The Later Cholas and the Later Pandyas are well-known Tamil monarchs of South India. The Cholas are remembered for their elaborate state structure, irrigation network, temples, art and architecture and overseas exploits. The Pandyas re-established their authority after the decline of Chola power and became the only leading Tamil dynasty in the 13th century.
1. Revival of the Chola Rule
- The ancient Chola kingdom had the Kaveri delta as its core area and Uraiyur (present-day Tiruchirappalli) as its capital.
- It rose to prominence under Karikala but declined under his successors.
- Later, Rajendra I and his successors ruled from the newly built capital Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
2. Prominent Chola Rulers
| Ruler | Period | Important Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Vijayalaya | 9th century | Ruling a small territory north of the Kaveri, revived the Chola Dynasty; conquered Thanjavur and made it his capital |
| Rajaraja I | 985 – 1014 CE | Most powerful Chola ruler; authority over large parts of South India; naval expeditions to the West Coast and Sri Lanka; built the Rajarajeswaram (Brihadeshwara) Temple in Thanjavur |
| Rajendra Chola I | 1014 – 1044 CE | Military expedition to northern India; title Gangaikondan (conqueror of the Gangai region); his navy conquered Srivijaya (southern Sumatra); Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple built to commemorate his North Indian victories |