A.D., details three generations of Chera rulers.
  • It is one of the earliest records to shed light on the lineage and governance of the Chera kings.
• Padirruppattu (Tamil Poetic Work): This Tamil literary text reveals significant information about several Chera kings, such as Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan, Imayavaramban Nedum Cheralathan, and Cheran Senguttuvan.
  • It also offers insights into the origin and early history of the Chera dynasty, recording the achievements and military expeditions of various rulers.
• Tamil Literature: Besides the Padirruppattu, other Tamil literary works, including Sangam literature, provide valuable references to the Chera kings, their political alliances, cultural patronage, and military exploits.
  • Many of these works were composed by court poets documenting the dynasty’s historical and cultural contributions.

Key Rulers of Cheras Empire

The important rulers of the Cheras Empire are as follows:

Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan

• One of the earliest and most significant rulers of the Chera dynasty, Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan, is praised in Tamil literature for his military achievements and charitable nature.
• His title, “Perum Sorru,” which means “the great food provider,” reflects his generosity towards his subjects and army.
• He is often portrayed as a wise and benevolent king who ensures the welfare of his people and the prosperity of the kingdom.

Imayavaramban Nedum Cheralathan

• Imayavaramban Nedum Cheralathan is notable for his conquests and territorial expansion.
• His title, “Imayavaramban”, refers to extending his kingdom to the Himalayas, symbolising his might and influence across vast regions.
• His reign marked a period of growth for the Chera Empire, and his campaigns helped secure the Chera’s dominance in southern India.
• His significance in Chera’s history lies in his ability to challenge neighbouring kingdoms while maintaining strong trade ties with foreign powers.

Cheran Senguttuvan

Cheran Senguttuvan, known as the Red or Good Chera, is considered the greatest king of the Cheras Empire. His notable achievements include:

• An expedition to the Himalayas, during which he defeated many North Indian kings.
• The introduction of the Pattini cult, worshipping Kannagi as the ideal wife in Tamil Nadu. Senguttuvan brought a stone from the Himalayas for the idol of Kannagi.

Capital of Cheras Empire

• The capital of the Cheras Empire was Vanji, also known as Vanchi or Karur, located in present-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• Vanji served as the political and cultural centre of the Cheras, playing a crucial role in their administration.
• Along with Vanji, the Cheras Empire also had significant seaports like Muziris, Tondi, and Musiri, which were vital for trade, particularly with the Roman Empire.
• These trade hubs enhanced the economic strength of the Cheras, making their kingdom prosperous and influential in South India.

Conflict and Alliances of Cheras Empire

The Cheras Empire were often in conflict with the Cholas and the Pandyas Empire:

• They killed the father of the Chola king Karikala, though the Chera king also lost his life in the battle.
• The Cheras and Cholas formed a temporary alliance through marriage.
• Later, the Cheras allied with the Pandyas against the Cholas, but the Cholas defeated the alliance. The Chera king, wounded in the back, reportedly committed suicide out of shame.

Economic Significance and Trade of Cheras Empire

The Cheras Empire was a significant player in ancient international trade, especially during the early centuries of the Christian era. Its economy flourished due to its active trade relations, particularly with the Roman Empire.

• Trade Relations with the Roman Empire: The Cheras Empire maintained strong trade ties with the Roman Empire, which greatly influenced their economic prosperity.
  • Roman merchants came to the Chera ports to acquire valuable goods, creating a thriving international trade network.
• Key Trade Ports: The Cheras Empire had important seaports like Muziris (Cranganore), Tondi, and Musiri, which were bustling centres of commerce.
• These ports were strategically located on the Indian Ocean trade routes, connecting the Chera kingdom to Roman, Greek, and Arab traders.
• Commodities Traded: The Cheras Empire was rich in resources, and they exported highly sought-after commodities such as spices (especially pepper), ivory, and pearls.
  • These luxury goods were in high demand across the Roman Empire, contributing to the wealth of the Cheras Empire.
• Influence of Roman Trade on the Chera Economy: The influx of Roman gold coins and luxury goods into the Chera economy further boosted its wealth and status.
  • Roman settlements were established in key trade regions, and the Romans even stationed military forces at Muziris to protect their commercial interests.
• Roman Presence in Chera Land: Roman traders and settlers built infrastructure in Chera ports, including roads and storage facilities.
  • The Romans also constructed a temple dedicated to Augustus in Chera territory, indicating the depth of their influence on local culture and trade.

Cultural and Religious Contributions of Cheras Empire

The rulers of Cheras Empire were known for patronising literature, art, and religion, making significant cultural contributions during their reign.

• Patronage of Tamil Literature and Art: The Chera kings supported Tamil poets and scholars, contributing to the rich literary tradition of the Sangam period.
  • Works like Padirruppattu celebrated Chera kings and recorded their deeds, thus preserving their legacy in Tamil literature.
• Pattini Cult and Religious Contributions: Cheran Senguttuvan is especially noted for introducing the Pattini cult, which revolved around the worship of Kannagi, the ideal wife and symbol of chastity.
  • This religious practice became highly influential in Tamil Nadu, promoting the virtues of marital loyalty and devotion.
• Temples and Religious Practices: The rulers of the Cheras Empire were devout patrons of temple building and religious rituals.
  • They promoted the worship of local deities and integrated these practices with popular South Indian religious traditions, enhancing their people’s cultural and spiritual life.
• Promotion of Local Art and Culture: The kings of the Cheras Empire were crucial in supporting local artisans, sculptors, and performers.
  • Their contributions to art, architecture, and culture helped shape the region’s identity, and their religious and cultural patronage strengthened the bond between the rulers and their subjects.

Conclusion

The Chera Empire played a pivotal role in shaping the political, economic, and cultural landscape of South India. Their achievements in trade, especially with the Roman Empire, brought wealth and prosperity to the region, while their military conquests and alliances helped solidify their power among neighbouring dynasties. Rulers like Cheran Senguttuvan left a lasting cultural impact by introducing the Pattini cult and patronising Tamil literature and arts.

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