At Historic Chola Capital, PM Modi Celebrates a Maritime Emperor’s Legacy
On July 27, 2025, the ancient town of Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district came alive with celebration and reverence, as people gathered to honour the legacy of one of India’s greatest emperors—Rajendra Chola I. The occasion marked the celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, commemorating the Chola king’s birth anniversary and a thousand years of an empire that shaped history through visionary leadership, naval supremacy, temple architecture, and cultural brilliance. The echoes of the Chola dynasty’s grandeur—once stretching from the banks of the Kaveri to Southeast Asia—continue to inspire awe, pride, and devotion even a millennium later.Celebrating a Maritime MonarchRajendra Chola I, son of the legendary Rajaraja Chola, is celebrated for expanding the Chola empire far beyond the Indian subcontinent through his remarkable naval expeditions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the celebrations, paying homage to the great Emperor.In honor of the king’s historic contributions to Indian maritime prowess, architecture, and spiritual culture, Prime Minister Modi released a commemorative coin during the ceremony. The coin stands as a lasting symbol of national recognition for a dynasty that once shaped large parts of Southeast Asia through trade, culture, and governance.A Temple, A LegacyThe celebrations were held at the grand Gangaikonda Cholisvaram temple. Built by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victorious northern campaign to the Ganges, this architectural marvel mirrors the iconic Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur, constructed by his father, Rajaraja Chola I.Now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the temple is a reflection of Chola brilliance in architecture, intricate sculpture, and profound spiritual symbolism. Rituals included Abhishekam to Lord Shiva (Choleeswarar) with sacred water from the Ganga—a powerful gesture connecting the emperor’s historic expedition to spiritual devotion. The celebrations also featured deeparadhana and chanting of Vedic hymns by Tamil Shivaacharyas, bringing the temple alive in vibrant reverence and timeless tradition.The Sounds and Sights of DevotionAdding to the spiritual atmosphere, odhuvars recited ancient Saivite hymns, and legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja performed verses from the Thiruvasagam, the devotional poetry of Saint Manikkavasagar. The temple resonated with chants and music that have transcended centuries, creating a timeless experience for all present. Visitors admired the intricately stone-carved deities, exquisite bronze icons, and detailed copper inscriptions that vividly narrate the grandeur of the Chola era. A thematic photo exhibition on Saiva Siddhanta and Chola Temple Arts drew scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering a deeper glimpse into the civilizational richness and artistic brilliance of the Chola dynasty.Looking Ahead: Monuments to MemoryThe celebrations honoured the Cholas’ monumental role in shaping India’s cultural, architectural, and maritime legacy. As part of the commemorative events, it was announced that grand statues of Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola would be installed in Tamil Nadu—ensuring that their legacy stands tall in both stone and memory.The occasion was more than a ritual—it was a powerful reaffirmation that India continues to remember and revere the visionaries who built timeless temples, expanded the nation's horizons, and carved a civilizational blueprint that still inspires generations.