Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other as Reason (R): **Assertion (A):** We have much more information about Cholas than their predecessors. **Reason (R):** The Chola rulers adopted the practice of having inscriptions written on the walls of temples giving a historical narrative of their victories.
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
The Cholas revolutionized historiography in South India by using temple architecture as a permanent medium for official state records.Explanation
Beginning with Rajaraja I, Chola kings introduced 'Meikeerthis' (historical introductions) to their inscriptions. These were engraved on the stone walls of massive temples like the Brihadishwara, documenting military conquests, land grants, and administrative details.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Assertion (A) is true because the sheer volume of lithic (stone) records exceeds those of the Pallavas or early Pandyas.
Logic 2: Reason (R) is the correct explanation; this specific practice of using temple walls as public archives preserved their history for centuries.