All questions of South India and The Cholas (800-1200 A.D.) for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Executive Committee of Sabha

The executive committee of Sabha was called variyam. Sabha was a type of assembly in ancient India which was used for various purposes such as religious, social, and political gatherings. The Sabha was headed by the president and the executive committee was responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the Sabha.

Function of Variyam

The variyam was an important part of the executive committee of the Sabha. It was responsible for the following functions:

1. Administration: The variyam was responsible for the administration of the Sabha. It managed the finances, maintained the records, and ensured that the decisions taken by the Sabha were implemented.

2. Coordination: The variyam coordinated with other committees of the Sabha to ensure that the various activities of the Sabha were carried out smoothly.

3. Communication: The variyam was responsible for communicating the decisions taken by the Sabha to the members and the public.

4. Representation: The variyam represented the Sabha in various forums and ensured that the interests of the Sabha were protected.

Significance of Sabha

The Sabha played an important role in ancient India. It was a platform for people to come together and discuss various issues. The Sabha was used for various purposes such as settling disputes, making important decisions, and promoting social and cultural activities. The Sabha was also used for political purposes and played a key role in the governance of the kingdom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the executive committee of the Sabha was called variyam. The variyam was responsible for the administration, coordination, communication, and representation of the Sabha. The Sabha played an important role in ancient India and was used for various purposes such as religious, social, and political gatherings.

He introduced the tradition of beginning the chola epigraphs with historical introduction

The wages of a laborer.

The Uttarmerur inscription is an important source of knowledge for understanding the functioning of village assemblies during the medieval period in South India. The inscription was discovered in a temple in Uttarmerur, a village in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. It is believed to date back to the 10th century CE and provides valuable insights into the administrative and social systems of that era.

Functioning of the Sabha
The inscription gives details of the functioning of the village assembly or Sabha. The Sabha was a democratically elected body that was responsible for the governance of the village. The inscription describes the election process, qualifications for membership, and the functions of the Sabha.

The Sabha was composed of 30 members who were elected by the people of the village. The election process was conducted by a committee of five people who were also elected by the villagers. The members of the Sabha had to be over 35 years of age, married, and have a good reputation in the village.

The Sabha had several functions such as the maintenance of law and order, collection of taxes, and the resolution of disputes. The inscription provides details of the fines that were imposed for various offenses such as theft, adultery, and defamation. It also mentions the penalties for non-payment of taxes.

The Sabha had a judicial function as well. It had the power to hear and resolve disputes between villagers and to impose penalties on those found guilty. The Sabha also had the power to expel members who were found guilty of violating its rules.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Uttarmerur inscription provides valuable insights into the functioning of village assemblies during the medieval period in South India. It shows that the Sabha was a democratically elected body that was responsible for the governance of the village. The Sabha had several functions such as the maintenance of law and order, collection of taxes, and the resolution of disputes. The inscription is an important historical document that sheds light on the administrative and social systems of that era.

The village assemblies under the Cholas did not have the power to refuse to pay land revenue to the central government.

Under the Chola dynasty, the village assemblies, also known as Sabhas or Urar, enjoyed a significant amount of autonomy and had various privileges and powers. These assemblies were responsible for the local governance and administration of their respective villages. They played a crucial role in the socio-economic and political life of the Chola society.

Powers enjoyed by the village assemblies under the Cholas:

1. Punishment: The village assemblies had the power to punish guilty individuals. They could hold trials and mete out punishments for crimes committed within their jurisdiction. This helped maintain law and order at the local level.

2. Taxation: The village assemblies could levy taxes on the villagers to meet local needs. They had the authority to collect and utilize these taxes for the welfare and development of the village. This power enabled the assemblies to address the specific requirements of their communities.

3. Appointment of executive officers: The village assemblies had the power to appoint their own executive officers. These officers, known as Talaikkarar or Kudavolaiyars, were responsible for implementing the decisions of the assembly and overseeing various administrative functions. The assemblies had the authority to select individuals who they believed were capable of effectively carrying out these responsibilities.

Power not enjoyed by the village assemblies under the Cholas:

4. Refusal to pay land revenue: The village assemblies did not have the power to refuse to pay land revenue to the central government. The Chola administration collected land revenue as a form of taxation from the villages to maintain the functioning of the central government and support various public works and infrastructure projects. The village assemblies were expected to contribute their share of land revenue, and failure to do so would have resulted in punitive measures by the central authority.

In conclusion, while the village assemblies under the Cholas enjoyed a great amount of autonomy and various privileges, they did not have the power to refuse to pay land revenue to the central government. This was an essential aspect of the administrative structure in the Chola empire, ensuring the financial stability and smooth functioning of the central administration.

B)Cultivators were organized into guilds called urar or nattar.

The statement "Cultivators were organized into guilds called urar or nattar" is the most revealing as it highlights the social and economic organization of the agricultural sector during the Chola period. It suggests that cultivators had a collective identity and worked together to protect their interests, indicating a level of social cohesion and organization. Additionally, the guilds likely played a role in regulating agricultural activities and resolving disputes, demonstrating a certain level of governance within the community.

Chola Empire and its Bureaucracy

The Chola Empire was a prominent South Indian dynasty that flourished between the 9th and 13th centuries CE. The Cholas established a well-organized bureaucracy to govern their vast empire. The Chola bureaucracy was hierarchical, with different grades of officers responsible for various administrative functions.

Highest Grade of Officers in Chola Bureaucracy

The highest grade of officers in the Chola bureaucracy was called "Perundram." It is the correct answer to the given question. Let's explore the different grades of officers in the Chola administrative system to understand their roles and responsibilities:

1. Sirutaram:
- Sirutaram refers to the lowest grade of officers in the Chola bureaucracy.
- They were responsible for carrying out routine administrative tasks at the local level.
- Sirutaram officers were in charge of maintaining law and order, tax collection, and resolving minor disputes within their assigned jurisdictions.

2. Marayam:
- Marayam officers held a higher rank than Sirutaram officers.
- They were responsible for managing revenue administration and land records.
- Marayam officers assessed and collected taxes, monitored agricultural production, and maintained land records.

3. Marosi:
- Marosi was the middle-grade officer in the Chola administrative hierarchy.
- They were responsible for overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the villages and towns under their jurisdiction.
- Marosi officers supervised the implementation of government policies, maintained law and order, and resolved disputes.

4. Perundram:
- Perundram officers held the highest rank in the Chola bureaucracy.
- They served as the chief administrative officers in the empire.
- Perundram officers were responsible for the overall governance of larger regions or provinces.
- They supervised the lower-ranking officers, ensured efficient administration, and reported directly to the king.

Conclusion

In the Chola bureaucracy, the highest grade of officers was known as Perundram. These officers held significant responsibilities and oversaw the governance of larger regions or provinces within the empire. Understanding the hierarchical structure of the Chola bureaucracy helps us appreciate the complexity and efficiency of their administrative system.

Subject Matter of the work "Kulottungen-Kaveri"

Introduction:
The work "Kulottungen-Kaveri" is a Tamil literary work that provides a graphic account of the foreign merchants who visited Tamil land under the Cholas. It is a valuable historical source that offers insights into the trade and cultural exchanges that took place during the Chola dynasty.

Importance of "Kulottungen-Kaveri":
"Kulottungen-Kaveri" holds significant historical and cultural importance as it sheds light on the interactions between the Cholas and foreign merchants. It provides valuable information about the economic and cultural exchanges that occurred during the Chola period.

Content:
The work primarily focuses on the foreign merchants who visited the Tamil land under the rule of the Cholas. It describes their experiences, interactions with the local people, and the impact of their trade on the society and economy of the region. The content of "Kulottungen-Kaveri" can be categorized into several key aspects:

1. Description of Foreign Merchants:
- The work provides vivid descriptions of the foreign merchants who visited Tamil land.
- It highlights their customs, traditions, and the goods they traded.
- It also presents their interactions with the local people, including the Chola rulers.

2. Trade and Commerce:
- "Kulottungen-Kaveri" offers valuable insights into the economic activities that took place during the Chola period.
- It describes the nature of trade, the goods that were traded, and the routes followed by the merchants.
- The work also provides information about the impact of trade on the local economy and society.

3. Cultural Exchanges:
- The work explores the cultural exchanges that occurred between the Cholas and the foreign merchants.
- It discusses the influence of foreign cultures on the local traditions and practices.
- It also highlights the adoption of new ideas, technologies, and customs by the Cholas.

4. Historical Context:
- "Kulottungen-Kaveri" provides historical context by mentioning the Chola dynasty and its rulers.
- It references the reign of Kulottunga, a famous Chola king, but it is not primarily a biography of him.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the subject matter of the work "Kulottungen-Kaveri" is a graphic account of the foreign merchants who visited Tamil land under the Cholas. It offers valuable insights into trade, commerce, cultural exchanges, and the historical context of the Chola dynasty. This work is an essential source for understanding the economic, social, and cultural dynamics of the Chola period.

B

Introduction:
The Battle of Takkolam was a significant military confrontation between the Chola dynasty and the Rashtrakuta dynasty that took place in the 10th century. The outcome of this battle had far-reaching consequences for the political landscape of South India during that time.

Background:
During the 9th and 10th centuries, the Chola dynasty, under the leadership of various rulers, expanded its territory and established its dominance over a large part of South India. However, they faced stiff competition from other powerful dynasties, including the Rashtrakutas.

Key Rulers:
- Aditya I: Aditya I was the founder of the Chola dynasty. He laid the foundation for Chola power and initiated the process of territorial expansion.
- Kulottunga I: Kulottunga I was one of the most illustrious rulers of the Chola dynasty. He is known for his military campaigns and successful administration.
- Rajendra Chola I: Rajendra Chola I, the son of Rajaraja Chola, was a renowned military strategist. He expanded the Chola empire to its zenith.
- Parantaka I: Parantaka I was a powerful Chola ruler who ascended the throne in the 10th century. He continued the expansionist policies of his predecessors.

The Battle of Takkolam:
The Battle of Takkolam took place in 949 CE between Parantaka I of the Chola dynasty and Krishna III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. The exact circumstances leading to the battle are not well-documented. However, it is believed that the Rashtrakutas, who were vying for supremacy in the region, invaded the Chola territory and engaged in a military confrontation.

Outcome:
In the Battle of Takkolam, Krishna III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty emerged victorious over Parantaka I of the Chola dynasty. This defeat had a significant impact on the Chola dynasty's hold over the region. It marked a decline in Chola power and allowed the Rashtrakutas to assert their dominance in the political landscape of South India.

Conclusion:
The Battle of Takkolam was a crucial event in South Indian history. It witnessed the defeat of Parantaka I, a powerful Chola ruler, by Krishna III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. This outcome altered the power dynamics in the region and led to a decline in Chola influence.

Share in the Produce of the Land during the Time of Rajaraja

Introduction:
Rajaraja Chola was a famous king of the Chola dynasty who ruled from 985 CE to 1014 CE. He is known for his significant contributions to the fields of art, literature, and architecture. He was also known for his administrative reforms, including the share in the produce of the land.

Share in the Produce of the Land:
During the time of Rajaraja, the share in the produce of the land was fixed at one-third. This means that the cultivator had to give one-third of the total produce to the state as revenue. The remaining two-thirds were kept by the cultivator for his own use.

Reasons for One-Third Share:
There were several reasons why the share in the produce of the land was fixed at one-third during the time of Rajaraja. Some of the reasons are as follows:

1. To ensure a regular income for the state:
By fixing the share at one-third, the state could ensure a regular income from the land. This income was used to pay for the expenses of the state, including the salaries of the officials and the maintenance of the army.

2. To encourage agricultural production:
The share in the produce of the land was not fixed at a very high rate, which encouraged the cultivators to produce more. This, in turn, led to an increase in agricultural production and the availability of food.

3. To prevent exploitation of the cultivators:
If the share in the produce of the land was fixed at a very high rate, then the cultivators would have been exploited. They would have had very little incentive to produce more and would have been forced to give most of their produce to the state.

Conclusion:
The share in the produce of the land was fixed at one-third during the time of Rajaraja. This was a reasonable rate that ensured a regular income for the state, encouraged agricultural production, and prevented the exploitation of the cultivators.

The correct answer is option 'D' - All of the above. Rajaraja Chola I, also known as Rajaraja the Great, was one of the most notable rulers of the Chola dynasty in South India. He reigned from 985 to 1014 CE and made significant political contributions during his rule.

Conquest of Sri Lanka:
One of the major political contributions of Rajaraja was the conquest of Sri Lanka. Rajaraja embarked on a military campaign to conquer the island nation and succeeded in annexing it to the Chola Empire. This conquest led to a long drawn struggle between the Cholas and the Sinhalese, the native people of Sri Lanka. The Cholas established their authority over the island and exerted their political influence.

Spread of Tamil Culture:
The conquest of the northern part of Sri Lanka by Rajaraja also resulted in the spread of Tamil culture in that region. The Cholas were predominantly Tamil-speaking, and their rule brought the Tamil language, customs, and traditions to Sri Lanka. Tamil became one of the official languages of administration, and the influence of Tamil culture expanded in the conquered territories.

Vassal State of Chalukyas of Vengi:
Another political contribution of Rajaraja was the subjugation of the kingdom of the Chalukyas of Vengi. The Chalukyas, who were powerful rulers in the Deccan region, became a vassal or dependent state of the Cholas under Rajaraja's rule. This political arrangement allowed the Cholas to extend their influence further into the Deccan and establish their authority over the Chalukya territories.

Overall, Rajaraja's political contributions included the conquest of Sri Lanka, the spread of Tamil culture in the conquered territories, and the establishment of the Chalukyas of Vengi as a vassal state. These contributions expanded the Chola Empire's political influence and solidified Rajaraja's status as one of the greatest rulers in South Indian history.

The Chola Empire

The Chola Empire was one of the most powerful and influential dynasties in the southern part of India. It existed from the 9th century to the 13th century and made significant contributions to art, architecture, literature, and administration.

Structure of the Chola Empire

The Chola Empire had a well-organized administrative system. Let's examine the given options and identify the one that is not correct.

a) It was divided into provinces and governors were princes of royal blood.

This statement is correct. The Chola Empire was divided into several provinces, and the governors of these provinces were typically princes of royal blood. This allowed the Chola rulers to maintain control over different regions and ensure the loyalty of the governors.

b) The provinces, designated as the mandalam, were divided into divisions known as valanadu.

This statement is correct. The provinces of the Chola Empire were referred to as mandalam. Each mandalam was further divided into smaller divisions known as valanadu. This hierarchical division allowed for better administration and governance of the empire.

c) Groups of villages were known as kurrams, while the districts were known as nadus.

This statement is correct. In the Chola Empire, groups of villages were called kurrams, and the districts were known as nadus. The kurrams were led by local leaders who played a crucial role in the day-to-day administration of the villages, while the nadus were administered by district officials appointed by the Chola rulers.

d) There were no popular assemblies known as the sabha.

This statement is incorrect. The Chola Empire did have popular assemblies known as the sabha. These assemblies were representative bodies that played a significant role in the decision-making process. They consisted of members from various sections of society and were responsible for discussing and resolving important matters concerning governance, justice, and public welfare.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D'.

Explanation:

Assertion A: Rajendra assumed the title of Mummadi Chola.

Reason R: Rajendra's campaign in north India was to demonstrate the strength of the Cholas.

Option B is the correct answer - Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct reason for A.

Explanation:

Rajendra Chola was a famous ruler of the Chola dynasty who ruled from 1014 CE to 1044 CE. He was the son of Rajaraja Chola, who was also a great ruler of the Chola dynasty. Rajendra Chola is known for his conquests of various parts of India and Sri Lanka.

Assertion A is true - Rajendra assumed the title of Mummadi Chola. Mummadi Chola means "the Chola who wore three crowns." The three crowns refer to the three regions of South India, North India, and Sri Lanka, which were conquered by Rajendra Chola.

Reason R is also true - Rajendra's campaign in north India was to demonstrate the strength of the Cholas. Rajendra Chola's campaign in north India was a part of his overall strategy to expand the Chola empire and demonstrate their military strength. He conquered many regions in north India, including the Ganga-Yamuna doab, Bihar, and Bengal. He also defeated the powerful Pala dynasty and the Eastern Chalukya dynasty.

However, Reason R is not the correct reason for Assertion A. Rajendra assumed the title of Mummadi Chola to signify his conquest of the three regions of South India, North India, and Sri Lanka. The conquest of North India was just one part of his overall strategy, and it was not the main reason why he assumed the title of Mummadi Chola.

In conclusion, Option B is the correct answer - Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct reason for A.

Assertion A: The actual collection of the taxes in Chola villages was the concern of the ur or the sabha.
Reason R: The feudatories or Chola officials were not allowed to collect the taxes directly from the tax-payer, thus eliminating any chances of his oppression by the above-mentioned functionaries.

Explanation:
The Chola dynasty, which ruled a significant part of South India from the 9th to the 13th centuries, had a well-organized system for tax collection in their villages. The assertion states that the actual collection of taxes in Chola villages was the concern of the ur or the sabha, which was the local assembly or council.

Reason R provides an explanation for this assertion. It states that the feudatories or Chola officials were not allowed to collect taxes directly from the tax-payer. This measure was taken to eliminate any chances of oppression or exploitation by these functionaries.

Let's analyze the assertion and reason individually:

Assertion A: The actual collection of the taxes in Chola villages was the concern of the ur or the sabha.

The Chola administration had a decentralized system of governance where local assemblies called ur or sabha played a crucial role. These assemblies were responsible for various local matters, including tax collection. The assertion is true as the ur or sabha had the authority to collect taxes in Chola villages.

Reason R: The feudatories or Chola officials were not allowed to collect the taxes directly from the tax-payer, thus eliminating any chances of his oppression by the above-mentioned functionaries.

The reason explains why the ur or sabha was responsible for tax collection. It states that the Chola officials, known as feudatories, were prohibited from directly collecting taxes from the tax-payers. This measure was put in place to prevent any potential oppression or exploitation by the officials.

Conclusion:

Both the assertion and the reason are true. The assertion correctly states that the actual collection of taxes in Chola villages was the responsibility of the ur or sabha. The reason provides an explanation for this by stating that the Chola officials were not allowed to directly collect taxes to prevent any oppression. However, the reason alone does not provide a complete or direct explanation for the assertion. It is a contributing factor, but not the sole reason for the ur or sabha being responsible for tax collection.

Hence, the correct answer is Option B: If both A and R are true but R is not the correct reason for A.

Assertion A: The position of the Chola feudatories remained sub-servient to the Chola kings unlike the feudatories of the Rashtrakutas.

The assertion states that the position of the Chola feudatories was subservient to the Chola kings, unlike the feudatories of the Rashtrakutas.

Reason R: The Chola villages enjoyed autonomy and the feudatories simply passed the king's share of revenue.

The reason given is that the Chola villages enjoyed autonomy and the feudatories only passed the king's share of revenue.

The correct answer is option 'B': If both A and R are true but R is not the correct reason for A.

Explanation:

The Chola feudatories were local rulers who held authority over specific regions under the Chola dynasty. They were appointed by the Chola kings to govern these territories and collect revenue on their behalf. While the feudatories had a certain degree of autonomy in their administration, they were ultimately subordinate to the Chola kings.

Chola Feudatories:
- The Chola kings appointed feudatories to maintain control over their vast empire and ensure the smooth collection of revenue.
- The feudatories were responsible for governing their respective regions and collecting taxes from the villages under their control.
- However, the authority of the feudatories was limited, and they had to report to the Chola kings regularly.
- The feudatories were expected to pass on the king's share of revenue collected from the villages to the Chola kings.
- They were also required to contribute troops and resources to the Chola army during times of war.

Chola Villages Autonomy:
- The Chola villages enjoyed a certain level of autonomy in their local affairs.
- They had their own administrative systems and village councils known as "sabhas" that governed their internal matters.
- The village assemblies were responsible for maintaining law and order, resolving disputes, and managing local resources.
- However, the village administration was supervised by the feudatories who acted as representatives of the Chola kings.
- The feudatories had the power to intervene in village affairs if necessary and ensure compliance with the Chola administration.

Comparison with Rashtrakutas:
- In contrast to the Chola feudatories, the feudatories of the Rashtrakutas had a higher degree of independence and authority.
- The Rashtrakuta feudatories were often powerful and influential rulers in their own right.
- They controlled large territories and had their own armies, coinage, and administrative systems.
- The Rashtrakuta kings relied heavily on their feudatories for both revenue collection and military support.
- The feudatories of the Rashtrakutas enjoyed a greater level of autonomy and were not as directly controlled by the central authority.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the position of the Chola feudatories remained subservient to the Chola kings, and the autonomy enjoyed by the Chola villages was not the correct reason for this subordination. The Chola feudatories had limited authority and were accountable to the Chola kings, unlike the feudatories of the Rashtrakutas who had more independence and power.

The Chola dynasty was one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the history of southern India. Known for their military prowess and administrative skills, the Cholas expanded their kingdom through successful campaigns and conquests. One of the Chola kings who played a significant role in the expansion of the Chola empire was Karikala Chola.

1. Karikala Chola:
Karikala Chola was a legendary king of the early Chola dynasty who ruled during the Sangam period in ancient Tamil Nadu, around the 1st century CE. He is known for his military victories and his contributions to the development of irrigation and infrastructure projects.

2. Campaign in Ceylon:
During his reign, Karikala Chola is said to have launched a successful campaign in Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka). He defeated the ruler of Ceylon, known as Elara, and brought back 1200 prisoners from Ceylon to his kingdom.

3. Kaveri Irrigation Project:
Karikala Chola is also credited with initiating the Kaveri irrigation project. This project aimed to harness the waters of the Kaveri River and establish an extensive irrigation network to support agriculture in the Chola kingdom. To undertake this massive project, Karikala Chola employed the prisoners from Ceylon as laborers.

4. Employment of Ceylon Prisoners:
The employment of the Ceylon prisoners as laborers for the Kaveri irrigation project served multiple purposes. Firstly, it provided a workforce for the project, as the construction of canals, tanks, and dams required a large number of laborers. Secondly, it ensured the rehabilitation and integration of the prisoners into the Chola society.

5. Legacy of Karikala Chola:
Karikala Chola's reign is considered a golden period in the history of the Chola dynasty. His military victories and infrastructure projects contributed to the expansion and prosperity of the Chola empire. The Kaveri irrigation project, in particular, transformed the agricultural landscape of the region, enabling increased agricultural productivity and economic growth.

In conclusion, it was Karikala Chola who brought back 1200 Ceylon prisoners after his successful campaign in Ceylon and employed them as laborers for the Kaveri irrigation project. His contributions to military conquests and infrastructure development played a crucial role in the growth and prosperity of the Chola empire.

The correct answer is option D: The growth of Devaraja cult.

Explanation:
The Chola period, which lasted from the 9th to the 13th century, witnessed an important development in the institution of monarchy. During this time, the Chola kings adopted the Devaraja cult, which played a significant role in shaping the nature of their rule.

1. The Devaraja Cult:
- The Devaraja cult was a religious and political ideology that portrayed the king as a divine ruler, representing a fusion of religious and political authority.
- According to this cult, the king was considered the earthly representative of the gods and was believed to possess divine attributes.
- The king was seen as the central figure in the religious and social life of the kingdom, with his actions and decisions being closely associated with religious rituals and beliefs.

2. The King as the Manifestation of God:
- The growth of the Devaraja cult resulted in the king being seen as the manifestation of a particular deity, usually Shiva or Vishnu.
- This belief enhanced the king's authority and legitimacy, as he was regarded as being chosen by the gods to rule.
- The king's association with a specific deity also helped in establishing a connection between the royal court and the temples, leading to the development of a close relationship between the king and the priesthood.

3. Rituals and Ceremonies:
- The adoption of the Devaraja cult led to the introduction of various rituals and ceremonies that emphasized the king's divine status.
- Elaborate coronation ceremonies were conducted to legitimize the king's rule and reinforce his association with the gods.
- The king's role in religious festivals and processions further enhanced his image as a divine ruler.

4. Patronage of Temples and Religious Institutions:
- As a result of the growth of the Devaraja cult, the Chola kings became great patrons of temples and religious institutions.
- They contributed to the construction and renovation of numerous temples, which served as centers of religious and cultural life.
- The kings also made generous donations to priests, scholars, and artists, further strengthening their ties with the religious community.

In conclusion, the growth of the Devaraja cult during the Chola period had a profound impact on the institution of monarchy. It elevated the status of the king to that of a divine ruler and shaped the nature of his rule, emphasizing the close association between religion and politics.

Explanation:

Assertion A:
Vijayalaya, who was perhaps a Pallava feudatory, captured Tanjore in the middle of the 9th century and founded the Chola empire.

Reason R:
Chola empire was founded on the ruins of the Pallavas of Kanchi.

Explanation:
- Assertion A is true: Vijayalaya did capture Tanjore in the 9th century and established the Chola dynasty.
- Reason R is also true: The Chola empire did emerge from the remnants of the Pallava dynasty in Kanchi.
- However, R is not the correct reason for A: While the Chola empire did rise as the Pallava dynasty declined, the direct connection between Vijayalaya capturing Tanjore and the fall of the Pallavas of Kanchi is not explicitly stated as the cause-and-effect relationship.
Therefore, option B is the correct choice where both A and R are true, but R is not the correct reason for A. The Chola empire's foundation was influenced by various factors beyond just the decline of the Pallavas.

Understanding Rajendra Chola I
Rajendra Chola I was one of the most prominent rulers of the Chola dynasty in South India, known for his military conquests and administrative prowess. However, the statement regarding the conflict with the Chalukyas requires clarification.
Analysis of the Statements
- Statement A: Correct
Rajendra Chola I indeed utilized his naval fleet to conquer regions like Pegu (in present-day Myanmar) and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, showcasing his maritime prowess.
- Statement B: Correct
He successfully overran the territories of the Pala king, expanding his empire into Bengal and Bihar, which were significant achievements of his reign.
- Statement C: Correct
Rajendra Chola I commemorated his victories in the Gangetic delta by adopting the title 'Gangaikonda' and founded the city of Gangaikonda-Cholapuram, reflecting his triumphs.
- Statement D: Not Correct
The statement about the "crippling conflict" between the Chalukyas of Vengi and the Cholas beginning during Rajendra Chola I's reign is misleading. The conflict had already started earlier, particularly under his father, Rajaraja Chola I. Rajendra Chola I continued these hostilities, but the term "crippling conflict" implies a substantial escalation that was not solely initiated during his rule.
Conclusion
In summary, while Rajendra Chola I was a significant figure in the Chola dynasty known for various accomplishments, the assertion regarding the beginning of the conflict with the Chalukyas during his reign is incorrect, as it had roots in earlier periods.