Tamil Nadu News: PM Modi To Honour Legendary Chola King Rajendra Chola I At Gangaikonda Cholapuram In Major Tamil Outreach

Chennai: Ahead of next year's crucial Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gearing up for a big Tamil outreach. On Sunday, he shall be honouring the memory of legendary Chola king Rajendra Chola I at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the capital of the Cholas for 250 years.

Tamil Outreach Ahead of Polls

"Tomorrow, 27th July will witness a very special programme to mark a thousand years of the maritime expedition of the great Rajendra Chola I to South East Asia and the commencement of the construction of the iconic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, a shining example of Chola architecture. It is our privilege that a commemorative coin honouring Rajendra Chola I is being released, also celebrating the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival," Modi tweeted on Saturday night upon his arrival in coastal Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district for an official event.

Aadi Thiruvathirai Festival Highlights

The Union Ministry of Culture had lined up , celebrations for Aadi Thiruvathirai Festival from July 23 to 27.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is hosting a Thematic exhibitions on Chola Shaivism and temple architecture Heritage Walk & Guided Tours, going to be another rare experience.

On Sunday the Kalakshetra will be presenting a Bharatanatyam group recital and a team of traditional Othuvars will chant Devaram Thirumurai. The culmination of the event will be a musical presentation led by maestro Ilaiyaraaja and troupe.

Rajendra Chola (1014-1044 CE), one of the greatest emperors under who’s reign Chola empire reached its zenith, made exemplary contribution to the realms of architecture, art and trade. Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple was constructed by Rajendra Chola in the capital city of Gangaikonda Cholapuram (1035 CE) after he defeated the Pala King and took the title Gangaikondan.