INTRODUCTION

The rule of the Cholas forms an important part in the history of South India. Chola rule saw remarkable progress in almost all spheres of life such as polity, culture and economy. They primarily ruled in the south of India from the 9th to 13th Century. The Indian Chola Empire conquered not just the south of India but also extended their empire over the sea and ruled parts of the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The Chola dynasty is an important landmark in the history of India.

        Chola Empire Under Rajendra Chola

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Architecture and art was at its peak during the reign of the Cholas. They built small new stone temples dedicated to Shiva and covered the brick built shrines of their predecessors with stone. Pallavan architecture inspired the Cholas.The local administration system of the Cholas was amazing and reminds us of the modern day Pahchayati raj.