U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2008

Chola Imperial Cities

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who was the founder of 'Gangai Konda Chola Puram'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Following his successful expedition to the banks of the Ganges, Rajendra Chola I established a new capital to commemorate his title as the 'Chola who captured the Ganges'.

Explanation Rajendra I founded Gangaikonda Cholapuram in the 11th century. He built a grand temple there, designed to rival the Brihadeeshwara temple built by his father.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The city served as the Chola capital for nearly 250 years.
Logic 2: The foundation was a symbolic act to prove that a Southern power could reach and subdue the northern heartland.

Active Recall

Question

What does the name 'Gangaikonda Cholapuram' mean?

Answer

It means 'The city of the Chola who captured the Ganges'.

Core Insight

The shift of the capital to Gangaikonda Cholapuram reflected the Chola's transformed status from a regional kingdom to a trans-regional empire.