Chola Dynasty

In News

• Recently, the Idol Wing-CID has submitted documents to U.S. officials through the Central government to retrieve six exquisite Chola-era bronze idols.

About 

• These idols went missing from the Veeracholapuram temple in Kallakurichi district in the 1960s. 
• The temple was constructed 900 years ago by Chola king Rajendra Chola. 

Chola Dynasty

• Origin:
  • The reign of the Cholas began in the 9th century when they defeated the Pallavas to come into power. 
  • This rule stretched over for over five long centuries until the 13th century.
  • The Early periods of the Chola rule saw the onset of the Sangam literature. 
• Developments:
  • One of the longest-ruling dynasties in the southern regions of India.
  • The medieval period was the era of absolute power and development for the Cholas. 
  • Cholas made South Asia and South-East India into a military, economic and cultural power.
• Prominent Rulers: Vijayalaya, Aditya I, Rajaraja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I, Rajadhiraja Chola, Virarajendra Chola and Kulothunga Chola I 

About Rajendra Chola I

• Succeeded the mighty Rajaraja Chola. 
• Rajendra I was the first to venture to the banks of Ganges. He was popularly called the Victor of the Ganges.
• Built new capital called the Gangaikondacholapuram where he received the title of ‘Gangaikonda’. 
• He built the Brihadisvara Temple and upgraded several others.
• His period is referred to as the golden age of the Cholas.

Source: TH