The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Imperial Cholas, particularly under Rajaraja I and his son Rajendra I, established one of the most powerful empires in Indian history. Their military strategy involved both extensive land campaigns across the Indian subcontinent and naval expeditions across the Indian Ocean to secure trade routes and expand political influence.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Rajaraja I (985–1014 CE) did not limit his conquests to the Tamil region. He initiated the imperial expansion by conquering the northern part of Sri Lanka (making it a Chola province named Mummudi Chola Mandalam) and the Maldives. He also annexed parts of the Ganga country (Karnataka), including Gangavadi and Nolambavadi, thereby extending Chola power well beyond the traditional Tamil lands.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Rajendra I (1014–1044 CE) continued his father's expansionist policies. He completed the conquest of Sri Lanka by defeating the Ceylonese king Mahinda V. Furthermore, he led a famous military expedition to the Ganga valley, defeating the Pala king Mahipala. To commemorate this victory, he founded the city of Gangaikondacholapuram.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The Chola navy was a pivotal element of their military strength. Under Rajendra I, the Chola navy conducted a massive naval expedition against the Srivijaya Empire (modern-day Indonesia and Malaysia) and Kadaram. This campaign was crucial for securing maritime trade routes between China and India, demonstrating the Cholas' dominance in Southeast Asia.
Key Takeaway: The Chola Empire is distinct in Indian history for possessing a powerful blue-water navy, which allowed them to extend their political and commercial influence to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia, alongside their land-based conquests in the Indian subcontinent.