Chola Empire Land Surveys: Measuring the Realm

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the Chola Empire's sophisticated system of land measurement and revenue administration, a backbone of its power. They discuss the detailed surveys conducted under Rajaraja Chola I, recorded in the Tanjore inscription, which catalogued over 600 villages with precise boundaries, soil types, and tax obligations. The conversation covers the role of the sabha (village assembly) in overseeing land records, the use of units like kani and patti, and how this data was inscribed on temple walls for transparency. They also touch on the legacy of this system visible in modern Tamil Nadu and its connection to the empire's ability to fund grand temples and military campaigns. This episode offers a concrete look at how the Cholas managed their realm through meticulous documentation. #CholaEmpire #RajarajaCholaI #TanjaoreInscription #LandSurvey #Sabha #RevenueAdministration #SouthIndia #MedievalIndia #Kani #Patti #TamilNadu #Brihadeeswarar #VillageAssemblies #Taxation #IndianHistory #History #FexingoHistory #Podcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo