Short Article
06-02-2025 | 17:27 PM
Role of Women in the Chola Empire
Historian Anirudh Kanisetti’s book, Lords of Earth and Sea: A History of the Chola Empire, highlights different aspects of the Chola Empire, especially emphasizing the important contributions of women like Sembiyan Mahadevi.
Key Points
- The Chola dynasty (9th to 13th centuries CE), one of the longest-ruling empires in Indian history,
- Founded by: Karikala Chola
- Region: Primarily Tamil Nadu
- Rise of Chola Dynasty: The Chola Dynasty began its significant rise during the reign of the Vijayalaya Chola
- The dynasty reached its zenith under Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE) and his son Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE).
Role of Women in the Chola Empire
- Sembiyan Mahadevi, a queen of Gandaraditya Chola (circa 950–957 CE), was a pivotal figure during a transformative period in the Chola dynasty.
- Following the untimely demise of Gandaraditya, she emerged as a regent for her son, Madhurantaka Uttama Chola
- She is credited with commissioning the construction of various temples, including the Kailasanathar Temple in Tamil Nadu.
- Kundavai, the sister of Rajaraja I, was a trusted advisor to her brother and played a crucial role in supporting his administration.
- She generously donated to the establishment of Vedic schools and medical institutions.
About Chola Administration
- The Chola empire was divided into
- Mandalams (provinces),
- Valanadus (districts), and
- Nadu (villages).
- The local self-government system in villages, known as the ur, sabha, and nagaram, was a hallmark of their administration.
