Understanding the Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore

The Brihadeshwara Temple, located in Thanjavur (Tanjore) in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the largest and most magnificent Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a prime example of the Dravidian architecture of the Chola period. This temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples".

Identifying the Chola Builder

The construction of this grand Brihadeshwara Temple was a significant architectural achievement of the Chola Empire. Historical records and inscriptions clearly attribute its construction to a specific Chola ruler.

• The temple was built between 1003 and 1010 CE.
• The ruler who commissioned and oversaw the construction during this period was none other than the great Chola emperor Rajaraja I.
• He named the temple Rajarajeshwaram after himself, and it later came to be known as Brihadeshwara Temple.

Examining the Options

Let's look at the given options and their connection to the Chola dynasty:

• Rajaraja I: Known as the most powerful Tamil king during his reign. He was a celebrated ruler of the Chola kingdom. His reign is marked by significant military conquests and impressive architectural projects, including the Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore.
• Rajendra I: The son of Rajaraja I. He was also a very powerful ruler who expanded the Chola Empire further, including a famous naval expedition to Southeast Asia and a march to the Ganges river. While he built temples, the Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore is associated with his father.
• Vijayalaya: Considered the founder of the imperial Chola dynasty in the 9th century. He captured Thanjavur from the Muttaraiyars. While crucial to the Chola history, he reigned much earlier than the construction of the Brihadeshwara Temple.
• Rajendra III: The last Chola ruler, reigning in the 13th century. He faced invasions and the decline of the Chola power. He lived centuries after the Brihadeshwara Temple was built.

Based on historical evidence, Rajaraja I was the ruler responsible for the construction of the famous Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore.

Conclusion on the Chola Temple Builder

The Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore, a marvel of Chola architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed by the eminent Chola king Rajaraja I during his reign.

Revision Table: Chola Dynasty Key Figures

Additional Information on Chola Architecture

The Cholas were renowned patrons of art and architecture. Their temples are characterized by:

• Tall pyramidal towers (Vimanas). The Vimana of Brihadeshwara Temple is one of the tallest in the world.
• Detailed sculptures and inscriptions depicting religious themes, royal history, and daily life.
• Large temple complexes with various mandapams (halls) and gopurams (gateway towers), although the focus in early Chola temples like Brihadeshwara is on the main Vimana.
• Bronze sculptures, particularly of Nataraja (dancing Shiva), which are iconic of the Chola period.

The Brihadeshwara Temple is a masterpiece that reflects the power, wealth, and artistic excellence achieved under Rajaraja I.