Overview
This lecture provides an in-depth study of the Imperial Chola Empire, covering its political history, administrative system, and cultural developments, based on Satish Chandra’s NCERT content.
Political History of the Cholas
- The Chola dynasty followed the Pallavas and established a powerful empire in South India.
- Chola history is divided into pre-Imperial and Imperial phases, with Imperial Cholas becoming prominent after the decline of the Pallavas.
- Founding ruler Vijayalaya captured Thanjavur and established the dynasty.
- Aditya defeated the Pallava ruler Aparajita, expanding the Chola territory.
- Rajaraja I expanded the empire by defeating Cheras, Pandyas, and establishing naval power; he also captured parts of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
- Rajendra I further extended the empire to Bengal, Southeast Asia (including parts of Sumatra, Java, and Malaya), and took the title "Gangaikonda."
- Successors included Kulottunga and others, with eventual decline after territorial losses.
Administration and Local Self-Government
- The Chola empire was divided into provinces (mandalam), districts (nadu), and villages (basic administrative unit).
- Villages had assemblies: "Ur" for non-Brahmin and "Sabha/Mahasabha" for Brahmin settlements (agraharas).
- Sabha members were educated, land-owning adults, chosen by lot and rotation for a three-year tenure.
- Village committees (including tank/water management, law and order, and revenue collection) had significant autonomy.
- King was supported by a council of ministers; administration had both centrally and loosely administered regions.
- Revenue sources included land tax, tolls, and taxes on professionals and trade, facilitated by strong road and irrigation networks.
- Cholas maintained strong infantry, cavalry, elephant corps, and a notable navy.
Cultural Achievements
- Temple architecture flourished: famous temples include Brihadeshwara (Thanjavur) and Kailasanatha (Kanchipuram).
- Temples featured Garbhagriha (sanctum), vimana (tower), pillared halls (mandapa), and enclosed passages.
- Sculpture: notable example is the statue of Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola and bronze image of Nataraja (dancing Shiva).
- Literature in regional languages grew: Tamil (Ramayana), Telugu (Mahabharata by Nannaya), and Kannada (three gems: Pampa, Ponna, Ranna).
- Tamil devotional movements: Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) and Alvars (devotees of Vishnu), with their works compiled as "Tirumurai" (considered the "fifth Veda").
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mandalam — province in the Chola administrative system.
- Nadu — district; the basic administrative unit.
- Agraharas — rent-free Brahmin settlements.
- Sabha/Mahasabha — assembly of adult, land-owning Brahmins.
- Gangaikonda — "conqueror of the Ganga," Rajendra I's title.
- Vimana — the temple superstructure/tower.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Create and study maps/diagrams of Chola territorial expansion.
- Review temple architecture features and important temples.
- Prepare notes on key rulers and administrative structure for quick revision.