Importance of Temples during Chola's Reign
Temples in South India played a crucial role during the Chola dynasty's reign. They were not just religious centers but also served as hubs of economic, social, and cultural activities. Below are some key points highlighting the importance of temples during the Chola period:

Economic Hub
- Temples were significant economic centers as they received generous donations from the rulers, nobles, and common people.
- The temples accumulated vast wealth in the form of land, gold, jewels, and other valuable items.
- They also acted as centers of trade and commerce, attracting merchants and artisans who set up shops in the temple precincts.

Social Center
- Temples played a vital role in promoting social cohesion by organizing festivals, rituals, and other religious activities that brought people together.
- They also provided a platform for education and learning, with scholars and teachers imparting knowledge to the community.

Cultural Hub
- Temples were important centers for the promotion of art, music, dance, and literature.
- They served as patrons of the arts, encouraging artists and craftsmen to create magnificent sculptures, paintings, and architectural marvels.

Political Significance
- The Chola rulers used temples as symbols of their power and authority, with many temples being built or renovated under their patronage.
- Temples also served as administrative centers, with inscriptions detailing land grants, taxes, and other legal matters.
In conclusion, temples played a multifaceted role during the Chola dynasty's reign, acting as economic, social, cultural, and political hubs that shaped the society and civilization of South India during that period.

Temples were the nuclei of settlement during this period. devar the central of craft production and also control the financial aspects related to them.