The great temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was constructed under the patronage of:

The correct option is Rajendra Chola.

Explanation

The temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, constructed during the Imperial Chola period. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and served as the focal point of the new capital established by the Chola dynasty in the 11th century.

Detailed Analysis

• Rajendra Chola (Rajendra I): The temple was constructed under the patronage of Rajendra I (1012-1044 CE). Following his successful military expedition to the Gangetic plains in North India, he assumed the title Gangaikonda Chola (The Chola who conquered the Ganga). To commemorate this victory, he established a new capital named Gangaikonda Cholapuram and built this great temple, which closely resembles the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur but possesses a distinct, slightly concave vimana outline.
• Rajaraja Chola: He was the father of Rajendra I and the patron of the Brihadisvara Temple (also known as Rajarajesvaram) at Thanjavur, not Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
• Kulothunga Chola and Parantaka Chola: While they were prominent rulers of the Chola dynasty who contributed to various architectural works, they are not associated with the construction of the main temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

Key Takeaway

Rajendra I built the temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram to commemorate his northern conquests, distinguishing it from the earlier Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur built by his father, Rajaraja I.