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U.P. Lower Sub. Prelims 2009

Chola Dynasty Administration

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The capital of Cholas was-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Imperial Cholas rose to power in the 9th century, establishing a centralized state with a magnificent capital that became a hub for Dravidian art and architecture.

Explanation According to NCERT Class VII, Vijayalaya (the founder of the Medieval Chola line) captured the Kaveri delta from the Muttaraiyar and built the city of Thanjavur (Tanjore) as his capital.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option D is correct. Tanjore remained the primary capital, though Rajendra I later built a secondary capital at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Logic 2: Kaveripattinam (A) was an ancient Sangam-era port city. Kanchi (C) was the capital of the Pallavas, whom the Cholas eventually defeated.

Active Recall

Question

Which major temple symbolizes Chola power in Tanjore?

Answer

The Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple), built by Rajaraja Chola I, is the definitive symbol of Chola grandeur in Thanjavur.

Core Insight

Thanjavur was chosen as the capital because of its strategic control over the fertile Kaveri delta, the economic engine of the Chola empire.

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