Question

What lands were assigned for the maintenance of educational institutions under the Cholas?
A) Brahmadeya
B) Shalabhoga
C) Tirunanattukkani
D) Vellanvagai

Answer 1

Hint: The Chola dynasty was a Tamil thalassocracy empire in southern India, and it was one of the world's longest-ruling empires. The oldest datable allusions to the Chola can be found in inscriptions left by Ashoka of the Maurya Empire in the 3rd century BCE.

Complete answer:
Shalabhoga were land granted to the cholas for the upkeep of educational institutions.
The Cholas' core was the lush Kaveri River valley, but they dominated a much greater territory at the height of their supremacy, which lasted from the late ninth century until the early thirteenth century. Between 907 and 1215 AD, the entire territory south of the Tungabhadra was united and held as a single state for three centuries and more.

The new empire's strength was announced to the eastern world by Rajendra Chola I's journey to the Ganges, as well as naval raids on cities of the city-state of Srivijaya and frequent missions to China. The Chola navy was the pinnacle of ancient Indian maritime supremacy. The Chola dynasty established a military, economic, and cultural power in South Asia and Southeast Asia under Rajaraja Chola I and his successors Rajendra Chola I, Rajadhiraja Chola, Virarajendra Chola, and Kulothunga Chola I.

Therefore the correct answer is option ‘B’. Shalabhoga lands were assigned for the maintenance of educational institutions under the Cholas.

Note: The dynasty ruled over different territories until the 13th century CE, as one of the Three Crowned Kings of Tamilakam, with the Chera and Pandya. Despite these ancient origins, it is only with the mediaeval Cholas in the mid-9th century CE that the term "Chola Empire" is applicable.