Understanding Vijayalaya and the Kaveri Delta

The question asks about a specific town built by the ruler Vijayalaya, particularly located in the Kaveri delta region. To answer this, we need to know about Vijayalaya and his role in the history of South India, especially concerning the rise of the Chola dynasty.

Vijayalaya: The Founder of the Imperial Chola Dynasty

Vijayalaya was a chieftain of the Pallavas. He took advantage of the conflict between the Pallavas and the Pandyas to establish his own rule in the Kaveri delta. This marked the beginning of the Imperial Chola dynasty, which would later become a major power in South India.

Vijayalaya's Conquest and Capital in Kaveri Delta

Historians credit Vijayalaya with conquering the Kaveri delta from the Muttaraiyar chieftains who were subordinate to the Pallavas. He captured the town of Thanjavur (Tanjore), which was an important strategic location in the delta. He then rebuilt or fortified this town and made it the capital of his nascent kingdom. He also built a temple there dedicated to goddess Nishumbhasudini.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the given options:

• Tiruchirappalli: An important city in the Kaveri delta, but historically associated with later Cholas, Pandyas, and other dynasties rather than being founded or made capital by Vijayalaya.
• Tiruppur: Located in western Tamil Nadu, far from the Kaveri delta region where Vijayalaya established his early rule.
• Madurai: The ancient capital of the Pandya kingdom, located south of the Kaveri delta. Vijayalaya's focus was on the Kaveri delta.
• Thanjavur: Located centrally in the Kaveri delta. Historical records indicate that Vijayalaya captured and established his capital here.

Based on historical accounts, Vijayalaya conquered the Kaveri delta and made Thanjavur his capital, effectively building it up as the center of his power. This is why Thanjavur is considered the town built (or rebuilt/established as capital) by Vijayalaya in the Kaveri delta.

Conclusion: The Town Built by Vijayalaya

The town strategically captured and developed by Vijayalaya as his capital in the fertile Kaveri delta was Thanjavur. His establishment here laid the foundation for the great Chola empire.

Revision Table: Key Facts about Vijayalaya and Thanjavur

Additional Information on Chola History and Kaveri Delta

The Kaveri delta is a very fertile region and historically significant. Controlling this area was crucial for the power and prosperity of South Indian kingdoms. Vijayalaya's move to establish his base here gave the Cholas control over rich agricultural lands and access to important trade routes. Thanjavur remained the Chola capital for a significant period before Gangaikonda Cholapuram was built by Rajendra Chola I. The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja Chola I, is a famous example of the architectural grandeur achieved under the Cholas, highlighting the importance of Thanjavur as a historical center.