The Cholas (9th–13th century A.D.) established one of the greatest empires in South India with their capital at Thanjavur. Their rule is remembered for efficient administration, economic prosperity, and cultural achievements, making the Chola period a high point of Tamil civilization.
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Social Conditions
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Caste system was prevalent but society was relatively flexible compared to North India.
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Brahmins held privileges and often received land grants (brahmadeyas).
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Vellalas (land-owning agriculturists) formed the backbone of rural society.
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Position of women:
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Some women received education and engaged in religious and cultural life.
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However, practices like devadasi system existed in temples.
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Society was organized around villages with active local self-government (sabhas and ur councils).
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Hero worship was common; nadukal (hero stones) commemorated warriors who died in battle.
Economic Conditions
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The Chola economy was prosperous and agrarian-based.
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Extensive irrigation works such as tanks, wells, and canals were constructed.
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The Kaveri delta (granary of South India) produced abundant rice.
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Trade:
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Active internal and overseas trade.
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Ports like Kaveripattinam, Nagapattinam, and Korkai linked South India with Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, China, and Arabia.
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Exported spices, cotton textiles, ivory, and precious stones; imported horses, silk, and gold.
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Coinage: Gold, silver, and copper coins with images of tigers, fish, and bow & arrow circulated.
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Guilds of merchants like the Manigramam and Ayyavole 500 played a vital role in trade.
Cultural Conditions
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Religion: Primarily Hinduism (Shaivism and Vaishnavism) flourished; Jainism and Buddhism declined.
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Temple culture was central to social and cultural life; temples served as centers of religion, economy, and education.
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Architecture:
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The Cholas perfected Dravidian temple architecture.
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Famous examples: Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur (built by Rajaraja I), Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, and Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram.
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Use of granite, towering vimanas, and detailed sculptures.
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Sculpture and Bronze Casting:
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The Cholas were masters of bronze sculpture.
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The iconic Nataraja (dancing Shiva) is considered the finest example.
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Literature:
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Flourishing of Tamil bhakti literature (Saiva and Vaishnava hymns).
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Patronage of Sanskrit as well as Tamil scholars.
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Works like Kambaramayanam (by Kamban) enriched Tamil literature.
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Education: Temples and mathas acted as centers of learning.
Key Takeaway
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The Chola period marked the height of Tamil culture, with prosperous economy, vibrant society, and magnificent cultural achievements.
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Their contributions in temple architecture, bronze art, and literature remain some of the greatest legacies of Indian civilization.
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Through trade and cultural contacts, the Cholas extended Indian influence to Southeast Asia, making their era truly global.