Ariyalur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, July 27, marked the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival by paying tribute to Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu.
Addressing a public gathering at the temple complex, PM Modi seamlessly wove together India's civilisational pride with its modern-day resolve against terrorism.
'Chola Legacy Symbolises India's Identity and Strength': PM
The Prime Minister described his visit as a spiritual moment, saying he prayed for the well-being of 140 crore Indians and for the continued progress of the nation. “I am privileged to be present and worship at the feet of Lord Brihadeeswara,” he said, adding, “I wish that everyone gets the blessings of Lord Shiva.”
Highlighting the far-reaching influence of the Chola empire, PM Modi underscored their historic diplomatic and trade connections with Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia. “The Chola kings expanded their diplomatic and trade relations... It is also a coincidence that I returned from the Maldives only yesterday and today I am participating in this event in Tamil Nadu,” he added.
He credited the Chola rulers, particularly Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola, with shaping India’s pride and cultural identity. “Their legacy reflects the strength and true potential of our great nation,” Modi said.
PM Modi On Operation Sindoor
Shifting from history to national security, PM Modi also used the platform to send a firm message against terrorism, referring to the recently conducted Operation Sindoor by Indian defence forces. He called the operation a testament to India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism.
“The world has seen that if anyone attacks India, how we can respond,” the Prime Minister said. “No place is safe for these terrorists and terrorism.”
