Social, Economic and Religious Life of People under the Cholas | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

 Page 1


18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
Page 2


18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
Page 3


18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
20 21
During the Chola period Sati was commonly practiced among
the women of royal family . W omen were also appointed as officers in
the Chola Government. There were child marriages among the higher
castes. W omen who were talented in music and dance were attached
to the temples. They performed programmes during festival times. There
were also women slaves. Writings of Morcopolo and some inscriptions
speak about the position of women during the Chola period.
Sati was a social practice in ancient India In Sati,
wife entered into the funeral pyre of the dead husband.
Wife burnt herself and died along with her husband.
Economic condition:  The Chola rule witnessed the prosperity of trade
and commerce. Income through agriculture yield, land tax, trade tax
and other taxes were main revenue of the Government. King was the
owner of all public land. Special officers were appointed to look into
the income and expenditure of the state. Government money was spent
on public works, defence, justice, education, temples, irrigation, police,
king and his households, secretariat etc., The Chola kings issued gold,
silver and copper coins. Merchant guilds were functioning to take care
for the welfare of the merchants and commerce. The Chola economy
mainly depended on agriculture and trade. Agriculture was the main
occupation of the people. The ownership of the land had a high social
value. The landlords were members of the village administrative units.
Generally the economic condition of the people during the Chola period
was good.
Trade and commerce: The Chola rulers contributed more for the
development of cottage industries. Metal images and utensils were made
in gold, silver, bronze, copper, brass etc.,  The art of jewellery was
famous. Gold and pearl were used in making jewels and ornaments.
Kanchipuram was an important centre of textile industry . The weavers
of Kanchipuram were recognised by the king and they had the previlage
of making royal robes to the king Uthama Chola. Salt pans of
Marakanam, Kanyakumari were commercially famous.
Foreign T rade: According to informations given by writers like Ibin
Batuta and Morcobolo, the Cholas had trade relationship with China
and other South East Asian countries. Elephants, cardamom, cotton,
textile were exported. Arabian horses were imported. Mahabalipuram,
Kavirippumpattinam, and Korkai were Chola ports which were useful
for foreign trade. The liberal taxation policies of King Kulothunga I
encouraged both internal and foreign trade.  Internal and foreign trade
led to the economic, cultural and religious developments in Chola territory .
Religious condition:
Chola kings were saivites.
They worshiped Lord
Siva. They built many Siva
temples. Parantaka – I,
Rajaraja–I, Rajendra–I
King Gandraditya and his
queen Sembiyan madevi
contributed more for the
development of Saivism
and Bakthi literature.
Parantaka – I covered the
Siva temple with gold at
Chidambaram. King
Page 4


18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
20 21
During the Chola period Sati was commonly practiced among
the women of royal family . W omen were also appointed as officers in
the Chola Government. There were child marriages among the higher
castes. W omen who were talented in music and dance were attached
to the temples. They performed programmes during festival times. There
were also women slaves. Writings of Morcopolo and some inscriptions
speak about the position of women during the Chola period.
Sati was a social practice in ancient India In Sati,
wife entered into the funeral pyre of the dead husband.
Wife burnt herself and died along with her husband.
Economic condition:  The Chola rule witnessed the prosperity of trade
and commerce. Income through agriculture yield, land tax, trade tax
and other taxes were main revenue of the Government. King was the
owner of all public land. Special officers were appointed to look into
the income and expenditure of the state. Government money was spent
on public works, defence, justice, education, temples, irrigation, police,
king and his households, secretariat etc., The Chola kings issued gold,
silver and copper coins. Merchant guilds were functioning to take care
for the welfare of the merchants and commerce. The Chola economy
mainly depended on agriculture and trade. Agriculture was the main
occupation of the people. The ownership of the land had a high social
value. The landlords were members of the village administrative units.
Generally the economic condition of the people during the Chola period
was good.
Trade and commerce: The Chola rulers contributed more for the
development of cottage industries. Metal images and utensils were made
in gold, silver, bronze, copper, brass etc.,  The art of jewellery was
famous. Gold and pearl were used in making jewels and ornaments.
Kanchipuram was an important centre of textile industry . The weavers
of Kanchipuram were recognised by the king and they had the previlage
of making royal robes to the king Uthama Chola. Salt pans of
Marakanam, Kanyakumari were commercially famous.
Foreign T rade: According to informations given by writers like Ibin
Batuta and Morcobolo, the Cholas had trade relationship with China
and other South East Asian countries. Elephants, cardamom, cotton,
textile were exported. Arabian horses were imported. Mahabalipuram,
Kavirippumpattinam, and Korkai were Chola ports which were useful
for foreign trade. The liberal taxation policies of King Kulothunga I
encouraged both internal and foreign trade.  Internal and foreign trade
led to the economic, cultural and religious developments in Chola territory .
Religious condition:
Chola kings were saivites.
They worshiped Lord
Siva. They built many Siva
temples. Parantaka – I,
Rajaraja–I, Rajendra–I
King Gandraditya and his
queen Sembiyan madevi
contributed more for the
development of Saivism
and Bakthi literature.
Parantaka – I covered the
Siva temple with gold at
Chidambaram. King
20 21
During the Chola period Sati was commonly practiced among
the women of royal family . W omen were also appointed as officers in
the Chola Government. There were child marriages among the higher
castes. W omen who were talented in music and dance were attached
to the temples. They performed programmes during festival times. There
were also women slaves. Writings of Morcopolo and some inscriptions
speak about the position of women during the Chola period.
Sati was a social practice in ancient India In Sati,
wife entered into the funeral pyre of the dead husband.
Wife burnt herself and died along with her husband.
Economic condition:  The Chola rule witnessed the prosperity of trade
and commerce. Income through agriculture yield, land tax, trade tax
and other taxes were main revenue of the Government. King was the
owner of all public land. Special officers were appointed to look into
the income and expenditure of the state. Government money was spent
on public works, defence, justice, education, temples, irrigation, police,
king and his households, secretariat etc., The Chola kings issued gold,
silver and copper coins. Merchant guilds were functioning to take care
for the welfare of the merchants and commerce. The Chola economy
mainly depended on agriculture and trade. Agriculture was the main
occupation of the people. The ownership of the land had a high social
value. The landlords were members of the village administrative units.
Generally the economic condition of the people during the Chola period
was good.
Trade and commerce: The Chola rulers contributed more for the
development of cottage industries. Metal images and utensils were made
in gold, silver, bronze, copper, brass etc.,  The art of jewellery was
famous. Gold and pearl were used in making jewels and ornaments.
Kanchipuram was an important centre of textile industry . The weavers
of Kanchipuram were recognised by the king and they had the previlage
of making royal robes to the king Uthama Chola. Salt pans of
Marakanam, Kanyakumari were commercially famous.
Foreign T rade: According to informations given by writers like Ibin
Batuta and Morcobolo, the Cholas had trade relationship with China
and other South East Asian countries. Elephants, cardamom, cotton,
textile were exported. Arabian horses were imported. Mahabalipuram,
Kavirippumpattinam, and Korkai were Chola ports which were useful
for foreign trade. The liberal taxation policies of King Kulothunga I
encouraged both internal and foreign trade.  Internal and foreign trade
led to the economic, cultural and religious developments in Chola territory .
Religious condition:
Chola kings were saivites.
They worshiped Lord
Siva. They built many Siva
temples. Parantaka – I,
Rajaraja–I, Rajendra–I
King Gandraditya and his
queen Sembiyan madevi
contributed more for the
development of Saivism
and Bakthi literature.
Parantaka – I covered the
Siva temple with gold at
Chidambaram. King
Page 5


18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
18 19
UNIT - I
The Chola rule witnessed a large scale development in all spheres
of life. Writings of historians, inscriptions, temples, literature and
monuments speak much about the social, economic and religious life of
the people during the Chola period. Professor K.A.Neelakanda Sastri
writes about socio economic and religious life of the people of the Chola
period. Economic prosperity , the benevolent attitude and religious faiths
of the Chola kings were the main factors which contributed more for
these developments.
Social Condition:  The Chola society was peaceful one. There were
different sections in society. At the same time, the society was based as
“V arnasrama”. According to the V arnasrama, society was divided into
four major divisions namely Brahmins, Kshatriyas, V aisyas and Sudras.
The poor and unprivileged people lived in slums. Bonded labourers
were also there. Professionals like carpenters, weavers, blacksmiths,
masons, goldsmiths also lived there. Slavery also existed. There were
several grades among the slaves. The details about the sale of slaves
are recorded in the inscriptions. Greater social freedom prevailed among
the upper classes.
Valangai and Idankai groups: V alankai and Idankai caste groups
were also there. 98 castes formed part of V alangai (right hand) group
and there were 98 castes in the Idangai (left hand) group. There were
disputes among these groups. A story had been told about the origin of
the division of these two groups. A small summary of the story is given
here. When the sangam Chola King Karikala enquired these disputes,
the group which stood on the right hand side of the King was called
V alankai group. The group that stood on the left hand side of the King
was known as Idangai group. Valangai group had enjoyed more
concessions from the Government and privileges in the society . They
had the privilege of using palanquins, umbrellas and cheppals. W omen
of V alangai group rounded the upper cloth across the right shoulder.
The Idangai group was considered socially inferior. They did not enjoy
any rights. They paid heavy taxes. Inspite of these social divisions there
was social harmony .
Education: Chola Kings gave importance for the development of
education. There were V eda padasalas, Buddha viharas and Jain pallis.
During the reign of Rajendra I, two colleges were there at
Rajarajachaturvedi Mangalam and Tribhuvanam. The mutt of
Thiruvavaduturai had run a school of medicine. Thirumukkudal temple
was utilised for running a college and hospital. Apart from the medical
and religious education, general education was also imparted.
Scholarships were given to students.
Status of Women:  W omen were given high status and freedom in the
Chola society . Chastity and modesty were considered important. The
women of upper classes enjoyed the right to property. Some queens
were associated with the administration of the kingdom. Queens gave
liberal donations to temples. Queen Sembian Mahadevi and Kundavai
were patrons of temples. Monogamy was prevalent in society. Less
skilled jobs were given to female labourers.
20 21
During the Chola period Sati was commonly practiced among
the women of royal family . W omen were also appointed as officers in
the Chola Government. There were child marriages among the higher
castes. W omen who were talented in music and dance were attached
to the temples. They performed programmes during festival times. There
were also women slaves. Writings of Morcopolo and some inscriptions
speak about the position of women during the Chola period.
Sati was a social practice in ancient India In Sati,
wife entered into the funeral pyre of the dead husband.
Wife burnt herself and died along with her husband.
Economic condition:  The Chola rule witnessed the prosperity of trade
and commerce. Income through agriculture yield, land tax, trade tax
and other taxes were main revenue of the Government. King was the
owner of all public land. Special officers were appointed to look into
the income and expenditure of the state. Government money was spent
on public works, defence, justice, education, temples, irrigation, police,
king and his households, secretariat etc., The Chola kings issued gold,
silver and copper coins. Merchant guilds were functioning to take care
for the welfare of the merchants and commerce. The Chola economy
mainly depended on agriculture and trade. Agriculture was the main
occupation of the people. The ownership of the land had a high social
value. The landlords were members of the village administrative units.
Generally the economic condition of the people during the Chola period
was good.
Trade and commerce: The Chola rulers contributed more for the
development of cottage industries. Metal images and utensils were made
in gold, silver, bronze, copper, brass etc.,  The art of jewellery was
famous. Gold and pearl were used in making jewels and ornaments.
Kanchipuram was an important centre of textile industry . The weavers
of Kanchipuram were recognised by the king and they had the previlage
of making royal robes to the king Uthama Chola. Salt pans of
Marakanam, Kanyakumari were commercially famous.
Foreign T rade: According to informations given by writers like Ibin
Batuta and Morcobolo, the Cholas had trade relationship with China
and other South East Asian countries. Elephants, cardamom, cotton,
textile were exported. Arabian horses were imported. Mahabalipuram,
Kavirippumpattinam, and Korkai were Chola ports which were useful
for foreign trade. The liberal taxation policies of King Kulothunga I
encouraged both internal and foreign trade.  Internal and foreign trade
led to the economic, cultural and religious developments in Chola territory .
Religious condition:
Chola kings were saivites.
They worshiped Lord
Siva. They built many Siva
temples. Parantaka – I,
Rajaraja–I, Rajendra–I
King Gandraditya and his
queen Sembiyan madevi
contributed more for the
development of Saivism
and Bakthi literature.
Parantaka – I covered the
Siva temple with gold at
Chidambaram. King
20 21
During the Chola period Sati was commonly practiced among
the women of royal family . W omen were also appointed as officers in
the Chola Government. There were child marriages among the higher
castes. W omen who were talented in music and dance were attached
to the temples. They performed programmes during festival times. There
were also women slaves. Writings of Morcopolo and some inscriptions
speak about the position of women during the Chola period.
Sati was a social practice in ancient India In Sati,
wife entered into the funeral pyre of the dead husband.
Wife burnt herself and died along with her husband.
Economic condition:  The Chola rule witnessed the prosperity of trade
and commerce. Income through agriculture yield, land tax, trade tax
and other taxes were main revenue of the Government. King was the
owner of all public land. Special officers were appointed to look into
the income and expenditure of the state. Government money was spent
on public works, defence, justice, education, temples, irrigation, police,
king and his households, secretariat etc., The Chola kings issued gold,
silver and copper coins. Merchant guilds were functioning to take care
for the welfare of the merchants and commerce. The Chola economy
mainly depended on agriculture and trade. Agriculture was the main
occupation of the people. The ownership of the land had a high social
value. The landlords were members of the village administrative units.
Generally the economic condition of the people during the Chola period
was good.
Trade and commerce: The Chola rulers contributed more for the
development of cottage industries. Metal images and utensils were made
in gold, silver, bronze, copper, brass etc.,  The art of jewellery was
famous. Gold and pearl were used in making jewels and ornaments.
Kanchipuram was an important centre of textile industry . The weavers
of Kanchipuram were recognised by the king and they had the previlage
of making royal robes to the king Uthama Chola. Salt pans of
Marakanam, Kanyakumari were commercially famous.
Foreign T rade: According to informations given by writers like Ibin
Batuta and Morcobolo, the Cholas had trade relationship with China
and other South East Asian countries. Elephants, cardamom, cotton,
textile were exported. Arabian horses were imported. Mahabalipuram,
Kavirippumpattinam, and Korkai were Chola ports which were useful
for foreign trade. The liberal taxation policies of King Kulothunga I
encouraged both internal and foreign trade.  Internal and foreign trade
led to the economic, cultural and religious developments in Chola territory .
Religious condition:
Chola kings were saivites.
They worshiped Lord
Siva. They built many Siva
temples. Parantaka – I,
Rajaraja–I, Rajendra–I
King Gandraditya and his
queen Sembiyan madevi
contributed more for the
development of Saivism
and Bakthi literature.
Parantaka – I covered the
Siva temple with gold at
Chidambaram. King
22
Rajaraja-I built Brahadeeswarar temple (big temple) at Tanjore.
Rajendra-I constructed Siva temple at Polonaaruva in Ceylon and
Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Lands, Jewels and vessels were donated
to these temples.
Chola Kings were tolerant towards other religions. Vishnu
worship was also there. Chola rulers supported the spread of
V aishnavisim. Saint Ramanujar was the contemporary of Chola Kings.
Thiruvalangadu copper plates, Karanthai plates and Anbil plates talk
about the religious conditions of the Chola period. Masimaham,
Mahamaham, Karthigai, Thaipusam, Sivarathri, Chithiraivizha,
Aipasivizha, were important festivals celebrated during the Chola period.
Tanjore, Kumbakonam, A vudaiyarkoil, Kalahasti, Tirukadaiyur and
Kanchipuram were important temple cities. Bakthi songs were sung in
all temples. Some people followed Buddhism and Jainism.
Temples acted as
centres of learning also.
Temples helped the
development of painting
dance and music. Nambi
Andar Nambi compiled the
hymns of Saiva saints-
Nathamunigal compiled the
hymns of V aishnava saints.
Scenes of Periyapuranam,
portraits of Lord Siva were
themes of the paintings on
the walls of temples.
Bharatha natyam and
Kathakali dances were
performed in temples at the
time of festival times.
The economic prosperity and religious contributions increased
the standard of life and values of the Chola society . By building many
temples and mutts, the Chola kings contributed for the development of
culture, art and architecture. The royal patronage increased the influence
of Hinduism more. The temples and festivals of the Chola period will
ever speak about the glory of the Cholas.