PM Modi Honours 1,000 Years of Chola Glory
Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Tamil Nadu — July 27, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid grand tribute to Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola at his ancient capital, marking 1,000 years of the Gangetic expedition. The celebration took place during the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage and the legacy of the Cholas.
The Prime Minister joined the valedictory function of Aadi Thiruvathirai. The town of Gangaikonda Cholapuram came alive with green arches, cultural performances, and temple hymns. Modi unveiled a commemorative coin in honor of Rajendra Chola and announced statues of Rajaraja and Rajendra Chola in Tamil Nadu, meeting a long-standing demand by scholars and cultural groups.
Chola Democracy: India’s Ancient Roots
PM Modi called the Chola period the “mother of democracy.” He cited the ‘Kudavolai’ system—a unique voting method from the Chola era—as proof of India’s deep-rooted democratic values. “People’s participation in governance began long ago in India,” he noted, linking ancient traditions with modern democracy.
Embracing Saiva Siddhanta
Quoting the Saivite poet Thirumoolar—“Anbe Sivam” (Love is God)—Modi urged society to follow Saiva Siddhanta for peace and harmony. He praised the Chola kings for promoting Shaivism and building grand temples as symbols of devotion and art.
Odhuvars performed ancient hymns. Music legend Ilaiyaraaja led a moving Thiruvasagam concert. Modi praised these efforts as the soul of Tamil culture and spirituality.
Brihadisvara Temple and Chola Engineering
At Brihadisvara Temple, Modi offered prayers and admired its grand design. Built by Rajendra Chola I, the temple stands as a marvel of Tamil engineering. He also visited a photo exhibition on Saiva Siddhanta and Chola architecture, curated by the Archaeological Survey of India.
He praised the Chola Gangam (Ponneri lake), calling it a 17-km tribute to vision and skill. “I feel proud to bring Ganga water once again to this land,” he said, drawing a symbolic connection between Varanasi and Rajendra Chola’s expedition.
Restoring Tamil Nadu’s Stolen Artifacts
PM Modi announced the recovery of over 600 stolen Indian antiquities. More than 30 of them belonged to Tamil Nadu. He emphasized the Centre’s commitment to reclaiming and preserving India’s artistic and spiritual legacy.
Development and Political Signals
Modi also launched projects worth ₹4,900 crore. These include a new terminal at Thoothukudi Airport and major infrastructure upgrades to promote tourism and connectivity in Tamil Nadu.
Earlier, AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami welcomed the Prime Minister at Tiruchi airport, signaling possible political shifts ahead of the 2026 state elections.
Chola Pride, National Identity
Modi declared that India’s identity is incomplete without its regional legacies. “Rajaraja and Rajendra Chola are national icons,” he said, urging the country to recognize Tamil contributions with pride and unity.
He concluded his visit with a strong message: India must protect and celebrate its civilizational roots. Modi departed from Tiruchi Airport, leaving behind a renewed call for cultural pride rooted in Tamil Nadu.