INDIAN HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Based on the Chola inscriptions and their artistic legacy, the dynasty subscribed to Shaivism, the (now) Hindu tradition of worshipping Shiva as a chief deity. Even Thanjavur’s Brihadeshwara Temple, arguably the greatest structure the Cholas built, was dedicated to Shiva.

Detailed explanation-2: -Religion: Chola rulers were ardent Saivite. Shiva was the preeminent god for the Cholas and he was represented in two forms. The iconic form of Siva was Lingodhbhava, and the Nataraja idol was the human form.

Detailed explanation-3: -This leads many to the claim that the Chola king was a Shiva-worshipping Hindu. However, Shiva worship or Shaivism predates formal “Hinduism” as it exists now.

Detailed explanation-4: -Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I were the greatest rulers of the Chola dynasty, extending it beyond the traditional limits of a Tamil kingdom.

Detailed explanation-5: -The greatest Chola rulers were Rajaraja and his son Rajendra I. The most important feat of the Chola administration was local self-government or village assemblies.