GS PAPER I: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Context: The State Department of Archaeology has made some encouraging finds less than two months into the excavation at Maligaimedu near Gangaikondacholapuram, the capital of King Rajendra Chola I.

Some Findings:

• Thirteen coarse brick walls have been exposed so far at the site.
• A copper coin, some potsherds and iron pieces have been collected.
• Besides, a piece of Chinese celedon ware, belonging to 10-11th century, has also been found.
• Excavations conducted earlier at Maligaimedu had revealed the remains of a royal palace.

About Gangaikondacholapuram:

• Gangaikondacholapuram was established by King Rajendra Chola I (1012-1044 CE) after his victorious expedition up to the Gangetic plains.
• It became the capital of the Chola dynasty in c. 1025 during the reign of Rajendra Chola I, and served as the Chola capital for around 250 years.
• The great Brihadeeswarar Temple at this place is next only to the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur in its monumental nature and surpasses it in sculptural quality. It has been recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tn-state-archaeology-makes-encouraging-finds-near-gangaikondacholapuram/article34374162.ece

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