Class 07 History Chapter 2 Kingdoms of the South: Chalukyas, Pallavas and Cholas Notes & Important Question Answer
Chapter Notes
Chalukya -
The vast region from Vindhyachal mountain to Kanyakumari is called Dakshina Pradesh or Dakshinapatha. These southern states contributed significantly to the rise of Indian civilization and culture. Based on the records of Chalukya dynasty, three branches of this dynasty are considered. They have been described as Suryavanshi and Chandravanshi. These three branches were known as Chalukyas of Badami or Vatapi, Chalukyas of Eastern or Vengi and Chalukyas of Kalyani. The original branch of the Chalukya dynasty belonged to the Chalukyas of Badami or Vatapi. The Chalukyas of Badami are also known as the Early Western Chalukyas. One of their offshoots was the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi or Pishtapur, who established their independent kingdom in the early seventh century. Another branch of them was the Chalukyas of Kalyani. Who were later also called the Western Chalukyas and who in the second half of the 10th century recaptured their dynasty's kingdom from the Rashtrakuta rulers and once again established the fame of the Chalukyas. Probably these Chalukyas initially lived in Ayodhya and later migrated to the south due to some reasons.
Chalukyas of Badami (Chalukyas of Vatapi)
The Chalukyas of Badami built up an extensive empire in Dakshinapatha over a period of about 200 years from the middle of the 6th century to the middle of the 8th century. Dr. D. C. Sarkar has considered them to be of 'local Kannada family' who were later given place in Kshatriyas. They got this name of their dynasty from some ancient person named Chalka, Chalika or Chaluk and came to be called Chalukya.
The first ruler of this dynasty was Jaisingh. After that his son Ranrag sat on the throne. Ranarag's son was Pulakeshin I (535-566 AD) who built the fort of Vatapi and made it his capital. His successor was Kirtivarma I who expanded his kingdom by defeating the kings of Kadamba, Konkan, Nal etc. dynasties. After his death, his brother Manglesh ruled as the guardian of Pulakeshin II, the heir to the throne. After that Pulakeshin became the second ruler.
Aihole is a very ancient place located in Bijapur, Karnataka, near Badami. An inscription of 634 AD of Pulakeshin II has been received from here. Its author was the Jain poet Ravikirti. This record describes the victories of Pulakeshin II.
Pulakeshin II (610-642 AD): Pulakeshin II obtained the throne by fighting his uncle Mangalesha. Pulakeshin II defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gurjars of the north. He defeated Harshavardhan, the great emperor of North India. Defeated the Kalingas in the east and conquered Pishthapur and made his brother Vishnuvardhana the governor.
Chalukyas of Vengi (Eastern Chalukyas)
Pulakeshin II made his brother Vishnuvardhana the governor of Pishthapur, but he soon declared himself an independent ruler. Vishnuvardhan assumed the titles Makardhwaj, Vishamsiddhi. Pishthapur was the first capital of the Eastern Chalukyas. After that Vengi was made and finally Rajamahendri was made.
After Vishnuvardhan I (633-848 AD), many kings took over the Vengi dynasty. Vijayaditya II and Vijayaditya III became the most powerful rulers of the Vengi dynasty. Who defeated the Pallava, Pandaya, Western Ganga, South Kaushal, Kalinga, Kalachuri and Rashtrakuta rulers.
After Vijayaditya III, Chalukya Bhima (892-921 AD) became the ruler. His entire reign was spent fighting the Rashtrakuta ruler Krishna II. Various individuals of the dynasty tried to capture the throne with the help of outside powers. Many rulers of Vengi ruled till 1063 AD. But the power of the Chalukyas continued to weaken. In the end, the Chola ruler Kulotung defeated Vijayaditya VII, the ruler of Vengi, and merged the empire of this dynasty with the Chola Empire.
Chalukyas of Kalyani (Western Chalukyas)
The Chalukyas of Kalyani were initially subordinate to the Rashtrakuta rulers. During the time of Karka, the last Rashtrakuta ruler, Chalukya Taila II revolted and defeated Karka and captured the kingdom of the Rashtrakutas. Thus Taila II built the kingdom of the Chalukyas of Kalyani on the remains of the Rashtrakuta kingdom. He started the expansion of his empire from Kalyani. Taila II made his capital Manyakhet, which was earlier the capital of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Tail II (993-997 AD) became a great warrior. He defeated Chedi, Orissa, Kuntal, Chalukyas of Gujarat, Paramara Munja, ruler of Malwa and Chola ruler Uttam. He also subjugated the Lat and Panchal regions. He created a large empire of the Chalukyas and claimed to be a descendant of the great Chalukya rulers of Badami. He assumed the titles 'Maharajadhiraj' 'Parameshwar' and 'Chakravarti'.
After him Someshwar I (AD 1043-1068) became the ruler. He conquered Konkan and attacked Malwa, Gujarat, South Kaushal and Kerala. The Kalachuri ruler Rajadhiraja succeeded in plundering Kalyani, the capital of Someshvara, but he continued to struggle and finally Rajadhiraja Chola was killed in a battle. His brother Rajendra Chola II succeeded in defending the Chola kingdom against Someshwara's attacks and finally (AD 1063) Someshwara was defeated.
After Someshwar I, Someshwar II (1068-1076 AD) and after that Vikramaditya VI (1076-1126 AD) became the ruler. Vikramaditya expanded his kingdom by fighting with many kings. His kingdom extended up to the Narmada River in the north and Cuddapah and Mysore in the south.
After Vikramaditya, Someshwar III (1126-1138 AD) and Jagdev Malla (1138-1151 AD) became the Tel rulers. The Chalukya kingdom disintegrated during the time of Taila. The last ruler of this dynasty was Someshwar IV. Finally, in 1190 AD, the Yadava and Hoysala rulers put an end to the empire.
Achievements of Pallava Rulers
Administration: The administration of the Pallavas was very similar to the administration of the Gupta and Maurya emperors. In it the emperor was the head of the state. He used to hold high titles and all the powers of the state were concentrated in him, but there were various ministers and other high officials of the state to assist the emperor. The entire kingdom was divided into nations, subjects (districts), kottams (tehsils) and villages. 'Bhattaraka' was his important title. The rural government had got a lot of freedom in his administration.
Education and Literature: There was a lot of literary progress in the time of Pallava rulers. The University of Kanchi contributed a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Religion: The Pallava rulers were followers of Hinduism. They performed various yagyas and installed idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples. He patronized Sanskrit literature and Hinduism. The University of Kanchi was a major center of South Indian culture and the city of Kanchi itself was one of the seven pilgrimage cities of the Hindus. His behavior towards Jainism and Buddhism was tolerant. Shaiva and Vaishnava literature progressed during his time. He also patronized Jainism and Buddhism.
Art and Architecture: Stone architecture in the far south was initiated by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many rock-cut temples were built in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu gods and goddesses were enshrined. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
The idols of Trimurti, Ganga descending, Durga idol, Varaha idol and five Pandavas are very beautiful. The pictures of gods and goddesses and animals and birds have been depicted very vividly here.
Social and economic status: There was a caste system in the Pallava period. There was division of work on the basis of varna system. Feudal system was prevalent. Most of the feudatories had the right on agricultural land. All the classes were generally associated with the agricultural system. Trade was also advanced. Cotton, jaggery, valuable timber, hot spices etc. were traded. For the advancement of agriculture, the Pallava rulers got canals, lakes and ponds constructed. Various types of 18 taxes were imposed for the income of the state.
Chola Dynasty –
The Chola rulers were powerful in the Sangam period (100-250 AD). Cholas are considered Suryavanshi. The word Chola is derived from the Tamil language 'chula' meaning 'wanderer' who first lived in northern India and later migrated to the south. Its meaning is also extracted from the best. Karikal was one of the great rulers among the early rulers. Who brought the Chola Empire to the pinnacle of progress. He made Kaveripatnam the capital. After that his power weakened for a few years.
Various Chola rulers
1. Vijayalaya (850-871 AD): Vijayalaya had a major contribution in the re-establishment of Chola power in the ninth century. He took advantage of the conflict between the Pallavas and the Pandyas and snatched Tanjore from the Pandyas and made it his capital. He conquered the lower Kaveri valley and the Kolsan valley.
2. Aditya I (AD 871-907): Vijayalaya's son and successor Aditya helped the Pallava ruler Aparajit against the Pandyas. Later, around 893, he defeated and killed Aparajit and established an independent kingdom of the Chola dynasty by taking possession of the entire Tondamandal. He also compelled the Western Gangas to accept his suzerainty. He built many Shiva temples in his capital Tanjore.
3. Parantaka I (907-950 AD): Parantaka expanded his kingdom by defeating the combined forces of Sri Lanka and Pandya ruler Rajasimha. The Rashtrakuta ruler Krishna III along with the Ganga ruler attacked and weakened the Chola kingdom. After 950 AD till 985 AD, the rulers of the Chola dynasty remained very weak.
4. Rajaraja I (985-1014 AD): Rajaraja I restored the lost prestige of the Chola dynasty. He made his empire secure by defeating many kings. He was a great conqueror as well as a skilled administrator and a patron of arts and literature.
5. Rajendra I (1014-1044 AD): Rajendra I was a great ruler like his father. He had attained mastery in the work related to governance during the reign of his father. He participated in many important battles with his father. Rajendra I is also called the pillar of the Chola Empire. He conquered Pandyas, Cheras, Sri Lanka, Chalukyas and Bengal etc. for the expansion of his empire. After conquering Bengal and Bihar, he assumed the title of 'Gagankonda' and established a capital named 'Gagankondacholapuram'.
The successors of Rajendra Chola had to fight with various rulers for a long time. Because of which his power went on weakening. The decline of the Chola dynasty started after Rajendra Chola. In 1310 AD, Malik Kafur, the general of Alauddin Khilji, captured the territories of the Cholas.
Achievements of Chola Rulers
system of government : The Chola rulers were efficient administrators. The head of the administration of the center was the emperor and he used to take respectable titles. Tanjore, Gagankondacholapuram, Mudikondan and Kanchi were the capitals of various Chola emperors from time to time.
Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. The Chola rulers had started the tradition of selecting the crown prince and involving him in the administration in their time also. The position of the emperor was hereditary.
There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor. State officials were given big titles and jagirs. The officers were of two types, high and low. The upper category was called 'Perudenam' and the lower category was called 'Shirudanam'. An employee named 'Udankuttam' was the personal assistant of the king. The Chola rulers had established a systematic civil administration.
Military System: The Chola emperor formed a good army and prepared an excellent navy. Elephants, cavalry and foot soldiers were the main parts of the army. Inscriptions refer to the existence of 70 regiments in the Chola army. There were sixty thousand elephants and one lakh fifty thousand soldiers in his army. Best horses were brought from Arabia and a lot of money was spent on them. Soldiers had cantonments where they were trained in education and discipline. The bodyguards of the emperor were separate, which were called Velaik-Kara. Qualified soldiers and chieftains were honored by giving the title of 'Kshatriya Shiromani'.
Judicial system :The Cholas constituted an organized judicial system. Most of the fines were imposed for the offense. For killing, a fine of 16 cows was imposed and the death penalty was also given. The king was considered the greatest judge.
Administrative units : The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Local Self-Government: One of the main features of Chola rule is considered to be local self-government. In Chola rule, there was a system of self-government from village to mandal. The Mahasabha of the village had great importance in governance. Apart from this, there were representative assemblies in Kurram, Nadu and Mandal, from which cooperation was obtained in governance. Two types of institutions functioned in the village, Ur and Sabha. Ur was an organization of the common people of the village and the assembly was of special people.
Economic condition :
The people were happy and prosperous under the Chola rule. The Chola rulers had made good arrangements for irrigation for the growth of agriculture, which was the main basis of the income of the state and the prosperity of the subjects. There was also progress in trade and industries during his time. The highways were well guarded and a powerful navy allowed foreign trade to flourish through the sea route. At that time there was trade with foreign countries also. The Chola Empire was based on a feudal economy.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram'.
Graphic Arts : The Chola rulers were great builders. Many cities, lakes, dams and ponds etc. were built during his time. The lake built by Rajendra I near his capital Gangaikode Cholapuram was very large. Many canals were taken out of it.
Question Answer
Select the correct answer :
1. Who started the long lasting conflict between the Chalukyas and the Pallavas?
a) Pulakeshin – II
b) Mahendravarman – I
c) Narasimha Varman – I
d) none of these
Answer – b) Mahendravarman – I
2. Who got the Kailashnath temple of Kanchi built?
a) Chalukya
b) Pallava
c) Vakataka
d) Satavahana
Answer – B) Pallavas
Match correctly :
Mark True (✓) or False (X) to the following statements :
Short Question:
Question 1. Which ruler got the Vatapi fort constructed?
Answer – Pulakeshin I got the Vatapi fort constructed.
Question 2. What kind of development took place in the field of architecture during the Chalukya period? Give example.
Answer – One of the main features of the time of Chalukyas in the field of architecture was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Question 3. Name a powerful king of Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas and describe any one of his achievements.
Answer – Tail II, a powerful king of the Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas, subjugated the Panchal territories.
Question 4. Describe three achievements of Pulakeshin II?
Answer –
Question 5. What were the characteristics of the temples built during the Pallava period?
Answer – He established the idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples.
Let's consider:
Question 1. Briefly describe the economic, religious and literary condition of the Chola period.
Answer –
Question 5. What were the characteristics of the temples built during the Pallava period?
Answer – He established the idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples.
Question 6. Briefly describe the economic, religious and literary condition of the Chola period.
Answer –
Chalukya -
The vast region from Vindhyachal mountain to Kanyakumari is called Dakshina Pradesh or Dakshinapatha. These southern states contributed significantly to the rise of Indian civilization and culture. Based on the records of Chalukya dynasty, three branches of this dynasty are considered. They have been described as Suryavanshi and Chandravanshi. These three branches were known as Chalukyas of Badami or Vatapi, Chalukyas of Eastern or Vengi and Chalukyas of Kalyani. The original branch of the Chalukya dynasty belonged to the Chalukyas of Badami or Vatapi. The Chalukyas of Badami are also known as the Early Western Chalukyas. One of their offshoots was the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi or Pishtapur, who established their independent kingdom in the early seventh century. Another branch of them was the Chalukyas of Kalyani. Who were later also called the Western Chalukyas and who in the second half of the 10th century recaptured their dynasty's kingdom from the Rashtrakuta rulers and once again established the fame of the Chalukyas. Probably these Chalukyas initially lived in Ayodhya and later migrated to the south due to some reasons.
Chalukyas of Badami (Chalukyas of Vatapi)
The Chalukyas of Badami built up an extensive empire in Dakshinapatha over a period of about 200 years from the middle of the 6th century to the middle of the 8th century. Dr. D. C. Sarkar has considered them to be of 'local Kannada family' who were later given place in Kshatriyas. They got this name of their dynasty from some ancient person named Chalka, Chalika or Chaluk and came to be called Chalukya.
The first ruler of this dynasty was Jaisingh. After that his son Ranrag sat on the throne. Ranarag's son was Pulakeshin I (535-566 AD) who built the fort of Vatapi and made it his capital. His successor was Kirtivarma I who expanded his kingdom by defeating the kings of Kadamba, Konkan, Nal etc. dynasties. After his death, his brother Manglesh ruled as the guardian of Pulakeshin II, the heir to the throne. After that Pulakeshin became the second ruler.
Aihole is a very ancient place located in Bijapur, Karnataka, near Badami. An inscription of 634 AD of Pulakeshin II has been received from here. Its author was the Jain poet Ravikirti. This record describes the victories of Pulakeshin II.
Pulakeshin II (610-642 AD): Pulakeshin II obtained the throne by fighting his uncle Mangalesha. Pulakeshin II defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gurjars of the north. He defeated Harshavardhan, the great emperor of North India. Defeated the Kalingas in the east and conquered Pishthapur and made his brother Vishnuvardhana the governor.
Chalukyas of Vengi (Eastern Chalukyas)
Pulakeshin II made his brother Vishnuvardhana the governor of Pishthapur, but he soon declared himself an independent ruler. Vishnuvardhan assumed the titles Makardhwaj, Vishamsiddhi. Pishthapur was the first capital of the Eastern Chalukyas. After that Vengi was made and finally Rajamahendri was made.
After Vishnuvardhan I (633-848 AD), many kings took over the Vengi dynasty. Vijayaditya II and Vijayaditya III became the most powerful rulers of the Vengi dynasty. Who defeated the Pallava, Pandaya, Western Ganga, South Kaushal, Kalinga, Kalachuri and Rashtrakuta rulers.
After Vijayaditya III, Chalukya Bhima (892-921 AD) became the ruler. His entire reign was spent fighting the Rashtrakuta ruler Krishna II. Various individuals of the dynasty tried to capture the throne with the help of outside powers. Many rulers of Vengi ruled till 1063 AD. But the power of the Chalukyas continued to weaken. In the end, the Chola ruler Kulotung defeated Vijayaditya VII, the ruler of Vengi, and merged the empire of this dynasty with the Chola Empire.
Chalukyas of Kalyani (Western Chalukyas)
The Chalukyas of Kalyani were initially subordinate to the Rashtrakuta rulers. During the time of Karka, the last Rashtrakuta ruler, Chalukya Taila II revolted and defeated Karka and captured the kingdom of the Rashtrakutas. Thus Taila II built the kingdom of the Chalukyas of Kalyani on the remains of the Rashtrakuta kingdom. He started the expansion of his empire from Kalyani. Taila II made his capital Manyakhet, which was earlier the capital of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Tail II (993-997 AD) became a great warrior. He defeated Chedi, Orissa, Kuntal, Chalukyas of Gujarat, Paramara Munja, ruler of Malwa and Chola ruler Uttam. He also subjugated the Lat and Panchal regions. He created a large empire of the Chalukyas and claimed to be a descendant of the great Chalukya rulers of Badami. He assumed the titles 'Maharajadhiraj' 'Parameshwar' and 'Chakravarti'.
After him Someshwar I (AD 1043-1068) became the ruler. He conquered Konkan and attacked Malwa, Gujarat, South Kaushal and Kerala. The Kalachuri ruler Rajadhiraja succeeded in plundering Kalyani, the capital of Someshvara, but he continued to struggle and finally Rajadhiraja Chola was killed in a battle. His brother Rajendra Chola II succeeded in defending the Chola kingdom against Someshwara's attacks and finally (AD 1063) Someshwara was defeated.
After Someshwar I, Someshwar II (1068-1076 AD) and after that Vikramaditya VI (1076-1126 AD) became the ruler. Vikramaditya expanded his kingdom by fighting with many kings. His kingdom extended up to the Narmada River in the north and Cuddapah and Mysore in the south.
After Vikramaditya, Someshwar III (1126-1138 AD) and Jagdev Malla (1138-1151 AD) became the Tel rulers. The Chalukya kingdom disintegrated during the time of Taila. The last ruler of this dynasty was Someshwar IV. Finally, in 1190 AD, the Yadava and Hoysala rulers put an end to the empire.
Establishment of a vast empire: The rulers of the Chalukya dynasty established a vast empire in Dakshinapatha. There were many great warriors among the rulers of this dynasty and they succeeded in defeating many rulers of northern and southern India. Pulakeshin II and some other rulers also performed Ashwamedha Yagya. The kingdom of the Chalukya rulers was economically prosperous and had many good ports under it, which encouraged foreign trade.
Religious Tolerance: Religiously the Chalukya rulers were followers of Hinduism. He performed many yagyas according to the ancient Vedic religion and many religious texts were composed during his time. He patronized Hinduism and built temples of Vishnu and Shiva. But his behavior towards other religions was of tolerance. The Chalukya rulers also provided support to Jainism and Buddhism. Apart from this, the Parsis were allowed to settle in Thana district of Mumbai. There were more than 100 Buddhist Viharas in the Chalukya kingdom in which 5000 monks resided.
Development of art and architecture: Some of the wall paintings of Ajanta were created during the time of Chalukya rulers. The Chalukyas developed their own distinct Vesara style.
In the field of architecture, one of the main features of the time of the Chalukyas was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Emperor Mangalesh built the cave temple of Vishnu at Vatapi. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Progress in the field of education and literature: The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language.
At that time Avalanka wrote the book 'Ashtasati', Vigyaneshwar wrote 'Mitakshara'. Kannada language books 'Kavirajamarga', Shantipurana, Gadayudha etc. were also written in this era. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Economic Life: The economic life of the people was prosperous. The main occupation was agriculture. The land revenue was based on the fertility of the land. At that time the trade of hot spices and valuable wood was also done.
Administrative System: The administrative system of Chalukyas was of high order. The ruler was the focal point of the administrative unit and had unlimited powers. He used his powers for the good of the people.
Pallava dynasty
The Pallava dynasty rose in the far south of India. This part of the far south has also been called the Tamil region. After the fall of the Satavahana dynasty, the south-eastern part of their kingdom was taken over by the Pallava dynasty and made Kanchi their capital.
(The Tamil word 'Tondayar' is called Pallava in Sanskrit. Hence this dynasty was called Pallava dynasty.)
We know about the rulers of Pallava dynasty from Prakrit and Sanskrit copper plates and Prayag Prashasti of Samudragupta. The origin of the Pallava rulers is estimated from the 3rd century. Their rulers were as follows:
Various Pallava Rulers
1. Simhavishnu (575-600 AD): Simhavishnu was a great ruler. He expanded his empire from Kaveri to Krishna river.
Simhavishnu patronized literature and art. The great Sanskrit poet Bharavi was in his court and during his time the city of Mahabalipuram became the center of art. He assumed the title of 'Avanisingh'. He defeated the Cholas and captured Cholamandalam.
2. Mahendravarman I (600-630 AD): After Singhvishnu, his son Mahendravarman became the ruler. The struggle between Pallavas and Chalukyas started during the time of Mahendra, the son of Simhavishnu as both were trying to expand their power in South India.
The Pallavas along with the Kadambas tried to stop the expansion of the power of the Chalukya ruler Pulakeshin II. For this reason Pulakeshin attacked the Pallava kingdom. The Pallava capital Kanchi was protected from this invasion, but Pulakeshin wrested from him his northern province of Vengi where he appointed his brother Vishnuvardhana as governor who established the kingdom of the Eastern Chalukyas.
Mahendravarman I –
Religious Tolerance: Religiously the Chalukya rulers were followers of Hinduism. He performed many yagyas according to the ancient Vedic religion and many religious texts were composed during his time. He patronized Hinduism and built temples of Vishnu and Shiva. But his behavior towards other religions was of tolerance. The Chalukya rulers also provided support to Jainism and Buddhism. Apart from this, the Parsis were allowed to settle in Thana district of Mumbai. There were more than 100 Buddhist Viharas in the Chalukya kingdom in which 5000 monks resided.
Development of art and architecture: Some of the wall paintings of Ajanta were created during the time of Chalukya rulers. The Chalukyas developed their own distinct Vesara style.
In the field of architecture, one of the main features of the time of the Chalukyas was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Emperor Mangalesh built the cave temple of Vishnu at Vatapi. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Progress in the field of education and literature: The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language.
At that time Avalanka wrote the book 'Ashtasati', Vigyaneshwar wrote 'Mitakshara'. Kannada language books 'Kavirajamarga', Shantipurana, Gadayudha etc. were also written in this era. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Economic Life: The economic life of the people was prosperous. The main occupation was agriculture. The land revenue was based on the fertility of the land. At that time the trade of hot spices and valuable wood was also done.
Administrative System: The administrative system of Chalukyas was of high order. The ruler was the focal point of the administrative unit and had unlimited powers. He used his powers for the good of the people.
Pallava dynasty
The Pallava dynasty rose in the far south of India. This part of the far south has also been called the Tamil region. After the fall of the Satavahana dynasty, the south-eastern part of their kingdom was taken over by the Pallava dynasty and made Kanchi their capital.
(The Tamil word 'Tondayar' is called Pallava in Sanskrit. Hence this dynasty was called Pallava dynasty.)
We know about the rulers of Pallava dynasty from Prakrit and Sanskrit copper plates and Prayag Prashasti of Samudragupta. The origin of the Pallava rulers is estimated from the 3rd century. Their rulers were as follows:
Various Pallava Rulers
1. Simhavishnu (575-600 AD): Simhavishnu was a great ruler. He expanded his empire from Kaveri to Krishna river.
Simhavishnu patronized literature and art. The great Sanskrit poet Bharavi was in his court and during his time the city of Mahabalipuram became the center of art. He assumed the title of 'Avanisingh'. He defeated the Cholas and captured Cholamandalam.
2. Mahendravarman I (600-630 AD): After Singhvishnu, his son Mahendravarman became the ruler. The struggle between Pallavas and Chalukyas started during the time of Mahendra, the son of Simhavishnu as both were trying to expand their power in South India.
The Pallavas along with the Kadambas tried to stop the expansion of the power of the Chalukya ruler Pulakeshin II. For this reason Pulakeshin attacked the Pallava kingdom. The Pallava capital Kanchi was protected from this invasion, but Pulakeshin wrested from him his northern province of Vengi where he appointed his brother Vishnuvardhana as governor who established the kingdom of the Eastern Chalukyas.
Mahendravarman I –
- lover of literature and fine arts
- poet and singer
- Wrote a Sanskrit treatise named 'Mattavilas Prahasana’
- Established many temples at Trichanapalli, Chingilput and Arcot (which were built by cutting the rocks of the hills)
- Got a lake built.
- Initially Jain but later became Shaivite
3. Narasimha Varman I (630-668 AD): Mahendravarman's son Narasimha Varman became a great ruler. During his time also the Pallavas fought with the Chalukyas of Badami. The Chalukya ruler Pulakeshin II invaded his kingdom and captured his capital Vatapi in 642 AD. Pulakesin II was killed in these wars and the Pallavas captured the southern part of the Chalukya kingdom.
Narasimha Varman expanded his empire up to Mysore by weakening the power of the Chalukyas. After that, by defeating the Chola, Chera and Pandeya rulers, he further expanded his empire towards the south.
Narasimha Varman built temples at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) which are now called the Chariot Temples of Mamallapuram. He also built temples at Trichanapalli. During his time Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang came to Kanchi.
Narasimha Varman's son Mahendravarman II (AD 668-70) ruled only for two years. After that his son Parameshwara Varman I (670-95 AD) sat on the throne.
4. Narasimha Varman II (695-722 AD): Narasimha Varman II, the son of Parameshwar Varman, had a period of peace. Prosperity increased in the kingdom during his time. He sent his ambassador to the court of the Chinese emperor.
After the death of Narasimha Varman II, his son Parameshwara Varman II (AD 721-739) ascended the throne. In the last time, the struggle started again with the Chalukyas. Parameshwara Varman's successor turned out to be unfit. Chola ruler Aditya I attacked and killed Aparajit, the last ruler of this dynasty in 893 AD. This marked the end of the Pallava Empire.
Narasimha Varman expanded his empire up to Mysore by weakening the power of the Chalukyas. After that, by defeating the Chola, Chera and Pandeya rulers, he further expanded his empire towards the south.
Narasimha Varman built temples at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) which are now called the Chariot Temples of Mamallapuram. He also built temples at Trichanapalli. During his time Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang came to Kanchi.
Narasimha Varman's son Mahendravarman II (AD 668-70) ruled only for two years. After that his son Parameshwara Varman I (670-95 AD) sat on the throne.
4. Narasimha Varman II (695-722 AD): Narasimha Varman II, the son of Parameshwar Varman, had a period of peace. Prosperity increased in the kingdom during his time. He sent his ambassador to the court of the Chinese emperor.
After the death of Narasimha Varman II, his son Parameshwara Varman II (AD 721-739) ascended the throne. In the last time, the struggle started again with the Chalukyas. Parameshwara Varman's successor turned out to be unfit. Chola ruler Aditya I attacked and killed Aparajit, the last ruler of this dynasty in 893 AD. This marked the end of the Pallava Empire.
- Kailashnath Temple of Kanchi and many temples were built on the banks of Mahabalipuram.
- Provided shelter to many scholars.
- Scholar Dandi composed a poetry book named 'Dashkumarcharitam'.
Achievements of Pallava Rulers
Administration: The administration of the Pallavas was very similar to the administration of the Gupta and Maurya emperors. In it the emperor was the head of the state. He used to hold high titles and all the powers of the state were concentrated in him, but there were various ministers and other high officials of the state to assist the emperor. The entire kingdom was divided into nations, subjects (districts), kottams (tehsils) and villages. 'Bhattaraka' was his important title. The rural government had got a lot of freedom in his administration.
Education and Literature: There was a lot of literary progress in the time of Pallava rulers. The University of Kanchi contributed a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Religion: The Pallava rulers were followers of Hinduism. They performed various yagyas and installed idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples. He patronized Sanskrit literature and Hinduism. The University of Kanchi was a major center of South Indian culture and the city of Kanchi itself was one of the seven pilgrimage cities of the Hindus. His behavior towards Jainism and Buddhism was tolerant. Shaiva and Vaishnava literature progressed during his time. He also patronized Jainism and Buddhism.
Art and Architecture: Stone architecture in the far south was initiated by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many rock-cut temples were built in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu gods and goddesses were enshrined. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
The idols of Trimurti, Ganga descending, Durga idol, Varaha idol and five Pandavas are very beautiful. The pictures of gods and goddesses and animals and birds have been depicted very vividly here.
Social and economic status: There was a caste system in the Pallava period. There was division of work on the basis of varna system. Feudal system was prevalent. Most of the feudatories had the right on agricultural land. All the classes were generally associated with the agricultural system. Trade was also advanced. Cotton, jaggery, valuable timber, hot spices etc. were traded. For the advancement of agriculture, the Pallava rulers got canals, lakes and ponds constructed. Various types of 18 taxes were imposed for the income of the state.
Chola Dynasty –
The Chola rulers were powerful in the Sangam period (100-250 AD). Cholas are considered Suryavanshi. The word Chola is derived from the Tamil language 'chula' meaning 'wanderer' who first lived in northern India and later migrated to the south. Its meaning is also extracted from the best. Karikal was one of the great rulers among the early rulers. Who brought the Chola Empire to the pinnacle of progress. He made Kaveripatnam the capital. After that his power weakened for a few years.
Various Chola rulers
1. Vijayalaya (850-871 AD): Vijayalaya had a major contribution in the re-establishment of Chola power in the ninth century. He took advantage of the conflict between the Pallavas and the Pandyas and snatched Tanjore from the Pandyas and made it his capital. He conquered the lower Kaveri valley and the Kolsan valley.
2. Aditya I (AD 871-907): Vijayalaya's son and successor Aditya helped the Pallava ruler Aparajit against the Pandyas. Later, around 893, he defeated and killed Aparajit and established an independent kingdom of the Chola dynasty by taking possession of the entire Tondamandal. He also compelled the Western Gangas to accept his suzerainty. He built many Shiva temples in his capital Tanjore.
3. Parantaka I (907-950 AD): Parantaka expanded his kingdom by defeating the combined forces of Sri Lanka and Pandya ruler Rajasimha. The Rashtrakuta ruler Krishna III along with the Ganga ruler attacked and weakened the Chola kingdom. After 950 AD till 985 AD, the rulers of the Chola dynasty remained very weak.
4. Rajaraja I (985-1014 AD): Rajaraja I restored the lost prestige of the Chola dynasty. He made his empire secure by defeating many kings. He was a great conqueror as well as a skilled administrator and a patron of arts and literature.
5. Rajendra I (1014-1044 AD): Rajendra I was a great ruler like his father. He had attained mastery in the work related to governance during the reign of his father. He participated in many important battles with his father. Rajendra I is also called the pillar of the Chola Empire. He conquered Pandyas, Cheras, Sri Lanka, Chalukyas and Bengal etc. for the expansion of his empire. After conquering Bengal and Bihar, he assumed the title of 'Gagankonda' and established a capital named 'Gagankondacholapuram'.
The successors of Rajendra Chola had to fight with various rulers for a long time. Because of which his power went on weakening. The decline of the Chola dynasty started after Rajendra Chola. In 1310 AD, Malik Kafur, the general of Alauddin Khilji, captured the territories of the Cholas.
Achievements of Chola Rulers
system of government : The Chola rulers were efficient administrators. The head of the administration of the center was the emperor and he used to take respectable titles. Tanjore, Gagankondacholapuram, Mudikondan and Kanchi were the capitals of various Chola emperors from time to time.
Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. The Chola rulers had started the tradition of selecting the crown prince and involving him in the administration in their time also. The position of the emperor was hereditary.
There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor. State officials were given big titles and jagirs. The officers were of two types, high and low. The upper category was called 'Perudenam' and the lower category was called 'Shirudanam'. An employee named 'Udankuttam' was the personal assistant of the king. The Chola rulers had established a systematic civil administration.
Military System: The Chola emperor formed a good army and prepared an excellent navy. Elephants, cavalry and foot soldiers were the main parts of the army. Inscriptions refer to the existence of 70 regiments in the Chola army. There were sixty thousand elephants and one lakh fifty thousand soldiers in his army. Best horses were brought from Arabia and a lot of money was spent on them. Soldiers had cantonments where they were trained in education and discipline. The bodyguards of the emperor were separate, which were called Velaik-Kara. Qualified soldiers and chieftains were honored by giving the title of 'Kshatriya Shiromani'.
Judicial system :The Cholas constituted an organized judicial system. Most of the fines were imposed for the offense. For killing, a fine of 16 cows was imposed and the death penalty was also given. The king was considered the greatest judge.
Administrative units : The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Local Self-Government: One of the main features of Chola rule is considered to be local self-government. In Chola rule, there was a system of self-government from village to mandal. The Mahasabha of the village had great importance in governance. Apart from this, there were representative assemblies in Kurram, Nadu and Mandal, from which cooperation was obtained in governance. Two types of institutions functioned in the village, Ur and Sabha. Ur was an organization of the common people of the village and the assembly was of special people.
Economic condition :
The people were happy and prosperous under the Chola rule. The Chola rulers had made good arrangements for irrigation for the growth of agriculture, which was the main basis of the income of the state and the prosperity of the subjects. There was also progress in trade and industries during his time. The highways were well guarded and a powerful navy allowed foreign trade to flourish through the sea route. At that time there was trade with foreign countries also. The Chola Empire was based on a feudal economy.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram'.
Graphic Arts : The Chola rulers were great builders. Many cities, lakes, dams and ponds etc. were built during his time. The lake built by Rajendra I near his capital Gangaikode Cholapuram was very large. Many canals were taken out of it.
Question Answer
Select the correct answer :
1. Who started the long lasting conflict between the Chalukyas and the Pallavas?
a) Pulakeshin – II
b) Mahendravarman – I
c) Narasimha Varman – I
d) none of these
Answer – b) Mahendravarman – I
2. Who got the Kailashnath temple of Kanchi built?
a) Chalukya
b) Pallava
c) Vakataka
d) Satavahana
Answer – B) Pallavas
3. Mammalapuram has another name.
a) Mahabalipuram
b) Ujjayini
c) Madurai
d) Kalyani
Answer – a) Mahabalipuram
4. Which of the following rulers had a powerful navy?
a) Chola
b) Pandyas
c) Cher
d) Pallava
Answer – a) Chola
5. The Pallava ruler was at the time of Hiuen Tsang's visit to Kanchi
a) Mahendravarman.
b) Narasimha Varman –
c) Mahendravarman – II
d) Narasimha Varman – II
Answer – B) Narasimha Varman – II
Fill in the blanks :
a) Mahabalipuram
b) Ujjayini
c) Madurai
d) Kalyani
Answer – a) Mahabalipuram
4. Which of the following rulers had a powerful navy?
a) Chola
b) Pandyas
c) Cher
d) Pallava
Answer – a) Chola
5. The Pallava ruler was at the time of Hiuen Tsang's visit to Kanchi
a) Mahendravarman.
b) Narasimha Varman –
c) Mahendravarman – II
d) Narasimha Varman – II
Answer – B) Narasimha Varman – II
Fill in the blanks :
- The Chola rulers were supporters of the ________ or _______ sect.
- Tondair is called __________ in Sanskrit.
- Ravi Kirti Jain was the author of __________.
- ________ became the most powerful ruler of the Vengi dynasty.
Match correctly :
- Pulakeshin II Narasimha Varman
- Pishtupur Mahendravarman I
- Chariot Temple of Mammalapuram Rajendra I
- Matvilaas prahasan defeated the Kadambas in the south
- Gagankondacholapuram Capital of Eastern Chalukyas
- Pulakeshin II defeated the Kadambas in the south
- Pishtupur Capital of Eastern Chalukyas
- Chariot Temple of Mammalapuram Narasimha Varman
- Matvilaas prahasan Mahendravarman I
- Gagankondacholapuram Rajendra I
Mark True (✓) or False (X) to the following statements :
- The reign of the Chola emperors was the golden age of Tamil literature. (✓)
- In the far south, stone architecture was introduced by the Chola rulers. (X)
- Kottam is the unit of Pallava administration under which there is a group of villages. (✓)
- Scholar Dandi composed a poetry book named "Dashkumarcharitam". (✓)
- The great poet Bharavi was the court poet of Vikramaditya. (X)
Short Question:
Question 1. Which ruler got the Vatapi fort constructed?
Answer – Pulakeshin I got the Vatapi fort constructed.
Question 2. What kind of development took place in the field of architecture during the Chalukya period? Give example.
Answer – One of the main features of the time of Chalukyas in the field of architecture was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Question 3. Name a powerful king of Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas and describe any one of his achievements.
Answer – Tail II, a powerful king of the Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas, subjugated the Panchal territories.
Question 4. Describe three achievements of Pulakeshin II?
Answer –
- Pulakeshin II defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gurjars of the north.
- Pulakeshin II defeated Harshavardhana, the great emperor of North India.
- Pulakeshin II defeated the Kalingas in the east.
Question 5. What were the characteristics of the temples built during the Pallava period?
Answer – He established the idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples.
Let's consider:
Question 1. Briefly describe the economic, religious and literary condition of the Chola period.
Answer –
Economic condition: The people were happy and prosperous in Chola rule. The Chola rulers had made good irrigation arrangements for the growth of agriculture, which was the main basis of the income of the state and the prosperity of the subjects. There was also progress in trade and industries during his time. The highways were well guarded and a powerful navy allowed foreign trade to flourish through the sea route. At that time there was trade with foreign countries also. The Chola Empire was based on a feudal economy.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram’.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram’.
Question 2. Discuss about Pallavas of Kanchi and Chalukyas of Badami.
Answer –
Answer –
Pallavas of Kanchi – Pallavas started in South India after the fall of Satavahana dynasty and they made Kanchi their first capital. Here he built the famous Kailashnath temple. To save the capital of Pallavas from external attacks, they also had to fight many wars.
Chalukyas of Badami – The Chalukyas of Badami ruled from the middle of the sixth century to the middle of the eighth century. The first ruler of this dynasty was Jaisingh. Pulakeshin I built the fort of Vatapi and made it his capital. Pulakesin II, a powerful ruler among the Chalukyas of Badami, defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gujjars in the north. He also defeated Harshavardhan, the great emperor of North India.
Question 3. Compare the efforts made by the Chalukya and Pallava rulers for the development of education and literature.
Answer -
Efforts of Chalukyas in the development of education and literature: The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Pallava's efforts in the development of education and literature: The University of Kanchi contributed a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Question 4. Comment analytically on the central and provincial administration of the Cholas.
Answer – The Chola rulers were efficient rulers and managers. The head of the central government was the emperor. Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor.
The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Question 5. How did architecture develop during the period of the Pallava rulers? Write in brief.
Answer – In the far south, the stone architecture was started by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many temples were built by cutting the rocks of the mountains, in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu deities were established. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
let's try
Question 1. Mark the South Indian states along with their capitals on the map of India.
Answer -
Important Question Answer
Question 1. Which ruler got the Vatapi fort constructed?
Answer – Pulakeshin I got the Vatapi fort constructed.
Question 2. What kind of development took place in the field of architecture during the Chalukya period? Give example.
Answer – One of the main features of the time of Chalukyas in the field of architecture was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Question 3. Name a powerful king of Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas and describe any one of his achievements.
Answer – Tail II, a powerful king of the Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas, subjugated the Panchal territories.
Question 4. Describe three achievements of Pulakeshin II?
Answer –
Chalukyas of Badami – The Chalukyas of Badami ruled from the middle of the sixth century to the middle of the eighth century. The first ruler of this dynasty was Jaisingh. Pulakeshin I built the fort of Vatapi and made it his capital. Pulakesin II, a powerful ruler among the Chalukyas of Badami, defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gujjars in the north. He also defeated Harshavardhan, the great emperor of North India.
Question 3. Compare the efforts made by the Chalukya and Pallava rulers for the development of education and literature.
Answer -
Efforts of Chalukyas in the development of education and literature: The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Pallava's efforts in the development of education and literature: The University of Kanchi contributed a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Question 4. Comment analytically on the central and provincial administration of the Cholas.
Answer – The Chola rulers were efficient rulers and managers. The head of the central government was the emperor. Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor.
The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Question 5. How did architecture develop during the period of the Pallava rulers? Write in brief.
Answer – In the far south, the stone architecture was started by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many temples were built by cutting the rocks of the mountains, in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu deities were established. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
let's try
Question 1. Mark the South Indian states along with their capitals on the map of India.
Answer -
Important Question Answer
Question 1. Which ruler got the Vatapi fort constructed?
Answer – Pulakeshin I got the Vatapi fort constructed.
Question 2. What kind of development took place in the field of architecture during the Chalukya period? Give example.
Answer – One of the main features of the time of Chalukyas in the field of architecture was the construction of large temples by cutting mountains and rocks. Various Hindu cave temples and chaitya halls were built during his time. Beautiful temples were built by cutting mountains in Badami, Ellora, Elephanta, Aurangabad, Anjata etc.
Question 3. Name a powerful king of Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas and describe any one of his achievements.
Answer – Tail II, a powerful king of the Kalyani dynasty of Chalukyas, subjugated the Panchal territories.
Question 4. Describe three achievements of Pulakeshin II?
Answer –
- Pulakeshin II defeated the Kadambas in the south, the Mauryas of Konkan and the Gurjars of the north.
- Pulakeshin II defeated Harshavardhana, the great emperor of North India.
- Pulakeshin II defeated the Kalingas in the east.
Question 5. What were the characteristics of the temples built during the Pallava period?
Answer – He established the idols of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Lakshmi etc. in the temples.
Question 6. Briefly describe the economic, religious and literary condition of the Chola period.
Answer –
Economic condition: The people were happy and prosperous in Chola rule. The Chola rulers had made good irrigation arrangements for the growth of agriculture, which was the main basis of the income of the state and the prosperity of the subjects. There was also progress in trade and industries during his time. The highways were well guarded and a powerful navy allowed foreign trade to flourish through the sea route. At that time there was trade with foreign countries also. The Chola Empire was based on a feudal economy.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram'.
Question 7. What efforts were made by the Chalukya rulers for the development of education and literature?
Answer – The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Question 8. Describe the efforts made by the Pallava rulers for the development of education and literature.
Answer – The University of Kanchi helped a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Question 9. Comment analytically on the central and provincial administration of the Cholas.
Answer – The Chola rulers were efficient rulers and managers. The head of the central government was the emperor. Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor.
The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Question 10. How did architecture develop during the period of the Pallava rulers?
Answer – In the far south, the stone architecture was started by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many temples were built by cutting the rocks of the mountains, in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu deities were established. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
Question 11. Where did the word Chola originate?
Answer – The word Chola originated from the Tamil language 'Chul' which means 'wanderer'.
Question 12. Describe the military system of the Chola emperor.
Answer – The Chola emperor formed a good huge army and prepared the best navy. Elephants, cavalry and foot soldiers were the main parts of the army. Inscriptions refer to the existence of 70 regiments in the Chola army. There were sixty thousand elephants and one lakh fifty thousand soldiers in his army. Best horses were brought from Arabia and a lot of money was spent on them. Soldiers had cantonments where they were trained in education and discipline. The bodyguards of the emperor were separate, which were called Velaik-Kara. Qualified soldiers and chieftains were honored by giving the title of 'Kshatriya Shiromani’.
Religious Status: The Chola rulers were supporters of the Shaiva or Vaishnava sect. Shaivism and Vaishnavism spread in South India during the time of Cholas. The place of temples became prominent during this period. Temples became centers of religion, education, art and public service. For this reason the Chola rulers built many temples.
Literature and Art: The reign of the Chola emperors was the 'Golden Age' of Tamil literature. In the field of literature, mainly poetic texts were composed. Jain scholar Tirutakkadevar wrote 'Jivakchintamani', Tolamoli 'Soolamani' and Kamban wrote 'Ramavataram'.
Question 7. What efforts were made by the Chalukya rulers for the development of education and literature?
Answer – The Chalukya rulers were great lovers of education and literature. He got schools and colleges constructed at different places and gave patronage to litterateurs and writers in his court. Chalukyas gave utmost importance to Sanskrit language. Vilhan's 'Vikramankdevcharit' and Somdev Suri's 'Vakyaamrit' are the main texts written in this era.
Question 8. Describe the efforts made by the Pallava rulers for the development of education and literature.
Answer – The University of Kanchi helped a lot in this progress. The Pallava rulers gave shelter to scholars. Emperor Singh Vishnu had invited contemporary scholar Bharavi to come to his court and scholar Dandi received royal patronage in his kingdom. Apart from Sanskrit, Tamil literature also progressed during the time of Pallava rulers. The book named 'Kural' of Tamil was written during this period. Regular recitation of the Mahabharata was arranged by the Pallavas in a pavilion near Kanchi.
Question 9. Comment analytically on the central and provincial administration of the Cholas.
Answer – The Chola rulers were efficient rulers and managers. The head of the central government was the emperor. Despite being autocratic, the Chola ruler considered it his main duty to be engaged in the welfare of the subjects and public interest. There were various ministers and other big officials to assist the emperor.
The Cholas divided the entire empire into 6 provinces. The province was called Mandalam and its president was called Viceroy. Mandalam was divided into Kottam or Valanadu and Kottam was further divided into Nadu. The assembly of Nadu was called Nattar. In which there were representatives of all the villages and cities.
Question 10. How did architecture develop during the period of the Pallava rulers?
Answer – In the far south, the stone architecture was started by the Pallava rulers and under their patronage many temples were built by cutting the rocks of the mountains, in which idols of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Hindu deities were established. The Shiva temple at Mamallapuram, the temple of the five Pandavas and the Varaha temple are the best examples of the art of this period. Beautiful sculptures and paintings were made in them.
Question 11. Where did the word Chola originate?
Answer – The word Chola originated from the Tamil language 'Chul' which means 'wanderer'.
Question 12. Describe the military system of the Chola emperor.
Answer – The Chola emperor formed a good huge army and prepared the best navy. Elephants, cavalry and foot soldiers were the main parts of the army. Inscriptions refer to the existence of 70 regiments in the Chola army. There were sixty thousand elephants and one lakh fifty thousand soldiers in his army. Best horses were brought from Arabia and a lot of money was spent on them. Soldiers had cantonments where they were trained in education and discipline. The bodyguards of the emperor were separate, which were called Velaik-Kara. Qualified soldiers and chieftains were honored by giving the title of 'Kshatriya Shiromani’.
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