Saturday, July 28, 2012

Aadhan Aavini Chera

Aadhan Aavini was a Chera king who ruled during the Tamil Sangam period. The poet Orampogiyaar has referred him in 'Aingurunooru'.

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Little known Chola princes

Periya Puranam, the epic about the devotees of Lord Shiva, which was written by Sekkizhar has references about few Chola kings arguably during the period of Kalapirars. As there is no other historical record about these incidents or kings, the consolidated information is given in this post.

It is believed that Kootruva Nayanar was a Kalappirar king. He won many countries and wanted the Brahmins of Chidambaran to coronate him. The brahmins declined that citing that they would coronate only Cholas. They were afraid of him and hence they ran out to Chera country.

When Thandi Adigal of 8th century AD was arguing with Jains, the Chola king played the role of the judge. The Jain saints lost the competition and he sent them out of Tiruvarur.

During the period of Tirunavukkarasar, a Chola king was ruling from Pazhaiyarai. He helped the saint to discover the Shiv Linga idol which was hidden by the Jain saints. He also chased them away.

Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar went to Tiruppananthal. There, the Chola king was trying to straight the idol of Shiv Linga which was slightly slanting by pulling it by his elephants. As he was not successful, the saint tried and achieved the same.

The wife of Nedumaran, Mangaiyarkkarasi was probably the daughter of some Chola king. Nedumaran ruled Pandian kingdom from Madurai in the middle of 7th century AD. He was also called as 'Nelveli vendra Nindra Seer Nedumaran'.

Sundarar and Cheraman Peramal went to Pandian king (Kochchadaiyan Ranadheeran). Pandian had a Chola prince as his son in law. All four of them visited many pilgrim sites.

Also, there are references found in Vaishnaivite texts too. It appears that there was a Chola king during Tondaradi Podi Alwar's period. There was a Chola king named 'Dharma Varman'; his daughter Uraiyur Nachiar declined to marry anyone else other than Lord Vishnu. Tirumangai Alwar was a Chola general.

In 831 AD, there was a Chola prince Kumaarankusan by name. He was a great warrior and philanthropist.

In the middle of 9th century AD, the Pandian king Seemaran Seevallabhan won the battle in Kudamooku (Kumbakonam) over Chola, Ganga and Pallava kings. The Pallava king named 'Thellaru erindha Nandivarman' who was ruling between 825 AD and 847 AD won a Chola king (as per Nandi Kalampakam).

Overall, it appears that during the dark age, the Cholas lost thier power and were serving as princes from Pazhaiyarai under the control of Pallavas and Pandians. Few kings migrated to Andhra and ruled from Kadappa and Karnool regions; they were later called as Telugu Cholas.

Although there are no much historical records about the Chola kings during the dark age, to some extent the information given above is known from the following sources: Nandi Kalambakam book, Periya Puranam book, Vellore copper plates and Chinnamanoor copper plates.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Renadu Cholas

The princes who ruled Renadu region (current Cuddappah - Kurnool region) during the 7th century AD were called as Renadu Cholas. The Chinese traveler Yuan Chwang who visited this region in 639-640 AD has written that he had visited Chola kingdom. These kings claimed that they belonged to Karikala Chola's dynasty. It is not clear how and when these people moved to Andhra.They used lion symbol (not tiger).

As they had accepted the supermacy of Pallavas, their names also resemble Pallava kings. Nandi Varman was a Renadu Chola. He had three sons - Simha Vishnu, Suddhanandan, Dhananjayavarman. Dhananjayavarman's son was Mahendra Vikramavarman. He had two sons - Gunamudidan and Punyakumaran.Punyakumaran was the last king of Renadu Cholas. His wife name was 'Vasanta Pottri Chola Madevi'. She was believed to be from Chalukya dynasty.

Apart from those who mentioned above, there was a king named Chola Maha Rajathirajan Vikramaditya Satyadityanna. His wife was Ilan Chola Madevi. He ruled Renadu as well as Chittavud.


Pugazh Chola

Period: Probably between 300 AD and 600 AD

In Periya Puranam, there is a reference about Pugazh Chola. He became one of 63 nayanmars - the sacred devotees of Lord Shiva. He is believed to have lived during the Kalabhras (Kalappirar) period.

Kochenganan Chola

Period: Tamil Sanga Period or sometime between 400 AD and 600 AD

There are two different theories about Kochenganan Chola. Some scholars believe that he lived during the Tamil Sangam age and he was the one who fought with the Chera king Kanaikkal Irumborai. It is referred in Pura Nanooru.

There are other scholars who claim that Pura Nanooru did not talk about this king. According to them, this king was a powerful Chola king lived during Kalabhras period. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and built around 70 Shiva temples. He also won Kongu and Thondai countries. It is also believed that he could have fought with Buddha Varman Pallava and won him. Buddha Varman was the son of Simha Vishnu Pallava.

His parents were Suba Devan and Kamalavathi.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Kalabhras (Kalappirar)

Kalabhras who are called as Kalappirars by Tamils ruled Tamil Nadufor about three centuries from 3rd or 4th century AD. After their decline it was ruled by Pallavas and Pandyas for the next three centuries. Cholas came to limelight again in the middle of 9th century AD during Vijayalayala Chola.

It is not clearly known who were Kalappirars actually. They appeared to be bandit group. The region between Tirupati and Ganges river was ruled by Satavahanas. Pallavas were princes who ruled the southern region and had accepted the supremacy of Satavahanas. After the decline of Satavahanas, Pallavas became powerful. They claimed themselves as the emperors for the region between Krishna river and Pennai river. They also captured Aruva and Aruva Vadathalai countries. This led the bandits in the forests of Kadappai to move towards south. Pallavas kept capturing the countries occupied by them and ultimately made Kanchi as their capital. The first Pallava king to have Kanchi as his capital was Siva Skandavarman. This made Kalabhras to enter into Cholas and Pandya regions. This could have hapenned between 350 AD - 450 AD.

Kalabhras ruled Chola region as powerful emperors till 575 AD. They were completely defeated by the Pallava king Simha Vishnu. They lost their mpire. They became princes in various regions such as Tanjore, Vallam, Chenthalai, Pudukkottai, etc.

In between, the Pandya king Kandungon became powerful and he established the Pandyan empire successfully. Similar to Pandyas, Cholas couldn't reestablish their empire. Initially, Kalbhras were powerful. Then, there were powerful Pallavas ruling the Chola region till 875 AD.

It appears the Kalabhras were Jains and Buddhists.

There are references about a Kalappirar king named Achchutavikkandan who claimed to have won Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas. He was a Buddhist. The reference was found in a book written by Buddhadatta (period: probably 450 AD).

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Udaya Kumaran Chola


Period:  Probably 150 AD - 200 AD

Udaya Kumaran was the son of Nedumudi Killi, who was an early Chola king lived during Silappadhikram period.  Banas were princes who ruled North Arcot region. The Bana princess Ceerthi was Udaya Kumaran's mother.

Manimegalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, had religious powers. Using that, she was feeding the poor people in Poompuhar. When the king came to know, he invited her to his palace and honoured her. He also coverted his prison into a 'Dharma sala'.

Udaya Kumaran fell in love with Manimegalai. However, Manimegalai, being a Buddhist saint, was interesting only in serving the poor. She diguised herself into a female named Kaya Chandikai. However, Udaya Kumaran knew this and still he was disturbing Manimegalai. By mistaking that Udaya Kumaran was running after his wife, Kaya Chandikai's husband Vidhyadhar killed him and went back to his own country. Manimegalai was put behind the bars by the king. The queen took her out of the prison and kept her under house arrest in her palace. She tortured her; utlimately she realized the greatness of Manimegalai and let her go.

Ilan Killi


Period:  Probably 150 AD - 200 AD

Ilan Killi was an early Chola king who ruled during the Silappadhikaram period.  He ruled the northern region of Chola with Kanchipuram as his capital. He had an elder brother Nedumudi Killi by name. His father and the famous Chera king Chenguttuvan's mother Narchonai were siblings. Hence, Chenguttuvan fought with nine competitors of Nedumudi Killi after his father's demise and made him as the Chola king.

Within few years since he became the king, the Pandian king and Chera king attacked Chola land. It is not known who were those kings; there is a possibilitiy that there were few Pandian and Chera princes during that period. They were controlled and defeated by Ilan Killi in a place named 'Kariyaru'.

Manimegalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, had religious powers. Using that, she was feeding the poor people in Poompuhar. When the king came to know, he invited her to his palace and honoured her. He also coverted his prison into a 'Dharma sala'.

Udaya Kumaran fell in love with Manimegalai. However, Manimegalai, being a Buddhist saint, was interesting only in serving the poor. She diguised herself into a female named Kaya Chandikai. However, Udaya Kumaran knew this and still he was disturbing Manimegalai. By mistaking that Udaya Kumaran was running after his wife, Kaya Chandikai's husband Vidhyadhar killed him and went back to his own country. Manimegalai was put behind the bars by the king. The queen took her out of the prison and kept her under house arrest in her palace. She tortured her; utlimately she realized the greatness of Manimegalai and let her go.

Manimegalai went to various places. Ultimately, she came to know that there was a major poverty in Kanchipuram. To control the same, she went there. She was honoured by Ilan Killi. He also showed her the Buddhist temple that he had built.


Chenguttuvan Chera


Period:  Probably 150 AD - 200 AD

Cheran Chenguttuvan was a famous early Chera king who lived during Silappadhikram period. The Chola king Nedumudi Killi's father and his mother Narchonai were siblings. Hence, Chenguttuvan fought with nine competitors of Nedumudi Killi after his father's demise and made him as the Chola king.

Nedumudi Killi Chola

Period:  Probably 150 AD - 200 AD

Nedumudi Killi was an early Chola king who lived during Silappadhikram period. His father and the famous Chera king Chenguttuvan's mother Narchonai were siblings. Hence, Chenguttuvan fought with nine competitors of Nedumudi Killi after his father's demise and made him as the Chola king.

The king was also called as Venver Killi, Maavan Killi, Killi, Vadiver Killi and Suzhar Killi.

Banas were princes who ruled North Arcot region. He married the Bana princess Ceerthi by name. His only son was Udaya Kumaran.

He had a younger brother named Ilan Killi, who ruled the country with Kanchipuram as his capital.

Within few years since he became the king, the Pandian king and Chera king attacked Chola land. It is not known who were those kings; there is a possibilitiy that there were few Pandian and Chera princes during that period. They were controlled and defeated by Ilan Killi in a place named 'Kariyaru'.

Manimegalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, had religious powers. Using that, she was feeding the poor people in Poompuhar. When the king came to know, he invited her to his palace and honoured her. He also coverted his prison into a 'Dharma sala'.

Udaya Kumaran fell in love with Manimegalai. However, Manimegalai, being a Buddhist saint, was interesting only in serving the poor. She diguised herself into a female named Kaya Chandikai. However, Udaya Kumaran knew this and still he was disturbing Manimegalai. By mistaking that Udaya Kumaran was running after his wife, Kaya Chandikai's husband Vidhyadhar killed him and went back to his own country. Manimegalai was put behind the bars by the king. The queen took her out of the prison and kept her under house arrest in her palace. She tortured her; utlimately she realized the greatness of Manimegalai and let her go.

Manimegalai went to various places. Ultimately, she came to know that there was a major poverty in Kanchipuram. To control the same, she went there. She was honoured by Ilan Killi. He also showed her the Buddhist temple that he had built.

Nedumudi Killi once fell in love with a girl he met in Poompuhar beach. He lived with her for one month and then he couldn't find her. From a Buddist, he came to know that she was Naga king Valaivanan's daughter Peelivalai. Peelivalai gave birth to a son. He sent that boy with a Chetti merchant in a ship to Poompuhar. The ship submerged in the ocean; the Chettiar somehow escapted to the land and told about this to the king. As the king thought he lost his son, he forgot everything including the annual Indra Vizha celebration. Due to this, the entire Poompuhar city was submerged in the ocean.

Nal Urudhiran Chola

Cholan Nal Urudhiran was an early Chola lived during the Sangam period. He was also a poet. There is nothing much known about this king.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Nedunkilli Chola

Period: Probably 1st century BC

Nedunkilli was one of the early Cholas. During the same peirod, there was another Chola kind named Nalankilli, the son of Karikalan, became the Chola ruler in Pumpuhar. Nedunkilli ruled the country from Aavur city. He occupied Urayur city from Nalankilli. Hence, Nalankilli attacked Aavur fort. Nedunkilli was not so brave as Nalankilli. He closed the doors of fort and was inside the fortress without facing Nalankilli. Then, he somehow escaped to Uraiyur. Nalankilli came to know this and attacked Uraiyur fort also. The Sangam poet Kovoor Kizhaar tried to make peace between them in vain. Ultimately, there was a battle between both the kings in a place called Kariyaru. Nedunkilli was killed in the battle.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Musukunda Chakravarthy

Period: Before 3rd century BC; no historical records

Musukunda Chakravarthy was a mythological king; he was believed to have ruled Chola kingdom from Karur city. As per certain Hindu Puranas such as Vishnu Purana and Skanda Purana, he had monkey face and human body.

He helped Devendra, the Lord of Devas, in a battle and became his friend. As a token of appreciation, he got seven Shiv Linga idols from Indira. He installed them in seven places in South India. Those sites are called as 'Saptavidanga Sthalam'.

As per the mythology, Indira sent a bhooth (ghost) to serve Musukundan. The bhooth served in a market place in Poompuhar city. It was believed that it used to punish the citizens if they missed to celebrate 'Indira Vizha' (festival to Indira) every year. The ghost was named as 'Nalangadi Bhootham'.

The references about this king are found in ancient books such as Silappadikaram, Manimegalai, Oru Thurai Kovai, etc.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Uttama Chola

Uttama Chola was the son of Gandaraditya Chola and the famous Sembian Mahadevi. He was called as Madurantaga Uttama Chola. When Gandaraditya Chola died, he was a small kid. Hence, Gandaraditya's son Arinjaya Chola came to throne. After Arinjaya Chola, his son Parantaka Sundara Chola became the Chola king. Uttama Chola had equal rights for Chola throne similar to Parantaka Sundara Chola.

There is a theory that Uttama Chola would have killed Aditya Karikala Chola, the brave son of Sundara Chola to avoid any further challenges for him to become king. However, there is no solid proof for this. It's true that Sundara Chola made him as the successor in 970 AD, although he had another son Arunmozhivarman aka Rajaraja Chola who was very among the public. There is a possibility that Rajaraja Chola and Uttama Chola would have arrived at a treaty so that Uttama Chola became the king. It was probably as per the treaty that Rajaraja Chola succeeded Uttama Chola, whereas Uttama Chola's only son Madurantaga Gandaraditya was just given an official post.

Uttama Chola should have become the king in 973 AD after the death of Sundara Chola. He ruled the country till 985 AD.

Uttama Chola had many wives. Out of them, Orattanam Chorappaiyar was her queen.

He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva.

The oldest Chola period coins that we have today belongs to his period.

Aditya Karikalan Chola


Aditya Karikalan Chola was the elder son of Sundara Chola. His full name was Aditya II Parakesari Parthivendra Karikalan.

Parantaka I Chola had captured Pandia kingdom. However, in due course, Veera Pandian had started ruling his country as an independent king. As per the Leyden inscriptions and Karandai inscriptions, in a place called Chevur near Pudukkottai there was a battle between Chola and Pandya. Sundara Chola personally killed a lot of elephants in this battle. His son Aditya Chola was very young. Still, he fought bravely with Veera Pandian and got the title 'Veera Pandian Thalai Konda'. Although the inscriptions from Tiruvalankadu claim that the Pandyan king was killed, it need not to be true. It appears he was defeated by Cholas and ran away to Sahiyatri mountain. Pandian got help from Ceylong king for this battle.

Aditya Chola was killed under mysterious circumstances. It appears that Sundara Chola was broken down after his son's death and he was not successful in punishing those who were responsible for his son's murder. There is a theory that Aditya was killed by Uttama Chola, the cousin of Sundara Chola and son of Gandaraditya Chola. Uttama Chola had equal rights like Sundara Chola to become the king; hence, he would have probably killed Aditya Chola so that he could at least succeed Sundara Chola.

Sundara Chola

Sundara Chola was the son of Parantaka Chola I and Kalyani. He became prince in the year of 956 AD. He became king after Arinjaya Chola (in the year 957 AD?). He ruled the country till 973 AD. He had Rajakesari title and his full name was Parantaka II Sundara Chola.

Parantaka I Chola had captured Pandia kingdom. However, in due course, Veera Pandian had started ruling his country as an independent king. As per the Leyden inscriptions and Karandai inscriptions, in a place called Chevur near Pudukkottai there was a battle between Chola and Pandya. Sundara Chola personally killed a lot of elephants in this battle. His son Aditya Chola was very young. Still, he fought bravely with Veera Pandian and got the title 'Veera Pandian Thalai Konda'. Although the inscriptions from Tiruvalankadu claim that the Pandyan king was killed, it need not to be true. It appears he was defeated by Cholas and ran away to Sahiyatri mountain. Pandian got help from Ceylong king for this battle. It lead Chiriya Velalar to conquer Ceylon; however, he was not successful and died in the battle in 965 AD.

During the battle against Veera Pandian, Sundara Chola got help from Poori Vikrama Kesari from Kodumbalur and Parthivendravarman.

Even though the battle against the Pandyas was won by Sundara Chola, it doesn't appear that he had completely controlled the Pandyan kingdom during his period. However, it appears that he was successful to reclaim some of his regions in the north from Rashtrakutas.

He died in his golden palace in Kanchipuram. His wife Vanavan Madevi, the daughter of Malayaman, sacrificed her life through sati practice. Her statue was erected by her daughter Kundavai in Tanjore Brahadeeswarar temple. He also had another wife, a Chera princess.

Sundara Chola supported literature during his period. A poetic book named 'Veera Chozhiyam' was written to praise him during his period.

Sundara Chola's brave son Aditya II Parakesari Parthivendra Karikalan was killed under mysterious circumstances. It appears that Sundara Chola was broken down after his son's death and he was not successful in punishing those who were responsible for his son's murder. There is a theory that Aditya was killed by Uttama Chola, the cousin of Sundara Chola and son of Gandaraditya Chola. To avoid revolt or due to mutual acceptance by Rajaraja Chola, the popular son of Sundara Chola, Uttama Chola was made as the price and the successor of Chola throne in 970 AD.


Arinjaya Chola

Arinjaya Chola was the younger son of Parantaka Chola I. He was also called as Arikulakesari and Arindaman. It appears that he became prince in 956 AD and lived till 957 AD. It looks like he got a chance to rule the country only for a brief period after his elder brother Gandaraditya Chola. There is nothing much known about his reign.

Vengi (Chalukya) king Bheema II's daughter Kundavai was Arinjaya's wife. He also had another wife Kodai Piratiyar by name, who was probably the daughter of Vaanar king. He had a daughter named Arinjinga Piratiyaar through Kodai.

There is a possibility that he would have lost his life while trying to reclaim the southern region from Rashtrakutas. It appears he died in a place named Aattrur near Melpadi.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Gandaraditya Chola

Gandaraditya Chola was the son of Parantaka Chola I. He ruled the Chola kingdom between 949 AD and 957 AD. As the elder son of Parantaka, Rajaditya lost his life in Takkolam battle, he became the ruler.

During his period, Rashtrakuta king Krishna III aquired a lot of places from Chola empire.

His wife Sembian Madevi was very popular devotee. She built a lot of Shiva temples. He had a son named Uttama Chola.

Rajaditya Chola

Rajaditya Chola was the son of Parantaka Chola I and Kokkizhan.

Parantaka Chola had kept an army under his son Rajaditya in Tirumunaipadi permanently to fight back any attack from Vaanars and Vaidumbars. When there was no fight fought, Rajaditya utilized the man power of his army to construct Veera Narayana lake. He also built a temple for Lord Vishnu named Veera Narayana Perumal on the banks of the lake.

Arikulakesari, the brother of Rajaditya was also there in Tirumunaipadi. Rashtrakutas attacked the Cholas and the battle took place at Takkolam near Arakonam. The Chola prince Rajaditya was killed while riding the elephant by Bhutuga . Rashtrakutas won the war. Krishna III was the king of Rashtrakutas during that period. The war happened in 949 AD. Even after this, it appears Krishna kept invading the Cholas. It appears he won even Kanchi from the Cholas.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Butuga II, Ganga

Around 940 AD, the Ganga king Prathvipathi II died. He had already lost his only son Vikkiyannan. Butuga II married to Rashtrakuta king Krishnan III’s sister Revaka. Also, he killed his elder brother Raja Mallan and became the lonely leader of Gangas kingdom. Hence, the Cholas had lost the help of Gangas after Prathvipathi.

Parantaka Chola had kept an army under his son Rajaditya in Tirumunaipadi permanently to fight back any attack from Vaanars and Vaidumbars. Arikulakesari, the brother of Rajaditya was also there in Tirumunaipadi. Rashtrakutas attacked the Cholas and the battle took place at Takkolam near Arakonam. The Chola prince Rajaditya was killed while riding the elephant by Butuga. Rashtrakutas won the war. Krishna III was the king of Rashtrakutas during that period. The war happened in 949 AD. Even after this, it appears Krishna kept invading the Cholas. It appears he won even Kanchi from the Cholas.

Maravarman Rajasimha Pandian II

After Thirupurampayam battle, Varaguna Pandian died. The successor, Parantaka Veera Narayanan spent most of his effort and time to control the revolt lead by Ukkiran. When the Pandyan kingdom was busy in handling its internal problems, Parantaka invaded Pandyan kingdom. Although he got the title 'Madurai Kondan' (which means 'one who won Madurai, the capital of Pandyan kingdom) in his third year itself, his victory over Pandyan kingdom was not complete. He had to fight many tiny wars and acquired Pandya kingdom little by little.

Once the Pandian was defeated in the first battle, he sought help of Sri Lankan king. Sri Lanka sent an army lead by general Chakka Senapati to Tamil Nady. Parantaka Chola defeated both Pandyan and Sri Lankan armies. The Sri Lankan general did not want to accept the defeat; he wanted to lead the army again. However, he died of Plague disease. As there was a widespread fear that all the soldiers would be affected by Plague disease, the Sri Lankan king called back his army. In Vellore, Pazhuvettaraiyar and Kandan Amudanaar won the battle against Sri Lankan army and Pandyan army in 915 AD. It resulted in Chola kingdom to acquire more regions of Pandya kingdom with his territory.

After all the defeats, the Pandya king Rajasimha ran over to Sri Lanka. The king Tappula IV (923-934AD) was ready to send army for his help. However, he couldn’t do that due to internal revolt. Now, the Pandya king realized that he couldn’t get any help from Sri Lankan army. He left his royal chrone and other few important jewels in Sri Lanka and ran to his mother Vanavan Madevi’s birthplace – Chera country. This incident should have happened between the 16th and 26th year of Parantaga’s rule.

After completely occupying Pandya kingdom, Parantaga wanted to wear the royal chrone of Pandya king. He sent emissaries to Sri Lanka during the period of Udayan IV (945-53 AD). However, the Lanka king was not ready to give them to Chola. Hence, the Chola king sent an army to Sri Lanka. The Chola army killed the Sri lankan general and chased the king. The king ran away to Rohana along with jewels. Due to some fear, the Chola army didn’t proceed further and returned to their kingdom.

Krishna II of Rashtrakuta


Aditya Chola I married the daughter of Rashtrakuta king Krishna II. He also had a sone Kannara Devan by name. After Aditya Chola I died, the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II tried to make his grandson Kannara Devan as the Chola king.

When Rashtrakuta king Krishna II wanted to make his grandson Kannar Devan as the Chola king, he attacked the Cholas along with Vaanars. The attack happened at the north western side of the Chola kingdom. The Cholas got help of the Ganga king Prathvipathi II. The battle took place at Tiruvallam aka Vallala in 911 AD. As Krishna II lost the battle, Parantakan got the title ‘Veera Cholan’.

Parantaka Chola I

Parantaka Chola I was the son of Aditya Chola. He came to throne in 907 AD and ruled till 955 AD. Aditya had married the Rashtrakoota princess and had a son, Kannar Devan by name. After his death, the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II tried to make his grandson Kannara Devan as the Chola king. Parantaka had to face this challenge in his initial days and he was able to successfully handle this.

When he became the Chola king, his father had already aquired a lot of kingdoms and Chola was an empire.

After Thirupurampayam battle, Varaguna Pandian died. The successor, Parantaka Veera Narayanan spent most of his effort and time to control the revolt lead by Ukkiran. When the Pandyan kingdom was busy in handling its internal problems, Parantaka invaded Pandyan kingdom. Although he got the title 'Madurai Kondan' (which means 'one who won Madurai, the capital of Pandyan kingdom) in his third year itself, his victory over Pandyan kingdom was not complete. He had to fight many tiny wars and acquired Pandya kingdom little by little.

Once the Pandian was defeated in the first battle, he sought help of Sri Lankan king. Sri Lanka sent an army lead by general Chakka Senapati to Tamil Nady. Parantaka Chola defeated both Pandyan and Sri Lankan armies. The Sri Lankan general did not want to accept the defeat; he wanted to lead the army again. However, he died of Plague disease. As there was a widespread fear that all the soldiers would be affected by Plague disease, the Sri Lankan king called back his army. In Vellore, Pazhuvettaraiyar and Kandan Amudanaar won the battle against Sri Lankan army and Pandyan army in 915 AD. It resulted in Chola kingdom to acquire more regions of Pandya kingdom with his territory.

Parantaka got a title - 'Maduraiyum Eezhamum Konda Kopparakesari'. He also got other titles such as Veeranarayanan, Soorasigamani and Chola Sigamani.

After all the defeats, the Pandya king Rajasimha ran over to Sri Lanka. The king Tappula IV (923-934AD) was ready to send army for his help. However, he couldn’t do that due to internal revolt. Now, the Pandya king realized that he couldn’t get any help from Sri Lankan army. He left his royal chrone and other few important jewels in Sri Lanka and ran to his mother Vanavan Madevi’s birthplace – Chera country. This incident should have happened between the 16th and 26the year of Parantaga’s rule.

After completely occupying Pandya kingdom, Parantaga wanted to wear the royal chrone of Pandya king. He sent emissaries to Sri Lanka during the period of Udayan IV (945-53 AD). However, the Lanka king was not ready to give them to Chola. Hence, the Chola king sent an army to Sri Lanka. The Chola army killed the Sri lankan general and chased the king. The king ran away to Rohana along with jewels. Due to some fear, the Chola army didn’t proceed further and returned to their kingdom.

Kerala king Pazhuvettaraiyar and Velir head of Kodumbalur have helped Cholas to fight Pandyas in various wars. Parantakan’s son Arikula Kesari married Kodumbalur group’s Tennavan Ilango Velir’s daughter Poodhi Adikka Pidari.

When Rashtrakuta king Krishna II wanted to make his grandson Kannar Devan as the Chola king, he attacked the Cholas along with Vaanars. The attack happened at the north western side of the Chola kingdom. The Cholas got help of the Ganga king Prathvipathi II. The battle took place at Tiruvallam aka Vallala in 911 AD. As Krishna II lost the battle, Parantakan got the title ‘Veera Cholan’.

Vaanars were ruling Vanagappadi area for more than 20 years. Although they were ruling the major area beyond north of Palar, between Punganoor in West and Kalasthi in East, after Chalukyas became powerful, they had to shift towards south. At last, they were ruling the place named Parigi in Anantpur district.
It appears Vaanar country was ruled by Vijayaditya Prabhumeru II till 909 AD. Between 909 and 916 the rulers of Vaanar country Vikramaditya II and Viyaditya III were defeated by Parantakan. As the Ganga king Prathvipathi II helped the Cholas to win Vaanars, he was given the throne of Vaanars for a brief period by the Cholas.

Vaidumbars were friends of Vaanars. Telugu and Kannada were their languages. They were ruling Renand region in the 9th century AD. They along with Vaanars, won Nolumbars and Kaskars in Choremadi war in 850 AD. Their friendship continued forever and due to this they had to fight against the Cholas. Maharaja Chandaiyan Tiruvayan was the Vaidumbars king who was defeated by the Chola in 915 AD. It might be his predecessor also. Proper records on who lost to the Chola are not available. Vaanars and Vaidumbars surrendered to Rashtrakutas.

It appears there was a war against Vengi king Chalukya Veema II in 941.

Around 940 AD, the Ganga king Prathvipathi II died. He had already lost his only son Vikkiyannan. Bhutuga II married to Rashtrakuta king Krishnan III’s sister Revaka. Also, he killed his elder brother Raja Mallan and became the lonely leader of Gangas kingdom. Hence, the Cholas had lost the help of Gangas after Prathvipathi.

Parantaka Chola had kept an army under his son Rajaditya in Tirumunaipadi permanently to fight back any attack from Vaanars and Vaidumbars. Arikulakesari, the brother of Rajaditya was also there in Tirumunaipadi. Rashtrakutas attacked the Cholas and the battle took place at Takkolam near Arakonam. The Chola prince Rajaditya was killed while riding the elephant by Bhutuga . Rashtrakutas won the war. Krishna III was the king of Rashtrakutas during that period. The war happened in 949 AD. Even after this, it appears Krishna kept invading the Cholas. It appears he won even Kanchi from the Cholas.

Parantakan had many wives. The details about 11 wives are available. Rajaditya was Kokkizhan’s son. Kerala princess was Arinjayan's mother. Apart from that, Parantakan had sons such as Kandaraditya, Uttamacheeli and Arindigai. He also had daughters named Veeramadevi (wife of Govinda Vallavaraiyar) and Anupama (wife of Kodumbalur head).

Parantakan gave importance to village administration and irrigation facilities. He improved agriculture a lot. He was a great devotee of Shiva. He completed construction of many temples that were started by Aditya I. He also gave golden roof to Chidambaram Natraj shrine.

Varaguna Pandian aka Varagunavarman II


Varaguna Pandian aka Varagunavarman II was a Pandian king who ruled during the 9th century AD.

The famous Thirupurambiyam battle hapenned during the period of this king. Thirupurambiyam is a small town near Tanjore in Tamil Nadu state of India. The battle was mainly between the Pallava king Aparajit and Pandia king Varaguna Pandian. After the Pallava king Nandivarman III died in 869 AD, the differences arose between his eldest son Nripatunga and another son Aparajit. Nripatunga was supported by Pandians whereas Aparajit was supported by Pallavas. Aparajit also got the support of Ganga king Prithvipathi I and Aditya Chola I. This battle should have hapenned in 879 AD. The Pandians were defeated in this battle. Although Pallavas won the battle, the Ganga king Prithvipathi was killed in the battle. Hence, the maximum benefit of victory went to the Chola king. Pallavas gave many regions around Tanjore from Mutharaiyars to Chola king as the token of appreciation.

After Thirupurambiyam battle, the Pandyas wanted to reduce the importance of Cholas. They even invaded Cholas and camped at a place called Idavai in the northern part of Chola kingdom. However, nothing much is known about this incident.

Aparajit Pallava


Aparajit was a Pallava king who ruled during 9th century AD. He was the sone of Nandivarman III.

The famous Thirupurambiyam battle hapenned during the period of this king. Thirupurambiyam is a small town near Tanjore in Tamil Nadu state of India. The battle was mainly between the Pallava king Aparajit and Pandia king Varaguna Pandian aka Varagunavarman II. After the Pallava king Nandivarman III died in 869 AD, the differences arose between his eldest son Nripatunga and another son Aparajit. Nripatunga was supported by Pandians whereas Aparajit was supported by Pallavas. Aparajit also got the support of Ganga king Prithvipathi I and Aditya Chola I. This battle should have hapenned in 879 AD. The Pandians were defeated in this battle. Although Pallavas won the battle, the Ganga king Prithvipathi was killed in the battle. Hence, the maximum benefit of victory went to the Chola king. Pallavas gave many regions around Tanjore from Mutharaiyars to Chola king as the token of appreciation.

Later, the Chola king Aditya Chola I became very powerful. In a battle, he defeated Aparajit and captured Pallava kingdom. It is believed that he himself killed Aparajit who was riding an elephant in the battle. This battle would have hapenned in 890 AD. However, it appears that for the next few years there was no peace in the newly acquired kingdom. Aditya and his son Parantaga Chola had to keep controlling the revolt and fight tiny battles. Although there is no proper records, it appears that Gangas would have helped Cholas to win Pallavas. It is evident from the fact that they accepted Pallavas as their masters.

Thirupurambiyam Battle


The famous Thirupurambiyam battle hapenned during the period of Vijayalaya Chola king. Thirupurambiyam is a small town near Tanjore in Tamil Nadu state of India. The battle was mainly between the Pallava king Aparajit and Pandia king Varaguna Pandian aka Varagunavarman II. After the Pallava king Nandivarman III died in 869 AD, the differences arose between his eldest son Nripatunga and another son Aparajit. Nripatunga was supported by Pandians whereas Aparajit was supported by Pallavas. Aparajit also got the support of Ganga king Prithvipathi I and Aditya Chola I. This battle should have hapenned in 879 AD. The Pandians were defeated in this battle. Although Pallavas won the battle, the Ganga king Prithvipathi was killed in the battle. Hence, the maximum benefit of victory went to the Chola king. Pallavas gave many regions around Tanjore from Mutharaiyars to Chola king as the token of appreciation.

After Thirupurambiyam battle, the Pandyas wanted to reduce the importance of Cholas. They even invaded Cholas and camped at a place called Idavai in the northern part of Chola kingdom. However, nothing much is known about this incident.

Aditya Chola I

Aditya Chola I was the son of Vijayalaya Chola. It appears that his reign was between 870 AD and 907 AD. He had "Rajakesari" title. He was also called as Kodnda Raman.

The famous Thirupurambiyam battle hapenned during the period of this great Chola king. Thirupurambiyam is a small town near Tanjore in Tamil Nadu state of India. The battle was mainly between the Pallava king Aparajit and Pandia king Varaguna Pandian aka Varagunavarman II. After the Pallava king Nandivarman III died in 869 AD, the differences arose between his eldest son Nripatunga and another son Aparajit. Nripatunga was supported by Pandians whereas Aparajit was supported by Pallavas. Aparajit also got the support of Ganga king Prithvipathi I and Aditya Chola I. This battle should have hapenned in 879 AD. The Pandians were defeated in this battle. Although Pallavas won the battle, the Ganga king Prithvipathi was killed in the battle. Hence, the maximum benefit of victory went to the Chola king. Pallavas gave many regions around Tanjore from Mutharaiyars to Chola king as the token of appreciation.

After Thirupurambiyam battle, the Pandyas wanted to reduce the importance of Cholas. They even invaded Cholas and camped at a place called Idavai in the northern part of Chola kingdom. However, nothing much is known about this incident.

Later, the chola king Aditya Chola I became very powerful. In a battle, he defeated Aparajit and captured Pallava kingdom. It is believed that he himself killed Aparajit who was riding an elephant in the battle. This battle would have hapenned in 890 AD. However, it appears that for the next few years there was no peace in the newly acquired kingdom. Aditya and his son Parantaga Chola had to keep controlling the revolt and fight tiny battles. Although there is no proper records, it appears that Gangas would have helped Cholas to win Pallavas. It is evident from the fact that they accepted Pallavas as their masters.

Aditya married Ilango Pitchi, the daughter of Rashtrakoota king Krishna II. She was his first wife. He also married a Pallava princess.

It was during his period the Chola kingdom spread like anything. He captured Tondai Mandalam (region) from Pallavas. Gangas were under his control. He also captured Kongu country. He maintained good relationship with Tanu Ravi, the Chera king. Parantaga Chola and Kannara Deva are his sons.

He was a great devotee. He built a lot of Shiva temples across Tamil Nadu. It is said that he built totally 64 Shiva temples across the banks of river Cauvery right from its origin till the site where it merges with the ocean.

He died in a place called Maanadu near Kalahasti. His son Parantaga built a temple called as Kodanda Rameswaran aka Aditeeswaram on his tomb.

It was during his period the Cholas started claiming themselves as the descendants of Sun. The inscriptions were made with the list of 15 kings before Vijayalaya Chola in Anbil. Tiruvalankadu inscription gives the list of 44 Chola kings. Kanyakumari inscription gives the list of 52 kings whereas Leidan inscription gives the list of 12 kings. The ancient Tamil literature books such as Kalingathu Barani and Ottakkootharin Ulakkal give different list of Chola kings. Not any two lists give similar names.