Which of the following was a very important seaport of the ancient Ch...
Kaveripattinam, the chief port of the ancient Chola kingdom, was situated at the mouth of Kaveri river. It is today identified with Puhar, a town in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu.
Which of the following was a very important seaport of the ancient Ch...
Kaveripattinam, also known as Puhar, was a very important seaport of the ancient Chola kingdom. It was located on the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu, India.
1. Importance of Kaveripattinam:
- Kaveripattinam was strategically located at the mouth of the river Kaveri, which made it an ideal trading port for the Cholas. It facilitated trade and maritime activities with various regions.
- The port of Kaveripattinam was the main gateway for the Cholas to connect with other regional powers, such as the Roman Empire and Southeast Asian kingdoms.
- It served as a hub for trade in goods such as textiles, spices, pearls, and precious stones. The Cholas had a flourishing maritime trade network, and Kaveripattinam played a crucial role in facilitating this trade.
- The port also had a well-developed infrastructure, including warehouses, docks, and wharves, which further enhanced its importance as a trading center.
2. Historical significance:
- Kaveripattinam has a rich historical significance as it was the capital city of the early Chola dynasty. It was the center of political, economic, and cultural activities during that time.
- The city has been mentioned in various ancient Tamil texts, including the Sangam literature, which provides insights into the socio-economic conditions and trade practices of the Chola kingdom.
- The port of Kaveripattinam also served as a center for maritime exploration and conquests by the Cholas. They conducted naval expeditions to conquer neighboring regions and establish their dominance in the Indian Ocean trade.
3. Archaeological findings:
- Excavations carried out at Kaveripattinam have revealed the remains of a well-planned city with intricate drainage systems, streets, and residential areas. These findings provide valuable information about the urban planning and architecture of the ancient Chola period.
- The excavations have also unearthed artifacts such as pottery, coins, sculptures, and inscriptions, which offer insights into the material culture and trade networks of the Chola kingdom.
In conclusion, Kaveripattinam played a significant role as a seaport in the ancient Chola kingdom. It was a major center for trade, a hub for maritime activities, and the capital city of the early Chola dynasty. The port's strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and historical significance make it an important site of study for understanding the maritime history of South India.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.