Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu has brought national focus back to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty. Held on the occasion of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, the visit also marked 1,000 years since Rajendra Chola I’s famed maritime expedition to Southeast Asia.
During his visit, PM Modi released a commemorative coin in honour of Rajendra Chola I and announced the installation of grand statues to celebrate the legacy of the Chola rulers. The event spotlighted the empire’s architectural excellence, naval dominance, and cultural legacy.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram – A Marvel of Chola Architecture
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple was built around 1030 AD by Rajendra Chola I. Intended to surpass the grandeur of the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur built by his father, Rajaraja Chola I, the temple is renowned for its softer curves, refined carvings, and majestic design. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it continues to be a spiritual and cultural hub, especially during the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival.
Rajendra Chola I – Naval Conqueror and Visionary Ruler
Rajendra Chola I, who ruled from 1014 to 1044 AD, was one of India’s greatest emperors. He extended the Chola Empire beyond South India, launching a victorious expedition to the Ganga river, defeating the Pala dynasty, and establishing Gangaikonda Cholapuram as his new capital. His naval expeditions reached far into Southeast Asia — including Sumatra, Malaysia, and Myanmar — solidifying the Cholas as a dominant maritime power.
Aadi Thiruvathirai – A Festival of Heritage and Devotion
Celebrated in the Tamil month of Aadi, the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival coincides with the birth star of Rajendra Chola I. The celebration features traditional therukoothu performances that reenact the king’s heroic deeds. Rituals like offering silk robes to the king’s statue blend religious reverence with historical pride, keeping the Chola legacy vibrant in Tamil cultural memory.