Question

What were the Perumals also known as?
a. Pallavas
b. Cholas
c. Pandyas
d. Cheras

Answer 1

Hint: The first ruler of the Perumal dynasty was King Uthiyan. This dynasty thrived between 9th and 12th century AD, it was situated in present-day Kerala, South India. It is also called the Perumal dynasty of Mahodayapuram. It was one of the major kingdoms of Tamilakam.

Complete answer: The Perumals were also known as Cheras.
(i) Their rule was initially restricted and was limited to the region between present-day Quilon and Quilandy, but later spread to the river Chandragiri in northern Kerala and to the South in Nagercoil.
(ii) According to estimates, Present-day Central Kerala possibly separated from the Kingdom of Kongu/Kerala in 8th or 9th century AD, to form the Kingdom of Chera/Perumal.
(iii) The kingdom of Perumal derived much of its wealth and riches from maritime trading ties with the Middle East, their main trade item was spices. In the Empire, the port of Kollam was a significant point in India's overseas trade to West and East Asia.
(iv) The Chera or Perumals have claimed that they were the descendants of the Cheras who flourished in South India in the pre-Pallava period (early historic), this could be a means to gain legitimisation.

Note: The Perumal kingdom was fragmented into several local forces in the 12th century. The Perumal dynasty was followed by the Kulasekhara dynasty in Southern Kerala whose rulers were also known as the Cheras. The Perumals were also succeeded by the chieftains of Kolathunad, Kozhikode and Kochi in other parts of Kerala.