Raja Raja Chola

Raja Raja Chola I was a renowned king of South India who ruled from 985 to 1014 CE. He expanded the Chola dynasty’s empire through military conquests, establishing dominance over parts of modern Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. Known for his administrative skills and cultural patronage, he greatly supported architecture, notably commissioning the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. His reign marked a period of political stability, economic prosperity, and artistic growth, making him one of the greatest rulers in South Indian history.