Tribute to India’s Ancient Maritime Legacy at Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative Rs 1000 coin celebrating 1000 years of Rajendra Chola I’s naval expedition. During the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival in Tamil Nadu. The event took place at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, which was built by the emperor after his victorious campaign across Southeast Asia. The ceremony began with traditional Shaivite rituals including a maha abhishekam using Ganga water brought from Varanasi. Tamil devotional hymns echoed through the temple premises as renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja presented verses from Thiruvasagam. Modi also visited a special exhibition on Saiva Siddhanta and Chola architecture curated by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Coin Design and Symbolism
The Rs 1000 coin released by Modi is made of 99.9 percent pure silver, weighs 40 grams and has a diameter of 44 mm. Its obverse side features the Lion Capital of Ashoka, with inscriptions of India and Bharat in English and Devanagari respectively. The reverse side depicts Rajendra Chola’s legendary naval expedition, along with the phrase marking the 1000-year milestone.
This is not a circulation coin but a collectible that aims to honour one of the most influential rulers in Indian history. Rajendra Chola led one of the earliest recorded naval campaigns from India, conquering parts of modern-day Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia, expanding trade and cultural links.
Modi Message on Chola Legacy
Modi called the Chola dynasty an early example of Indian democracy and governance. He pointed out that centuries ago, Tamil Nadu held local elections and followed well-structured administrative systems long before modern democracies existed. He further announced plans to install statues of both Rajendra and his father Rajaraja Chola in key Tamil Nadu cities. A proposal to set up a museum dedicated to Chola achievements is also under consideration.
This 1000 Rs Silver Coin release marks more than just a historic commemoration. It signals a national recognition of a time when India reached distant shores, not for conquest alone but for cultural diplomacy, trade and knowledge.
