With reference to the sources of information about the Cholas, briefly answer the following:

(a) List the forms of chola inscriptions.

(b) What was the special feature of the inscriptions? Who conceptualised the idea? Name one temple built by him.

(c) Mention the significance of Brihadeshwara Temple.

(a) The forms of chola inscriptions are:

1. Copper-plates grants.
2. Stone inscriptions.
3. Inscription made on the walls and pillars of the temples.

(b) The special feature of the inscriptions was that it mentioned the main achievements of the king and his reign.

The idea was conceptualised by Rajaraja I.

The temple built by Rajaraja I was Brihadeshwara Temple.

(c) The Brihadeshwara Temple or Rajarajeshwara Temple is the finest monument of a splendid period of South Indian history and the most beautiful specimen of Tamil architecture. It is a Shiva temple built by Rajaraja I at Thanjavur. It is one of the best specimens of Dravidian style of architecture.
The main structure of the temple has a great vimana or tower which rises to a height of 190 feet. It is crowned by a massive dome consisting of a single block of stone, 25 feet high and weighing about 80 tons. The shrine houses a gigantic Shiva Lingam, cut in a monolithic rock about 8.87 metres high. The temple has many structures such as a Nandi Pavilion, a pillared portico and a large assembly hall. Thus the significance of this temple lies in its architectural beauty and historical importance.