Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that grand statues of Chola emperors Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola will be erected in Tamil Nadu to honour their contributions to Indian history and culture.
Speaking at a special function at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district, PM Modi said that the Chola Empire represented a golden era of India, marked by achievements in architecture, governance, diplomacy, trade, and cultural integration.
“The Cholas established strong political and trade ties with Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia. It is a coincidence that I returned from the Maldives yesterday, and today I stand here in the land once ruled by these visionary kings,” he remarked.
Reflecting on India’s civilizational values, the Prime Minister said, “The Cholas pioneered democratic principles even before Britain. Their *kudavolai* system is considered one of the earliest forms of participatory democracy. They were also leaders in water management and temple architecture.”
PM Modi also praised Tamil Nadu’s deep Shaivite traditions and noted that more than 30 stolen antiquities retrieved by the Union government from across the globe belonged to Tamil Nadu.
“Shaivite poet Thirumoolar said, ‘Anbe Sivam’ — Love is God. If the world adopts this idea, many of today’s crises, such as instability, violence, and environmental destruction, can be resolved. India is taking this message to the world through ‘One World, One Family, One Future,’” he added.
Offering prayers at the feet of Lord Brihadeeswara, PM Modi said, “I prayed for the well-being of 140 crore Indians and the continued progress of the nation. I feel truly blessed to have this opportunity.”
Governor R.N. Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu (representing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin), Union Minister of State L. Murugan, and VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan were among the dignitaries present at the event.
IANS