“Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture.” Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Marks (Answer in 150 words)) (UPSC IAS Mains 2024 General Studies Paper – 1)
The Chola dynasty, which ruled over South India from the 9th to the 13th century, is remembered for its remarkable contributions to art and architecture. Despite their decline, the legacy of the great Cholas lives on through their magnificent creations.
In the domain of art
- Chola Bronze Sculptures:
- The Chola period is celebrated for its bronze sculptures, especially the iconic image of Nataraja (Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer). This masterpiece is admired for its balance, grace, and artistic depth, representing the Chola mastery in sculptural art.
- Bhakti Influence on Art:
- The Chola art was heavily influenced by the Bhakti movement, which focused on devotion towards Hindu gods. This reflected in their religious art, which had an emotional and spiritual appeal. Sculptures of Vishnu, Shiva, and other deities from this period depict an artistic blend of devotion and technical prowess.
- Temple Sculptures:
- The walls of Chola temples are adorned with detailed carvings depicting mythological scenes, various gods, and goddesses, which showcased the skills of Chola artists in both relief work and freestanding sculptures. The sculptures at the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur are renowned for their grandeur and detailed depiction of deities.
In the domain of architecture
- Dravidian Architecture:
- Chola architecture is considered a high point in Dravidian architectural style, characterized by its large-scale temples, tall gateways (gopurams), and well-structured complexes. The Brihadeshwara Temple, built by Raja Raja Chola I in Thanjavur, stands as a monumental achievement of the Cholas in temple architecture. The temple''s scale, design, and precision showcase the architectural prowess of the Cholas.
- Gopurams and Vimanams:
- The Cholas pioneered the construction of towering gopurams (temple gateways) and vimanas (temple towers), which became a hallmark of South Indian temples. The Vimana of the Brihadeshwara Temple, standing over 200 feet tall, is an engineering marvel of its time, showcasing the Chola expertise in constructing grand structures without modern tools.
- Temple Complex Design:
- The Cholas designed their temples not just as places of worship but as cultural hubs. The temples were often part of larger complexes that included halls, courtyards, and subsidiary shrines. The Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, built by Rajendra Chola, is another example of Chola architectural brilliance, reflecting both religious and cultural importance.
- Innovations in Civil Architecture:
- The Cholas also made innovations in civil engineering, building intricate irrigation systems and infrastructure to support their empire''s economy and society. The Kallanai Dam (Grand Anicut), one of the oldest water-regulation structures in the world, exemplifies the Chola’s ability to construct long-lasting infrastructure.
The legacy of great Cholas serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of South India and continues to inspire generations of artists and art enthusiasts.
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