Ariyalur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the ‘Adi Thiruvathirai Festival’ at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu on Sunday.

He stated that the Chola kings had expanded their diplomatic and trade relations to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia. “It is also a coincidence that I returned from the Maldives just on Saturday and am now part of this event in Tamil Nadu,” he added.

During the event held at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple to mark the birth anniversary of the great Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I, Prime Minister Modi also released a commemorative coin in honor of the emperor. Devotional songs were performed at the event, which deeply moved the Prime Minister.

Addressing the gathering, he said, “I am the MP from Kashi, and when I hear ‘Om Namah Shivaya,’ it gives me goosebumps.” The Prime Minister remarked that the divine energy of Shiva’s darshan, the music of Ilaiyaraaja, and the chanting of mantras create a spiritual experience that touches the soul.

“On the historic occasion of the 1000th year since the construction of the Brihadeeswarar Temple began, I have been blessed to worship at the feet of Lord Brihadeeswarar Shiva during the holy month of Sawan. I prayed at this temple for the well-being of all 140 crore people of the country and for India’s continuous progress. May Lord Shiva bless everyone—this is my wish,” he said. During the event, PM Modi also chanted ‘Har Har Mahadev.’

Appreciating the efforts of the Ministry of Culture, PM Modi said the department had set up an incredible exhibition here. “It is both enlightening and inspiring. We take pride in how our ancestors, a thousand years ago, guided humanity toward welfare.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mentioned the ‘Sengol.’ He said, “When the new Parliament of India was inaugurated, the saints of our Shaivite tradition spiritually led that historic event. The ‘Sengol,’ associated with Tamil culture, was installed in Parliament. Even today, remembering that moment fills me with pride.”

He emphasized that the history and legacy of the Chola Empire symbolize India’s true strength. “It inspires the dream of an India that we are now working toward—a developed India. The Chola kings wove India together in cultural unity.”

“Today, our government is advancing those very ideals of the Chola era. Through initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam, we are strengthening the ancient threads of unity even further,” he added.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, India, is a magnificent Hindu temple built in the 11th century by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victory over the Ganga dynasty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases the grandeur of Chola architecture with its intricate carvings, towering vimana (temple tower), and sacred sculptures. It served as the capital of the Chola Empire and remains an important cultural and religious landmark.

Brihadeeswarar Temple

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a magnificent Hindu temple located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Built in 1010 CE by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its grand Dravidian architecture, including a towering 66-meter vimana (temple tower). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple symbolizes the Chola dynasty’s power and artistic excellence.

Kashi

Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a sacred spiritual hub in India. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, it is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, believed to have been founded by Lord Shiva over 3,000 years ago. The city is renowned for its ghats, temples, and vibrant religious traditions, attracting seekers of enlightenment and visitors from around the globe.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It is home to ancient Buddhist sites like the sacred city of Anuradhapura and the rock fortress of Sigiriya, which date back over 2,000 years. The country’s diverse history includes kingdoms, colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, and a vibrant mix of traditions, cuisine, and wildlife.

Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Historically, it was a key trading hub influenced by South Asian, Arab, and African cultures, and it became a Muslim sultanate in the 12th century. Today, it is a popular luxury travel destination and faces challenges like climate change due to its low-lying geography.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a diverse and culturally rich region comprising 11 countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Historically influenced by Indian, Chinese, and European civilizations, it is known for ancient temples like Angkor Wat, vibrant traditions, and lush landscapes. The region’s history includes powerful kingdoms, colonial rule, and significant trade networks, shaping its unique cultural heritage.

Sengol

The **Sengol** is a historic golden sceptre from India, symbolizing the transfer of power from British rule to independent India in 1947. It was originally presented to Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, as a ceremonial gesture marking sovereignty. The Sengol has roots in ancient Chola traditions, where such sceptres were used to signify righteous authority and governance. Recently, it gained renewed attention when it was installed in India’s new Parliament building in 2023 as a national symbol of justice and legacy.

Ilaiyaraaja

Ilaiyaraaja is a legendary Indian composer, singer, and songwriter, renowned for his contributions to South Indian film music, particularly in Tamil cinema. With a career spanning over four decades, he has composed thousands of songs and scores, blending traditional Indian music with Western classical and contemporary styles. Often called *Isaignani* (Musical Genius), Ilaiyaraaja revolutionized film music in India and remains one of the most influential composers in the industry.