Gangaikonda Cholapuram Chosen for Release of Rs 1,000 Commemorative Coin

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Chosen for Release of Rs 1,000 Commemorative Coin

ANALYSIS

Context of the Event
- On July 27, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a special Rs 1,000 commemorative coin at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu.
- The coin is not meant for general circulation.
- The release marked:
  - The 1,000th anniversary of Emperor Rajendra Chola I’s naval expedition.
  - The 105th birth anniversary of Acharya Shri Mahapragya.
Historical Significance of the Site
- The temple was built in the 11th century by Rajendra Chola I.
- It was designed to rival the Brihadeeswarar Temple constructed by his father, Raja Raja Chola I.
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Great Living Chola Temples.
- The temple symbolizes:
  - Imperial authority of the Chola dynasty
  - Architectural excellence
  - Advanced knowledge of hydraulics and urban planning
  - Cultural and spiritual prominence
Architectural and Cultural Features
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Houses one of the largest Shiva Lingams in southern India.
- Known for intricate carvings, graceful proportions, and refined sculptural detailing.
- Represents a shift from the massive scale of Thanjavur to more aesthetic elegance.
Maritime and Strategic Importance
- The commemorative coin highlights Rajendra Chola I’s naval expedition.
- The Chola campaign extended influence to regions corresponding to present-day Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia.
- It established:
  - Maritime dominance
  - Long-lasting trade routes
  - Diplomatic relations with Southeast Asia
- Demonstrates early Indian naval capability and oceanic outreach.
Symbolism of the Occasion
- The coin was released during the Aadi Thiruvathirai Festival.
- The festival is traditionally linked to Rajendra Chola’s victorious return.
- The site and timing together underline:
  - Spiritual legitimacy
  - Historical memory
  - Maritime glory of medieval India
Geographical Location
- Located in Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu.
- Approximately 250 km from Chennai.
- Accessible via road through Trichy or Kumbakonam.
- The name “Gangaikonda Cholapuram” means “The city of the Chola who conquered the Ganga,” referring to Rajendra’s northern campaign.

STATIC PART (For UPSC Preparation)

Chola Dynasty
- Period: Prominent between 9th to 13th centuries CE.
- Known for:
  - Centralized administration
  - Temple-centered economy
  - Maritime trade
  - Naval expeditions
- Major rulers:
  - Raja Raja Chola I
  - Rajendra Chola I
Temple Architecture (Dravidian Style)
- Features:
  - Vimana (tower above sanctum)
  - Mandapas (pillared halls)
  - Sculptural detailing
  - Use of granite
- UNESCO Recognition:
  - Great Living Chola Temples include:
    - Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur)
    - Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple
    - Airavatesvara Temple (Darasuram)
Maritime History of India
- Cholas represent one of the earliest examples of organized naval expeditions from India.
- Demonstrates:
  - Indian Ocean trade networks
  - Cultural diffusion into Southeast Asia
  - Political assertion through naval power

Updated - 05 August 2025 News Source: Moneycontrol