Why in news?
India commemorated the 1,000th anniversary of Rajendra Chola I’s Southeast Asian expedition with cultural events and heritage projects, highlighting the emperor’s maritime achievements.
Background
- Rajendra Chola I ruled from 1014 to 1044 CE and succeeded his father Rajaraja Chola I. He inherited a strong kingdom and expanded it into a maritime empire.
- The emperor established a new capital, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, to celebrate his conquest of northern India.
Key achievements
- Maritime and military expansion: Rajendra led a naval expedition in 1025 CE that defeated the Srivijaya empire and secured control over trade routes through the Malacca Strait. His forces reached Sri Lanka, the Maldives and much of Southeast Asia.
- Architecture and engineering: He built the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. He also constructed the Cholagangam Tank, a large reservoir demonstrating advanced hydraulic engineering.
- Cultural diplomacy: The emperor supported merchant guilds, encouraged Tamil settlements abroad and promoted temple building, spreading Indian culture across Southeast Asia.
- Administrative legacy: Rajendra strengthened village assemblies, codified land grants and established meticulous records of irrigation and revenue.
Significance today
- Rajendra Chola’s expeditions illustrate early Indian maritime prowess and cultural exchange across Asia.
- Commemorations of his achievements foster interest in India’s historical connections with Southeast Asia and support the country’s contemporary “Act East” policy.