Chola Empire

The Chola Empire was a medieval thalassocratic empire in southern India, founded in 848 CE and ruled by the Chola dynasty. It included overseas dominions and spheres of influence in Southeast Asia, demonstrating significant power among political entities in South, Southeast, and East Asia. The Cholas conducted expeditions to the Ganges, naval raids on Srivijaya cities, and sent embassies to China, showcasing the peak of ancient Indian maritime capacity. Though it began losing overseas territories around 1070, the empire continued to rule parts of southern India until its decline in the early 13th century with the rise of the Pandyan dynasty, ultimately dissolving in 1279 CE. The Cholas established a centralized government and bureaucracy, and were known for their patronage of Tamil literature, temple building, and art, including the pioneering of lost-wax bronze sculpting.