Understanding the architectural patronage of the Chola dynasty is key to answering this question. The Cholas were renowned for their extensive building projects, particularly the construction of magnificent Shiva temples across their vast empire in South India.

The question asks at which location a Shiva temple was not constructed under the patronage of the Chola rulers. Let's examine each option:

Analyzing Chola Temple Sites

• Chidambaram: Chidambaram is home to the famous Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. While the temple has ancient origins, it received significant patronage and additions from various dynasties, including the Cholas. Chola kings, such as Parantaka I, Rajaraja I, and Kulottunga I, were devout followers of Shiva and actively supported and contributed to the Chidambaram temple. Thus, a Shiva temple was indeed constructed and patronized by the Cholas here.
• Thanjavur: Thanjavur (Tanjore) was the capital of the Chola empire under Rajaraja I. He commissioned the construction of the magnificent Brihadisvara Temple (also known as the Big Temple) in Thanjavur, dedicated to Lord Shiva (Peruvudaiyar). This temple is a prime example of Dravidian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, explicitly built under Chola patronage.
• Gangaikonda Cholapuram: This city was established by Rajendra I, the son of Rajaraja I, after his victorious expedition to the Ganges. He built a new capital here and constructed another grand Brihadisvara Temple, also dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is strikingly similar to the one in Thanjavur and was unequivocally built under Chola patronage by Rajendra I.
• Naneghat: Naneghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats near Pune, Maharashtra. It is historically significant primarily for inscriptions found in caves there, which date back to the Satavahana dynasty (2nd-1st century BCE). These inscriptions provide valuable information about the Satavahana rulers and their grants. Naneghat is associated with ancient trade routes and the Satavahana period, not the Chola dynasty, which flourished primarily in Tamil Nadu and extended its influence into parts of South-East Asia during a much later period (9th-13th centuries CE). There is no historical evidence of Chola temple construction, particularly Shiva temples, at Naneghat.

Conclusion on Chola Patronage

Based on the historical evidence, Chidambaram, Thanjavur, and Gangaikonda Cholapuram were key centers of Chola power and saw significant construction and patronage of Shiva temples by the Chola rulers. Naneghat, located far to the north-west of the Chola heartland and associated with a much earlier dynasty (Satavahanas), does not fall under the sphere of Chola temple building activities.

Therefore, a Shiva temple was not constructed under the patronage of the Chola rulers at Naneghat.

Revision Table: Chola Temple Locations

Additional Information: Chola Architecture and Satavahana Period

The Chola period is considered a golden age for Tamil architecture, particularly temple building. Chola temples are known for their massive size, towering vimanas (tower above the sanctum), intricate sculptures, and bronze casting. The Brihadisvara temples at Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram are prime examples of this style.

The Satavahana dynasty ruled in the Deccan region much earlier than the Cholas. Their architectural contributions include rock-cut caves (like those at Karla, Bhaja, and Bedse) and stupas, reflecting early Buddhist and Hindu influences. The Naneghat inscriptions are primarily found in a cave and are administrative or commemorative in nature, providing insights into the Satavahana administration and religious practices.