Consider the following statements regarding the Cholas:

1. The Battle of Thakkolam was fought in the 10th century between the Chola dynasty and the Rashtrakuta Kingdom.

2. The Jalanatheswarar Temple at Thakkolam was constructed by the Cholas.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is option 1. 

In News

• The Jalanatheswarar Temple at Thakkolam, a historically significant site in Tamil Nadu, has been found in urgent need of restoration. Additionally, the CISF recently renamed its Recruits Training Centre (RTC) in Arakkonam as Rajaditya Chola RTC, Thakkolam, in memory of Rajaditya Chola, who was killed in the Battle of Thakkolam in 949 CE.

Key Points

• The Battle of Thakkolam took place in 949 CE (10th century) between Rajaditya Chola (son of Parantaka Chola I) and Krishna III of the Rashtrakuta Kingdom. The battle resulted in a Chola defeat and the death of Rajaditya. Parantaka Chola I himself did not fight in the battle. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
• The Jalanatheswarar Temple at Thakkolam was built by the Pallavas in the 6th century, not by the Cholas. While the temple contains inscriptions from the Chola period, it was not constructed by them. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.

Additional Information

• The Battle of Thakkolam marked a turning point in Chola history, as the defeat motivated later Chola rulers like Rajaraja I and Rajendra I to expand their empire and strengthen their military.
• Thakkolam’s original name was Thiruvural, as mentioned in Saivite hymns and historical inscriptions.
• The Jalanatheswarar Temple contains inscriptions from multiple dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagar rulers, showcasing its historical and cultural importance.