[Solved] Kulottunga I's Trade Mission to China | Chola Trade

In whose tenure, 72 traders were sent to China?

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1992]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The Cholas were global traders. Maintaining strong diplomatic and commercial ties with the Song Dynasty of China was a priority for Chola kings to ensure prosperity.

Authentic Source Evidence

Kulottunga I (r. 1070–1122 CE) is famously recorded in both Indian and Chinese chronicles as having sent a significant trade mission consisting of 72 merchants to the Chinese court in 1077 CE.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct. This mission brought tributes and trade goods, receiving favorable trade conditions in return.

Logic 2: While Rajaraja and Rajendra initiated ties, the specific mission of 72 traders is the defining event of Kulottunga’s foreign policy.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why did Chola kings send 'embassies' to China?"

These embassies were essentially trade missions designed to secure merchant safety and favorable tax rates for Indian goods in Chinese ports.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Chola-China trade link was one of the most profitable maritime connections in the medieval world."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Merchant Guilds 3

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