Bhakti Movement
The Bhakti Movement originated in India as a reaction against the caste system and ritualism. It was started by the Vaishnava and Saiva saints of south India.
History
Influence of Christianity in Medieval India
St Francis Xavier, Robert de Nobili played an important role in spreading Christianity in India. St Francis Xavier was the first Jesuit missionary who arrived in India in 1542.
The Reign of the Chola Kings
The Reign of the Chola Kings – The Chola rule was established by Vijayalaya Chola in AD 846. He made Thanjavur his capital. He was succeeded by his grandson, Parantaka I.
The Chola Administration
The Chola administration was a highly organized system. The king governed the territories with the help of his council of ministers. He often toured the country to keep a check on the administration.
Chola Art and Architecture
Massive towers or vimanas were the main features of the Chola architecture. The best example of such temples was the Brihadeshwara or the Shiva temple at Thanjavur.
The Golden Age of Tamil literature
The Chola period is known for developments made in Tamil and is known as the “Golden Age of Tamil literature.” Kuttan, the court poet Vikrama Chola, Kulottunga II and Rajaraja II wrote about the war of Vikrama Chola.
Sources of the Cholas
Archaeological sources of the Cholas include inscriptions and monuments. There was a growth of classical Tamil literature during the Chola period. Kuttan, the court poet Vikrama Chola, Kulottunga II, and Rajaraja II wrote about the war of Vikrama Chola.
Ashoka’s Dhamma
As a result of Ashoka’s Dhamma, people began to follow a policy of religious tolerance and began to live a moral and ethical life. As wars were no longer fought by the kingdom, many welfare works were undertaken which helped people to live a peaceful life.
Mauryan Administration
The Mauryan administration was divided into two – civil administration and military administration. Civil administration was divided into two main divisions – Central government and Provincial government.
Kalinga War
The state of Kalinga was conquered, but the battle resulted in great loss of life. About one and a half lakh people died in the Kalinga war. The war had far-reaching consequences on Ashoka.