POWER, PEOPLE, & THE PULSE OF HISTORY

In his latest book, 'The Lord of the Earth and the Sea: A History of the Chola Empire', historian Anirudh Kanisetti maps the forgotten narratives, evolution of medieval Tamil society, the dynasty's political turmoil, innovations and contributions of women

- SONU M KOTHARI

A dynasty that introduced a sceptre the sengol symbolising power that was recently in the spotlight established international trade relations with Sri Lanka and China. It was this empire that brought in makara-shaped earrings, began building temples with stones rather than brick and mortar, and started worshipping Nataraja, changing and reshaping Southern India's landscape post 13th century.

Quoting these evidences from history, Anirudh Kanisetti in his latest book The Lord of the Earth and the Sea: A History of the Chola Empire infused life in the colourful and lost world of Chola Empire. "I want to bring together all the diverse threads of evidence that have been expounded upon by various scholars and weave them into this engaging, accessible narrative tapestry," says the historian at his book launch by the Prakriti Foundation at Alliance Française of Madras on Monday.