Question

What was the capital of Cholas?
A. Kanchi
B. Tanjore
C. Paitan
D. Ellora

Answer 1

Hint: As we know that this city has served as the capital of Cholas for around 4 centuries and is situated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and is a temple site comprising of the three great eleventh and twelfth century Chola Temples: the Brihadisvara temples of Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholisvaram, and therefore the Airavatesvara temple at Darasuram.

Complete answer:
Thanjavur (Tanjore) was the capital of Cholas. Vijayalaya was the founder of the Chola Empire. He defeated the Pallavas and took over the Tanjore kingdom within the 8th century and led to the establishment of the mighty Chola kingdom. Tanjore was hence made the primary capital of the eminent Chola Empire. Tanjore is located in the Cauvery Delta in Tamil Nadu. It was later named Thanjavur. It is a renowned site for South Indian religion, art, and architecture. It is home to some of the most world-famous temples including a UNESCO World Heritage site such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple. It is located in the center of the city and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by the order of Raja Chola I and is one of India's largest temples. Thanjavur is one of the foremost famous and most visited historical sites in India today. It is a world heritage site listed by UNESCO. Tanjore painting, a unique style of painting originated in this region. They mostly represent gods and goddesses, Krishna especially, or Hindu saints.
The city first rose to prominence during the reign of Cholas when it served as the capital of the empire. When the Pandyas from the south invaded and captured Thanjavur the Chola Empire began to decline in the 13rh century. After the fall of the Chola Empire many dynasties like Pandyas, Nayaks, Marathas, and the British ruled this region. Under the signed treaty of 1799, Thanjavur got over to the British Empire. British records refer to the city as Tanjore. The Cholas were great patrons of art, during their reign. As a result, the most splendid temples and wonderful bronze icons were created in South India.

Hence, the correct answer is option (B)

Note: The Chola dynasty was one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the southern regions of India. New culture and art flourished in this period like never before. The temples and literature of this time still serve as great sources for studying the past. Some of the groups still exist and they belong to the Chola Dynasty and Cholas king's descendants.