[Solved] Capital of the Chola Empire | Thanjavur (Tanjore)

The capital of Cholas was-

[U.P. Lower Sub. Prelims 2009]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

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.

Authentic Source Evidence

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.

Analytical Breakdown

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.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Which major temple symbolizes Chola power in Tanjore?"

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

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Kaveri Delta 2

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