Keywords To Remember
Keyword | Definition |
Chola Dynasty | A powerful South Indian dynasty that ruled from the 9th to 13th century CE, known for military conquests, art, and architecture. |
Pandya Dynasty | One of the ancient Tamil dynasties in South India, known for ruling Madurai and having early trade relations with Rome and Greece. |
Rajaraja I | The greatest Chola ruler (reigned 985–1014 CE), known for his conquests and the construction of the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur. |
Vijayalaya Chola | The founder of the Chola dynasty in the 9th century CE who established control after defeating the Pallavas. |
Parantaka I | A Chola ruler and grandson of Vijayalaya Chola who defeated the Pandyas and strengthened the empire. |
Brihadisvara Temple | A grand Hindu temple built by Rajaraja I at Thanjavur, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and an example of Chola architecture. |
Mandalam | A large province or region in the Chola administrative system. |
Matha | A monastery or religious school associated with temples, used for education and religious learning in South India. |
Bhakti Movement | A devotional movement emphasizing love and devotion to a personal god, spread in South India through poetry and songs. |
Advaita Vedanta | A non-dualistic school of Indian philosophy propagated by Adi Shankaracharya, teaching that the soul and Brahman (ultimate reality) are one. |
Shankaracharya | A great Indian philosopher and theologian who revived Hinduism and established four mathas to propagate Advaita Vedanta. |
Satsanga | A Sanskrit term meaning ‘association with truth’—refers to the company of wise and spiritual people. |
Land Revenue | The tax collected from agriculture, which was the primary source of income for the South Indian kingdoms. |
Caste System | A social hierarchy in which people were divided into hereditary groups; dominant in South Indian society. |
Tanjore (Thanjavur) | The capital city of the Cholas, known for its temples and cultural richness. |
Kanchipuram | A major city in Tamil Nadu, important for religious learning and temple architecture. |
Mahabalipuram | A coastal town in Tamil Nadu known for its rock-cut temples and monuments built by the Pallavas. |
Nataraja | A form of the Hindu god Shiva depicted in a dancing pose; famous as a Chola bronze sculpture. |
Travancore | A historic region in present-day Kerala, ruled by the Pandyas and others during medieval times. |
Jalavarman Sundara Pandya | A 13th-century Pandya ruler who re-established the independence of the Pandya kingdom. |
Tamil Epics | Ancient Tamil literary works such as Silappadikaram and Manimekalai that depict South Indian culture and society. |
Rock-Cut Temples | Temples carved directly into rock surfaces, such as those found in Mahabalipuram and built by Pallavas. |
Maldives & Lakshadweep | Island territories in the Indian Ocean which were conquered by the Chola navy. |
Ceylon | The old name for Sri Lanka, which was invaded and partially ruled by the Cholas. |
Something To Know
A. Tick (✔) the correct option.
- Who was the founder of the Chola dynasty?
(a) Vijayalaya
(b) Rajendra I
(c) Rajendra II
(d) Rajaraja
Answer – (a) Vijayalaya
- The famous temple built by Rajaraja-I at Tanjore was-
(a) Kailashnath temple
(b) Mahabalipuram temple
(c) Kanchipuram temple
(d) Rajrajeshwara temple
Answer – (d) Rajrajeshwara temple
- Which kingdom gave a final blow to the Pandyas?
(a) Chalukyas
(b) Pallavas
(c) Vijayanagar
(d) Rashtrakutas
Answer – (c) Vijayanagar
- The term ‘Mandalam’ stands for-
(a) a village
(b) a sabho
(c) a district
(d) a province
Answer – (d) a province
- What was the main source of income of the Chola rulers?
(a) trade tax
(b) land tax
(c) religion tax
(d) cattle tax
Answer – (b) land tax
B. Fill in the blanks.
- During 750 CE, south India saw the rule of ________ , ________ and ________.
Answer – Cholas, Pandyas and Pallavas.
- Indian historians believe that Chalukyas were ________ .
Answer – Kannadigas
- ________ defeated Pallavas.
Answer – Vijayalaya
- ________ succeeded Rajaraja.
Answer – Rajendra I
- ________ was the main centre of education during 700 CE to 1200 CE in South India.
Answer – Mathas
C. Sort the names of the kings as per their dynasties and arrange them according to their period.
(Maruvarman Avani Sulamani, Prantaka-I, Vijayalaya, Kandungori, Rajaraja, Jalavarman Sundara)
Cholas as per periods Pandyas as per periods
Answer –
Cholas (in order) | Pandyas (in order) |
Vijayalaya | Maruvarman Avani Sulamani |
Prantaka-I | Kandungori |
Rajaraja | Jalavarman Sundara |
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- Name the powerful kingdom that emerged in south India in the eighth century.
Answer – The Chola Kingdom.
- Name three kingdoms that were mentioned in Ashoka’s edicts.
Answer – Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras.
- Which languages flourished during Cholas and Pandyas period?
Answer – Tamil and Sanskrit.
- Name the main areas that formed the part of the Pandya kingdom.
Answer – Madurai, Tirunelveli, and parts of Kerala.
- Where were the rock-cut temples built?
Answer – At Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram.
E. Answer the following questions
- Mention the main achievements of Rajaraja, the Great.
Answer – Expanded the Chola empire to Sri Lanka and Maldives.
Built the famous Brihadisvara (Rajrajeshwara) Temple at Thanjavur.
Reformed the administrative system.
Encouraged art, literature, and trade.
- Describe the socio-economic condition of the people in the southern states.
Answer – Agriculture was the main occupation.
Society was divided into varnas or castes.
Trade and commerce flourished.
Local assemblies like sabhas managed village affairs.
Temples played a central role in social and economic life.
- What were the religious beliefs of the people in the southern states during the medieval period?
Answer – People followed Hinduism, especially Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
The Bhakti movement spread devotion through poetry and music.
Jainism and Buddhism also had some influence.
- Describe the development of art and architecture under the southern rulers.
Answer – Cholas built grand temples with towering vimanas and decorated gopurams.
Excellent bronze sculptures, especially of Nataraja, were created.
Rock-cut temples and mandapas were made by Pallavas.
- List the differences between the kingdoms of North and South on the basis of following aspects.
Answer –
Aspect | North India | South India |
a. Administration | Centralized with provincial governors | Decentralized with local assemblies (e.g., sabhas and mandalams) |
b. Society | Caste system rigid, Varna-based | Caste system present, but local customs influenced it |
c. Economy | Depended on agriculture and river trade | Agriculture and overseas trade (Arab, Chinese, Roman) |
d. Religion | Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism | Hinduism dominant; Bhakti movement strong; Shaivism and Vaishnavism popular |
e. Education | Gurukuls and Buddhist monasteries | Mathas, temples as centers of learning |
f. Art and Arch. | Nagara style of temple architecture | Dravidian style, large temples with gopurams and vimanas |
Map Skill
Mark the territories of the following kingdoms on an outline map of India.
(a) Cholas
Answer – (a) Cholas – Tamil Nadu (Tanjore, Kaveri delta region), parts of Andhra Pradesh, northern Sri Lanka, and Maldives
(b) Pandyas
Answer – (b) Pandyas – Southern Tamil Nadu (Madurai, Tirunelveli, southern Kerala region)
Something To Do
- Collect the pictures of the temples of south India and paste them in a scrapbook.
Answer – Brihadisvara Temple (Tanjore)
Meenakshi Temple (Madurai)
Shore Temple (Mahabalipuram)
Virupaksha Temple (Pattadakal)
- Find out the differences in the temple architecture of north and south India and illustrate them with the help of pictures.
Answer –
North Indian Temples (Nagara Style) | South Indian Temples (Dravidian Style) |
Beehive-shaped Shikhara (spire) | Pyramid-shaped Vimana |
Smaller enclosures | Large temple complexes with multiple courtyards |
Carvings mostly on outer walls | Carvings and sculptures throughout the complex |
Example: Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho) | Example: Brihadisvara Temple (Thanjavur) |
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks (with Answers)
- The Chola dynasty emerged as a powerful kingdom in ________ India.
Answer: South - Rajaraja Chola I built the ________ temple at Thanjavur.
Answer: Brihadeshwara - The capital of the Chola dynasty was ________.
Answer: Thanjavur - The ________ were known for their naval power in South Asia.
Answer: Cholas - The main occupation of the people during the Chola period was ________.
Answer: agriculture - The language that flourished under the Cholas was ________.
Answer: Tamil - Cholas established administrative units like ________ and ________.
Answer: Mandalam, Nadu - The Chola dynasty reached its peak under the rule of ________.
Answer: Rajendra Chola I
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Who succeeded Rajaraja Chola I? (a) Rajendra Chola I
(b) Vijayalaya
(c) Maravarman
(d) Sundara Chola
Answer: (a) Rajendra Chola I - What was the main occupation during the Chola period? (a) Trade
(b) Fishing
(c) Agriculture
(d) Pottery
Answer: (c) Agriculture - The Chola Empire had strong naval power to control: (a) Arabian Sea
(b) Bay of Bengal
(c) Pacific Ocean
(d) Indian Ocean
Answer: (b) Bay of Bengal - Which dynasty was defeated by the Cholas? (a) Mauryas
(b) Pallavas
(c) Guptas
(d) Kushanas
Answer: (b) Pallavas
True or False
- Rajaraja Chola I built the Sun Temple at Konark.
False - Cholas had a well-organized administrative system.
True - Tamil language declined during the Chola rule.
False - The Cholas promoted temple building and sculpture.
True - The Chola kings never invaded Southeast Asia.
False
Competency-Based Questions
- Rajaraja Chola built a massive temple at Thanjavur. What does this tell us about the Chola society’s attitude towards religion and architecture? Answer: It shows that religion played a central role and the Cholas were skilled architects and patrons of art.
- Cholas sent expeditions to Southeast Asia. What does this reflect about their political and naval strength?
Answer: It indicates that the Cholas had a strong navy and were politically ambitious to control overseas trade routes.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)
- Why do you think the Chola administrative system was considered advanced for its time?
Answer: Because it involved village assemblies and local self-governance, which ensured participation and accountability.
- How did temple building serve purposes beyond religious worship in the Chola period?
Answer: Temples also acted as centers of education, social gathering, economic activities, and cultural development.
Short Answer Questions
- What were the main sources of income for the Cholas?
Answer: The main sources included land revenue, trade, and taxes on goods.
- Mention any two features of Chola administration.
Answer: Decentralized governance and local self-government through village assemblies.
- What role did temples play in the Chola Empire?
Answer: Temples served as religious, cultural, educational, and economic centers.
Long Answer Questions (60-70 words)
- Describe the administration system of the Chola dynasty.
Answer: The Chola administration was well-organized and decentralized. The empire was divided into provinces (mandalams), districts (nadus), and villages. Local self-government was practiced through assemblies like the ur and sabha. These bodies collected taxes, maintained law and order, and implemented welfare programs. This system ensured smooth governance and public participation.
- How did the Cholas contribute to art and architecture?
Answer: The Cholas were great patrons of art and architecture. They built grand temples like the Brihadeshwara temple at Thanjavur with intricate carvings and sculptures. Temples served not only religious purposes but also cultural and economic functions. Chola bronze sculptures of deities like Nataraja are considered masterpieces. Their artistic legacy deeply influenced South Indian culture.
Additional Questions and Answers – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Question: The medieval era in South India spans from ______ to 1200 CE.
Answer: The medieval era in South India spans from 700 to 1200 CE. - Question: Ashoka’s edicts mention three main kingdoms: Cholas, Pandyas, and ______.
Answer: Ashoka’s edicts mention three main kingdoms: Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras. - Question: The founder of the Chola dynasty was ______.
Answer: The founder of the Chola dynasty was Vijayalaya. - Question: The greatest Chola king, ______-I, ruled from 1012 to 1044 CE.
Answer: The greatest Chola king, Rajaraja-I, ruled from 1012 to 1044 CE. - Question: Rajaraja-I built the famous ______ temple at Tanjore.
Answer: Rajaraja-I built the famous Rajrajeshwara temple at Tanjore. - Question: The Chola empire disintegrated around ______ CE due to constant wars.
Answer: The Chola empire disintegrated around 1279 CE due to constant wars. - Question: The kingdom of Pandyas was established in the ______ century CE.
Answer: The kingdom of Pandyas was established in the seventh century CE. - Question: The Pandya king ______ aligned with the Cholas to defeat the Pallavas.
Answer: The Pandya king Maruvarman Avani Sulamani aligned with the Cholas to defeat the Pallavas. - Question: In the thirteenth century, ______ Sundara Pandya helped the Pandyas regain independence.
Answer: In the thirteenth century, Jalavarman Sundara Pandya helped the Pandyas regain independence. - Question: The Pandya kingdom was absorbed into the kingdom of ______ in the sixteenth century.
Answer: The Pandya kingdom was absorbed into the kingdom of Vijaynagar in the sixteenth century. - Question: The king in South Indian kingdoms was the head of the state, and his office was ______.
Answer: The king in South Indian kingdoms was the head of the state, and his office was hereditary. - Question: Land revenue under the Cholas was fixed at ______ of the produce.
Answer: Land revenue under the Cholas was fixed at one-third of the produce. - Question: The society in South India was dominated by Brahmins and ______ classes.
Answer: The society in South India was dominated by Brahmins and Kshatriyas - Question: The most popular religion in South India during the medieval period was ______.
Answer: The most popular religion in South India during the medieval period was Hinduism. - Question: ______ was an important centre of Sanskrit studies and Hindu pilgrimage.
Answer: Kanchipuram was an important centre of Sanskrit studies and Hindu pilgrimage. - Question: The temples in South India had attached ______ that provided free education.
Answer: The temples in South India had attached mathas that provided free education. - Question: The rock-cut temples at ______ were built in the eighth century.
Answer: The rock-cut temples at Mahabalipuram were built in the eighth century. - Question: Adi Shankara propagated the philosophy of ______ or non-duality.
Answer: Adi Shankara propagated the philosophy of Advaita or non-duality. - Question: Shankaracharya established the Jyotirmatha at ______ in the north.
Answer: Shankaracharya established the Jyotirmatha at Badrinath in the north. - Question: Shankaracharya lived for only ______ years but consolidated various schools of worship.
Answer: Shankaracharya lived for only thirty-two years but consolidated various schools of worship.
Multiple Choice Questions and Answers
- Question: What period does the medieval era in South India cover?
a) 500-1000 CE
b) 700-1200 CE
c) 800-1300 CE
d) 600-1100 CE
Answer: b) 700-1200 CE - Question: Which kingdoms are mentioned in Ashoka’s edicts?
a) Chalukyas, Pallavas, Rashtrakutas
b) Cholas, Pandyas, Cheras
c) Vijaynagar, Cholas, Pandyas
d) Cheras, Rashtrakutas, Pallavas
Answer: b) Cholas, Pandyas, Cheras - Question: Who was the founder of the Chola dynasty?
a) Rajaraja-I
b) Prantaka-I
c) Vijayalaya
d) Jalavarman
Answer: c) Vijayalaya - Question: Who was considered the greatest Chola king?
a) Vijayalaya
b) Prantaka-I
c) Rajaraja-I
d) Maruvarman
Answer: c) Rajaraja-I - Question: What temple did Rajaraja-I build at Tanjore?
a) Kailashnath
b) Rajrajeshwara
c) Mahabalipuram
d) Nataraja
Answer: b) Rajrajeshwara - Question: When did the Chola empire disintegrate?
a) 1179 CE
b) 1279 CE
c) 1379 CE
d) 1479 CE
Answer: b) 1279 CE - Question: When was the Pandya kingdom established?
a) Fifth century CE
b) Sixth century CE
c) Seventh century CE
d) Eighth century CE
Answer: c) Seventh century CE - Question: Who helped the Pandyas regain independence in the thirteenth century?
a) Maruvarman Avani Sulamani
b) Jalavarman Sundara Pandya
c) Vijayalaya
d) Rajaraja-I
Answer: b) Jalavarman Sundara Pandya - Question: What ultimately ended the Pandya kingdom in the sixteenth century?
a) Chola invasion
b) Muslim invaders
c) Absorption by Vijaynagar
d) Internal rebellion
Answer: c) Absorption by Vijaynagar - Question: How was the king’s office in South Indian kingdoms structured?
a) Elected
b) Hereditary
c) Appointed
d) Rotational
Answer: b) Hereditary - Question: What was the main source of income for South Indian kingdoms?
a) Trade
b) Land revenue
c) Donations
d) Taxes on temples
Answer: b) Land revenue - Question: What percentage of produce was fixed as land revenue by the Cholas?
a) One-fifth
b) One-third
c) One-half
d) One-quarter
Answer: b) One-third - Question: Which classes dominated South Indian society?
a) Brahmins and Kshatriyas
b) Kshatriyas and Vaishyas
c) Vaishyas and Shudras
d) Shudras and Brahmins
Answer: a) Brahmins and Kshatriyas - Question: What was the most popular religion in South India during the medieval period?
a) Buddhism
b) Jainism
c) Hinduism
d) Islam
Answer: c) Hinduism - Question: What city was a centre for Sanskrit studies and Hindu pilgrimage?
a) Madurai
b) Tanjore
c) Kanchipuram
d) Mysore
Answer: c) Kanchipuram - Question: What were the attached educational institutions at South Indian temples called?
a) Gurukuls
b) Mathas
c) Viharas
d) Pathshalas
Answer: b) Mathas - Question: Which temple is a fine example of Chola art?
a) Mahabalipuram
b) Kailashnath
c) Shiva temple at Tanjore
d) Govardhanmatha
Answer: c) Shiva temple at Tanjore - Question: What philosophy did Adi Shankara propagate?
a) Dvaita
b) Advaita
c) Vishishtadvaita
d) Samkhya
Answer: b) Advaita - Question: Where did Shankaracharya establish the Jyotirmatha?
a) Dwarka
b) Puri
c) Sringeri
d) Badrinath
Answer: d) Badrinath - Question: How long did Shankaracharya live?
a) 28 years
b) 32 years
c) 40 years
d) 50 years
Answer: b) 32 years
True/False Questions and Answers
- Question: The medieval era in South India spans from 700 to 1200 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Ashoka’s edicts mention the Chalukyas and Pallavas.
Answer: False (They mention Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras.) - Question: Vijayalaya was the founder of the Chola dynasty.
Answer: True - Question: Rajaraja-I ruled from 907 to 953 CE.
Answer: False (He ruled from 1012 to 1044 CE.) - Question: The Chola empire disintegrated around 1279 CE.
Answer: True - Question: The Pandya kingdom was established in the eighth century CE.
Answer: False (It was established in the seventh century CE.) - Question: Jalavarman Sundara Pandya helped the Pandyas regain independence in the thirteenth century.
Answer: True - Question: The Pandya kingdom was absorbed by the Cholas in the sixteenth century.
Answer: False (It was absorbed by Vijaynagar.) - Question: The king’s office in South Indian kingdoms was hereditary.
Answer: True - Question: Land revenue under the Cholas was fixed at one-half of the produce.
Answer: False (It was one-third of the produce.) - Question: The economic condition of people in South India was poor.
Answer: False (It was good due to agriculture and trade.) - Question: Brahmins and Kshatriyas dominated South Indian society.
Answer: True - Question: Buddhism and Jainism were popular in South India during the medieval period.
Answer: False (Hinduism was the most popular.) - Question: Kanchipuram was an important centre for Hindu pilgrimage.
Answer: True - Question: Temples in South India only served as places of worship.
Answer: False (They were also centres of education and culture.) - Question: The rock-cut temples at Mahabalipuram were built in the eighth century.
Answer: True - Question: Adi Shankara propagated the philosophy of Dvaita.
Answer: False (He propagated Advaita.) - Question: Shankaracharya established four Maths across India.
Answer: True - Question: The Jyotirmatha was established at Puri.
Answer: False (It was established at Badrinath.) - Question: Shankaracharya lived for 32 years.
Answer: True
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: A student learns that the Cholas conquered Sri Lanka and parts of South-East Asia. What does this suggest about their military and cultural influence?
Answer: The Cholas’ conquest of Sri Lanka and South-East Asia indicates a strong military, supported by a powerful navy, enabling them to expand their territory. Culturally, they spread Indian traditions, art, and architecture to these regions, as seen in their temple-building, like the Rajrajeshwara temple, fostering cultural exchange and leaving a lasting influence on South Asian heritage and identity. - Question: You read that Rajaraja-I built the Rajrajeshwara temple at Tanjore. How does this reflect the Chola dynasty’s priorities?
Answer: Rajaraja-I’s construction of the Rajrajeshwara temple reflects the Chola dynasty’s priorities of promoting religion, art, and architecture while showcasing their power. The temple, depicting his conquests, served as a cultural and religious centre, reinforcing Hindu devotion, supporting education, and symbolizing their wealth and authority, thus strengthening their legitimacy and influence over the kingdom and its people. - Question: A classmate notes that the Pandyas regained independence in the thirteenth century. What factors might have contributed to their resurgence?
Answer: The Pandyas’ resurgence in the thirteenth century under Jalavarman Sundara Pandya likely stemmed from weakened Chola dominance due to internal conflicts, allowing the Pandyas to assert independence. Strategic alliances, effective leadership, and possibly economic stability from agriculture and trade could have bolstered their military and political strength, enabling them to reclaim power and become a leading force in South India. - Question: You learn that land revenue was the main source of income for South Indian kingdoms. How did this impact the economy and public welfare?
Answer: Land revenue, fixed at one-third by the Cholas, provided a steady income, supporting a strong economy through agriculture, trade, and weaving. The Cholas invested this revenue in public welfare, improving irrigation and agricultural yield, which enhanced food security and living standards, ensuring economic stability and prosperity for the people, as reflected in their well-developed irrigational facilities. - Question: A teacher explains that South Indian society was caste-ridden. How might this have affected social dynamics and governance?
Answer: The caste-ridden society, dominated by Brahmins and Kshatriyas, created a hierarchical structure where lower castes, like peasants, had limited rights, affecting social dynamics by fostering inequality. In governance, this ensured Brahmins’ influence in administration and religion, while Kshatriyas held military power, potentially leading to social tensions but also reinforcing the king’s authority through a structured, caste-based administrative system. - Question: During a discussion, you hear that Hinduism was the most popular religion in South India. How did this influence culture and education?
Answer: Hinduism’s popularity shaped South Indian culture by promoting Vedic sacrifices and the worship of Vishnu and Shiva, as seen in epics like Ramayana. It influenced education through temple mathas, which taught Sanskrit and Tamil, fostering literacy and cultural preservation. Kanchipuram became a hub for Hindu studies and pilgrimage, enriching the region’s religious and intellectual heritage. - Question: You read that temples in South India were centres of education and culture. Why was this role significant for society?
Answer: Temples as centres of education and culture were significant as they provided free education through mathas, promoting literacy in Sanskrit and regional languages like Tamil. They hosted cultural activities like fairs and contests, fostering community engagement and preserving traditions. This role enhanced social cohesion, intellectual growth, and cultural continuity, making temples vital hubs for societal development in South India. - Question: A news report highlights the Chola’s Shiva temple at Tanjore. What does this tell us about their contribution to art and architecture?
Answer: The Shiva temple at Tanjore, along with the bronze Nataraja statue, showcases the Cholas’ contribution to art and architecture through intricate designs and advanced craftsmanship. These structures reflect their devotion to Hinduism, artistic excellence, and engineering skills, serving as cultural landmarks that influenced South Indian architecture, preserved religious narratives, and demonstrated their commitment to promoting art as a legacy. - Question: You learn that Shankaracharya propagated the Advaita philosophy. How might this have influenced religious thought in South India?
Answer: Shankaracharya’s Advaita philosophy, emphasizing oneness, influenced South Indian religious thought by unifying diverse Hindu worship practices under a single principle. His teachings through Bhakti, Yoga, and Karma purified devotion, while his Maths in Sringeri and elsewhere spread these ideas, fostering intellectual clarity, spiritual unity, and a deeper understanding of Vedic Dharma, strengthening Hinduism’s philosophical foundation in the region. - Question: A teacher mentions that Shankaracharya established four Maths across India. Why was this significant for spreading his teachings?
Answer: Shankaracharya’s establishment of four Maths in Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Sringeri was significant as it created regional centres to spread Advaita philosophy across India. These Maths provided platforms for teaching Vedic Dharma, unifying worship practices, and promoting satsanga, ensuring his teachings reached diverse populations, fostering spiritual unity, and preserving his legacy of non-duality in Indian religious thought.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why might the Cholas’ expansion into Sri Lanka and South-East Asia reflect their strategic priorities, and how did this impact their legacy?
Answer: The Cholas’ expansion into Sri Lanka and South-East Asia reflects strategic priorities of securing trade routes and spreading Indian culture, supported by their strong navy. This enhanced their economic power through maritime trade and left a lasting cultural legacy, as seen in the spread of Indian art and architecture, solidifying their historical significance as a dominant South Indian empire. - Question: How did the internal conflicts and civil wars contribute to the decline of both the Chola and Pandya kingdoms, and what lessons can be drawn?
Answer: Internal conflicts in the Cholas and civil wars among Pandya contenders weakened their unity, making them vulnerable to external attacks, like Muslim invasions for the Pandyas and Vijaynagar for both. This led to their decline by 1279 CE and the sixteenth century, respectively. The lesson is that internal stability and unity are crucial for a kingdom’s survival against external threats and succession disputes. - Question: Why might the Cholas’ investment in irrigation and public welfare have been a key factor in their economic prosperity, and how did this benefit society?
Answer: The Cholas’ investment in irrigation increased agricultural yield, ensuring food security and surplus for trade, boosting economic prosperity. This revenue, fixed at one-third of produce, funded public welfare, improving living standards, infrastructure, and social stability. Society benefited through enhanced livelihoods, reduced poverty, and strengthened community resilience, reflecting the Cholas’ effective governance and commitment to their people’s well-being. - Question: How does the caste-ridden society of South India reflect the broader social structure of medieval India, and what challenges might this have posed?
Answer: South India’s caste-ridden society, dominated by Brahmins and Kshatriyas, mirrors medieval India’s hierarchical structure, where lower castes like peasants faced oppression. This ensured elite control but posed challenges like social inequality, potential unrest, and limited mobility, hindering inclusive development. It also reinforced rigid roles in governance and religion, potentially stifling innovation and social cohesion in the broader societal framework. - Question: Why might Hinduism’s dominance in South India have influenced the region’s cultural and literary development during the medieval period?
Answer: Hinduism’s dominance in South India shaped cultural development by promoting Vedic sacrifices and the worship of Vishnu and Shiva, inspiring literary works like Silappaadikaram in Tamil. It fostered a rich tradition of Bhakti poetry and epic translations, while temple-centric education in Kanchipuram advanced Tamil and Sanskrit literature, preserving religious narratives and cultural identity, deeply influencing the region’s artistic and intellectual heritage. - Question: How did the role of temples as cultural and educational centres demonstrate the integration of religion and society in South India?
Answer: Temples in South India integrated religion and society by serving as cultural hubs, hosting fairs and contests, and educational centres through mathas, offering free learning in Sanskrit and Tamil. This fostered literacy, cultural preservation, and community engagement, while reinforcing Hindu devotion, showing how religion underpinned education, governance, and social life, creating a cohesive societal framework centred around spiritual and intellectual growth. - Question: Why might the Chola’s Shiva temple at Tanjore and the bronze Nataraja statue be considered significant contributions to Indian art, and what do they reveal about their culture?
Answer: The Shiva temple at Tanjore and Nataraja statue are significant for their architectural grandeur and artistic mastery, showcasing Chola innovation in temple design and bronze casting. They reveal a culture deeply rooted in Hindu devotion, valuing artistic expression as a form of worship, and using art to document history, as seen in the temple’s conquest depictions, reflecting their religious and cultural priorities. - Question: How did Shankaracharya’s Advaita philosophy address the spiritual needs of medieval India, and what impact might this have had on religious unity?
Answer: Shankaracharya’s Advaita philosophy addressed medieval India’s spiritual needs by emphasizing oneness, countering the decline of Dharma, and unifying diverse worship practices under a single principle. His teachings through Bhakti, Yoga, and Karma purified devotion, fostering intellectual clarity. This likely promoted religious unity by bringing various Hindu sects under one philosophical umbrella, enhancing spiritual cohesion across India’s diverse religious landscape. - Question: Why might Shankaracharya’s establishment of four Maths across India have been a strategic move to spread Advaita, and how did this influence his legacy?
Answer: Shankaracharya’s establishment of Maths in Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Sringeri was strategic to ensure Advaita’s reach across India’s diverse regions, creating centres for teaching and spiritual discourse. This unified worship practices, preserved Vedic Dharma, and cemented his legacy as a reformer who consolidated Hinduism, leaving a lasting impact on Indian philosophy and religious thought despite his short 32-year life. - Question: How does the rise and fall of the Chola and Pandya kingdoms illustrate the broader dynamics of power and governance in medieval South India?
Answer: The Chola and Pandya kingdoms’ rise through military conquests and alliances, and their fall due to internal conflicts and external invasions, illustrate medieval South India’s power dynamics. Strong governance, like Chola irrigation investments, ensured prosperity, but succession disputes and wars led to decline, showing that effective leadership, unity, and strategic alliances were crucial for maintaining power amidst constant regional rivalries and external threats.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: What period does the medieval era in South India cover?
Answer: 700 to 1200 CE. - Question: Which kingdoms are mentioned in Ashoka’s edicts?
Answer: Cholas, Pandyas, Cheras. - Question: Who founded the Chola dynasty?
Answer: Vijayalaya. - Question: Who was the greatest Chola king?
Answer: Rajaraja-I. - Question: What temple did Rajaraja-I build?
Answer: Rajrajeshwara. - Question: When did the Chola empire disintegrate?
Answer: 1279 CE. - Question: When was the Pandya kingdom established?
Answer: Seventh century CE. - Question: Who helped the Pandyas regain independence?
Answer: Jalavarman Sundara Pandya. - Question: What absorbed the Pandya kingdom in the sixteenth century?
Answer: Vijaynagar. - Question: How was the king’s office structured in South India?
Answer: Hereditary. - Question: What was the main source of income for South Indian kingdoms?
Answer: Land revenue. - Question: What percentage of produce was land revenue under the Cholas?
Answer: One-third. - Question: Which classes dominated South Indian society?
Answer: Brahmins and Kshatriyas. - Question: What was the most popular religion in South India?
Answer: Hinduism. - Question: What city was a centre for Hindu pilgrimage?
Answer: Kanchipuram. - Question: What were temple-attached educational institutions called?
Answer: Mathas. - Question: Which Chola temple is a fine example of art?
Answer: Shiva temple at Tanjore. - Question: What philosophy did Adi Shankara propagate?
Answer: Advaita. - Question: Where is the Jyotirmatha located?
Answer: Badrinath. - Question: How long did Shankaracharya live?
Answer: 32 years.
Long Questions and Answers (60-70 Words)
- Question: Describe the rise and fall of the Chola empire in South India.
Answer: The Chola empire rose under Vijayalaya, expanding under Rajaraja-I (1012-1044 CE), who conquered Sri Lanka, South-East Asia, and built the Rajrajeshwara temple. Their strong navy and administration ensured dominance. However, constant wars and internal conflicts led to its disintegration by 1279 CE, with the rise of Vijaynagar delivering the final blow, illustrating the challenges of maintaining power amidst regional rivalries and internal strife. - Question: Explain the history of the Pandya kingdom and the reasons for its decline.
Answer: The Pandyas, established in the seventh century CE, ruled Madurai and Tirunelvelli, initially aligning with Cholas to defeat Pallavas. They regained independence under Jalavarman Sundara Pandya in the thirteenth century. However, a civil war among throne contenders, coupled with Muslim invasions that plundered the kingdom, weakened it, leading to its absorption into Vijaynagar in the sixteenth century, marking its decline. - Question: Discuss the administration and economy of South Indian kingdoms during the medieval period.
Answer: South Indian kings held hereditary power, managing administration through ministers and dividing kingdoms into provinces called mandalams. Land revenue, fixed at one-third by Cholas, was the main income, supporting a prosperous economy driven by agriculture, trade, and weaving. Well-developed irrigation increased yields, and Chola rulers invested in public welfare, ensuring economic stability and improving living standards for their people. - Question: How did society and religion shape the culture of South India during the medieval period?
Answer: South Indian society was caste-ridden, with Brahmins and Kshatriyas dominating, shaping a hierarchical culture. Hinduism, the dominant religion, promoted Vedic sacrifices and worship of Vishnu and Shiva, influencing cultural practices. Bhakti saints spread epic teachings, while Kanchipuram became a religious hub, fostering a culture rich in devotion, literary works like Silappaadikaram, and temple-centric education, deeply embedding religion in daily life. - Question: Explain the role of temples in South India as centres of education and culture.
Answer: South Indian temples were key centres of education and culture, with attached mathas providing free education in Sanskrit and Tamil, promoting literacy. They hosted fairs, contests, and cultural activities, preserving traditions and fostering community engagement. Temples like those in Kanchipuram also served as pilgrimage sites, integrating religion, education, and culture, thus playing a vital role in societal development and cultural continuity. - Question: Describe the contributions of the Cholas to art and architecture in South India.
Answer: The Cholas significantly contributed to art and architecture by building the Shiva temple at Tanjore, showcasing intricate design, and the bronze Nataraja statue, reflecting advanced craftsmanship. The Rajrajeshwara temple, built by Rajaraja-I, depicted his conquests, serving as a cultural landmark. These works highlight the Cholas’ devotion to Hinduism, artistic excellence, and engineering skills, leaving a lasting legacy in South Indian architecture. - Question: How did Shankaracharya’s Advaita philosophy influence religious thought in medieval India?
Answer: Shankaracharya’s Advaita philosophy, emphasizing oneness, unified diverse Hindu worship practices under a single principle, addressing the decline of Dharma. His teachings of Bhakti, Yoga, and Karma purified devotion, fostering intellectual clarity. By establishing Maths, he spread these ideas, promoting spiritual unity and strengthening Hinduism’s philosophical foundation, influencing medieval India’s religious thought with a focus on non-duality and divine awareness. - Question: Discuss the significance of Shankaracharya’s establishment of four Maths across India.
Answer: Shankaracharya’s four Maths in Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Sringeri were significant as they created regional centres to spread Advaita philosophy, unifying Hindu worship practices. These Maths facilitated teaching, spiritual discourse, and satsanga, ensuring his teachings reached diverse regions, fostering religious unity, preserving Vedic Dharma, and cementing his legacy as a key reformer in Indian spiritual history despite his short life. - Question: How did the Bhakti saints contribute to the cultural and religious life of South India?
Answer: Bhakti saints enriched South India’s cultural and religious life by preaching the teachings of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, making them accessible through translations into Tamil and other languages. Their emphasis on devotion to Vishnu and Shiva fostered spiritual unity, inspired literary works, and strengthened Hinduism, promoting a culture of devotion, community worship, and moral values that deeply influenced the region’s religious identity. - Question: Why were the Chola and Pandya kingdoms significant in the history of South India, and what led to their decline?
Answer: The Chola and Pandya kingdoms were significant for their military conquests, cultural contributions, and temple architecture, spreading Indian culture to South-East Asia. The Cholas declined by 1279 CE due to internal conflicts and Vijaynagar’s rise, while Pandyas fell in the sixteenth century due to civil wars and Muslim invasions, absorbed by Vijaynagar, highlighting the impact of internal strife and external pressures.