Bhoopaala Bharatham | Raja Raja Chola and Rajendra Chola | Dr Kudavayil Balasubramanian

July 30, Bhoopaala Bharatham, Raja Raja Chola and Rajendra Chola, Dr. Kudavayil Balasubramanian - Dancers:S. Divyasena and A. Lakshman

The mighty Cholas fought 21 wars, and this cannot be ignored. However, an aspect which not many are aware of is that Raja Raja Chola was a great patron of dance. He employed 400 outstanding dancers of that time to perform daily at the Big Temple. Not just that, he ensured that their every need was taken care, be it food or shelter. The dancers will not only showcase the valour and triumphant battles of the Cholas but also the Cholas' contribution to the performing arts. 'Silappadikaram,' Meikeerthis (Raja Raja documented archives of his rule in the form of stone tablets and copper plates), Mudhal Aayiram and Kalvettus (epigraphs) have been used to denote all this. The construction of the Brihadeeshwara and Gangaikondacholapuram temples will feature prominently.