Chola Empire and Later Cholas:
The Chola Dynasty, one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the history of southern India, had a significant impact on the political, cultural, and economic landscape of the region. The Chola Empire reached its zenith under Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I during the 10th and 11th centuries. The Later Cholas refer to the period following the decline of the Chola Empire, marked by subsequent rulers. Here's an overview:
Chola Empire (c. 9th to 13th centuries):
1. Early Cholas:
The Chola Dynasty had its roots in the early medieval period, and the Cholas initially ruled over a comparatively modest territory in the Tamil country.
2. Rise to Power:
The Cholas rose to prominence under rulers like Vijayalaya Chola and Aditya I. However, it was under Rajaraja Chola I (reigned c. 985–1014 CE) that the Chola Empire expanded significantly.
3. Rajaraja Chola I:
Rajaraja Chola I, one of the most illustrious Chola rulers, undertook successful military campaigns that expanded the Chola Empire to encompass a large part of southern India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and even parts of Southeast Asia.
4. Rajendra Chola I:
Rajaraja's son, Rajendra Chola I, continued the expansionist policies and even crossed the Bay of Bengal to undertake naval campaigns against the Srivijaya Empire in Southeast Asia.
5. Chola Administration:
The Cholas were known for their efficient administrative system. The empire was divided into several regions, each governed by a viceroy. Local governance was decentralized, allowing for effective administration.
6. Trade and Economy:
The Cholas were active participants in maritime trade, fostering economic prosperity. The port city of Nagapattinam was a key center for trade and cultural exchange.
7. Cultural Achievements:
The Chola period is considered a golden age for art and literature. The Dravida architectural style flourished, resulting in the construction of magnificent temples, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
8. Decline:
The Chola Empire began to decline in the 13th century due to a combination of internal conflicts, invasions, and changing political dynamics.
Later Cholas (c. 13th to 17th centuries):
1. Decline of the Chola Empire:
The decline of the Chola Empire led to a fragmented political landscape in southern India. The Later Chola period saw the emergence of smaller, independent chieftaincies.
2. Pandya and Vijayanagara Influence:
The Pandya Dynasty and the Vijayanagara Empire exerted influence over the Tamil country during this period. The Vijayanagara rulers, in particular, played a significant role in shaping the political scene.
3. Art and Culture:
While the political power of the Later Cholas waned, the cultural and artistic legacy of the earlier Chola period continued to influence the region.
4. Maratha and Nayak Rule:
In the 17th century, the Marathas and the Nayaks emerged as significant powers in the Deccan and Tamil Nadu, respectively. The Nayaks ruled over various territories in Tamil Nadu.
5. European Arrival:
The Later Chola period also witnessed the arrival of European powers, including the Portuguese and later the Dutch and the British, who established trade relations along the southeastern coast of India.
The Later Chola period was characterized by political fragmentation and the emergence of smaller polities. The cultural and architectural achievements of the Chola Empire, however, continued to influence the subsequent political entities in the region.