Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, emphasizing its lasting influence on India's identity and potential. Speaking at the valedictory function of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, which commemorates the birth anniversary of King Rajendra Chola I, in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, PM Modi announced that the central government would erect grand statues of Chola emperors Rajaraja Chola and his son, Rajendra Chola I, in Tamil Nadu. These statues will serve as modern reminders of India's rich historical consciousness.
PM Modi lauded the Chola era as one of the golden periods in Indian history, distinguished by its formidable military strength and strategic advancements. He highlighted the Chola navy as a model of strategic might, noting that the economic and strategic achievements during their reign continue to inspire modern India. To become a developed nation, India must prioritize unity, strengthen its naval and defense forces, and seek new opportunities while safeguarding its core values, he stated.
The Prime Minister also underscored the Chola rulers' emphasis on cultural unity, noting their diplomatic and trade relations with Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia. He noted that his government is carrying forward the same vision through initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and the Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam, which aim to strengthen the country's unity. He expressed happiness that Gangajal was brought to the event from Kashi, emphasizing his connection to Maa Ganga as a representative from Kashi.
PM Modi highlighted the "Kudavolai system" practiced by the Cholas, emphasizing that India has long upheld democratic traditions, even before Britain's Magna Carta. The Kudavolai system, an advanced electoral process used between the 10th and 12th centuries CE, is recognized as one of the earliest examples of democratic governance.
PM Modi also acknowledged the Archaeological Survey of India's role in preserving ancient temples like the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple. He emphasized the importance of reclaiming India's heritage, noting that over 600 stolen antiquities have been recovered in the last decade, with 36 of them from Tamil Nadu. He also referenced the symbolic role of Tamil Nadu in the inauguration of the new Parliament building, where saints from Shaivite Adheenams led the ceremony.
The Prime Minister said that the Chola Empire serves as an "ancient roadmap" for a developed India. He stressed that to achieve this vision, India must strengthen its navy and defense forces and explore new opportunities. He also pointed to "Operation Sindoor" as an example of India's strength, sending a message that there is no safe haven for terrorists and enemies of the nation.
During the event, PM Modi released a commemorative coin in honor of Rajendra Chola I, accepting a request from the Gangaikondacholapuram Development Council Trust. He also paid tribute to the Shaivite tradition, noting its vital role in shaping India's cultural identity and suggesting that the world could solve problems like instability, violence, and environmental crises by adopting the teaching of Tirumular, "Anbe Shivam" (Love is God).
