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.