**Rulers Who Tried to Control the Coast: Traders, Kings, and Pilgrims: Overview**

The coastal regions have always been significant in terms of trade, cultural exchanges, and strategic advantages. Throughout history, several rulers and empires have sought to control these coastal areas for various reasons. Here is an overview of some of the notable rulers who attempted to assert their authority over the coast:

**1. Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt:**
The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, particularly during the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BCE), aimed to control the coastal regions of the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. They established ports and trading centers along the coast to facilitate trade with foreign lands, acquire valuable resources, and expand their influence.

**2. Persian Empire:**
The Persian Empire, under the rule of Darius I (522-486 BCE), embarked on various campaigns to control coastal regions. The Persian kings sought to establish naval bases and control trade routes along the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. This control over the coasts allowed them to dominate maritime trade and expand their empire.

**3. Roman Empire:**
The Roman Empire, during its peak from the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE, exerted significant control over coastal regions. The Romans established numerous ports and trading centers throughout the Mediterranean Sea, allowing them to control maritime trade routes and strengthen their economy.

**4. Arab Muslim Empires:**
Following the rise of Islam in the 7th century CE, Arab Muslim empires like the Umayyad Caliphate and Abbasid Caliphate sought to control coastal areas. They established trade networks along the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Persian Gulf coasts, promoting cultural exchanges and facilitating the spread of Islam.

**5. European Colonial Powers:**
During the Age of Exploration, European colonial powers such as Portugal, Spain, France, and England sought to control coastal regions around the world. These powers established colonies, forts, and trading posts along the coasts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, enabling them to exploit resources, establish trade monopolies, and extend their dominance.

**6. Modern Nation-States:**
In the modern era, nation-states continue to assert their control over coastal areas. Governments implement maritime policies, establish naval forces, and engage in territorial disputes to safeguard their coastal territories, protect their economic interests, and maintain national security.

In conclusion, throughout history, various rulers and empires, including the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, Persian Empire, Roman Empire, Arab Muslim Empires, European colonial powers, and modern nation-states, have sought to control coastal regions for trade, strategic advantages, and territorial expansion. These rulers recognized the importance of coastal areas in terms of economic prosperity, cultural exchanges, and geopolitical influence.

Answer: The Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas were controlled the coasts.