Book Review: ‘Empire of the Cholas’ by Siddharth Vijayaraghavan

Book Title: Empire of the Cholas
Author: Siddharth Vijayaraghavan
Publisher: Rupa Publications India
Number of Pages: 248
ISBN: 978-9357028769
Date Published: Jul. 5, 2024
Price: INR 288

Book Review

“Empire of the Cholas” the historical fiction work by Siddharth Vijayaraghavan that intricately weaves together the life of Angayarkanni, a fisherwoman from Nagapattinam, and her clandestine romance with Vellaiappan, a foreigner, set against the rich tapestry of ancient Chola history. The Cholas, a dynasty in India, ruled from Uraiyur in the 3rd century BCE and established Thanjavur as their capital in the 9th century CE. They were known for their temple architecture, sculpture, and administration.

Siddharth Vijayaraghavan’s fictional novel explores the reign of Raja Raja Chola I and his son, Prince Rajendra, focusing on themes of love, familial conflict, and societal expectations. The novel highlights the importance of the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. The novel further delves deep into the complexities of relationships and individual desires in ancient Nagapattinam, portraying Angayarkanni’s personal struggles against societal norms and her family’s disapproval of her love affair.

Characters like Rajendra, Kayalvizhi, and Karpagavalli navigate emotional turmoil and a quest for reconciliation, reflecting the broader themes of heritage and community pride that resonate throughout the narrative. “Angayarkanni and the Legacy of Raja Raja Chola” not only explores the historical backdrop of Chola rule but also examines timeless human experiences within a vividly reconstructed ancient setting.

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The author lays the path for the readers to get into the naval conquests, notably Rajendra Chola’s triumph over the Srivijaya dynasty in Southeast Asia, earning him the title Kadaramkondan. Through a blend of real and fictional characters, the novel unfolds themes of power, vengeance, romance, and administrative prowess against the backdrop of Chola grandeur, including the renowned Brihadeeswara temple in Thanjavur.

In a time when historical interest, particularly in South Indian history, wanes among youth, Siddharth’s passionate portrayal of the Chola Empire is commendable. Despite his education abroad, he intricately details the planning and construction of iconic temples, showcasing a deep understanding of Chola culture and governance. The novel captivates from the outset with its engaging narrative style, making it difficult to put down as it brings to life the essence of an era steeped in historical richness and cultural significance.

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