Which of the following ruler laid the foundation of the imperial medieval Chola dynasty?

The correct answer is Vijayalaya.

Key Points

• Vijayalaya Chola was the founder of the imperial medieval Chola dynasty in the 9th century CE.
• He captured Thanjavur (modern-day Tamil Nadu) from the Mutharaiyar rulers and established it as the capital of the Chola kingdom.
• Vijayalaya initially served as a vassal of the Pallava dynasty before asserting independence and starting the Chola resurgence.
• His reign marked the beginning of the revival of the Cholas as a major power in South India.
• He laid the foundation for the Chola Empire, which would later achieve its zenith under rulers like Raja Raja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I.

Additional Information

• Chola Dynasty:
  • The Cholas were one of the longest-ruling dynasties in Indian history, with roots tracing back to the Sangam period.
  • Their empire expanded across South India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia.
  • The Cholas are renowned for their contributions to art, architecture, and administration.
• Thanjavur as a Cultural Hub:
  • Under the Cholas, Thanjavur became a significant cultural, religious, and economic center.
  • The famous Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was later built in Thanjavur by Raja Raja Chola I.
• Chola Administration:
  • The Cholas established a well-organized administrative system with efficient revenue collection and local self-governance.
  • Village assemblies (sabhas) played a critical role in local administration.
• Chola Naval Power:
  • The Cholas were known for their strong navy, which helped them maintain control over trade routes and expand their influence overseas.
  • Their naval expeditions extended to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia.