by Q. Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime State, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and the neighbouring islands?
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
Answer: (c) Rajendra I (Chola)
Explanation:
- Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja Chola I, led a naval expedition in the early 11th century against the Srivijaya empire, a dominant maritime power in Southeast Asia.
- The campaign expanded the Chola influence over regions like Sumatra, Malaya, and Java, asserting dominance in international sea trade.
- The other options were rulers from different dynasties who did not engage in this campaign.
About Rajendra I Chola
Reign and Succession: Rajendra I Chola ruled from 1014 to 1044 CE, succeeding his father Rajaraja I, the founder of the Chola Empire’s imperial expansion. He is considered one of the greatest rulers of the Chola dynasty.
Expansion of the Empire: Rajendra I extended the Chola Empire beyond South India, achieving dominance over Kalinga (Odisha), parts of Bengal, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, and conducted naval expeditions to Southeast Asia, including Sumatra (Srivijaya Empire).
Ganga Expedition: He led the famous Ganga expedition, where he marched to the Ganges River in North India, defeating the Pala and other rulers, and established Chola influence in the northern plains.
Naval Power: Rajendra I is noted for strengthening the Chola navy, which became a formidable force in the Indian Ocean, allowing him to conduct overseas campaigns and control maritime trade routes in Southeast Asia.
Capital Establishment: He founded a new capital called Gangaikonda Cholapuram to commemorate his victory over the Ganga region. The city became an important political and cultural center, rivaling Thanjavur.
Administration: Rajendra I maintained an efficient administration, with provincial governors (viceroys) overseeing conquered territories. He continued the Chola system of well-organized bureaucracy and local self-government in villages through assemblies (sabhas and ur).
Cultural Contributions: He was a patron of temple architecture and literature. The Brihadeeswarar Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was built under his reign, showcasing Chola architectural excellence.
Legacy: Rajendra I left a lasting legacy as a military genius, naval strategist, and empire builder, consolidating Chola power in South and Southeast Asia. His reign marked the zenith of the Chola Empire, combining military prowess with cultural and economic prosperity.
